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Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step Guide
Do I Need a Rec Letter? And How Many Do I Need?
Do I Need a Rec Letter? And How Many Do I Need?
Check each college’s admission requirements carefully to determine if they require transcripts, letters of recommendation, additional testing, or any other documentation.
If a college does require a letter from a teacher, they typically only need one. Some colleges accept a letter from a teacher OR counselor. Very few colleges actually require two teacher letters of recommendation.
Do not ask for multiple letters of recommendation if they are not needed. If you only need one, only ask for one.
Don't Forget to Invite your Recommenders on Common App! Check out our Common App instructional videos here.
Don't Forget to Invite your Recommenders on Common App! Check out our Common App instructional videos here.
Teacher Letter of Recommendation (If Required):
Teacher Letter of Recommendation (If Required):
1. Email your teacher asking if he or she would be willing to write a letter on your behalf.
2. After they say yes, thoughtfully complete the Teacher Letter of Recommendation Survey. Your answers will be emailed to your teacher when you submit the form.
Counselor’s Tip: Give your teacher plenty of time to write the best letter he or she can on your behalf. You should always give your teacher a minimum of three weeks to write your letter.
TEACHERS TYPICALLY DO NOT SHARE THEIR LETTER WITH YOU. We encourage seniors to "waive their right" to read their letter of rec, as colleges place more weight on letters they know you have not been seen by students. Rest assured that teachers who agree to write your letter have your best interests in mind, and their letters are remarkable.
Who Should I Ask to Complete my Teacher Letter of Recommendation?
Who Should I Ask to Complete my Teacher Letter of Recommendation?
Colleges want to hear from teachers who have taught you most recently, so it makes sense to ask teachers from your junior year. Ask teachers from academic areas like English, world language, math, science, or social studies.
CEG provides some pointers in how to ask for a rec letter, who to ask, and more.
Counselor Letter of Recommendation (If Required):
Counselor Letter of Recommendation (If Required):
1. In the fall, schedule a virtual meeting with your counselor well before your earliest application deadline. If a Counselor Letter/Evaluation is required for your applications, complete the Counselor Letter of Rec Survey.
Not sure if you need a Counselor Rec Letter? Check this list.
2. Encourage your parent(s) to complete the Senior Parent Questionnaire. Your counselor can use your parent’s feedback in writing their letter.
NOTE: You should give your counselor at least three weeks before a college deadline to write your letter. They are writing many letters, so advance notice is critical.
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