A strong MBA application hinges on compelling recommendation letters. These letters provide admissions committees with crucial insights into your leadership potential, work ethic, and interpersonal skills – qualities that transcripts and test scores alone can’t convey. Securing endorsements from individuals who know you well and can speak to your abilities with specific examples is paramount. These letters are proof to adcoms that you aren’t just telling them you possess valuable traits, but others recognize and value them in your professional work.
The effectiveness of a recommendation letter lies in its detail and authenticity. Avoid generic praise; instead, encourage your recommenders to illustrate your strengths with concrete anecdotes and examples from your shared experiences. Did you spearhead a successful project? Did you mentor a junior colleague? Such stories add weight to the letter and make your application stand out. Provide your recommenders with a clear picture of your career goals and why you are pursuing an MBA. This context allows them to tailor their endorsements to align with the program’s objectives and demonstrate your fit.
Before providing the 24 sample letters, let’s establish some key ingredients in a recommendation. Always start with a strong introduction that clearly establishes the recommender’s relationship with the applicant. The body paragraphs should illustrate the applicant’s key strengths, leadership potential, and specific examples of accomplishments. The conclusion should offer a strong endorsement of the applicant’s suitability for an MBA program. Finally, make sure the letter includes the recommender’s contact information, including full name, title, organization, phone number, and email address.
The following samples provide a variety of templates to help your recommenders get started. Each example showcases a different scenario and relationship. Keep in mind that these are starting points, your recommender should personalize and tailor the letter to reflect their own experience with you.
MBA Recommendation Letter Samples
Sample 1: Recommendation from a Direct Supervisor
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your esteemed MBA program. I have had the privilege of working with [Applicant Name] as their direct supervisor at [Organization Name] for the past [Number] years.
During their time here, [Applicant Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional [Strength 1, e.g., leadership skills], [Strength 2, e.g., analytical abilities], and [Strength 3, e.g., problem-solving capabilities]. For example, [Specific example of a project where the applicant excelled, highlighting their skills]. [Applicant Name] consistently goes above and beyond expectations, and their dedication is truly commendable.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] possesses the intellectual capacity, drive, and interpersonal skills to thrive in your challenging MBA program. I wholeheartedly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 2: Recommendation from a Project Manager
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. I served as the project manager on [Project Name] where [Applicant Name] was a key team member. I worked closely with them for [Number] months on this critical initiative.
[Applicant Name]’s contributions were invaluable to the success of the project. They demonstrated excellent [Skill 1, e.g., communication skills] in collaborating with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and exhibited remarkable [Skill 2, e.g., strategic thinking] when faced with unexpected challenges. Specifically, [Give a concrete example of how the applicant solved a problem or contributed to the project’s success].
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic make them an ideal candidate for your MBA program. I highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 3: Recommendation from a Senior Colleague
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with immense pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. As a senior colleague at [Organization Name], I have had the opportunity to witness [Applicant Name]’s professional growth and development over the past [Number] years.
[Applicant Name] consistently displays a thirst for knowledge and a proactive approach to learning. Their [Positive quality 1, e.g., analytical skills] are exceptional, and they possess a rare ability to [Specific skill, e.g., translate complex data into actionable insights]. I have been particularly impressed by their [Positive quality 2, e.g., leadership potential], as demonstrated by [Example of their leadership, e.g., their initiative in mentoring junior colleagues].
[Applicant Name] is a highly motivated and talented individual, and I am confident that they will make a significant contribution to your MBA program. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 4: Recommendation from a Mentor
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your esteemed MBA program. I have served as a mentor to [Applicant Name] for [Number] years, providing guidance and support in their professional development.
Throughout our mentoring relationship, [Applicant Name] has consistently impressed me with their [Positive quality 1, e.g., strong work ethic], [Positive quality 2, e.g., intellectual curiosity], and [Positive quality 3, e.g., commitment to excellence]. [Applicant Name] is eager to improve and learn from their mistakes. [Provide an example of a specific time you assisted them in professional development or when they demonstrated learning or improvement].
