How to Request Letters of Recommendation
1. Who to Ask
Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your character—not just your grades. Ideal recommenders include:
A high school teacher (ideally from junior or senior year), especially one who saw you work hard or mentor others
Your school counselor, who can speak to your academic consistency and personal growth
A community leader, coach, or employer who can highlight your leadership, character, or dedication
*Avoid asking close family members—their recommendations won’t carry the same weight.
2. What to Prepare Before Asking
Make the process easy by providing your recommender with:
The purpose of the letter (college, scholarship, job, etc.)
Submission details: who to address it to, format, and deadline
A brag sheet detailing your goals, intended major, awards, activities, and personal strengths—this helps them personalize your letter with examples
You can use this Brag Sheet to guide you through the process. The link forces you to make a copy that, after it's filled out, can easily be shared to anyone you are asking to write a letter of recommendation.
3. When to Ask
Ask at least one month before the deadline, preferably in the spring of your junior year or early in senior year, to give recommenders ample time to write thoughtfully.
4. How to Ask
Ask in person when possible—this is respectful and shows sincerity.
Explain why you chose them (“I enjoyed your class… you helped me grow in X…”), then politely ask:
“Would you be willing to write me a strong letter of recommendation?”
After they agree, follow up with an email reiterating the details: due date, submission format, and include your brag sheet.
5. After the Request
Send a friendly reminder about two weeks before the deadline.
After the letter has been submitted, show your appreciation with a thank-you note—handwritten is especially meaningful.
Let your recommender know if you’ve been accepted—keeping them in the loop is a thoughtful gesture.
Why This Matters
Colleges value recommendation letters because they provide insight into who you are beyond grades—highlighting your curiosity, resilience, and impact on your classroom community.
