Reference Letter Template: Samples & Expert Writing Tips

[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Candidate Name] for [Position Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., supervisor, professor]. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [Positive Qualities – e.g., work ethic, dedication, problem-solving skills].

In [Specific Situation], [Candidate Name] demonstrated [Specific Skill] by [Specific Action]. This resulted in [Positive Outcome]. [He/She/They] is a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a strong ability to [Key Skill]. I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your team.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

[Date]

[Admissions Committee/Recipient Name]
[Program/Title]
[University/Organization]
[Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee/Recipient Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to your [Program Name] program. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] professor in [Course Name(s)].

[Candidate Name] is an exceptional student with a keen intellect and a strong passion for [Subject Area]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the course material and actively participated in class discussions. For example, in [Specific Assignment/Project], [Candidate Name] [Specific Action – e.g., conducted thorough research, presented a compelling argument, developed an innovative solution]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] ability to [Key Skill].

I am confident that [Candidate Name] possesses the intellectual curiosity, dedication, and perseverance necessary to succeed in your rigorous program. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for [Purpose of Reference]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., neighbor, friend, volunteer colleague].

Throughout our acquaintance, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [Positive Character Traits – e.g., integrity, compassion, reliability]. [He/She/They] is a [Adjective describing them – e.g., kind, generous, dependable] individual who is always willing to [Positive Action – e.g., help others, volunteer time, offer support]. For instance, [Specific Example of their character].

I am confident that [Candidate Name] possesses the character and integrity necessary to [Achieve Goal/Succeed in Role]. I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them].

[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am pleased to recommend [Candidate Name] for [Position]. [Candidate Name] interned with [Organization Name] as a [Intern Title] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During this time, I was [Candidate Name]’s supervisor.

[Candidate Name] consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. [He/She/They] was responsible for [List of Responsibilities]. **[Specific Example of Accomplishment with numbers or stats to highlight the achievement]**. [Candidate Name]’s contributions were **valuable to our team** and [he/she/they] was a **pleasure to work with**.

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

[Date]

[Scholarship Committee Name]
[Scholarship Program Name]
[Organization Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Scholarship Committee Name],

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., teacher, mentor, advisor].

[Candidate Name] is an exceptional student with a strong academic record and a deep commitment to [Field of Study/Area of Interest]. **[He/She/They] has consistently demonstrated a passion for learning and a dedication to achieving [his/her/their] goals. For example, [Specific Example of Academic Achievement or Extracurricular Involvement]**. [He/She/They] also possesses [Positive Character Traits – e.g., leadership skills, community involvement, resilience]. [**He/She/They] is a well-rounded individual with a strong work ethic and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] will make significant contributions to [his/her/their] chosen field. **[He/She/They] is a highly deserving candidate for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for your consideration.**

[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for the volunteer position at [Volunteer Organization]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number] years at [Your Organization] where [he/she/they] volunteered as a [Volunteer Role].

[Candidate Name] is a dedicated and reliable volunteer who consistently goes above and beyond to support our mission. **[He/She/They] possesses exceptional [Skills relevant to volunteering – e.g., communication skills, teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills] and consistently demonstrates a positive attitude and a willingness to help others. For instance, [Specific Example of Volunteer Contribution and Impact].** [Candidate Name]’s efforts were **invaluable to our organization**, and we are truly grateful for [his/her/their] contributions.

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your team and would make a significant contribution to your organization. I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for the volunteer position.

[Date]

[Residency Program Director Name]
[Residency Program Name]
[Hospital Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Residency Program Director Name],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Candidate Name] for your [Residency Program Name] residency program. I have had the opportunity to work with [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Relationship – e.g., attending physician, professor, research mentor] in [Specific Setting – e.g., clinic, operating room, research lab].

[Candidate Name] is an exceptional medical student with a strong clinical acumen and a genuine passion for [Specialty]. **[He/She/They] consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of medical concepts and a remarkable ability to apply [his/her/their] knowledge to patient care. For example, [Specific Example of Clinical Skill or Knowledge].** [He/She/They] also possesses exceptional [Interpersonal Skills – e.g., communication skills, empathy, teamwork abilities]. **[He/She/They] is a compassionate and dedicated physician with a strong work ethic and a commitment to providing excellent patient care.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to excel in your residency program and become a highly successful physician. **[He/She/They] is a highly deserving candidate, and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for your consideration.**

[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for [Position]. I worked with [Candidate Name] at [Your Organization] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During that time, we were colleagues in the [Department/Team].