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s drive and determination will make them a valuable asset to your MBA program. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 5: Recommendation from a Client (external)
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. As a client of [Applicant’s Organization Name], I have worked directly with [Applicant Name] for [Number] years on numerous projects.
[Applicant Name] consistently demonstrates exceptional [Positive quality 1, e.g., professionalism], [Positive quality 2, e.g., client management skills], and [Positive quality 3, e.g., a results-oriented approach]. [Give a specific example of how they helped your business and what quantifiable result it achieved]. [Applicant Name]’s ability to understand our needs and deliver innovative solutions is truly impressive.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s intelligence, dedication, and strong interpersonal skills will make them a valuable addition to your program. I enthusiastically recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 6: Recommendation Highlighting Leadership and Teamwork
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. I have witnessed [Applicant Name]’s leadership abilities firsthand as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for the past [Number] years.
[Applicant Name] possesses an exceptional ability to motivate and inspire others. During [Project or situation], [he/she/they] took the lead in [Task or responsibility], effectively guiding the team towards a successful outcome. [Specific example of their leadership qualities and teamwork skills and how they contributed to a positive result]. [Applicant Name] consistently fosters a collaborative environment and is highly respected by their peers.
I believe [Applicant Name]’s leadership qualities and team-oriented approach will make them an exceptional MBA candidate. I wholeheartedly recommend them without any reservation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 7: Recommendation Emphasizing Analytical Skills
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your highly regarded MBA program. I have worked with [Applicant Name] as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years and have consistently been impressed by their analytical prowess.
[Applicant Name] possesses exceptional analytical skills and a keen eye for detail. During [Project or situation], [he/she/they] were able to quickly identify key trends and patterns within large datasets. [Specific example of how they used their analytical skills to solve a problem or make a data-driven decision and what quantifiable benefit this resulted in]. [Applicant Name]’s analytical insights have proven invaluable in [Area or aspect where their analysis was valuable].
I have no doubt that [Applicant Name]’s analytical skills will make them a valuable asset to your program. I offer my strongest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 8: Recommendation from a Former Professor (if applicable and recent)
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. I had the pleasure of having [Applicant Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class at [University Name] during [Year].
[Applicant Name] was an exceptional student, demonstrating a strong understanding of [Subject] and a keen interest in [Specific topic]. [He/She/They] consistently exceeded expectations on assignments and actively participated in class discussions. [Give a specific example of something they did in class, such as a presentation, paper, or insightful question, to demonstrate their academic ability]. Their [Positive quality related to academics, e.g., critical thinking skills] were particularly impressive.
I believe [Applicant Name]’s academic aptitude and drive to succeed will make them a valuable addition to your MBA program. I highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 9: Recommendation Emphasizing Problem-Solving Abilities
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. As [Applicant Name]’s [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name], I have had the opportunity to observe their exceptional problem-solving skills firsthand.
[Applicant Name] possesses a remarkable ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions. During [Project or situation], [he/she/they] faced a significant challenge in [Describe the challenge]. [Specific example of how they identified and solved the problem, highlighting their problem-solving process and the positive outcome]. Their resourcefulness and ability to think critically under pressure are truly commendable.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s problem-solving skills will make them a valuable contributor to your program. I wholeheartedly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 10: Recommendation from a Volunteer Coordinator (if applicable)
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with sincere pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. I have served as the Volunteer Coordinator at [Volunteer Organization Name] for the past [Number] years, and [Applicant Name] has been a dedicated volunteer with our organization during that time.
[Applicant Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to service and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in our community. [Specific example of their volunteer work and the positive impact they made. Quantify the impact if possible – e.g., “helped serve meals to over 100 people per week”]. Their [Positive quality, e.g., empathy] and [Positive quality, e.g., work ethic] are truly inspiring.
