academic letter of recommendation for phd

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Letter of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Examples & PDFs

• Last Updated On August 14, 2024
• Published In General

Did you know that by 2030, over 8,00,000 people in the US will get their doctorates? That’s a lot of competition! To stand out, you need more than just strong grades. Letters of recommendation offer a crucial personal perspective on your research abilities.

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These letters, written by professors or supervisors, highlight your potential and confirm your application’s claims. Admissions committees rely on them to make informed decisions.

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This guide will help you create an influential letter of recommendation for a PhD that opens doors and advances your academic journey. Dive in!

Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in greater detail in this blog on the letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

What is a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program?

A Letter of Recommendation, or LOR, is a crucial component of your PhD application. It provides valuable insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. 

Many universities in the United States, such as Harvard University and Stanford University , mandate the submission of two to three academic Letters of Recommendation for PhD applicants. 

Crafting a compelling LOR can be challenging, which makes having a sample LOR an invaluable resource. By studying a well-structured sample, you can effectively highlight your strengths and experiences, impressing the admissions committee.

What is the Need for Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Student?

A letter of recommendation is crucial for PhD students because it offers a detailed look at your academic skills, research potential, and personal qualities from someone who knows you well. 

Universities like Stanford require three letters of recommendation for their PhD programs. Admissions committees use these letters to understand your past achievements, work ethic, and fit for advanced study. 

LOR’s often highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and specific contributions to research projects. This outside perspective helps set you apart in a competitive selection process, showing you have the skills, dedication, and curiosity needed for the program.

Whom Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

Selecting the right recommender is critical in crafting a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD. Your recommender should be a determined advocate capable of providing an unbiased assessment. 

Given that 25% of the US’s one million foreign student population is Indian, competition is fierce. Unlike self-authored documents, an LOR offers an external perspective exclusively shaped by the recommender’s observations. This unique viewpoint is invaluable. 

Your PhD recommender should be someone who:

• Has a good rapport with you.
• Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and potential.
• Has witnessed your academic and professional growth.
• Is familiar with your research interests.
• Believes in your research goals.

2 Types of Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Securing admission to a prestigious PhD program like MIT’s is highly competitive. A critical factor in your application is the strength of your Letters of Recommendation (LORs). Universities like MIT often require three LORs, with a strong preference for academic references who can testify to your research potential.

Of course, you might be eager to check out a sample letter of recommendation for a PhD. However, you first need to understand the types of LORs, listed below.

1. Academic LOR

An academic LOR is typically penned by a professor or academic advisor who can confirm your intellectual abilities and scholarly potential. 

A letter of recommendation for a PhD dives deeper into your research aptitude, critical thinking skills, and independent research capabilities. This type of recommendation emphasises your readiness for doctoral-level research.

2. Professional LOR

A professional LOR is typically authored by a supervisor or manager from your workplace. A letter of recommendation for a PhD from an employer should emphasise your research contributions, problem-solving abilities, and potential for independent scholarly work. 

It should demonstrate how your practical experience has equipped you with the foundation to excel in doctoral studies.

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Letter of recommendation for phd sample: structure.

When constructing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program, academic and professional recommendations are typically the most sought-after types. These letters are the unsung heroes of your application, providing crucial external validation of your qualifications.

Here’s a quick overview of a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) sample structure.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample: Format

While you’re likely engaged in GRE preparation and other PhD application requirements, don’t forget to notice the critical role of a strong letter of recommendation for a PhD. This document can significantly influence your admission chances, making crafting a compelling and well-structured LOR essential.

Here is the format you need to follow for your sample letter of recommendation for PhD.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample

A sample letter of recommendation for a PhD program can provide valuable guidance in crafting a compelling recommendation. However, it’s essential to remember that these samples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be copied directly. 

Below, you’ll find sample LORs for the two primary types of recommendations: academic and professional. These examples demonstrate how your professors or supervisors can effectively articulate your qualifications for doctoral studies.

Academic Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “Rose Tennent” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Dr. [Full Name]

Professor of [Department]

[University Name]

[University Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Rose Tennent, who has been an exemplary student in my [Course Name] class at the [College/University Name]. I have had the privilege of teaching Rose for the past [Mention Years], during which time she has consistently impressed me with her intellectual curiosity, dedication, and exceptional academic abilities. Rose has consistently demonstrated a profound understanding of [Subject Area] concepts and theories. Her ability to analyse complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and articulate her ideas clearly is exceptional. 

For instance, in a class project on [Project Topic], Rose took the initiative to explore [Specific Aspect of Project] in depth. Her research was meticulous, and her findings were presented clearly and precisely. Beyond her academic achievements, Rose has shown a remarkable aptitude for [Specific Skill, e.g., data analysis, research methodology]. Her proficiency in [Software or Tool] was evident in her coursework, where she produced exceptional results. Her ability to [Specific Skill Application] significantly enhanced her work’s quality and demonstrated her research potential.

Rose’s dedication to her studies is unparalleled. She consistently sought opportunities to challenge herself inside and outside the classroom. She participated actively in class discussions, offering insightful perspectives and stimulating intellectual debate. Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious, and she can inspire and motivate her peers.

Furthermore, Rose has demonstrated exceptional research potential. As a research assistant on my project, [Project Title], she significantly contributed to data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Her attention to detail and strong analytical skills allowed her to identify patterns and trends that were instrumental in advancing our research. Rose is also a highly collaborative and supportive classmate. She is always willing to help her peers and has a strong sense of teamwork. Her positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm create a supportive learning environment for everyone.

In conclusion, Rose Tennent is an exceptional student with a bright future. Her intellectual abilities, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit make her an ideal candidate for a PhD program. I wholeheartedly recommend her for admission to your program and am confident she will significantly contribute to your academic community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

[Full Name]

Professional Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “John Smith” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Research Scientist

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation in solid support of John Smith, who has been an exceptional research team member at [Company Name] for the past three years. During this time, I have had the pleasure of directly supervising John Smith and witnessing firsthand his remarkable intellectual abilities, unwavering dedication, and exceptional problem-solving skills.

John Smith has consistently exceeded expectations in his role as a research scientist. His contributions to our team have been invaluable, particularly in [specific research area]. For instance, his pivotal role in the [project name] initiative was instrumental in achieving [specific outcome]. John Smith demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex challenges associated with this project and developed innovative solutions that significantly advanced our research goals.

One of John Smith’s most impressive qualities is his ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application seamlessly. His work on [specific project or task] is a prime example. By [briefly describing particular actions taken], John Smith could [quantifiable result]. This achievement highlights his exceptional analytical skills and ability to translate complex scientific concepts into tangible outcomes.

Beyond his technical expertise, John Smith possesses exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. He is a collaborative team player who readily shares his knowledge and insights with colleagues. His ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely has been invaluable in internal and external presentations. John Smith has also taken on leadership roles within the team, mentoring junior researchers and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

John Smith’s enthusiasm for research and relentless pursuit of knowledge are truly inspiring. He is constantly seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth. For example, [describe a specific instance of initiative or self-directed learning]. This proactive approach to his work demonstrates his intellectual curiosity and commitment to professional development.

I am confident that John Smith possesses the intellectual capacity, technical skills, and personal qualities necessary to excel in a PhD program. His strong foundation in [specific field] and his passion for research make him an ideal candidate for advanced studies. I wholeheartedly recommend John Smith for admission to your program, and he will be a valuable asset to your research community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Struggling with your LOR? Join LeapScholar’s live events now! Network with other students and get expert advice on how to create a winning recommendation letter.

Vocabulary for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

A compelling Letter of Recommendation (LOR) requires proper structure and precise language. The words used can profoundly influence the admissions committee’s perception of you. 

Below, you’ll find a selection of vocabulary to enhance your LOR’s impact. 

Remember, these words are merely suggestions to complement your writing, and thoughtful use will improve your LOR’s professionalism and appeal.

Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program: Guidelines for Top Universities

When universities offer PhD programs, they want to pick candidates who can work well with mentors and achieve great results. They expect you to be dedicated and focused on your chosen field. 

Letters of recommendation are crucial in helping them find the right fit. You will find the requirements for a letter of recommendation for a PhD from the famous institutions listed below.

8 Tips to Write A Better Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Are you aspiring to join the ranks of 1.3 million Indian students pursuing higher education, such as PhDs abroad ? Then, crafting exceptional LORs is crucial. 

This section will highlight typical letter of recommendation for a PhD program mistakes to avoid. A little motivation: The average monthly salary for a research scientist in the US and UK is INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K). 

Now, please find below the essential tips for writing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

• Strategic Recommender Selection: Carefully choose recommenders who align with your PhD program’s requirements and can effectively highlight your strengths.
• Open Communication: Maintain regular contact with your recommenders, sharing your research goals and achievements to provide them with plenty of information.
• Diverse Perspectives: Encourage each recommender to focus on different aspects of your qualifications to create a well-rounded picture.
• Timely Submission: To avoid last-minute stress, ensure that online recommendation forms are submitted well in advance of the application deadline.
• Authenticity and Accuracy: Emphasise the importance of honest and detailed information in the LOR, avoiding exaggeration or false claims.
• Clear Relationship: The recommender’s relationship with you should be established within the letter.
• Highlight Strengths: The LOR should effectively showcase your unique qualities, abilities, and potential for doctoral research.
• Avoid Generic Templates: Encourage recommenders to write personalised letters that avoid generic or formulaic language.

To Conclude

Imagine yourself studying for a PhD at prestigious institutions like Stanford University or Oxford University , followed by a fulfilling career as a research scientist earning competitive salaries—up to INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K) per year, respectively. 

Achieving this dream begins with a strong Letter of Recommendation for a PhD program. Our expert counsellors at Leap Scholar are dedicated to helping you craft a standout LOR and guiding you through the entire admissions process. Let us help you realise your potential.

Take the first step towards your ideal future. Book a consultation now .

Also Read: Study PhD Abroad for Indian Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is a letter of recommendation for a phd.

A. A Letter of Recommendation for a PhD is a critical document in your application process. It provides insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. This letter helps admissions committees evaluate your readiness and fit for a doctoral program.

Q. Who should I ask to craft a Letter of Recommendation for my PhD application?

A. It’s essential to choose recommenders who know you well and can confirm your abilities. Ideally, this would be a professor familiar with your academic performance or a supervisor who understands your professional contributions. They should be able to provide a detailed assessment of your strengths, achievements, and potential for research.

Q. How many Letters of Recommendation do I need for a PhD application?

A. Most universities require two to three letters of recommendation for PhD applications. These letters should come from individuals who can attest to different aspects of your abilities and potential, ensuring a well-rounded view of your qualifications.

Q. What are the types of Letters of Recommendation for PhD programs?

A. There are two primary types of LORs: Academic and Professional. An Academic LOR is written by a faculty member who can highlight your intellectual abilities and research potential. A Professional LOR, on the other hand, is provided by an employer or supervisor who can discuss your skills and contributions in a workplace setting.

Q. How long should a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD be?

A. A typical LOR should be 400-500 words, spanning one to two pages. It should provide a comprehensive view of your qualifications, achievements, and potential without being overly verbose or too brief.

Q. How does a Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission impact my application?

A. A Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission is crucial because it provides an external perspective on your abilities, character, and potential as a researcher.  This letter helps the admissions committee understand your readiness for a doctoral program by highlighting your academic achievements and personal qualities, offering insights beyond what grades and test scores can convey.

Q. How can a sample LOR help me write my recommendation?

A. A sample LOR can provide a useful template or guide, showing how to structure the letter and what elements to include. It helps you understand how to effectively highlight your strengths and tailor the letter to the specific program you’re applying to.

Q. How should I format a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Use Times New Roman font, size 10 to 12, with 1-inch margins. The letter should be single-spaced with double spaces between paragraphs, left-aligned, and include the recommender’s signature and contact information.

