Securing a strong letter of recommendation from a professor is crucial for graduate school applications, scholarships, and job opportunities. The key to a successful request lies in planning and professionalism. Start by identifying professors who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Approach them well in advance of the deadline, ideally at least a month beforehand. This gives them ample time to craft a thoughtful and compelling letter.
Steps to a Successful Recommendation Request: Preparation is Key
Before contacting your professor, gather essential information. Prepare a concise summary of your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and extracurricular activities. Clearly state the purpose of the recommendation (e.g., graduate school, job application) and the specific program or position you’re applying for. Providing this context helps your professor tailor the letter to the specific requirements. Consider sharing your resume or CV and a draft of your personal statement for further insight.
Crafting Your Request: Email or In-Person?
Decide whether an email or in-person request is more appropriate based on your relationship with the professor. An email is often suitable for initial contact, allowing you to clearly articulate your request and provide the necessary documents. If you choose email, maintain a professional tone, use a clear subject line (e.g., “Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]”), and briefly explain why you’re seeking their recommendation. An in-person meeting can be beneficial if you have a close relationship or need to discuss the request in more detail. Be prepared to answer questions about your goals and aspirations.
Following Up and Showing Gratitude
After submitting your request, politely follow up a week or two before the deadline to ensure your professor has everything they need. A simple email expressing your continued appreciation is sufficient. Once the letter has been submitted, send a thank-you note expressing your sincere gratitude for their time and effort. This demonstrates professionalism and strengthens your relationship with the professor. Consider also informing them of the outcome of your application, whether successful or not; this helps them understand the impact of their letter.
Sample Letter Requests
(Replace bracketed information with your specific details.)
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Program/Position]
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 [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year], and I believe my performance in your course, particularly on the [Specific Assignment/Project], demonstrates the skills and qualities that would make me a strong candidate for this program. I have attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and information about the [Program Name] program for your review.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I understand you are very busy, and I would be grateful for your support. Please let me know if this is something you would be able to do. If so, could you please let me know what information you need from me?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Following Up: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Program/Position]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to follow up on my previous request for a letter of recommendation for the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is approaching on [Date].
I understand you are very busy, and I just wanted to check in and see if you needed any further information from me. Please let me know if there is anything I can provide to assist you in writing the letter.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Subject: Thank You – Letter of Recommendation – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for writing a letter of recommendation for me in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I truly appreciate you taking the time out of your busy schedule to support my application.
Your letter will be a valuable asset to my application, and I am very thankful for your help.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
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] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity, e.g., a summer internship at Company X]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I remember being particularly engaged by [Specific Topic/Project from the class]. I felt your insights on [Topic] were extremely helpful and motivated me to [Action taken based on the professor’s teachings]. To refresh your memory, I’ve attached my resume, which includes information about my academic work and relevant experiences since your class.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I understand you are very busy, but I believe your insights into my [Specific Skill/Quality] would be invaluable. Please let me know if this is something you are able to do, and if so, what materials I can provide to assist you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request: [Your Name] – [Specific Skill – e.g., Data Analysis] – [Opportunity]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Opportunity, e.g., the role of Data Analyst at Company Y]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
As you know, I took your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I learned a great deal about [Specific Skill] during your course and successfully implemented the techniques learned to [Mention specific assignment or project]. You mentioned at the time that you thought my [Specific Skill] skills were promising.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of the Data Analyst position, which emphasizes the importance of [Specific Skill related to the position]. If you are willing to write a letter, please let me know what other materials I can provide.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Applying to [Graduate Program Name]
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 [Graduate Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline is [Date].
Your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year] was incredibly influential in my decision to pursue graduate studies in [Field of Study]. I particularly appreciated [Specific Aspect of the course – e.g., the focus on research methodologies, the engaging discussions]. My performance on the [Specific Assignment/Project] reflected my strong interest in [Related Subject Area].
