Requesting a recommendation letter can feel daunting, but a well-crafted email significantly increases your chances of receiving a positive and impactful letter. The key is to be polite, professional, and provide all the necessary information the recommender needs. Think of it as making it easy for them to say “yes” and to write a strong letter on your behalf. This article will provide you with a variety of email templates tailored to different situations, ensuring you make the right impression.
Before sending your request, consider your relationship with the recommender. Have you spoken with them recently? Are they familiar with your goals? A brief conversation beforehand can personalize your email and refresh their memory. In your email, clearly state your purpose (e.g., graduate school application, job application), provide details about the role or program, and highlight specific achievements or experiences you’d like them to mention. Also, include a deadline and offer to provide any additional materials they might need, such as your resume or a statement of purpose.
Remember to express your gratitude for their time and consideration. Even if they are unable to write a letter, thanking them for considering your request maintains a positive relationship. Proofread your email carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. A polished email demonstrates your attention to detail and respect for the recommender’s time. Providing multiple drafts of your email can help you perfect the message you are trying to convey.
The recommendation letter is one of the important documents to consider while you are in application process. The recommendation letter should be a high quality to make sure your qualification can be explained properly.
23 Recommendation Letter Request Email Templates
Sample Template 1: General Request
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Program/Job Title] at [Institution/Company].
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year], and I learned a great deal about [Specific Skill/Topic]. I believe your insights into my [Specific Trait/Skill] would be valuable to the admissions/hiring committee.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief statement of purpose/job description for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date – allow ample time].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 2: Requesting after a Conversation
Subject: Following Up: Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
It was great speaking with you on [Date] about my application to [Program/Job Title] at [Institution/Company]. As we discussed, I am hoping you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me.
I am particularly excited about [Specific Aspect of the Program/Job], and I believe my experience in [Relevant Experience] would be a valuable asset.
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and statement of purpose/job description for your reference.
Please let me know if you are able to support my application. Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 3: Requesting from a Former Supervisor
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Previous Role]
Dear [Mr./Ms. 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].
During my time at [Company Name] as a [Your Role], I greatly appreciated your guidance and mentorship. I believe your insights into my work ethic, particularly in [Specific Project/Skill], would be valuable to [Hiring Manager Name]
I have attached the job description and my resume for your review. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. Please let me know if this is something you can do.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 4: Requesting for Graduate School
Subject: Graduate School Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I am planning to specialize in [Specialization].
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class, and I learned a great deal about [Specific Topic]. Your lectures on [Specific Concept] particularly inspired me and influenced my decision to pursue graduate studies in this field.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume, transcript, and a draft of my statement of purpose for your reference. Please let me know if you can write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date – Allow enough time]. I am also happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 5: Requesting for Internship
Subject: Internship Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for a [Internship Type] internship at [Company Name] this summer.
I found your [Course Name] course particularly helpful. The skills I learned in [Specific Skill or Concept] have been instrumental in my [Related Experience or Project]. I believe this internship will provide valuable experience in [Industry or Field].
The application deadline is [Date], and the application requires a letter of recommendation. I have attached my resume and a brief description of the internship for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 6: Requesting from a Project Supervisor
Subject: Recommendation Request for [Project Name] – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation based on my work on the [Project Name] project under your supervision. I am applying for [Opportunity – e.g., a research grant, a job].
I learned a great deal from working on the [Project Name] project, particularly in [Specific Skill or Area]. I believe my contributions to [Specific Achievement on the project] demonstrate my abilities in [Relevant Skills].
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a brief summary of the [Project Name] project, and the application requirements. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 7: Requesting after a Long Time
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Course/Position]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Year/Semester]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for [Purpose – e.g., job application, graduate school].
I remember your [Course Name] class fondly, and I particularly benefited from [Specific Lesson or Concept]. I am now applying for [Opportunity], and I believe a recommendation from you, highlighting my [Relevant Skills or Qualities], would be very valuable.
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of [Opportunity]. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me. I would be happy to provide any additional information you need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 8: Requesting with a Tight Deadline
Subject: Urgent Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for [Purpose – e.g., job application, scholarship]. The deadline for submission is approaching quickly, on [Date].
I understand this is a short timeframe, but I would be incredibly grateful if you could consider writing a letter on my behalf. I believe your insights into my [Specific Skill or Trait], demonstrated in your [Course Name] class, would be very valuable.
I have attached my resume and a brief overview of [Opportunity]. Please let me know as soon as possible if this is something you can accommodate. I apologize for the short notice.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 9: Requesting for a Scholarship
Subject: Recommendation Request for Scholarship Application – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. 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.
This scholarship would greatly assist me in pursuing my studies in [Field of Study]. Your [Course Name] class significantly enhanced my understanding of [Specific Concept], and I believe your perspective on my [Relevant Skill or Quality] would strengthen my application.
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a transcript, and information about the scholarship requirements. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 10: Requesting for a Volunteer Position
Subject: Recommendation Request for Volunteer Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Mr./Ms. 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 [Volunteer Position Name] volunteer position at [Organization Name].