Q. What common mistakes should be avoided in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Avoid generic or vague language, unclear descriptions of your relationship with the recommender, and late submissions. Ensure the letter is honest and detailed and highlights your strengths and unique qualities.

Q. Can a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD impact my application?

A. Absolutely. A strong LOR can significantly influence the admissions committee by providing validation of your academic and research capabilities. It adds a personal dimension to your application that grades and test scores alone cannot convey.

Q. What should I include in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application?

A. When writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application, include details about your relationship with the applicant, their academic and research achievements, and specific examples of their skills and contributions.  The letter should also discuss the applicant’s potential for success in a doctoral program, and why they are a strong candidate for the PhD program they are applying to.

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Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Examples 2022-2023

Grad school recommendation letters are an essential part of every graduate school application package–even in this (almost) post-COVID era of remote work and Zoom classes. Nearly all applications to graduate school still require at least two recommendation letters from individuals who can discuss your abilities, competencies, and personal character in a coherent way and recommend you for admission to graduate school.

Many referees have difficulty writing these recommendations themselves (for language issues or simply because they are busy) and some rely on the applicant to pen the draft of the letter and receive confirmation before submitting it to the graduate school. But regardless of who is writing the letter, there are a few key elements the recommender needs to include to craft a stellar recommendation for their graduate candidate.

Who should write a recommendation letter for graduate school?

Choosing which professors, supervisors, or advisors to request a graduate school recommendation letter from can be somewhat overwhelming. Should you choose someone who does not know you personally but who has connections to your target graduate school? If a famous professor writes you a grad school recommendation letter, will this automatically give you an advantage with the admissions committee? 

In general, graduate recommendation letters should come from people who know you well, who respect you enough to say glowing things about you as a student and researcher, and who hold positions in school or work that are above your own. At least one letter of recommendation should be submitted from a past or current professor or academic advisor. 

Another could be from someone in a slightly different role, including an employer, a research adviser, a senior colleague, or a professor from a different department or kind of class (e.g., a discussion class professor instead of a lecturer). No matter who it is, the recommender should know the applicant and recognize their accomplishments. It also helps if the recommender understands some details about the program to which their candidate is applying.

Here are some guidelines to follow when choosing who to ask for letters of recommendation for graduate school. Select someone who:

• Knows you well and can answer positively. Choose an individual who you have spent time with outside the classroom if possible. They should also be familiar with your career goals and hold a favorable view of you. 
• Has known you for quite a while. A recommendation letter for graduate school carries more influence if the person has known you for months or years instead of months. If you can, find someone who knows you from various contexts, such as a professor who is also your advisor. 
• Can speak to your strengths in relation to your graduate program. Choosing a finance professor to write your recommendation letter for an MBA program would be a good idea because they can write about the qualities that will aid you in pursuing an MBA (qualities you can also include in your MBA essay ) and a broader career in business. 
• Has substantive stories to share about you. Who was fortunate enough to see you succeed in an academic, extracurricular, or professional setting? Having someone write your LOR who has good stories to share about you is certainly going to benefit you more than someone whose class you took with two hundred other students. 

How to Request a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

Knowing how to request a letter of recommendation for graduate school can directly impact the quality of the letter your referee writes for you. Show respect and consideration for the time that your recommender is taking to write a glowing review that will get you into graduate school and positively impact the rest of your life. 

With this in mind, it may seem obvious that the very best way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is to do so in person. While this isn’t possible for all students (due to availability or schedule), it is the best route if you want to ensure that your LOR is not only written on time, but includes all the positive information about you that admissions committees want to see in a graduate candidate. When you cannot ask in person, sending an email is an appropriate second-best option. But remember to always be cordial and polite when making this request. 

What information should be included in a graduate recommendation letter?

Your referral letter should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

Your letter of recommendation should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

• What is your relationship with the student?
• Why should the graduate faculty listen to your opinion? (include your status, title)
• What makes this student special? (discuss their characteristics, qualities, traits)
• What specifically did this student do to impress you? (discuss their accomplishments, habits in class)
• What makes this student qualified for graduate school and for this program? (include specific courses or interests of the student in addition to abilities and traits)
• What do you know about the program the student is applying to?

What information does the LOR recommender need from me?

The recommender should be given sufficient time to write (and/or confirm) the letter. If it has been a while since you were last in contact, sending a background information file will make things easier. Include the following information so that the recommender can use a few details to bolster their letter:

• Classes the student has taken with the recommender
• Experiences you have shared
• Transcripts
• Research experience and internships
• Awards and achievements
• Academic/career goals
• Relevant professional experience

In addition to background information, make sure that the recommender has the necessary information to plan the writing in a timely manner and target the letter as much as possible:

• Graduate program application due date
• Copy of recommendation forms (if applicable)
• Instructions for submitting LORs (hard copy, soft copy, or direct to school)
• Details about the program and school the student is applying to

What style of writing should be used in a recommendation letter?

Although the letter of recommendation is more informal than academic writing, you should make sure that your language has no grammatical or mechanics errors and that it is of an academic level that reflects the author’s educational level and qualifications. Apply the following standards to the writing and the essay-drafting process:

• Make your language more personal in tone than research writing.
• Use the active voice and first-person point of view more often.
• Write chronologically, starting from important traits and then moving on to actions and achievements.
• Use lots of details—list course names, scores, and specific achievements of the student.
• Edit your letter before submitting it to the graduate admissions faculty.

How to Write a Grad School Letter of Recommendation Letter: LOR Outline

A well-structured recommendation letter (like any organized essay) will guide the reader logically towards an understanding of why this student is worthy not only of praise but of admission to graduate school. Grad school requires quite a few high-level scholastic attributes that not all students possess, and therefore it is important to focus on both the achievements of the candidate and on their personal character and potential to thrive in a difficult academic environment.

Use this outline as a letter of recommendation template in which to input your candidate’s achievements, skills, and traits. Note that the flow of information moves the reader into greater detail, using form phrases and transitions that increase the readability of the letter.

1. Greeting to the recipient

Dear {Name}, or To Whom It May Concern, To the graduate faculty of the {University / Department}

2. Opening paragraph: position; relationship to the applicant; general assessment of the applicant

It is my absolute pleasure to recommend {Name} for admissions to {Program} at {University}… I am a professor of {area of study} in the department of {department} at {University}.

3. Second paragraph: positive skill or trait; evidence of trait or skill; anecdotes demonstrating this skill

Jane has excellent communication skills. Her written work is both clear and concise, as well as interesting to read…

4. Third (up to fifth) paragraph: Other skills or traits; evidence of character and skills; detailed anecdotes

At a personal level, Jane is a well-disciplined, industrious student with a pleasant personality. She went well beyond the course expectations…

5. Final Paragraph: clear recommendation of the candidate to the specific school or program.

Jane is unquestionably an exceptional candidate for graduate study in {Program Applying for}. Jane’s work in “Developments in Anthropology” suggests that she would greatly benefit from the opportunities for intellectual development provided by a sustained period of graduate study…

6. Closing line: polite offer to be contacted if needed

If I can be of any further assistance, or provide you with any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Letter of Recommendation Template and Useful Phrases

Admission essays often contain template phrases or “form phrases” that allow the writer to plug in their specific information while not spending too much time deciding how to compose every single aspect of the writing. This can be especially useful for ESL authors because conventional expressions used in academic and essay writing can be difficult to learn and memorize. Use the following form phrases to help craft a more professional letter of recommendation.

Introducing yourself

• My name is  {Author}  and I have been a Professor of Math at  {University}  since  {date} .
• I write to you today to proudly express my support for  {Student}  in applying to your prestigious university.

Discussing your relationship with the applicant

• I first came to know  {Student}  while teaching him/her in my  {Course Name}  course…
• I was  {Student} ’s thesis advisor during his/her senior year.
• I have known  {Student}  for several years now and can attest to his/her strengths and quality of character.

Discussing the student’s general positive traits

• {Student}  has excellent communication skills and displays them regularly in class discussions.
• He/She is a highly intelligent and competent student who excels in many areas.
• Not only is  {Student}  hard-working and thoughtful, but he/she also demonstrates kindness and generosity towards his/her peers.

Demonstrating evidence of student’s character and skills

• She/he has shown herself/himself to be a true leader who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them in his/her work.
• {Student}  demonstrated his/her independence daily, completing difficult lab exercises by researching outside of class.
• During his/her internship,  {Student}  consistently managed his/her work responsibilities diligently and learned quickly. For example…

Discussing the school/program the student is applying to

• As  {University}  is renowned for its  {Program} , I believe this is an ideal place for  {Student}  to solidify his/her abilities and cement his/her knowledge of  {area of study} .
• The learning environment that  {University}  is famous for creating excellent opportunities in which  {Student}  to apply his/her skills.

Final endorsement and offer to be contacted

• For the above reasons, I am confident that  {Student}  will make an excellent addition to your graduate program, and I wholeheartedly support him/her for admission to your program.
• Thank you for your time and attention in reading my endorsement.

Further Tips for Writing Admissions Essays

• Highlight your self-motivation, competence, and potential in this essay
• Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in the active voice.
• Demonstrate through examples; don’t just write that you are a “persistent person”—show it!
• Approach every topic with continuity and focus.

The Final Step: Editing Your Recommendation Letter

As any good writer knows, it takes more than one draft to create a strong and compelling work of writing. After you have written your recommendation letter draft, there is still a lot of room for revision. One way to ensure that grammar mistakes and style errors do not get in the way of a strong letter is to let the admissions experts at Wordvice’s Admissions Editing Services edit and proofread your (of your candidate’s) letter of recommendation or other application essays, raising the chances that your candidate will be admitted to the program of their choice.

With a full suite of professional proofreading services , we edit thousands of admission documents each year for all kinds of authors of academic and admissions documents just like you. Furthermore, our application essay editing services , recommendation letter editing services , personal statement editing services , CV editing services , cover letter editing services , and SOP editing services are tailored to the needs of your specific admissions essay.

For more articles on writing and editing your essays and academic work, visit Wordvice’s Academic Resource page . 

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How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation

Published on October 30, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Letters of recommendation often make or break a graduate school application . It’s important to think carefully about who to ask and how to do it.

Ideally, you should approach former supervisors who know you and your work well, and can advise you. Different programs require different types of recommendation letters, but the process of requesting them is similar.

Follow these five steps to guarantee a great recommendation, including program-specific tips and email examples.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose who to ask, step 2: reach out and request a meeting, step 3: ask for a letter of recommendation, step 4: share your resume and other materials, step 5: remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about recommendation letters.

Your first step is to decide who you’ll ask to write a letter for you. Ideally, this should be someone who you worked with outside of just the classroom context—for example, a former professor who supervised your research.

It’s important to ask someone who knows you well, even if they are less well known than other professors at your institution. Graduate admissions committees want to get a good sense of your ability to perform well in their program, and this is difficult to accomplish if your recommender only knows you as a face in the crowd.

Who you should ask also strongly depends on the type of program that you’re applying to. Different programs prefer different qualities in their admitted students, and thus weigh types of recommenders differently. Take a look at the program-specific tips below.

For research programs (MPhil, DPhil, PhD , Research Master’s), graduate admissions committees are looking for evidence of your potential as a future researcher.

Since this is tricky to assess from test scores and transcripts, letters of recommendation are often the most important part of a graduate research program application.

Your letter should thus be from someone who can speak to your skills as a researcher. This could be, for example, a professor who supervised you on an independent research project, or the head of a lab that you worked in as an undergraduate.

If you worked as a full-time research or lab assistant after undergrad, ask your managers, who are usually full-time researchers themselves and therefore experts on what makes a good researcher.

Unlike most graduate programs, business schools are less interested in your undergraduate academic performance. Instead, they try to assess your potential to succeed in the workplace, particularly in managerial or leadership positions. The same applies to public policy and other professional programs.