I believe [Applicant Name]’s dedication to service and their commitment to making a difference will make them a valuable asset to your program. I highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 11: Recommendation Highlighting Communication Skills
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. As [Applicant Name]’s [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years, I can attest to their exceptional communication skills.
[Applicant Name] possesses outstanding written and verbal communication abilities. [Specific example of when they used their communication skills effectively, whether it was presenting to executives, writing a report, or leading a training session. Quantify the positive impact if possible]. [Applicant Name] is adept at tailoring their communication style to different audiences and consistently conveys information in a clear and concise manner.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s communication skills will make them a valuable contributor to class discussions and team projects in your program. I offer my strongest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 12: Recommendation from a Client (internal)
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. As an internal client of [Applicant Name]’s department at [Organization Name], I have consistently been impressed with their work.
[Applicant Name] consistently goes above and beyond to meet our needs. [Specific example of how they helped your department and how their work positively impacted your team or the organization]. [Applicant Name] demonstrates a strong understanding of our business challenges and is always willing to collaborate to find effective solutions.
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s dedication and problem-solving skills will make them a valuable addition to your program. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 13: Recommendation Highlighting Adaptability and Resilience
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. Having worked with [Applicant Name] as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years, I have witnessed their remarkable adaptability and resilience.
[Applicant Name] consistently demonstrates the ability to thrive in rapidly changing environments. During [Project or situation that required adaptability], [he/she/they] successfully navigated unforeseen challenges and adjusted their approach to achieve positive results. [Specific example of how they demonstrated adaptability and resilience]. Their ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations is truly impressive.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s adaptability and resilience will enable them to succeed in the demanding environment of your MBA program. I offer my strong endorsement.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 14: Recommendation from a Co-Founder (if applicable)
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. I have worked alongside [Applicant Name] as a co-founder of [Company Name] for the past [Number] years.
[Applicant Name] has been instrumental in the success of our venture. [Specific example of their contributions to the company’s growth, highlighting their key skills and responsibilities. Quantify their impact if possible]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Positive quality 1, e.g., entrepreneurial spirit], [Positive quality 2, e.g., strategic thinking], and [Positive quality 3, e.g., unwavering commitment]. Their [Specific skill, e.g., financial acumen] was crucial to [Specific achievement, e.g., securing funding].
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s entrepreneurial experience and drive to succeed make them an ideal candidate for your MBA program. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 15: Recommendation Highlighting Initiative and Proactiveness
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. As [Applicant Name]’s [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name], I have consistently been impressed by their initiative and proactive approach to their work.
[Applicant Name] consistently seeks out opportunities to improve processes and enhance efficiency. [Specific example of how they took initiative to improve a process, solve a problem, or go above and beyond their assigned duties. Quantify the positive impact if possible]. [He/She/They] is a self-starter who is always willing to take on new challenges.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s initiative and proactive mindset will make them a valuable member of your MBA cohort. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 16: Recommendation Focusing on Ethical Conduct and Integrity
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. I have worked with [Applicant Name] as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years and have always been impressed by their unwavering ethical conduct and integrity.
[Applicant Name] consistently demonstrates a strong moral compass and adheres to the highest ethical standards in all their interactions. [Specific example of a situation where they demonstrated ethical conduct or integrity, perhaps by making a difficult but ethical decision]. [He/She/They] is a role model for others and is deeply committed to doing what is right.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s ethical values and integrity will make them a valuable member of your MBA program. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 17: Recommendation Highlighting Global Perspective and Cultural Sensitivity
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. I have worked with [Applicant Name] as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years, and I have been consistently impressed with their global perspective and cultural sensitivity.
