Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Letter Request
Securing strong letters of recommendation is crucial for academic applications, job searches, and scholarship opportunities. The key to a successful request lies in professionalism, clarity, and making the process as easy as possible for the recommender. Providing context, highlighting your accomplishments, and giving ample lead time significantly increases your chances of receiving a compelling and supportive letter.
7 Recommendation Letter Request Samples: Tailored to Your Needs
Below, you’ll find seven sample requests you can adapt to your specific situation. Remember to personalize each letter, demonstrating your genuine appreciation for the recommender’s time and willingness to assist you. These samples cover various scenarios, from academic admissions to professional endorsements, providing you with a solid foundation for your own request.
Sample Letter Templates
Here are 7 sample request letter for recommendation. Please modify according to your need and always be professional:
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Sample 1: Academic Admission (Undergraduate)
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [University Name] Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the undergraduate program in [Major] at [University Name]. I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year], and I believe my performance in your class, particularly [Specific Project or Assignment], demonstrates my aptitude for [Relevant Skill].
The application deadline is [Date]. To assist you, I have attached my resume/CV, a personal statement draft, and the application guidelines. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 2: Graduate School Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Graduate Program
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to you to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I was a student in your [Course Name] course in [Semester/Year], and I found your insights on [Specific Topic] particularly valuable. My research project on [Project Title], which was inspired by your lectures, allowed me to develop my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2].
The deadline for submitting letters of recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume/CV, a statement of purpose outlining my research interests, and information about the graduate program. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you for your time and dedication.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 3: Job Application
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Application at [Company Name]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As my supervisor at [Previous Company/Organization] from [Start Date] to [End Date], you have witnessed my skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3], which I believe are directly relevant to this role.
The job description emphasizes the need for [Specific Skill/Requirement]. During my time working with you, I consistently demonstrated this through [Specific Example]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, the job description, and a brief summary of my accomplishments during my time at [Previous Company/Organization]. Please let me know if you can assist me with this request by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 4: Scholarship Application
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Scholarship Name] Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am applying for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, and I would be honored if you would write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester, and I always appreciated your [Specific Quality – e.g., engaging lectures, helpful feedback].
This scholarship prioritizes [Specific Scholarship Criteria – e.g., academic excellence, community involvement]. I believe my [Specific Accomplishment relating to the criteria] demonstrates my commitment to [Scholarship Values]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume/CV, a personal statement, and the scholarship application guidelines. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 5: Volunteering
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Volunteering Position
Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a volunteering position at [Organization Name]. I was a volunteer at [Organization Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I really loved the works.
The volunteering description emphasizes the need for [Specific Skill/Requirement]. During my time working with you, I consistently demonstrated this through [Specific Example]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, the volunteering description, and a brief summary of my volunteering experience. Please let me know if you can assist me with this request by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 6: Internship
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Internship Position
Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a Internship position at [Company Name]. I was a intern at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I really loved the works.
The internship description emphasizes the need for [Specific Skill/Requirement]. During my time working with you, I consistently demonstrated this through [Specific Example]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, the internship description, and a brief summary of my internship experience. Please let me know if you can assist me with this request by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample 7: Character Reference
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Character Reference
Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a character letter of recommendation . I would like you to assist me.
The application description emphasizes the need for [Specific Skill/Requirement]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume and a brief summary of my experience. Please let me know if you can assist me with this request by [Date – allow ample time]. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Recommendation Letter Success
Requesting a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but by using these sample templates and personalizing them to your specific needs, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of receiving a glowing endorsement. Remember to provide your recommender with all the necessary information, express your gratitude, and follow up politely. A well-crafted request shows respect for their time and effort, ultimately leading to a stronger and more impactful letter.