[Candidate Name] is a highly skilled and dedicated professional. **[He/She/They] is a team player and always willing to go the extra mile to help colleagues. For example, [Specific example of how they helped you or the team, highlighting their skills].** [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. **[His/Her/Their] contributions to our team were significant, and [He/She/They] was a valuable asset to the company.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable addition to your organization. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

[Date]

[Recipient Name (Typically HR or Supervisor)]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to strongly recommend [Employee Name] for the [Position] position within our organization. I have been [Employee Name]’s supervisor as [Current Employee Title] at [Your Organization] for [Number] years and have consistently been impressed with [his/her/their] performance and dedication.

During [his/her/their] time in [Current Employee Title] role, [Employee Name] has consistently exceeded expectations. **[He/She/They] has demonstrated exceptional [Skills needed for new position]. For example, [Specific example of achievement showcasing the skill and why it makes them ready for the promotion, with quantified results].** [Employee Name] consistently demonstrates a strong understanding of our company goals and is always willing to go above and beyond to contribute to our success. **[He/She/They] has also taken the initiative to [Examples of leadership, training, or professional development to prepare them for the new role].**

I am confident that [Employee Name] possesses the skills, experience, and leadership qualities necessary to excel in the [Position] position. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for this promotion and believe that [he/she/they] will be a valuable asset to our team in this new capacity.**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee/Program Director Name]
[Leadership Program Name]
[Organization Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee/Program Director Name],

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Leadership Program Name] program. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., supervisor, mentor, colleague] at [Your Organization].

[Candidate Name] is a highly motivated and talented individual with a strong leadership potential. **[He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Key leadership qualities – e.g., strategic thinking, communication skills, ability to motivate others]. For instance, [Specific Example Demonstrating Leadership in a Challenging Situation].** [He/She/They] is also a strong team player and is always willing to go the extra mile to support [his/her/their] colleagues. **[He/She/They] has a proven track record of success in [Specific Area of Achievement] and is committed to continuous learning and development.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable addition to your program and would greatly benefit from the opportunity to further develop [his/her/their] leadership skills. **[He/She/They] is a highly deserving candidate, and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for your consideration.**

[Date]

[Grant Committee Name]
[Grant Program Name]
[Funding Organization Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Grant Committee Name],

I am writing to express my strong support for the grant application submitted by [Candidate Name] for [Project Name] under the [Grant Program Name]. I have been familiar with [Candidate Name]’s work for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., advisor, collaborator, supervisor] at [Your Organization].

[Candidate Name]’s proposed project, [Project Name], is a highly innovative and promising endeavor that addresses a critical need in [Field]. **[He/She/They] possesses the expertise and experience necessary to successfully execute this project. For example, [Specific Example of Previous Work or Skills relevant to this project, emphasizing innovation and potential impact].** The proposed methodology is sound, the research questions are well-defined, and the potential outcomes are significant. **This project has the potential to [Specific positive impacts of the project on the field, the community, or the world].**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] is a highly capable researcher and that [he/she/they] will make significant contributions to [Field] through this grant. **I strongly recommend [his/her/their] application for funding.**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee]
[Military Academy Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee],

It is with great pride and without reservation that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to [Military Academy Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., teacher, coach, community leader].

[Candidate Name] exemplifies the qualities of leadership, integrity, and service that are essential for success at [Military Academy Name]. **[He/She/They] consistently demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to excellence. For example, [Specific example of leadership, teamwork, discipline, and commitment to a goal – use examples that showcase character].** [He/She/They] possesses a strong work ethic, is highly disciplined, and is always willing to go the extra mile to achieve [his/her/their] goals. **[He/She/They] is also a strong and resilient individual who is capable of overcoming challenges and adversity.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to become an outstanding officer and a leader in our nation’s military. **[He/She/They] is a highly deserving candidate, and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for your consideration.**

[Date]

[Nominating Committee/Board Chair Name]
[Board Name]
[Organization Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Nominating Committee/Board Chair Name],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Candidate Name] for membership on the [Board Name] of [Organization Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., colleague, collaborator, client] in [Industry].