Ideally, your letters of recommendation should come from current supervisors at your work. If this isn’t possible, you should ask coworkers who are senior to you and know your work well.

Although business schools normally prefer candidates with several years of experience, current undergraduates sometimes apply as well. In this case, you should ask internship supervisors or—as a last resort—professors who know you well.

Medical schools look for evidence that you are academically prepared for the study of medicine and that your character is well-suited to becoming a doctor. Admissions committees in medicine prefer academic references, but they also require a few extra steps.

Firstly, while graduate programs usually require two or three recommendation letters, medical schools often ask for more—you may have to submit up to six letters, some of which should be from former professors in the natural sciences.

In addition, many schools recommend that you submit a letter from the premedical advisory committee at your undergraduate institution, which summarizes your overall suitability for medical school. Be aware that deadlines for materials for these letters are very early—often the spring of the year before you are due to start medical school.

Finally, if you’ve worked on any research projects, you should submit a letter from your supervisor. Medical schools view research competence as a plus.

Law school letters of recommendation should mostly be from former professors or other academic supervisors.

You should only use non-academic recommenders if they can directly speak to your suitability to study law—for example, if you regularly work with lawyers, or if your job involves skills like critical reading or research that are relevant to legal practice.

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The next step is to get in contact with your potential recommender. If you haven’t talked to them in a while, begin your email with a quick reminder to jog their memory. Be friendly, direct, and concise.

If possible, it’s best to plan a meeting to discuss your request. However, if this isn’t practical (for example, if you’ve moved far away from your undergrad institution), you can skip this step and head straight to the third.

Hi Professor Smith!

I hope that everything is going well with you and that you’re still enjoying teaching your seminar on the post World War II international order. I thoroughly enjoyed taking it with you last year as a junior.

I’m currently thinking about what I want to do next year, which will hopefully involve graduate work in political science, and was hoping to meet with you to discuss your thoughts on graduate school. Do you have any time over the next few weeks to meet?

Make your request during your meeting or, if necessary, via email. Let them know what sort of programs you are applying to and when the deadlines are. Make sure to give your recommenders plenty of time!

Instead of just asking for a recommendation letter, specifically ask if they can write you a strong recommendation . This allows your recommender an “out”—for example, if they don’t feel they know you well enough. A bad or even lukewarm recommendation is the kiss of death for any application, so it’s important to ensure your letters will be positive!

If they say they can’t give you a strong recommendation, don’t panic. This gives you the opportunity to ask someone else who can provide you a better recommendation.

Hi Professor Jones!

How are you? I hope everything is going well and you’re still teaching Introduction to Labor Economics to eager students!

I’ve been out of school for a year now, working as a full-time research assistant in New York City. Come this fall, I’m hoping to apply to a few programs for graduate school, mostly doctoral programs in Economics.

Since I took two economics classes with you (Introduction to Labor Economics in Spring 2018 and Industrial Organization in Fall 2019), I was hoping that you might agree to serve as a letter writer for my graduate program. I wanted to highlight my work in labor economics, since that’s what I’m hoping to study in graduate school. Also, since I loved your classes, I thought you might be a good person to ask!

The letters of recommendation would be due to each individual program’s website in December. I understand, of course, if you’re too busy this summer or if you don’t feel that you would be the best fit to write a letter. My goal is simply to paint as complete a picture as possible of my undergrad career at Western. If you’d like, we can also discuss this on the phone.

I look forward to hearing back from you!

You should send your resume or CV to your recommenders, along with any other material that might jog their memory or aid in their recommendation.

For instance, you may want to send along your statement of purpose or writing sample if one is requested in your application. Admission committees are looking for a cohesive story that the letters of recommendation, personal statement , and CV work together to tell.

You should also check whether the school provides any prompts or guidelines for recommenders. Many programs want your recommenders to comment on your potential to serve in the specific role the graduate program prepares you for. See the program-specific tips below.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Finally, you should send an email to your recommenders a few weeks before the letters are due, reminding them of the deadline and asking if there is anything else you can send them to assist in writing the letter.

If any materials are late, programs will often reject your entire application, so it is imperative that your recommenders get their letters in on time. However, you should also keep in mind that your letter writers are probably quite busy, so don’t send too many reminders!

Dear Professor Jones,

Hope the semester is going well! Thank you again for agreeing to serve as my recommender. I just wanted to send you a quick reminder that recommendations for Program X, Y, and Z are due in two weeks, on December 15. Please let me know if you need anything else from me, and thank you again!

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

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Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your ability to succeed in the program that you are applying to.

Remember, it is far more important to choose someone who knows you well than someone well-known. You may have taken classes with more prominent professors, but if they haven’t worked closely with you, they probably can’t write you a strong letter.

This depends on the program that you are applying for. Generally, for professional programs like business and policy school, you should ask managers who can speak to your future leadership potential and ability to succeed in your chosen career path.

However, in other graduate programs, you should mostly ask your former professors or research supervisors to write your recommendation letters , unless you have worked in a job that corresponds closely with your chosen field (e.g., as a full-time research assistant).

It’s best to ask in person if possible, so first reach out and request a meeting to discuss your graduate school plans.

Let the potential recommender know which programs you’re applying to, and ask if they feel they can provide a strong letter of recommendation . A lukewarm recommendation can be the kiss of death for an application, so make sure your letter writers are enthusiastic about recommending you and your work!

Always remember to remain polite. Your recommenders are doing you a favor by taking the time to write a letter in support of your graduate school goals.

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• 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

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Undergraduates need them for graduate-school applications; PhD students and postdocs use them to apply for fellowships and jobs; senior scientists often have to have them to apply for awards and promotions. But writing an effective and personal recommendation letter can be time-consuming, especially for academics who must juggle grant applications, manuscripts, teaching and student supervision. And some might struggle to say the right things to support a former employee or student in their career move, while sounding original and unique.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-020-02186-8

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PhD applicants: Everything you need to know about letters of recommendation

• Share This: Share PhD applicants: Everything you need to know about letters of recommendation on Facebook Share PhD applicants: Everything you need to know about letters of recommendation on LinkedIn Share PhD applicants: Everything you need to know about letters of recommendation on X

In this blog post, Chris Blattman gives advice on what the purpose of recommendation letters is, who you should ask, and how to manage the process.

Excerpt: Will a professor write you a letter of recommendation? My answer: Writing student recommendations comes with the faculty job, and I usually write if asked. But since this academic territory is often so unfamiliar to grad and undergrad students, let me give some general guidelines and advice.

Read the full article here.

Which program are you applying to?

Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

June 13, 2024

Deciding Who Should Write Your Letters of Recommendation – PhD

Letters of recommendation (LORs) are a key part of your application. A strong one can provide meaningful support, while a lukewarm one can really hurt your chances of admission. In this post, we’ll answer two questions: (1) Who should write in support of your PhD application? And (2) how can you make sure your LORs are as good as they can be?

How to choose the best LOR writers

It is important to select LOR writers who truly know you well and, ideally, have known you for a reasonably long period of time. Select individuals who can comment specifically and knowledgeably about your abilities. It is helpful if you have stayed in touch with your recommenders since you studied or worked with them. You should select recommenders who are aware of your interests, skills, and strengths.

Choose individuals who can  and your potential. The more closely the writer’s background aligns with your field of study, the better. You should select faculty members to write the majority of your LORs for PhD programs. Some programs will specify how many of your letters should be from academic recommenders. 

If you have relevant work experience, you can ask a current or previous employer to write an LOR on your behalf. In it, they should focus on your research potential. You could also ask your internship supervisor if the type of work you did as an intern is related to your intended field of study.

When you approach your recommenders about writing  in support of your application, ask whether they feel they could write a strong, positive letter. This provides a gentle way for a hesitant recommender to decline – they can admit that they don’t think they know you well enough to do so (or you might sense their hesitation), and you can move on to someone else who can and will.

How to help your recommenders write strong LORs

It is important to provide information and materials to your recommenders that will help them write the strongest letter possible. These can include a copy of your resume, copies of work you produced for their class (for faculty members), and a list of job accomplishments (for supervisors). You should also share your current research interests with the letter writer, as well as a list of the schools you are applying to and the specific degree programs. Provide all these materials at one time in an organized manner. 

Offer to meet with your recommender to discuss your plans and goals. You can also send them a link to Accepted’s  Ten Tips for Writers of Letters of Recommendation .

Most graduate schools use online systems for their LORs, in which the letter writer fills out a form and uploads or attaches a written statement. You give your recommender’s contact information to the schools you’re targeting, and the schools will send your recommenders details on accessing the online form.

Agree with your recommender on a timeline that gives them at least several weeks to complete their letter. If you are asking a faculty member, be aware of the academic calendar; the final weeks of the semester are often very busy. And remember that professors sometimes go on sabbatical, which means they might not be available at certain times.

A few days before the agreed-upon deadline, send a reminder to your letter writer.

Say thank you!

Always remember to follow up with a thank-you note. (Ideally, you can write another thank-you note after you get in, sharing the good news!)

You must choose your PhD LOR writers wisely and then ensure that they have all the materials they need to construct strong letters that will represent your greatest strengths. We can help! Schedule a free consultation to discuss your LORs or any other aspect of your PhD application.

By  Alice Diamond , former associate dean for career and community service at Lesley University. Alice has a BA from Colgate University, an MA from Bryn Mawr College, and an MS from Cornell University. She has more than 35 years of experience in career and admissions advising for undergraduate and graduate candidates. Alice’s clients have been accepted to top programs in a wide range of fields.  Want an admissions expert to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Choosing the Best PhD Program , a free guide
• Applying to PhD Programs: When, Where, How, and Why?
• Get Accepted to PhD Programs in the Humanities , podcast Episode 568

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Sample Graduate School Recommendation by a Professor

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The success of your graduate school application relies on the quality of the recommendation letters professors write on your behalf. What goes into a helpful recommendation letter? Check out the sample letter of recommendation written by a professor. What makes it work?

An Effective Recommendation Letter for Graduate School 

• Explains how the professor knows the student. The professor speaks to the student’s abilities in several contexts rather than just in class.
• Is detailed.
• Supports statements with specific examples.
• Compares a student to her peers and the letter explains exactly what makes the student stand out.
• Describes a student's capacities in specific ways rather than simply noting that she is an excellent student prepared for grad school.

Below is the body of an effective recommendation letter, written by a professor.

To: Graduate Admissions Committee

It is my pleasure to write on behalf of Jane Student, who is applying to the Ph.D. program in Research Psychology at Major University. I have interacted with Jane in several contexts: as a student, as a teaching assistant, and as a thesis mentee.

I first met Jane in 2008, when she enrolled in my introductory Psychology class. Jane immediately stood out from the crowd, even as a first-semester freshman. Just a few months out of high school, Jane demonstrated characteristics commonly held by the best college students. She was attentive in class, prepared, submitted well-written and thoughtful assignments, and participated in meaningful ways, such as by debating other students. Throughout, Jane modeled critical thinking skills. Needless to say, Jane earned one of five A’s awarded in that class of 75 students. Since her first semester in college Jane has enrolled in six of my classes. She demonstrated similar competencies, and her skills grew with each semester. Most striking is her ability to tackle challenging material with enthusiasm and endurance. I teach a required course in Statistics that, as rumor has it, most students dread. Students’ fears of statistics are legendary across institutions, but Jane wasn’t fazed. As usual, she was prepared for class, completed all assignments, and attended help sessions conducted by my teaching assistant . My teaching assistant reported that Jane seemed to learn concepts quickly, learning how to solve problems well before the other students. When placed in group work sessions, Jane easily adopted a leadership role, helping her peers learn how to solve problems on their own. It was these competencies that led me to offer Jane a position as a teaching assistant for my statistics class.

