Letters of Recommendation

Why do some colleges require letters of recommendation for student applicants?

Colleges and universities ask for letters of recommendation because they give admissions officers a well-rounded picture of you. These recommendation letters provide more insight into your personality and abilities beyond your transcript and extracurriculars, setting you apart from other applicants.

When requesting a letter of recommendation, consider the following do’s and don’ts:

Do find a recommender who knows you: Look for someone who has taught you in multiple classes or whom you’ve known for a while. They should understand your interests and aspirations.
Don’t ask for a recommendation solely based on a good grade: A high grade doesn’t necessarily translate to a strong recommendation. Consider your interactions with the recommender in class.
Do ask in a personal setting: Request the letter during lunch, office hours, or after class. Face-to-face communication is ideal, but email is acceptable if you’re feeling shy.
Don’t forget to provide context: Explain why you’re applying to college or transferring to a four-year university. Be specific about your intended major or scholarship application.
Do be considerate of their time: Mention the deadline and express gratitude for their consideration.

Remember, recommendation letters offer an independent perspective on your character and contributions within your school community, reinforcing what admissions officers see elsewhere in your application. So, choose your recommenders wisely and approach them thoughtfully! 😊🎓

Letters of Recommendation – Important Reminders

Check Requirements: Review how many teacher recommendations each college requires in the Common Application.
Request Only What’s Needed: Ask only for the minimum number of teacher letters required by each school. Some schools don't require any letters of recommendation.
Know Your Teachers’ Policies: Some teachers have specific guidelines or deadlines for writing recommendations. Talk to them early to understand their expectations.

Recommended Deadlines for Students and Staff for Recommendations

Students must follow these deadlines to ensure that their letters of recommendation are completed promptly. You are expected to ask teachers a minimum of two weeks before a letter of recommendation is due to write that recommendation. Please adhere to the deadlines listed in the link below.

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