When applying for higher education, scholarships, or even certain internships, Letters of Recommendation (LORs) can make a significant difference in your application. They provide a personal, third-party endorsement of your skills, achievements, and character. However, getting strong, impactful LORs isn’t just about asking anyone — it’s about choosing the right people and approaching the process strategically. Here’s a complete guide on who to ask and how to get effective LORs.
Who Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?
Choosing the right recommender is crucial. Ideally, you want someone who knows you well, can speak confidently about your abilities, and is respected in their field. Here are some key options:
1. Teachers and Professors
If you are a student applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, academic recommenders are essential. Choose teachers who taught you core subjects related to your intended field of study — and who can highlight not just your grades but your curiosity, critical thinking, and leadership in class.
2. Academic Advisors
Advisors often have a broader view of your educational journey. They can comment on your growth, long-term dedication, and how you’ve developed academically over time.
3. Internship or Research Supervisors
For those with internship, research, or project experience, supervisors can offer valuable insights into your professional skills, work ethic, and ability to contribute to a team.
4. Employers or Managers
If you’ve worked part-time or full-time, employers can recommend you based on your responsibility, maturity, and real-world skills, which universities and scholarship boards highly value.
5. Extracurricular or Volunteer Coordinators
Involvement in clubs, sports, NGOs, or community service? Leaders from these experiences can vouch for your leadership, teamwork, and commitment beyond academics.
Pro Tip: Always choose someone who knows you personally rather than someone with a “big title” who barely knows you — a heartfelt, detailed letter always outweighs a generic one from a high-profile individual.
How to Request a Letter of Recommendation
Now that you know who to approach, here’s how you should ask for it:
1. Ask Early
Don’t leave it to the last minute. Give your recommenders at least 4-6 weeks before your application deadline. This shows respect for their time and gives them enough time to write thoughtfully.
2. Ask Politely and Personally
If possible, request the letter in person. If that’s not feasible, send a polite, well-worded email. Express why you’re asking them and what the recommendation is for.
Example: “I have enjoyed learning under your guidance in [Course/Project]. I am applying for [Program/Scholarship] and would be honored if you could write me a recommendation that highlights [specific skills/achievements].”
3. Provide Key Information
Make it easy for your recommender. Share:
- Your updated resume
- A draft of your personal statement (if available)
- A summary of achievements, projects, or memories you shared with them
- Details about the program, scholarship, or opportunity
- Deadlines and submission instructions
This helps them tailor the letter to match your goals.
4. Follow Up Respectfully
If you don’t hear back in a week or so, it’s okay to send a polite reminder. Keep it simple:
“Just checking in to see if you need any more information from me regarding the recommendation letter. Thank you again for your support!”
5. Say Thank You
Regardless of the outcome, always send a thank-you note or email to your recommender. It’s not just polite — it leaves a good impression for future opportunities.
Final Tips for LOR Success
- Choose quality over quantity: Some programs allow multiple LORs but sending fewer, stronger letters is better than sending many weak ones.
- Mix your recommenders: If allowed, submit a balanced set — one academic, one professional, one extracurricular, for example.
- Stay organized: Track who you’ve asked, what deadlines they have, and send gentle reminders as needed.
- Prepare for contingencies: Always have a backup recommender in case someone backs out or misses a deadline.