As a teaching assistant, Jane strengthened many of the skills I have articulated. In this position, Jane held review sessions and offered out-of-class assistance to students. She also lectured in class several times during the semester. Her first lecture was a bit shaky. She clearly knew the concepts but had difficulty keeping pace with PowerPoint slides. When she abandoned the slides and worked off the blackboard, she improved. She was able to answer students questions and the two that she couldn’t answer, she admitted to and said she’d get back to them. As a first lecture, she was very good. Most important to a career in academics, is that she improved in subsequent lectures. Leadership, humility, the ability to see areas in need of improvement, and the willingness to do the work needed to improve – these are all characteristics we value in academia.

Most important to a career in academics is research competence. As I have explained, Jane has an excellent grasp of statistics and other skills critical to a successful career in research, such as tenacity and excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills. As mentor of her senior thesis, I witnessed Jane in her first independent research efforts. Similar to other students, Jane struggled with finding an appropriate topic. Unlike other students, she conducted mini literature reviews on potential topics and discussed her ideas with a sophistication that is unusual for undergraduates. After methodical study, she chose a topic that fits her academic goals. Jane’s project examined [X]. Her project earned a department award, university award, and was presented as a paper at a regional psychology association.

In closing, I believe that Jane student has the capacity to excel at X and in a career as a research psychologist. She is one of a small handful of student that I have encountered in my 16 years teaching undergraduates that has this ability. Please do not hesitate to contact me with further questions.

Why This Letter Is Effective

• It is written by a professor who has extensive experience with the applicant .
• The professor describes several aspects of the student's competence.
• It describes how the student has grown and developed her skills.

What does this mean for you as a potential applicant to grad school ? Work to foster close, multidimensional relationships with faculty. Develop good relationships with several faculty because one professor often cannot comment on all of your strengths. Good graduate school letters of recommendation are built over time. Take that time to get to know professors and for them to get to know you.

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How To Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for Your PhD Application

Here are our tips on asking for a letter of recommendation to ensure that you get the best possible letters of recommendation for your PhD studies.

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Page Content

When applying for a PhD program, one of the most critical aspects of your application is obtaining letters of recommendation from professors or other professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and accomplishments. We explain how to ask for a letter of recommendation for your PhD application.

Find your perfect program

Use our search to find and compare programs from universities all over the world, what is a letter of recommendation for a phd student.

A letter of recommendation for an aspiring PhD student is a letter from someone close to the individual who can describe their personal and academic qualities.

The purpose of a letter of recommendation is to help people who do not know a student personally understand more about them.

Typically, educational institutions require students to include references in their applications, making them essential to getting admitted into a PhD program.

Why do PhD students need a letter of recommendation?

PhD students need letters of recommendation to get admitted into their programs.

Usually, these letters are a required part of applications. They can help the admissions team gain insight into the student's qualities to help them decide whether to admit them.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation for your PhD application

Asking for a letter of recommendation for your PhD application can be daunting. Still, with the proper preparation and strategy, you can ensure you get the quality letters you need. Here are our tips on asking for a letter of recommendation to ensure that you get the best possible letters of recommendation for your PhD studies .

Select an appropriate recommender for PhD to write your letter

Choosing the right person to write your letter of recommendation is crucial. Your recommender should be someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your qualifications, skills, research experience, and potential as a doctoral candidate. The individual selected must hold a position of authority in their field for some time so that they may provide an informed opinion,

It is important to ask someone who can honestly assess your abilities and academic performance and recommend you for the program in a straightforward manner.

Who can you ask for a letter of recommendation for your PhD application?

Former teachers or professors

Many people ask former teachers or professors to write letters of recommendation. Teachers and professors can describe how a student performs in academic settings. They may have examples of how a student excelled in the classroom. If you choose to ask a teacher or professor for a recommendation, select the ones you were close with or especially involved with.

You can also ask a co-worker to write you a letter of recommendation. Co-workers can describe their experience working with you in a professional setting, including their work ethic, communication skills, and working style. It can be effective to ask more experienced co-workers or managers who may be more qualified.

How to ask someone to write you a recommendation letter

Here are steps you can follow to ask someone to write you a letter of recommendation for your PhD application:

1. Think of people who could write your letter

Before asking an individual to write you a letter of recommendation, you can start by making a list of people you could ask. Think of people in your network who can attest to your personal, professional, and academic qualities. Try to choose individuals who have professional qualifications.

2. Talk to the people on your list

After creating a list of people who could write recommendations, talk to each person one-on-one. This step takes place before sending a formal request to the individuals. In your conversation with each person, tell them what you plan to use the recommendation for and update them on your new accomplishments, so they have a clear idea of what to include in the letter.

3. Send a formal request to each individual

Once you have talked to the people you want to ask for letters, send a formal request to each individual. When you send your request, include additional information to help them write their letters, such as your resume, current job title and description, the deadline for the recommendation, and any other relevant information.

Provide your recommender with guidance

To help your recommender write an effective letter:

• Give them ample guidance.
• Provide your recommender with your research experience, accomplishments, and goals for the PhD program.
• Outline your professional qualities, strengths, weaknesses, and any information that may help them frame their thoughts.
• Provide them with relevant materials that might be useful in writing the letter, such as transcripts, a copy of your CV, or certificates demonstrating your qualifications.
• Include contact information for anyone who may know about your performance or research projects.

Ask the right questions

Understand what the recommendation should address, such as prior teaching or research experience and academic potential. Ask your recommender if they have any questions or need additional information. Ensure the letter refers to the program and institution you are applying to by asking specific questions about that school.

Give adequate time for completion

Your recommender needs enough time to write a strong letter. Make sure to give them at least several weeks' notice so that they can spend the proper amount of time and attention on the task.

Setting a deadline that gives your recommender enough time to write an effective letter is helpful. Do ask the recommender if more time is needed before submitting the recommendation

Follow-up after making your request

After submitting the request, follow up with your recommender periodically to ensure they are on track.

Follow submission guidelines

Before submitting your recommendation, be sure it adheres to all submission requirements and guidelines set by the PhD program. These may include formatting, submission deadlines, the number of letters required, and other instructions. If these requirements are not followed, your application may be disqualified.

Thank your recommender for their efforts once they have sent off the letter

Once your recommender has submitted their letter on your behalf, it is essential to thank them for their time and efforts. A simple thank you note expressing gratitude can go a long way in showing appreciation. This will also ensure that they feel comfortable recommending you again in the future if need be.

By following these tips on how to ask for a letter of recommendation for your PhD application, you can ensure that your letter is well-written and compelling. Doing so will give you the best chance of getting accepted into the program of your choice.

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Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters

The three sample recommendation letters that follow, which you can download by clicking on the link below, are effective because they detail what makes the students stand out as exceptional and because they paint individual pictures of each student. Note how these excerpts, excerpted from each of the three letters, individualize and humanize the student:

“I have been especially impressed by Janet’s determination and sparkle.” “I enthusiastically supported her application for the student position on the Mythic University Board of Trustees for the same reasons. She was the runner-up for that distinguished post, and Mythic University lost out on a true leader. But I believe her time is yet to come.” “In short, John is both scholarly and culturally entrenched, ambitious but not pretentious, self-deprecating yet confident, forthright but unassuming, delightfully irreverent yet appropriately respectful—a complex and whole human being.”

In addition, the writers of these three letters take advantage of many of the rhetorical strategies discussed in Chapters 3 and 4 of this manual: enhancing their own credibility, narrative technique, anecdotal evidence, recommending by citing others, and using active verbs and transitions.

Finally, a late paragraph in the last letter, at the prompting of the graduate scholarship application, even provides a few criticisms of the student. Because these criticisms are offered even-handedly and efficiently, I would argue that the letter has even more ethos, and it is noteworthy that the student still landed the desired scholarship.

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Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters are a critical element of every application. They validate the claims you've made as an applicant, providing specific examples and details of your academic accomplishments, personal endeavors, and character. Selection committees rely on them to impartially evaluate your performance and potential to be successful in the opportunity you are pursuing. Good letter-writers are those who know you well enough to provide these assessments with enthusiasm and authenticity.

Academic letters are typically written by faculty, lecturers, or faculty research advisors who have overseen your work in courses, research settings, or other academic contexts. These letters generally address how you performed, your potential for future success in the field, and any other attributes that make you qualified for the particular award. Post-doctoral associates/fellows and graduate students may also have insight into your performance if they've worked with you in a course or project. However, depending on the fellowship or research opportunity, they do not usually make suitable academic letter-writers. It is important that you check the criteria of the award and/or check-in with administrators who manage the award to see whether letters from non-faculty members would be appropriate for that opportunity.

Some students, especially those in their early college years, have not yet had the opportunity to directly interact with faculty – perhaps you have had more direct interaction with Teaching Fellows ("TFs"). In these cases, you might consider asking the faculty course leader or head of a research group to work together with your TF to generate a co-signed letter. Keep in mind, though, that coordinating co-signed letters takes more time than usual, so plan ahead. Peers (other college students or recent alumni in student organizations), on the other hand,  are not suitable letter writers. If you're applying for a non-academic opportunity, or one that is specifically interested in learning about the applicant's personal attributes (character, leadership potential, commitment to service, etc.), then you might consider asking for a letter of recommendation from a College staff member or organization supervisor, coach, faculty who may be familiar with your work outside of the classroom, work supervisor, or Resident Dean or other House staff.

Letters from high school teachers or your high school years: Soliciting letters from high school teachers is not usually acceptable for fellowship and research opportunities at the college level. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If you've engaged in research as a high school student and are applying to a competitive research fellowship that funds independent study (e.g. Herchel Smith Harvard Summer Science Fellowship ) as a first-year student, it may be acceptable to provide a letter from that experience, but only if the writer can provide strong evidence that you are qualified to pursue an independent research project.

Navigating Recommendations

Letters of recommendation are a critical part of academic and professional development. If you need a letter from a faculty member, research advisor, or other Harvard community member, do not be afraid to ask if they'd be willing to provide you a strong recommendation letter (even if the deadline is still years away, for instance, a medical school/graduate school application).

Help them help you.

• Ask for recommendation letters in advance of the deadline—at least 3-4 weeks' notice is typical. Usually, letters of recommendation are due at the  same time as your own materials! Please take note of this.
• Remind the recommender how they know you, if they have not heard from you in a while. If being in their course was significant to your development or trajectory, let them know! You might also consider re-sending a copy of a paper or project you wrote for their class, to remind them of your good work.
• Give your recommenders specific instructions – this includes how, where, and when to submit the recommendation letter and any guidance from the selection committee on specific topics recommenders should be addressing. If you'd like the recommender to highlight events, skills, or experiences that speak to your qualifications for the opportunity, tell them so. Invite their questions about your materials and the application process, and check-in with them frequently as the deadline approaches.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for multiple letters. Recommenders who have agreed to support your application for one opportunity may also be willing to recommend you for another. If you are considering asking for multiple letters, you'll need to provide specific information about each opportunity, so that your recommender knows how to tailor their letter to best complement your application. (Remember, give plenty of notice—just because they have written for you before doesn't mean they can write a new letter overnight!) Check in frequently to see if they have any questions or concerns or need more information from you.

Give thanks and provide updates.

Regardless of the outcome of your application, be sure that you let your recommenders know you appreciate the effort and time they put toward the recommendation and update them on the outcome of your joint efforts. Even after the experience is long over, do your best to check-in with those recommenders; keeping them engaged with your trajectory is the best way to keep them engaged as your advocate and mentor.

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Letters of Recommendation

What this handout is about.

Producing an effective recommendation letter involves strategy, research, and planning. This handout is designed to introduce recommenders to some best practices for writing effective recommendation letters.

Deciding whether to write a recommendation

Recommendation letters are likely to receive close scrutiny, and sparse or non-specific recommendations may negatively impact an application. If a recommender is unable or unwilling to produce a recommendation that speaks directly to the individual applicant and position, the selection committee or potential employer may interpret this negatively. If you do not feel that you could provide a positive or detailed recommendation, it is okay to decline!