I have attached my CV, transcript, a draft of my personal statement, and details about the [Graduate Program Name] program. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I understand this is a significant request and appreciate you considering it.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity Name] – [Year Graduated]
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] class when I attended [University Name] from [Start Year] to [End Year] (graduating in [Year]). I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for [Opportunity, e.g., a promotion at my company, a fellowship]. The deadline is [Date].
I remember your class fondly, particularly [Specific Memory/Lesson from the class that has been helpful in your career]. Since graduating, I have been working as a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company], where I have been responsible for [Briefly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, linking them to skills learned in the professor’s class].
I have attached my updated resume and a brief description of the [Opportunity]. If you are willing to write a letter of recommendation, I would be grateful. Please let me know if you require any additional information.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID (if you remember it)]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity – e.g., a volunteer position with Organization X]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I particularly valued your emphasis on [Specific Course Element that relates to the desired qualities – e.g., critical thinking, teamwork]. You may recall my active participation in [Specific Example – e.g., class discussions, group projects], where I consistently demonstrated [Personality Trait – e.g., a strong work ethic, a collaborative spirit, problem-solving abilities].
The [Opportunity] emphasizes the importance of [Key Qualities needed for the role]. I’ve attached my resume, which highlights these qualities through my experiences. If you feel you can speak to my [Personality Trait] and my ability to [Specific Skill], I would be honored if you would write a letter of recommendation for me. Please let me know what other information would be helpful.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Following Up on Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
It was great speaking with you in person earlier today regarding my application for [Opportunity]. I am writing to follow up on my request for a letter of recommendation. The deadline is [Date].
As we discussed, I have attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and a brief description of the [Opportunity]. Please let me know if you require any additional information.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity] – Following Recent [Achievement]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I wanted to share that I recently [Describe your accomplishment – e.g., won an award for my research, presented at a conference, published a paper]. This accomplishment built upon the foundations I gained in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year], particularly [Specific skill or knowledge gained]. Your guidance in [Specific area of the course] was instrumental in helping me develop the skills necessary to achieve this.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of the [Opportunity], which requires a strong understanding of [Relevant skill]. If you’re willing to write a letter highlighting my abilities in this area, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know what other information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request Update – [Your Name] – [New Opportunity Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to you because you very kindly wrote a letter of recommendation for me previously for [Previous Opportunity]. I am now applying for [New Opportunity Name], with a deadline of [Date].
I understand that you are very busy, but I was hoping you might be willing to update the letter you wrote for me previously, tailored to this new application. [New Opportunity Name] is [Briefly describe the new opportunity and how your skills match]. I have attached my updated resume and the details of the new opportunity.
Thank you again for your previous support, and I understand if your schedule does not permit you to help at this time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear [Professor’s First Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
[Rest of the email content – tailor to your specific situation and relationship with the professor. Keep it professional even if you are on a first-name basis].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity – e.g., a challenging role at a company]. The deadline is [Date].
I remember learning so much in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. Your emphasis on [Specific aspect of the class, e.g., critical thinking, problem solving] really helped me lay the foundation for my future success. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to further develop those skills by [Describe specific experiences where you’ve applied those skills].
The [Opportunity] requires someone who can [Key skill required for the role]. I’m confident that I can excel in this role and I would be incredibly grateful if you could write a letter highlighting my potential. I’ve attached my resume and details about the [Opportunity].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Research Skills – [Opportunity]
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 for [Opportunity]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I am applying for [Opportunity, e.g., a research assistant position] where strong research skills are essential. I believe your insights into my research abilities, gained during your [Course Name] class and my [Specific Project/Assignment] would be very valuable.
During your class, I particularly enjoyed [Specific Research-Related Task], and I believe I demonstrated a strong ability to [Specific Research Skill, e.g., analyze data, design experiments, write research reports]. I have attached my resume, which includes further details about my research experience, and a description of the [Opportunity].
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me that highlights my research skills? Please let me know if you require any further information.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity] (CC’ing Professor [Professor’s Last Name])
Dear [TA’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am also CC’ing Professor [Professor’s Last Name] on this email.