[Candidate Name] is a highly respected and accomplished professional with a strong track record of success in [Candidate Name’s Field]. **[He/She/They] possesses exceptional [Skills and Experience relevant to the Board’s needs – e.g., financial acumen, strategic planning skills, fundraising expertise]. For example, [Specific example showcasing expertise and its value to the organization’s mission].** [Candidate Name] is also a strong communicator, a strategic thinker, and a dedicated advocate for [Organization Name]’s mission. **[He/She/They] has a deep understanding of [Organization Name]’s challenges and opportunities and is committed to helping the organization achieve its goals.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your board and would make significant contributions to your organization’s success. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for membership.**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee/Professor Name]
[Department Name]
[University Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee/Professor Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to your graduate program in [Field of Study], with a particular focus on research. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Relationship – e.g., research advisor, professor, mentor] in the [Your Department] at [Your University].

[Candidate Name] is an exceptionally bright and motivated student with a strong aptitude for research. **[He/She/They] possesses a keen intellect, a strong work ethic, and a deep curiosity that drives [him/her/their] to explore complex problems and seek innovative solutions. For example, [Specific example of research project, contribution, and skills – use quantifiable results whenever possible].** [He/She/They] is also a highly collaborative and responsible researcher who is always willing to learn and contribute to the success of the team. **[He/She/They] is particularly interested in [Specific research area], and I believe that [his/her/their] research interests align perfectly with the research being conducted in your department.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the field of [Field of Study] through research. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for admission to your graduate program.**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee]
[Medical School Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee],

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to [Medical School Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Relationship – e.g., physician mentor, professor, volunteer supervisor] in [Setting – e.g., clinic, classroom, hospital].

[Candidate Name] possesses the intellectual ability, compassion, and dedication necessary to excel as a physician. **[He/She/They] has consistently demonstrated a strong grasp of scientific concepts and a genuine desire to help others. For example, [Specific example highlighting academic abilities, empathy, and commitment to healthcare – include patient interactions, volunteer work, research involvement].** [He/She/They] is also a strong communicator, a critical thinker, and a team player. **[He/She/They] is committed to lifelong learning and is eager to contribute to the medical profession.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to become an outstanding physician and a leader in the field of medicine. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for admission to [Medical School Name].**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee]
[Law School Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to [Law School Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Relationship – e.g., professor, internship supervisor, mentor].

[Candidate Name] possesses the intellectual curiosity, analytical skills, and strong work ethic necessary to succeed in law school. **[He/She/They] consistently demonstrates a keen ability to analyze complex issues, develop well-reasoned arguments, and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. For example, [Specific example showcasing analytical abilities, critical thinking, and communication skills – cite legal research, debate experience, persuasive writing, or public speaking engagements].** [He/She/They] also possesses a strong sense of justice and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. **[He/She/They] is passionate about [Specific area of law] and eager to contribute to the legal profession.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to become an outstanding lawyer and a leader in the legal community. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for admission to [Law School Name].**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee]
[Nursing School Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee],

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to the nursing program at [Nursing School Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Relationship – e.g., mentor, volunteer coordinator, nursing supervisor].

[Candidate Name] demonstrates the compassion, critical thinking, and dedication essential for a successful nursing career. **[He/She/They] possesses a genuine empathy for others, is a strong problem-solver, and is committed to providing high-quality patient care. For example, [Specific example of compassion, problem-solving, and dedication to patient care – highlight volunteer experience, healthcare employment, or specific interactions].** [He/She/They] is also a strong communicator, a team player, and committed to lifelong learning in the nursing profession. **[He/She/They] is a highly motivated individual and eager to excel in the nursing field.**

I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable addition to your nursing program and will make significant contributions to the nursing profession. **I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for admission to [Nursing School Name].**

[Date]

[Admissions Committee]
[Technical/Trade School Name]
[Recipient Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee],

It is with great confidence that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to [Technical/Trade School Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [His/Her/Their] [Your Relationship – e.g., Employer, Mentor, Shop Teacher].

[Candidate Name] has a natural aptitude for technical skills and a strong desire to pursue a career in [Trade/Technical Field]. **[He/She/They] consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, is a quick learner, and is always eager to improve [His/Her/Their] skills. As an example, [Insert specific situation about their skills and work ethic, especially hands-on projects or responsibilities taken].** [Candidate Name] is a valuable team member and has a great attitude to learn and apply skills in the field. **[He/She/They] is punctual and willing to go the extra mile to exceed expectation**.

I am confident that [Candidate Name] will do great at Technical/Trade School and will excel in [His/Her/Their] career path. **[He/She/They] has what it takes to get the job done**. I highly recommend [Candidate Name] to [Technical/Trade School Name] for consideration.