There are several reasons why it may be appropriate to decline a request for a recommendation:

• You may not feel comfortable writing a positive letter, either because you have no information about the student or because they did not perform well enough in a class or position.
• You may feel you are a “bad fit” for the student’s application. For example, if your field of expertise is completely unrelated to the student’s area of interest, you might advise the student to ask recommenders with more relevant backgrounds.
• You may feel that you lack the necessary credentials to offer a compelling recommendation. For example, graduate student instructors may feel as if they cannot credibly endorse their students’ graduate school applications. Thus, students may be directed to faculty to write letters instead of graduate students.
• You may know that you will not have time to write and proofread a strong letter before the student’s deadline.

Consider setting up a meeting. This will give you an opportunity to ask about the applicant’s academic background, professional goals, and reasons for applying. It may help to clarify whether this is a one-time request, or whether you are being asked to serve as a recommender for several applications. It’s a good idea to request to see the applicant’s resume, CV, personal statement, or other components of the application. Each of these can give you a sense of the applicant’s goals and help you decide if you would be a good recommender. These items will also allow you to tailor your letter appropriately if you decide to write on the applicant’s behalf.

Confidentiality and protected information

Many applications invite applicants to waive their right to view a letter of recommendation. Confidential letters of recommendation may be viewed as more credible than letters that applicants can access.

You should be aware of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and your institution’s FERPA-related guidelines when writing recommendation letters. FERPA prohibits disclosure of protected student information such as grades and attendance without the student’s prior written consent. Students who want you to address protected information should specify which records you may disclose, the purpose for which the disclosure is being made, and to whom the information may be disclosed. You can read more about FERPA here: https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html .

Writing strong recommendations

After committing to write a recommendation for an applicant, gather information about the opportunity to which they are applying. Besides asking the applicant about the organization, you may also want to reach out to someone in your own professional network who may know something about the audience or take some time to do your own research. Here are some questions to consider:

• What are the organization’s values and priorities? Some organizations state this information explicitly on their websites and other publications, and this can help you tailor your letter to directly address the audience’s top concerns.
• What information does the audience want to learn from you? Some institutions will ask you to answer specific questions about the applicant in your letter. Knowing these in advance will give you more time to talk with the student about any information you may need.
• How is this opportunity a good fit for the applicant? Referencing special features and benefits offered by a position shows that you’ve done your homework, which can add to the weight of your recommendation by demonstrating that you are willing to invest extra work in your student’s success. You will also be able to speak to the applicant’s fit for the position in greater detail.

Keep in mind that nearly all recommendations contain a positive appraisal of an applicant’s abilities and character, and it costs recommenders almost nothing to offer general and unsubstantiated praise of an applicant. Letters that claim an applicant is “the best student I’ve ever worked with” or “the hardest working employee I’ve ever had” are likely to meet with skepticism, unless the writer includes specific evidence to back up these claims. Even letters that contain genuine praise may come across as form letters unless you can speak to unique evidence about the student that corroborates your positive assessment.

Many different kinds of information may constitute evidence in a recommendation, and it is up to you to determine what would be most convincing to the audience. Here are some guidelines for what you may want to include or avoid:

• Do describe your relationship with the applicant. Say how long you’ve known the applicant and in what capacity. This information helps the audience understand how well you know the applicant. For example, sharing that you’ve advised a student for three years and taught them in two senior seminars demonstrates that you know your applicant better than a recommender who has only recently met the student or who has only taught the student in a large lecture class.
• Do include quantitative data about a student’s performance in a class or an employee’s performance in a position. Because raw grade point averages or other performance metrics are sometimes difficult to translate across different contexts, try to rank students against other students. For example, rather than saying “Judith received an A in my class,” aim for evidence that tells the audience how Judith’s performance compared to her classmates’: “Judith was among the top 5% of students in her large lecture class.” (Remember, if you do include specific grades in your letter, you must have written consent from the student as per FERPA.)
• Do compare applicants to students who have been placed into other positions. A statement like, “Over the past five years, other students with undergraduate research experience similar to Amer’s have been accepted to graduate programs at X, Y, and Z,” gives the audience a sense of where Amer stands in a wider population of successful students. Including comments like these also indicates that you have a good sense of what makes an applicant successful.
• Do mention the applicant’s personal and/or intellectual strengths as they pertain to the application. For example, it may be helpful to emphasize a study abroad applicant’s open-mindedness. Again, include appropriate evidence for this claim, which may involve discussing or even directly citing the student’s written work in your class.
• Do explain why you think the applicant is a good fit. Selection committees are often interested in hearing how students would contribute to the intellectual and professional climate of their institution. Given your experience with the student, help the audience see the type of employee or scholar the student will be: “Casey’s research experience in early-modern Arabic poetry would make them an ideal addition to Professor Seif’s Syrian cultural archival project.” If possible, mention the position/school/fellowship by name. This proves that you’ve taken enough interest in the letter to target it for each recipient. It will not always be possible to tailor recommendations to each program; for example, many postgraduate programs are moving to common applications that send the same letters to all programs to which students apply.
• Don’t shy away from discussing the applicant’s weaknesses —but only if those weaknesses are likely to already be on the audience’s radar. For example, you may have insight into why your student received an uncharacteristically low grade in your class during their final semester that could alleviate an audience’s concerns. You may draw attention to the applicant’s growth as well as the potential for continued growth in the new position. Keep in mind, however, that recommendation letters are expected to be positive in tone, so proceed with caution when discussing applicants’ weaknesses. Specifically avoid commenting on personality traits or other topics that are irrelevant to the application.
• Don’t rely on generalizations, clichés, or platitudes. Every good applicant will be “dedicated,” “hard-working,” and “enthusiastic.” Praise like this is likely to appear in dozens of other letters for other applicants, so you need to say more to help your applicant stand out. Include specific examples to support these descriptors. Convey the unique strengths of your student, especially any that you believe speak directly to the audience’s interests or values. Also pay special attention to any language that may inadvertently convey gender or other biases. For example, some studies have reported that language that pertains to effort (rather than accomplishments), personal life details (rather than relevant professional information), and emotional capacities (rather than academic or professional ability) more frequently appear in recommendations for women than for men. Focusing on traits that are demonstrable with evidence and germane to the program or position to which the student is applying is the best way to avoid implicit bias in your letters.
• Don’t include too much information about you or your class. Although some brief background information about the context in which you know the student is appropriate, do not spend so much time discussing course or assignment details that the letter is no longer focused upon the applicant.
• Don’t offer tepid praise or left-handed compliments. Half-hearted comments are almost guaranteed to attract the wrong kind of attention. Although you may honestly report that your student “completed all course assignments on time” or “was an adequate writer,” the audience will likely interpret these phrases as veiled criticism. Avoiding tepid praise is more difficult than it seems. After you’ve finished writing the letter, read over it with a critical eye and try to assume the worst of the student. Do any of your sentences invite uncharitable interpretation?
• Don’t simply summarize the applicant’s CV or resume. As with tepid praise, simply reiterating what the audience already knows from other parts of the application implies that you either don’t know or don’t care enough about the applicant to offer your own appraisal. It is appropriate to highlight a special component of a student’s resume and explain why you believe this aspect of the student makes them a great candidate, but don’t waste your opportunity to offer your own valuable endorsement by simply listing the applicant’s accomplishments.

Formatting recommendation letters

After you’ve decided what to write in your recommendation, you will need to decide how to write it. How long should the recommendation be? Should it be written on official letterhead? To whom should it be addressed? Will the letter submitted electronically, or will it be mailed?

Length: Just as there is sometimes no prescribed length for application essays, there is no standard length for recommendation letters. Most recommendations tend to be around 1 to 1.5 single-spaced pages long, although some may be longer if you have a lot to share. Business and law school recommendations tend to be briefer than graduate school recommendations. In general, try to strike a balance between writing too little (which suggests you have nothing to say about the applicant) and writing too much, which may be annoying to audiences who are reading dozens or hundreds of recommendations for a single position.

Letterhead: When possible, write recommendations on official letterhead and sign them using a handwritten signature. Producing letters on official letterhead both adds to your credibility as a recommender and demonstrates that you care enough about the applicant to put finishing touches on your endorsement. This may include sending an envelope with your signature across the seal. Some application programs ask recommenders to compose or paste their recommendations into online forms. In these cases, you would not submit the letter on formal letterhead. Learning in advance how you will need to submit your recommendation can help you avoid unnecessary work and accurately gauge the time required to submit your letter.

Salutation: Address recommendation letters as specifically as possible. If the applicant is applying for a position within a firm or office and you know who will receive the letter, address the letter to that person, like “Dear Dr. Anderson.” If you don’t know who, specifically, will receive the letter, address the recommendation to the target audience, like “Dear Fulbright Committee”. Avoid vacuous salutations like “To Whom it May Concern.” Also avoid informal greetings, including those you might use in an email or other correspondence, like “Hi,” “Hello,” “Good afternoon,” etc. “Dear” is the standard formal salutation in English.

Closing: End the letter with a simple closing word or phrase like “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Cordially” or by thanking the audience for considering your endorsement. Avoid personal and emotive language. If you would be willing to answer any additional questions the institution or employer may have about the applicant, it is appropriate to invite them to contact you before closing the letter.

Letters of recommendation inform the decisions of admissions committees, employers, funding agencies, and other organizations who are trying to choose between multiple candidates. Your efforts to create strong letters make a difference.

If you commit to writing a letter of recommendation, follow through. Keep track of deadlines and start early, as you may discover that you need additional information from the student or institution, and you will want to have time to request this information and incorporate it into your recommendation.

Finally, consider whether you are willing to do more than write a recommendation. Students may need help with other parts of their application, such as statements of purpose or writing samples. Since you likely have insight into what graduate programs or employers are looking for, you are in a unique position to help applicants with these other materials as well.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Brown University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Fellowships and Research. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://www.brown.edu/academics/college/fellowships/information-resources/writing-letters-recommendation/writing-letters-recommendation .

Madera, Juan M., Michelle R. Hebl, and Randi C. Martin. 2009. “Gender and Letters of Recommendation for Academia: Agentic and Communal Differences.” Journal of Applied Psychology 94 (6): 1591–99. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0016539 .

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. n.d. “How to Write Good Letters of Recommendation.” MIT Admissions. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/parents-educators/writingrecs/ .

Stanford University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Teaching Commons. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://teachingcommons.stanford.edu/resources/teaching-resources/how-evaluate-students/writing-letters-recommendation.

Yale University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Fellowships and Funding. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://funding.yale.edu/faculty-staff-recommenders/writing-letters .

Trix, Frances, and Carolyn Psenka. 2003. “Exploring the Color of Glass: Letters of Recommendation for Female and Male Medical Faculty.” Discourse & Society 14 (2): 191–220. https://doi.org/10.1177%2F0957926503014002277 .

Whitaker, Manya. 2016. “Tips for Writing Recommendation Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , December 2, 2016. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2016/12/02/how-write-stronger-letters-recommendation-students-essay .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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• Letter of Recommendation FAQs

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• PhD/Master's Application Process
• Admissions - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the letter of recommendation process work?

When you fill out an application, you will be asked to enter contact information for your recommenders. Your recommenders will then receive a notification email with instructions for uploading their letter. Please note:

• Letters of recommendation will be automatically attached to your application as soon as they are submitted. 
• You may view the status of letters of recommendation within your application or from your Application Status Portal.

Q: How many recommendation letters are required?

The number of letters required varies by application type.

• For degree programs, three letters of recommendation are required. (To a maximum of five).
• For non-degree programs, two letters of recommendation are required.

Q: One of my recommenders wishes to submit the recommendation for me in paper form only. Is that OK?

Unfortunately, no. We will only accept letters submitted online.

