Securing a strong letter of recommendation from a professor is crucial for various academic and professional pursuits, such as graduate school applications, scholarship opportunities, and job applications. However, simply asking isn’t enough. A thoughtful and well-planned request increases your chances of receiving a compelling letter that highlights your strengths and potential. Begin by identifying professors who know you well and can speak positively about your academic performance, contributions to class discussions, and relevant skills. Consider professors from courses where you excelled or actively participated.
Before reaching out, thoroughly prepare your request. This includes gathering essential documents like your resume or CV, a personal statement (if applicable), transcripts, and any specific guidelines provided by the institution or program you’re applying to. Providing this information upfront saves the professor time and allows them to write a more tailored and effective recommendation. Be mindful of deadlines. Request the letter well in advance – ideally, at least one month before the deadline – to give the professor ample time to write a thoughtful and thorough letter. Remember, professors are busy individuals with numerous responsibilities.
When crafting your request, personalize the email or message. Remind the professor of the specific course you took with them and highlight any projects or interactions that demonstrate your abilities. Clearly state the purpose of the letter and the specific program or opportunity you’re applying for. Explain why you believe they are well-suited to write a strong recommendation for you. In your request, express your gratitude for their time and consideration, regardless of their decision. A sincere and appreciative tone goes a long way.
Follow up politely if you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., one week before the deadline). A gentle reminder can help ensure your request doesn’t get overlooked. After the professor submits the letter, send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their support. This gesture demonstrates professionalism and strengthens your relationship with the professor. Remember, cultivating strong relationships with your professors can benefit you throughout your academic and professional career.
Sample Letter of Recommendation Request
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
22 Sample Letter of Recommendation Request
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about the course, e.g., the discussions on [Topic] or the [Project Name] project].
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am applying because [briefly explain why you are applying and why this program is a good fit for you].
I believe your insights into my [mention specific skills or qualities, e.g., analytical abilities, research skills, participation in class] from your [Course Name] class would be valuable in my application. I have attached my resume, transcript, and personal statement for your review. I would also be happy to meet with you during your office hours to discuss my application further.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