I am reaching out to you because you were the TA for Professor [Professor’s Last Name]’s [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year], and I believe you had a good understanding of my performance and contributions in that class. [Optionally, mention a specific interaction or project where you believe the TA saw your potential].
Of course, I understand that Professor [Professor’s Last Name]’s endorsement is essential. I have already requested a letter from Professor [Professor’s Last Name], and they have suggested I reach out to you as well for your perspective. I have attached my resume and information about the [Opportunity] for your review. If you are able to write a letter, please let me know what else I can provide. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity] – From a Former Student
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] class during [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity]. The deadline is [Date].
I remember your [Course Name] class being particularly impactful because of [Specific reason – e.g., your engaging lectures, the challenging assignments, your expertise in a specific area]. I also know that your letters of recommendation are highly regarded within [Field/Industry].
Given my goals of [State your career goals related to the opportunity] and my performance in your class, I believe your recommendation would be invaluable. I’ve attached my resume, a description of the [Opportunity], and a draft of my personal statement. Please let me know if you are able to assist and if so, what further information I can provide.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Request for a General Letter of Recommendation – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a *general* letter of recommendation from you that I can keep on file for future opportunities, such as internships, scholarships, and job applications.
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year], and I believe you had a good understanding of my academic abilities and potential. Specifically, I excelled in [Mention specific assignment/skill].
I understand that writing a letter without a specific target in mind is more challenging. I am happy to provide you with my resume, transcript, and a brief overview of my career aspirations to help you. There is no immediate deadline for this request.
Please let me know if this is something you would be willing to do, and if so, what materials you would need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Alumnus – [Year of Graduation]
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] class during [Semester/Year]. I graduated from [University Name] in [Year]. I am reaching out to you today because I am applying for [Opportunity, e.g., a leadership position, a career change] and require a letter of recommendation. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I know it has been several years since I was a student in your class, but I still remember [Specific Positive Memory of the class]. Since graduating, I have [Briefly describe your career progression and relevant experiences]. I am hoping your recollection of my work ethic and [Specific quality] during your class will allow you to write me a supportive letter.
I have attached my updated resume and a detailed description of the [Opportunity]. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter and what other information I can provide. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Scholarship Application for [Scholarship Name]
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 for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I am applying for this scholarship because [Briefly explain why you are a good candidate and how it will help you]. My academic performance in your [Course Name] class, particularly [Mention specific project/assignment where you excelled] demonstrates my commitment to [Relevant field of study].
The scholarship criteria includes [Mention the specific criteria that your skills align with]. I have attached my resume, transcript, a draft of my personal statement, and the scholarship application guidelines for your review. Please let me know if you are willing to write a letter of recommendation and what further information you need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Internship Application – Resume Attached
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 for an internship at [Company Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I am applying for the [Internship Name] at [Company Name]. During your [Course Name] class, I [Share an Instance from That Class]. Please Find My Resume Attached to This Email. Your Insights About My Abilities Will Help in My Internship Application.
If You Agree, Let Me Know. Thank You for Everything.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – I spoke to you today – [Application/Opportunity]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to briefly follow up on our discussion today about my application for [Program/Job/Scholarship Name]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application. As we discussed the deadline for this Application is on [Date].
Please Let Me Know If There is Information I should Provide.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity] With My Ambition
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Program/Job/Scholarship Name]. I would greatly like to make an impact in [Field Name], and this Application is going to make this happen. Application is Due on [Date].
Please let me know what else you may need to help me!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Subject: Recommendation Request To Recommendation – [Your Name] – Professor [Professor’s Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I write this email to ask if you can refer a professor for my letter of recommendation for me to be accepted at [School Application]. Thank You!
Thank you!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Conclusion: Requesting a Recommendation Letter
Requesting a letter of recommendation is a crucial skill for academic and professional success. By following these guidelines, preparing thoroughly, and expressing your gratitude, you can increase your chances of securing a strong and impactful letter that will significantly enhance your applications.