If your recommender is only willing to provide a paper letter, you may want to consider a different recommender, as paper letters will not be considered. 

Q: Can I add a recommender after I submit my application?

From your Application Status Portal, you will be able to remind, add, or exclude a recommender. This feature is no longer available once the minimum required number of recommendations (3) has been received. 

Q: Can I delete a recommender?

Yes, you may “Exclude” a recommender from within your application or on your Application Status Portal. 

Q: I started an application last year and requested letters of recommendation that were submitted. Can those letters be attached to the new application I will be preparing for this coming year?

Unfortunately, no. You will have to identify your recommenders again in your current year application. Your recommenders will have to submit recommendations again.

Q: Will Yale GSAS accept letters of recommendation from a dossier service such as Interfolio?

Yes. We will accept letters of recommendation from Interfolio or other dossier services that have the ability to upload a letter directly to our online recommendation system on behalf of a faculty member. In such cases, please enter the dossier service-specific email address provided by the recommender when adding a recommender for your application.

Please be advised that dossier services generally will not fill out optional questions on our recommendation form, including ratings of your Academic Performance, Intellectual Potential, and Motivation for the Proposed Program of Study.

Paper letters and emailed PDFs are not acceptable. 

Q: I have been out of school for some time. May my recommenders be those who can attest to my professional work?

Yes; however, we suggest that at least one recommendation should originate from a faculty member of the last institution you attended as a full-time student. This is not mandatory and may not be feasible if you have been out of school for a number of years.

Q: One of my recommenders did not receive an email or is having trouble accessing the online recommendation system.

Once you enter your recommender’s information (including email address) and select “Send to Recommender,” an email is automatically generated and sent to your recommender. If your recommender does not receive the email, it is possible that their email provider is blocking the email. You may try resending the email or excluding the recommender and adding them again with a different email address. 

Q: Is there a deadline for letters of recommendation?

There is no specific deadline for letters of recommendation, and recommenders may upload letters even after the application deadline. However, since programs begin reviewing applications shortly after the respective application deadline, please be sure that your letters of recommendation are submitted promptly. Please note that we only accept letters uploaded online; we do not accept mailed or faxed letters of recommendation.

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Sample Reference Letter

Reference letter for a phd candidate.

A successful application to a PhD program almost always requires letters of recommendation from former university lecturers and professors. They are the main point of reference when it comes to assessing an applicant's qualification for a PhD program. The letter below is a good example for a former MSc student, who now wants to pursue a PhD in the same field. It is already somewhat specifically addressed, as it directly refers to a doctorare degree in Linguistics.

Dear Sir or Madam,

it is my pleasure to acquaint you with one of my most outstanding students, Ravi Egilsson, who is keen to pursue the Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics at your esteemed institution.

I have known Ravi since 2010, when he enrolled into the Master of Science in Speech Analytics here at Oxbridge University. As part of this programme, Ravi took my course on Automated Speech Processing and joined my practical seminar on Pattern Processing. I also supervised him for his thesis project, a smartphone app that can translate a range of simple infant phonetisms into spoken language.

Ravi presented outstanding commitment to his studies, and finished his degree within the top 10% of his class. He was a quite remarkable student with a strong research interest. Among his peers, he stood out by always being up-to-date with currently topical discussions even within niches of linguistical research. The quality of his research work on his thesis project was compelling, and he managed to find beautifully simple solutions to very challenging problems.

With his multicultural background and fluent proficiency of English, Swedish and Hindi he was able to approach many scientific questions from different angles. During the courses, he always made many valuable contributions to group discussions. Finally, it should not be left unmentioned that Ravi is a very pleasant person to work with.

I respect Ravi's decision to further pursue his specific research interests at your university, and I am confident that he will be a highly valuable addition to your PhD program, where he could develop and apply his extraordinary talents. Furthermore, I am certain that he would qualify for any means of financial aid that you could offer him, and I also strongly recommend him for a position as a teaching or research assistant. Should you have any questions with regards to Ravi Egilsson, I will be pleased to answer them.

Klemens Rapper

Professor Oxbridge University

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Graduate School

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Due to the volume of applications which are received, and in order to read each application thoroughly and thoughtfully, we limit the number of recommendations to three.

Requirements

Letters must be written in English and come from faculty members or other individuals well acquainted with your academic work. 

Princeton School of Public and International Affairs M.P.A. and M.P.P. applicants : Applicants must have one professional letter in addition to one academic reference letter. The third letter should come from a faculty member, administrator, or professional who can comment on commitment to public service.

Master in Finance applicants : Three letters are required. The department will accept one of the letters from a current or former employer.

Submission Process

Before applying.

Prepare : Gather email addresses and full names of three recommenders prior to submitting the application. 

Note to prior applicants : Recommendations from prior applications do not carry forward. You must register three recommenders and their letters need to be sent through the application system.

During the Application Process 

Please do not wait to submit an application because of pending letters. 

Register recommenders : You will be required to register the recommenders' email addresses within the application. We suggest registering recommenders as early as possible to allow sufficient time for them to submit their letters of recommendation. Recommenders may be registered before the application is submitted.

Recommender instructions : Recommenders will receive an email with directions on how to proceed. Their letters are submitted using our electronic recommendation service. Once a recommender receives the recommendation request, the recommender cannot be changed or removed. 

Letter services : If a recommender uses a letter service (e.g., Interfolio ), you will need to provide the recommender's unique "document email address" in the application. 

Troubleshooting recommender issues : Please make sure your recommender selected “Submit.”  Often recommenders select save and fail to submit. If your recommender is still having trouble, they may email [email protected] .

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 

FERPA gives enrolled students the right to inspect and review their educational records. When a recommender is registered in the application, there is an option to waive this right. The email that your recommender will receive from Princeton indicates if FERPA rights have been waived or not, and this may influence what the recommender writes in the reference.

If FERPA rights were not waived, enrolled students may request access to view recommendation letters. 

Applicants who do not become students will not be able to view recommendation letters under any circumstances. 

Once the recommendation request has been submitted, waived status may not be changed. To review your selection, please log into your account and go to Recommendations. Select “Edit” next to the Recommender’s name to see what you selected. All letters of recommendation are confidential during the admission process. The decision to waive or not waive the right will not affect the application for admission.

Manage & Track Recommendations

View the progress of the letters of recommendation by logging into the application and revisiting the Recommendations section. To send a reminder to a recommender, please select "Edit" next to the recommender's name and then "Send Reminder."

View the progress of the letters of recommendation by re-visiting the recommendations page via the application portal. 

Track status : Determine if the letter is in progress, submitted, or not yet started (appears as Sent to recommender) with the date.

View waivers : View if the right to review the recommendation letter has been waived or not waived.

Send reminders : Send a reminder to a recommender if the letter of recommendation has not yet been submitted. Select “Edit” next to the recommender's name and then "Send Reminder."

The Graduate Admission team suggests that the applicant confirms with the letter service that the requested letters were submitted.

For further assistance, email [email protected] .

Graduate Application Information

Thank you for your interest in Iowa State University! 

Please read these instructions carefully before beginning your application.

Admission criteria

Admission criteria are established by both the Graduate College and by the graduate program. 

• Iowa State requires a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally-accredited college or university prior to beginning graduate studies.  Because holding a degree from a regionally accredited institution is a fundamental requirement for graduate study at Iowa State University, no appeals to waive this requirement are considered.   
• International degrees must be comparable to a US bachelor’s degree or higher from a college or university regionally accredited/recognized by the Ministry of Education in that country.
• 3-year degrees from India, Bangladesh, Canada (excluding Quebec), Nepal, and Pakistan are not accepted. 3-year degrees from other countries are reviewed on an individual basis.
• A minimum cumulative grade point average equivalent to at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B grade) is required for admission.
• The English proficiency requirements of the Graduate College and the graduate program to which you have applied must both be met prior to enrollment.
• There is no university-wide requirement that graduate applicants submit results from the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT); however, most programs do require one or the other. 

Deadlines represent the endpoint in the application process (i.e., the final completion of your file) rather than the beginning of that process.  All materials with the exception of examination results should be received by the program deadline for timely consideration.  Graduate programs vary in their willingness to consider late applications.

Application processing fee

The nonrefundable application fee for domestic students (US citizens, US permanent residents, refugees, asylees, DACA or undocumented) is $60. The nonrefundable application fee for international applicants is $100.

Some programs may delay the collection of the application fee until after your application has been reviewed. Should you be offered admission, your application fee may be paid by your program, or it may be deferred to your first university bill after you enroll at Iowa State.  

Multiple programs

If you wish to apply to multiple programs, you will incur multiple nonrefundable application fee charges (e.g., $120 for two domestic applications, $180 for three domestic applications).  You will not need to submit multiple copies of your supporting application materials when application requirements are the same. Each program may have unique or additional requirements, you will be able to view these requirements in your Admissions MyAccount.

Please note, however, that the programs will be informed that you are applying to multiple programs.

Fee waivers

The only fee waivers offered are to McNair Scholars. US military veterans and those currently serving will have their application fee deferred until they enroll.

Completing the application

If variations of your name will appear on examination score reports or academic records, please provide those variations in the space provided. If you have only one name, please enter it in the last name or surname field. It is important that international applicants use the same spelling that appears on their passport to prevent problems with the visa process.

Address – international applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) require that international students requesting a student visa provide a residential address outside the United States. We recommend you avoid using PO Box addresses whenever possible as express mail carriers will not deliver to PO boxes.

Universities attended

Please list your most recent university first, including the one you are currently attending. Note for Indian applicants: Please list the university that will award your degree, NOT the affiliated or constituent college in which you are enrolled.

Grade point average (GPA)

On the application, you are given the opportunity to provide your cumulative GPA at the undergraduate level (and graduate if appropriate). If you choose to self-report your undergraduate and graduate GPAs, you must input a numerical value. Please do not attempt to convert your GPA to a 4.0 scale. This information will be used, in conjunction with the rest of your academic record (transcripts, degree statements, etc.) during the review of your application. Once transcripts have been received and evaluated, your graduate admissions GPA will be calculated by the Office of Admissions.

Statement of purpose

All programs require a statement of purpose.  There is a strict limit of 500 words , so we encourage you to be succinct.  Once submitted, no changes can be made, so please proofread your statement (as well as all other entries) carefully before submission.  You will upload your statement of purpose in your Admissions MyAccount following application submission.  

Online recommendations

Iowa State prefers that you use the online letter of recommendation process. By including your recommenders’ names and e-mail addresses on the application form, they will be sent an email with a link to our online Letter of Recommendation form after you submit your application . Emails to your recommenders will not be sent until submit your application. More details are provided in the Letter of Recommendation section of these instructions.

Previous Iowa State graduate students

If you were previously enrolled at Iowa State as a degree-seeking graduate student in the last two years, you do not need to apply again. Contact your major professor or DOGE about next steps for continuing in your program. If you were last enrolled as a degree- seeking graduate student longer than two years ago, you should submit the “Reinstatement to Active Status” form (available on the Graduate College website) and gain the approval of a graduate program and the Graduate College.

Examination requirements

All examinations should be taken at least six weeks prior to the graduate program’s application deadline to ensure timely receipt and processing of results.  Test results must be sent directly from the testing agency to our institution to be considered official. 

Please upload copies of any examination results you have after submitting your application in your Admissions MyAccount as they may help the University locate your official test scores when your application is processed. 

English proficiency

For the purpose of applying to Iowa State, English may be considered your primary language if you have been raised in an environment where English is the only official language of your locality and nation, and English is the language used in your home. If your primary language is not English, you must meet the university’s English proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

1. Earn a bachelor’s or higher degree from a country where English is the only official language, such as the following. (Complete list available from Admissions.)