[Applicant Name] possesses a deep understanding of different cultures and is adept at working effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. [Specific example of how they demonstrated global perspective and cultural sensitivity, perhaps in a project that involved international collaboration or in navigating cross-cultural communication challenges]. [He/She/They] is committed to promoting inclusivity and fostering a welcoming environment for all.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s global perspective and cultural sensitivity will make them a valuable contributor to your program’s diverse learning environment. I highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 18: Recommendation Showcasing Business Acumen
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with considerable enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. I have been [Applicant Name]’s [Your Role] at [Company Name] for [Number] years, and I have witnessed firsthand their developing business acumen.
[Applicant Name] demonstrates a keen understanding of business principles and the market forces that shape our industry. [Give a specific example: perhaps they correctly predicted a market trend, developed a successful pricing strategy, or identified a new business opportunity]. [He/She/They] possesses a natural aptitude for understanding financial statements, analyzing market data, and formulating sound business strategies.
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s business acumen, combined with their strong work ethic, will make them an asset to your MBA program. I fully endorse their application.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 19: Recommendation for Career Changer Seeking an MBA
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to support the application of [Applicant Name] to your MBA program. Although [Applicant Name]’s background is in [Previous Field], I have been deeply impressed with their dedication to transitioning into a business-focused career.
While [Applicant Name]’s formal experience may not be traditionally business-related, they have actively sought out opportunities to develop relevant skills. [Give concrete examples: perhaps they took online courses, attended workshops, or volunteered for projects that involved business principles. Highlight specific achievements from these activities]. Their [Specific relevant skill, e.g., analytical abilities] are clearly transferable to the business world.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s intellectual curiosity, strong work ethic, and commitment to career advancement will enable them to excel in your MBA program. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 20: Recommendation Emphasizing Project Management Skills
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. I have had the pleasure of working with [Applicant Name] as their [Your role relative to the applicant] at [Organization Name] for [Number] years, where they have consistently demonstrated exceptional project management skills.
[Applicant Name] possesses a remarkable ability to plan, organize, and execute complex projects efficiently and effectively. [Specific example of how they successfully managed a project, highlighting their skills in planning, resource allocation, risk management, and communication. Quantify the project’s success if possible – e.g., “delivered the project on time and under budget”]. [He/She/They] is a highly organized and detail-oriented individual who consistently delivers results.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s project management expertise will make them a valuable addition to your program. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 21: Recommendation Showcasing Innovation and Creativity
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your MBA program. In my role as [Your Role] at [Company Name], I have observed [Applicant Name]’s innovative thinking and creative problem-solving abilities over the past [Number] years.
[Applicant Name] is not afraid to challenge the status quo and consistently generates novel ideas. [Provide a specific example of a time they came up with a creative solution or innovative approach that benefited the organization]. [He/She/They] has a unique ability to think outside the box and identify opportunities where others see obstacles.
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s innovative spirit and creative mindset will make them a valuable asset to your MBA program. I enthusiastically endorse their application.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 22: Recommendation from an Entrepreneurial Venture Investor
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. As an investor at [Investment Firm], I have had the opportunity to interact with [Applicant Name] in their capacity as [Their Position] at [Company Name], one of our portfolio companies.
[Applicant Name] has consistently impressed me with their entrepreneurial drive, business acumen, and ability to execute. [Provide a specific example that showcases their skills. For example: “During a critical fundraising round, [he/she/they] demonstrated exceptional negotiation skills and successfully secured [Amount] in funding.”]. [He/She/They] possesses a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing startups.
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s experience in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and their passion for innovation will make them a valuable addition to your program. I strongly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Recommender Name]
Sample 23: Recommendation Focus on Conflict Resolution Skills
[Recommender Name]
[Recommender Title]
[Recommender Organization]
[Recommender Email]
[Recommender Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[MBA Program Name]
[University Name]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for your MBA program. Having worked with [Applicant Name] as [Your role relative to applicant] for [Number] years at [Organization Name], I’ve observed their exceptional conflict resolution skills.
[Applicant Name] possesses the unique ability to mediate disputes and foster