• Canada (exc. Québec)
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States (exc. PR)

2. Submit official results from one of the following exams. The minimum requirements of both the Graduate College and the graduate program to which you are applying must be met. The minimum scores accepted by the Graduate College are:

• Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) 79
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) 53
• D uoLingo English Test 105 (approved through spring 2025 admission cycle)

Official TOEFL exam results must be sent directly from the educational testing service to Iowa State electronically. Our school code is 6306 . The IELTS testing agency may send electronic results or mail official results to:

Office of Admissions Iowa State University 100 Enrollment Services Center 2433 Union Drive Ames, IA 50011-2042

Graduate records examination (GRE)

Most programs do not enforce strict cut-off scores. Rather, they review an applicant’s complete application package and credentials before making a decision. Official GRE results are sent electronically by the educational testing service. Our school code is 6306 . No department codes are required. Once you’ve applied, check your Admissions MyAccount to see if exams are required by your program.

Graduate management aptitude test (GMAT)

The GMAT is accepted or required of applicants to business-related programs.  Check the program requirements page to determine if your program of choice requires it. Once you’ve applied, check your Admissions MyAccount to see if exams are required by your program.

Program requirements

Academic records

We allow students to upload official copies of academic records for the purposes of application review .  Only if you are offered admission to Iowa State will you be required to submit official academic records.  S ee more information about this in the Uploading Documents section, and in the Official Academic Record section.

Academic records are called different names in different countries. In the US, we call them official “transcripts.” In India, the acceptable documents are referred to as “annual marksheets;” in Spanish-language countries, they may be called certificado de estudios; in France, relevé de notes . Records bearing the original stamp or seal of the school official responsible for issuing such records (the registrar, principal, controller of exams, etc.) are considered “official.” Records certified by lecturers, professors, or any other school officials who do not hold primary responsibility for maintaining the academic records of the institution are not official. Academic records printed from a school’s website are also not accepted.

For international transcripts, students have the option to submit evaluations from   World Education Services (WES)  or  Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)  for fall 2024 and beyond. You may upload or send your evaluation from either of these services. The evaluation must be a course-by-course evaluation and you must also include copies of your transcripts.

Note for applicants from India

We require semester or annual marksheets . College-issued mark sheets will only be accepted from autonomous colleges. Consolidated mark sheets are not accepted unless all attempts, retakes, and failures are included. Degree Statements must be issued and certified by the granting university, not the college. When uploading marksheets to your application account, select “Transcripts” not “Exams.”  

Official records bear the original stamp or seal of the school registrar.  Iowa State will not accept transcripts printed from a school’s website, nor grade reports. 

If you have an electronic copy of your transcript, you cannot upload it directly, as the electronic signature is encrypted and will not allow you to do so.  You will need to print a copy of it and rescan the copy before uploading.

Translations

Academic records should be in the official language of the country in which they were earned. If that is not English, an English language translation should be uploaded in addition to the official foreign language academic record. We will accept literal (not interpretative) English translations from any qualified translator.

Previous Iowa State students

If you were previously enrolled at Iowa State, you do not need to request your Iowa State transcripts; the Office of Admissions will obtain them directly.  

Letters of recommendation (LOR)

The US Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 ( FERPA ) gives enrolled students the right to view the contents of their application files. It is common practice to ask applicants for admission to sign a voluntary waiver of review rights, which means that if you enroll at Iowa State, you are giving up your rights to see the recommendations written on your behalf.  You may refuse to give such a waiver. Before doing so, however, please understand that it is commonly assumed that recommenders will be more candid in their statements about you if they know the recommendation will be kept confidential.  Some recommenders will refuse to submit a LOR for applicants that do not waive their right to view it.

Once you make your selection and submit your application, you may not change your response to that question . 

E-mail requests for letters of recommendation

Occasionally, a recommender will indicate they have not received our e-mail notification with the link to the LOR form.  In that event, please check that you entered their e-mail address accurately on the application.  If not, you may edit the information In the Admissions MyAccount and send a reminder to the new address.  If it was entered correctly, the e-mail may have been intercepted by the recommender’s SPAM filter.  Please ask them to check their SPAM folder for the message.  As a last resort, they could provide you with an alternative e-mail address, or submit the PDF LOR provided on our website (instructions below).

Managing your online LORs

Iowa State’s Admissions MyAccount system allows you to track when your online LORs are submitted, as well as change recommenders, edit e-mail addresses, and send reminders to your recommenders.

To do so, go to Graduate Apply , and click on “Admissions MyAccount” at the top of the page.  The Log In page will appear where you can reenter your Username and Password to sign in.  Click “View my Application(s)” and you will be able to see and track the status of any online LOR.  The following options are offered: 

• Cancel   I f a recommender has not completed the letter, you may cancel the letter request.  You will be returned to the Manage Letters of Recommendation page and allowed to add a new recommender name and e-mail. 
• Resend   If you would like to send a reminder, select Resend Email, and a new request will be sent to the recommender. 
• Edit    If you made an error in the e-mail address of a recommender, or if the recommender has now chosen to send a paper letter of recommendation, you may edit that information. 
• Add New Recommender   This will allow you to send a letter of recommendation request to a new individual not listed on the original application for admission.

PDF letters of recommendation

If a recommender does not wish to submit a LOR online, or has difficulty doing so, please follow these instructions:

• Download the PDF copy of the Letter of Recommendation form, complete Sections 1 and 3, and save the completed form. 
• Send the form to your recommender.  You must include the postal address and/or e-mail address of the program to which you have applied so your recommender will know where to send the form once completed.  (You will find contact information on the Program Requirements section on the web.)
• Be aware that only online recommendation letters are tracked on the Admissions MyAccount.  You will not be able to track PDF LORs on the Admissions MyAccount. Those should be sent directly to the graduate program to which you apply. Your program can upload these to the Admissions MyAccount on your behalf. LORs should not be sent to the Office of Admissions.

Uploading your documents

In order to save you the time, effort, and expense of mailing supplemental application materials such as academic records, departmental forms, and resumes, we allow you to upload your supplemental materials in your Admissions MyAccount after you submit your application.  Uploaded materials will be used to make the admissions decision.  Only if you are offered admission to Iowa State will you be required to submit official academic records.  

Documents should be uploaded directly to the application action items on your Admissions MyAccount. You can also upload additional documents that have not been directly requested. However, these can be used by programs during the evaluation of the application. While application action items vary by program, all applicants must submit:

• Statement of Purpose
• Scanned copies of official academic records and degree statements issued by any institution where you earned (or will earn) a bachelor’s, and any institution attended after that (e.g., graduate work, etc.)  Do NOT scan web-based transcripts or grade reports. 
• Any supplemental forms or materials required by the graduate program as indicated in the Program Requirements and requested in your Admissions MyAccount

Please do not upload the following:

• Undergraduate records of only one semester enrollment or 15 credits or less
• Secondary and/or pre-university records
• Merit certificates or certificates of participation
• Web-based advising reports or online transcripts
• Student transcripts, grade reports or degree audits
• Theses or dissertations (unless requested)

Scanning tips

• Save your documents as a PDF files.  We will not accept TIFF, JPEG, or Word files.
• If you have received an electronic transcript from your school, be aware that it is encrypted, and cannot be uploaded directly to our site.  You must first download it, print it, and then scan it before uploading to our application.
• If scanning transcripts from multiple schools, scan them as individual files. 
• If your academic record includes a legend or key which provides information on the university grading scale, please include ONE copy of that page.
• Scan the document at the lowest resolution possible to produce a legible document (maximum 300 dpi).  The file size cannot exceed 30 MB (30,000 KB). 
• If the scanned file is still too large, make a photocopy of the document and then scan the photocopy. 
• Please review the image after scanning to ensure it is legible.  If it is not, delete it, and experiment with different scanner settings until you find one that results in a legible document.

Managing your documents

You can manage requested action items and other documents in your Admissions MyAccount.  Just remember that documents must be in PDF format and each document must not exceed 3 MB. 

Difficulty in uploading/scanning

We understand that not all applicants have the ability to prepare scanned legible documents for upload to the online application system.  Your application will receive full consideration as long as your official transcripts are in the Office of Admissions by the appropriate deadline. 

Important Note: Iowa State reserves the right to rescind any offer of admission if any discrepancies are found between your uploaded and official academic records and test scores, if altered or forged records are submitted, and if any essay, personal statement, or other supplemental materials include plagiarized information. If this information is discovered after matriculation at the institution, disciplinary action may be taken up to and including dismissal from the university. 

Application processing

Upon receipt of the online application, all required academic records (transcripts), and satisfactory examination results, the Office of Admissions reviews your file for completeness, and makes it available to the graduate program(s) to which you have applied.  During our peak review season, this can take up to 3 weeks.  If you have not resolved the required action items (which include academic records and other documents), your file will be “Incomplete” and an e-mail will be sent to you advising you to log into your Admissions MyAccount to review and resolve these action items. 

Once your file is complete and has been reviewed by the Office of Admissions, it is made available to the program’s admissions committee for review.  Some graduate programs do their review on a rolling basis, and others wait until February or March and review all applicants at the same time.  Please contact the graduate program directly for information on when their decisions are usually made. 

The graduate program makes its admission recommendation to the Graduate College for the Dean’s approval.  If approved by the Dean, the Office of Admissions receives  the electronic file and takes formal action. 

Notification of admission

Some departments notify the applicant of their recommendation to the Graduate College; others prefer to wait until the Graduate College has approved the decision and formal notification can be sent by the Office of Admissions.

All Graduate applicants will receive their official offer of Admission via email .

International Students

If you will be on an F-1 or J-1 visa, Admissions reviews your financial documents to ensure you have made satisfactory arrangements to cover your educational and living expenses (and those of any family members) for the duration of your program. If not, you will be notified what is missing. If you have sufficient private funds, a full scholarship, or have been given full funding by the graduate program, your file will be released for issuance of the visa eligibility form (I-20 or DS-2019).

The I-20 Form will be forwarded to students residing outside of the US by email as well from the International Student Services Office.

Accepting your offer

In order to enroll at Iowa State, graduate students must accept their offer of admission. You can do this in your Admissions MyAccount once your official offer of admission has been processed. If you have questions about your offer of admission, please contact your program directly.  The contact information for the department is in the program requirements.

Official transcripts

If you are approved by the Graduate Dean for admission to the university, you will be instructed to send hard copies of your official final academic records and degree statements. Documents you uploaded at time of application are not considered official. 

Paper copies mail to: Office of Admissions 100 Enrollment Services Center 2433 Union Drive Iowa State University Ames, IA 50011-2042

Electronic transcripts

In some cases, Graduate Admissions can accept official electronic transcripts sent directly by your institution.  If you wish to provide electronic transcripts, have your institution’s Registrar send transcripts/credentials directly to [email protected] through a secure, approved, document-transfer service.  Not all institutions, including most international institutions , have the ability to send transcripts/credentials through a secure, approved document transfer service.

Electronic documents sent as PDF attachments will not be accepted as official. 

All materials submitted in support of your application of admission become the property of Iowa State University and will not be returned in original or copy.

Questions and contacts

It is always our pleasure to assist students in their application process; however, we do ask that students read all instructions carefully before contacting us, as answers to your questions may have already been addressed. We also have a helpful listing of frequently asked questions online.  

Frequently asked questions

In order to better serve you, please also note below which office should be contacted regarding application issues: 

Office of Admissions:

• Online application form
• Uploading documents
• Academic records/degrees
• English proficiency exams

Graduate Program:

• Letters of recommendation
• GRE/GMAT examinations
• Admissions/denial decisions
• Assistantship decisions

Office of Admissions 100 Enrollment Services Center 2433 Union Drive Iowa State University Ames, IA 50011-2011 515-294-5836 515-294-2592 (fax) [email protected]

Contact Graduate Programs

Search for your program to find contact information.

Graduate Programs

Graduate School

Recommendation requirements by program, recommendation requirements by program .

A summary of letter of recommendation requirements for programs housed within the Graduate School is directly below. Applicants seeking admission to a specific program should carefully review this page for important information about each program's letter of recommendation requirements and the evaluator types accepted before applying via the online application link associated with that program (see summary below). Only completed applications, with supporting materials, will be forwarded by Howard's Office of Admissions (a separate Office from the Graduate School) to your prospective degree program, whose faculty will render a decision on your application. No applicant will be admitted without the recommendation of an academic unit. The Graduate School does not determine if you have sent the appropriate recommendation/reference type for a particular Graduate School program. 

Letter of Recommendation/Reference Key: 

• Accepted = This letter of recommendation evaluator type is accepted by the program
• Not accepted = This letter of recommendation evaluator type is not accepted by the program
• Required = Applicant must send at least one letter of recommendation from this SPECIFIC type of evaluator ( refer to program guidance for the number of recommendations required for the SPECIFIC evaluator type )

Recommendation Requirements by Program (Evaluator Types)

Counseling, MC (Master of Counseling) online degree application requirements

The information found on this page is for students pursuing the online Counseling, MC degree.

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Program admissions, applications for fall 2024 are now closed..

Thank you for your interest in the online Master of Counseling program at Arizona State University. Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution. We recommend applicants thoroughly review the requirements for the application process and degree program before applying. Applicants also need to review the state authorization webpage to ensure that ASU is authorized to operate in their state of residence and to learn about any policies and program exceptions for their state.

If the applicant's state has the online Master of Counseling, MC degree program listed as “program exception or not authorized” on the state authorization webpage, your application will be denied and your application fee will not be refunded . 

Admission into the online Master of Counseling program is based on the applicant’s potential for graduate study, previous preparation and experience, and the possession of personal qualities that contribute to success as a counselor. To balance student demand with available resources, the program is limited in the number of students admitted each year. Factors that are evaluated in the admission process include: academic potential, professional and volunteer experiences in helping-related fields, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Each of these factors is described in detail below.

Application process

Applicants must submit the online Graduate Application and supplemental materials required by the online Master of Counseling program to complete the application process. Requests for assistance with troubleshooting the graduate application may be sent to gograd@asu,edu and inquiries about the program may be sent to [email protected] . School of Counseling and Counseling Psychology faculty are unable to provide guidance or advice to individual applicants during the submission process. Faculty and training directors are also unable to provide feedback following admission decisions to individual applicants.

The deadline to submit an application for the Fall Semester admission cycle is April 1.

The deadline to submit an application for the Spring Semester admission cycle is September 15th. 

It is the applicant’s responsibility to review the application information and note requirements that could delay processing the application, as well as ensure they are applying for the appropriate semester for which applications are being accepted. 

Applicants may verify that ASU has received their official test scores, transcripts and letters of recommendation via their My ASU profile. It is the applicant's responsibility to check the application status and verify that all required materials are received by the deadline.

Incomplete applications and applications submitted after the due date will not be reviewed or considered.

In addition to the graduate admissions application, the online Master of Counseling program requires the following supplemental materials:

Personal statement

• Written and personalized Letters of Recommendation

Official transcripts

• Proof of English proficiency  (if applicable)
• GRE score report (not required)

Academic potential

• Video Submission

Supplemental materials required by the online Master of Counseling program

Applicants are required to submit a two-to-three-page personal statement (12pt.Times New Roman font with 1” margin, double-spaced) that indicates their qualifications (e.g., professional experiences and personal attributes) and interest in ASU’s online Master of Counseling program.

Specifically, applicants are asked to describe how their education and training, as well as volunteer and professional experiences, inform why they want to pursue the online Master of Counseling degree. Applicants should also outline how our program will help them meet their future career goals. Applicants are expected to discuss their ability to work with and be sensitive to the needs of a multicultural and diverse society, including (but not limited to), members of diverse racial and ethnic groups and sexual minority individuals.

If an applicant's cumulative GPA is lower than 3.50 (on the 4.00 grading scale), we recommend the applicant explain within the personal statement how their prior academic difficulties would be avoided or overcome in graduate school.

Letters of Recommendation

The online Master of Counseling program application requires at least two, and at most three, written and personalized Letters of Recommendation. The recommenders must also complete the Letter of Recommendation form , as we cannot accept any Letters of Recommendation that have been submitted without the form. It is important that applicants contact their recommenders directly and inform them that they are applying to a graduate program. Applicants will need to provide their recommender ample time so they have enough time to prepare the letter and the form.  

Written and personalized Letter of Recommendation: Written on a personal letterhead and requires to be uploaded by the recommender. 

Letter of Recommendation Form: A form prepared by ASU Graduate Admission Services with a set of questions the recommender will need to complete.

Letters of Recommendation should come from professional sources who can speak to the applicant's academics, personal characteristics, professionalism, multicultural competency, aptitude for success in graduate school, etc. If a supervisor is able to speak to some or all of these pieces then they may be a good choice. Applicants are discouraged from asking for recommendations from individuals or acquaintances who have not overseen their academic, professional or volunteer work.

As part of the online graduate admission application process, applicants will need to provide the names and email addresses for each recommender. Upon submission of the application, recommenders will receive an email from ASU Graduate Admission Services. The email will include a link to upload the written and personalized Letter of Recommendation and complete Letter of Recommendation form. Do not email, mail or fax any application materials.

Applicants should confirm with their recommenders that both the written and personalized Letter of Recommendation and the Letter of Recommendation form have been uploaded by the application deadline. If a written and personalized Letter of Recommendation and/or the Letter of Recommendation form has not uploaded, the application will be considered incomplete.

Applicants will be asked if they do or do not waive the right to review the recommendation sent on your behalf. Each recommender will be informed of the decision via email.

The online Master of Counseling program requires one (1) official transcript as part of the application process for each of the applicant’s undergraduate degree(s). In addition, if the applicant has obtained a graduate degree, an official transcript for each graduate degree is also required as part of the application process.

Official transcripts from every college and university from which you earned a bachelor's degree or higher must be sent directly to ASU Admission Services from the issuing institution's records office either by mail or through a secured electronic transcript service. For transcripts sent through a secured transcript service, please select Arizona State University from the vendor's dropdown list to ensure the transcript is routed to the correct place. If an email address is requested you can route to [email protected]. ASU accepts unofficial transcripts as part of the application. This is the only way we will accept unofficial transcripts. Emailed transcripts are not acceptable.

If you are admitted to ASU, you will be required to send official transcripts to the university. Official transcripts are original academic credentials issued by the registrar of the institution attended, bearing the original raised or colored seal of the institution and the signature of your institution's registrar, academic official or recognized international organization. If you attended ASU, you do not need to request ASU transcripts to be sent.

More about transcripts

Proof of English proficiency

An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency. You must meet one of the following English language proficiency requirements. See  English Proficiency for International Graduate Students . The online Master of Counseling program requires a TOEFL score of at least 600 (pBT) or 100 (iBT).

GRE score report 

The GRE General Test is not required as it is not a factor in the decision-making process.

However, if you choose to submit GRE scores, please have your GRE Score Report sent separately to ASU Graduate Admission Services.  Use University Code 4007 for reporting.  Counseling does not have a department code. Use 0000 if prompted to enter a department code. Test scores must be received directly from the agency administering the test. Photocopies and faxes are not acceptable. GRE scores must be taken within five years of the start date of the semester to which the student applies.

Recruitment activities and admissions recommendations are program-based. All students must be graduates of accredited higher education institutions.

Video submission

As part of the review process, a video submission is required in addition to the application materials in order to be considered for our online Master of Counseling program. Please submit a video following these video submission guidelines:

Applicants for Spring 2025 program video submission guidelines

Applicants for Fall 2025 program video submission guidelines

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How to Apply for the Full-Time Master of Accountancy and Analytics

Let us know when you're ready to join our Full-Time MAcc program and we'll help you get started.

Getting started with your application is easy and we're here to help. Below is a checklist that will walk you step by step through the process. If you have any questions along the way, please contact our Full-Time MAcc Admissions Team at 740-593-2053 or [email protected] .

Early Assurance Program

There is an Early Assurance Program that guarantees your spot in the Master of Accountancy and Analytics upon graduation with not additional application or entrance requirements. Early Assurance Program

Step 1: Online application and transcripts 

Start your application.

The online graduate student application allows you to create a password-protected account so you can return to the application, enter information, and upload documents at your convenience.

• Start your online application
• When you click on "start new application" you will be asked to choose the appropriate entry term. Select "summer" to start your application. The Full-Time MAcc does not have a fall or spring entry term, so if you choose fall or spring you will get an error message when you choose the Full-Time MAcc on the first page saying that the program is not accepting applications for this term.
• The non-refundable application fee is $50 for U.S citizens/permanent residents and $55 for international applicants
• If your undergraduate degree is in Accounting, select "Master of Accountancy and Analytics-Accounting Path (on-campus)".
• If your undergraduate degree was in another business subject, select "Master of Accountancy and Analytics-Business Path (on-campus)."

Transcripts

Request an official transcript from all institutions of higher education you have attended and arrange for them to be sent to OHIO's Graduate College.

• Electronic submission (preferred):  Choose “Ohio University - Graduate Admissions” as the recipient and, if needed, input [email protected] for the email address.
• Mailing address (if electronic submission is not available): Graduate College 1 Ohio University Grosvenor Hall 102 Athens, OH 45701 USA

Transcripts from non-U.S. institutions must be official or registrar-certified and in envelopes sealed by the issuing institution, if possible. Learn more about international transcripts

Step 2: Prepare deliverables 

Recommendation letters.

Arrange for three professional or academic references to submit letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should speak to your level of maturity and leadership qualities, and include the provider’s relationship to you and their complete address and contact information, including a clearly identifiable professional email address.

When prompted on the online application, request that your recommenders be contacted through the online application process for electronic submission of their recommendation letters. You’ll need to enter each individual’s name and email address.

Upload a current professional resume as an attachment to your online application in the supplemental materials section.

Professional Statement

Your professional statement should include your accomplishments, career goals, objectives, and the value of the Master of Accountancy and Analytics degree to achieving your career goals. Please also address any weaknesses in your application materials, such as a low GPA. 

Upload this document to your online application in the supplemental materials section. Please limit the length of your statement to no more than two double-spaced pages.

GMAT/GRE Scores

The GMAT/GRE is not required. 

Admissions Decisions

Admission to the Full-Time MAcc program is highly competitive and selective. Admissions decisions will be made on or before the decision date for each round. A letter will be emailed to each applicant from the College of Business, followed by an official letter from the Graduate College.

Concerning Funding Opportunities

The Full-Time MAcc awards a very limited number of Graduate Assistantships (funding offers) to students each year. This means that not all admitted students will be offered a Graduate Assistantship award. If you are offered a GA, it will include a 25% tuition waiver and a $4,000 stipend for the year. Both the tuition waiver and stipend only apply to your fall and spring semester courses. You will not receive funding for the summer courses (note that you only enroll in two courses over the summer that are completely online). Ultimately, if you are not prepared to pay at least 70-80% of the program tuition and fees , please contact us before submitting your application. We want to help you find a program that works for your specific circumstances.

Ready to Apply?

When you're ready, you can start your application at the link below. If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact our Full-Time MAcc Admissions Team at 740-593-2053 or [email protected] . We're available to help Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Start Application

Through this program, students receive a guaranteed spot in the Master of Accountancy and Analytics program early in an undergraduate career or as part of their admission from high school. Benefits include a simple application/no grad school application; no test score (GRE or GMAT) requirement; mentoring from graduate students; co-curricular program activities; and a guaranteed place in the Master of Accountancy and Analytics program as long as you maintain program requirements during your undergraduate time at OHIO.

There is no application fee, no standardized test requirement, and no additional transcript, essay, or letters of recommendation. Simply click on the appropriate button below to complete the 5-minute application.

Incoming First-Year Students  Current BBA Accountancy Students