I am passionate about [Cause Related to Volunteer Position], and I believe this volunteer opportunity will allow me to make a meaningful contribution. Your guidance in [Relevant Experience – e.g., club leadership, previous volunteer work] has prepared me well for this role.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a description of the volunteer position. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 11: Requesting for a Program Admission
Subject: Recommendation Request for [Program Name] Admission – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. 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 [Institution Name].
I am particularly drawn to [Specific aspect of the program, e.g., faculty research, curriculum]. I believe my skills and experience in [Relevant skills and experience] would allow me to contribute effectively to the [Program Name] program.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a transcript, and my personal statement for your review. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation for me.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 12: Emphasizing Specific Skills
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Mention Key Skill]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Opportunity]. The [Opportunity] emphasizes [Key skill or trait].
I believe your insights into my [Key skill or trait], which I demonstrated in your [Course/Project], would be highly valuable. Specifically, my work on [Specific example] showcased my [Key skill].
The deadline for the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and more information about [Opportunity]. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 13: Requesting from a Mentor
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Mentorship
Dear [Mr./Ms. 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]. As my mentor, your insights would be invaluable.
Your guidance has been instrumental in my development of [Specific Skill] and my understanding of [Industry/Field]. I am applying for [Opportunity] because I believe it aligns with the goals we discussed during our mentorship sessions.
The deadline for the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and information on [Opportunity]. Please let me know if you can write a recommendation letter for me.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 14: Requesting for a Job Promotion
Subject: Recommendation Request for Promotion – [Your Name]
Dear [Mr./Ms. 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 promotion to [New Position] within [Company Name].
During my time as a [Current Position] I have consistently exceeded expectations in [Key Responsibilities]. Your guidance and support have been instrumental in my success, and I believe your perspective on my capabilities would be valuable.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for [New Position]. Please let me know if this is something you can do.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 15: Requesting with a Follow-up Reminder
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Reminder
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you as a gentle reminder regarding my request for a letter of recommendation for [Opportunity].
The deadline is approaching on [Date]. I understand you are busy, but I would be very grateful if you could consider writing a letter on my behalf. I have attached my original email for your convenience.
Please let me know if you are able to support my application. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 16: Addressing Unsure Recommender
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out to see if you feel you know my work well enough to write a strong letter of recommendation for me for [Opportunity – Grad school, job, etc.].
If you feel you can speak to my [Specific skills, work ethic, etc.], I would greatly appreciate your support. If not, I completely understand. I have attached my resume and a brief description of [Opportunity] to help you decide.
Please let me know if you’re comfortable writing a letter by [Date – Give them time]. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 17: Focusing on Character Traits
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Character Reference
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a character reference/letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity – Role, Program etc.]. They are looking for someone with [Desired Traits: e.g. integrity, teamwork, leadership].
During [Relevant Experience: e.g. Volunteering, a past job, a club], you had the opportunity to observe my [Desired Traits]. I believe your insights on my [Desired Traits] would greatly strengthen my application.
The deadline is [Date]. My resume and a description of [Opportunity] are attached. Please let me know if you are able to help.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 18: Requesting for Multiple Applications
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Multiple Applications
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to be used for multiple applications for [Type of Opportunity – e.g. Graduate programs in Computer Science].
I am applying to several programs/roles that require a strong letter of recommendation, and I believe your insights from [Course/Project/Experience] would be invaluable across my applications. If you are willing, I will provide you with a list of institutions and submission guidelines as they become available.
A general deadline for most is around [Date – Give latest date you know], but I will keep you updated. My resume and a general statement of purpose are attached. Please let me know if you are willing to support my applications.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 19: Requesting a Broad Recommendation
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – General Recommendation
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a general letter of recommendation that I can use for future opportunities, such as job applications or further education.
I am proactively building my professional profile, and I believe a general letter of recommendation from you, highlighting my strengths in [Key skills or areas], would be extremely helpful.
There is no specific deadline at this time. My resume is attached for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a general letter of recommendation for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 20: Requesting and Providing Talking Points
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Talking Points
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Opportunity – Specific job or program].
To help you write the letter, I’ve included some potential talking points below based on my experiences in your [Course/Project/Team]: [List 2-3 Specific accomplishments or skills and how they relate to the opportunity]. Of course, please feel free to focus on whatever you feel is most relevant.
The deadline is [Date]. My resume and a detailed job description/program overview are attached. Please let me know if this is something you can do.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 21: Reassuring a Busy Recommender
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Easy Process
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. Understanding your busy schedule, I wanted to make requesting a letter of recommendation for my [Opportunity] application as easy as possible.
I have prepared a detailed summary of my relevant experiences and skills, including specific examples from your [Course/Project], which is attached to this email. I’ve also provided a draft letter (completely optional!).
The deadline is [Date]. Let me know if you are able to help, and if there’s anything else I can provide to make the process smoother for you.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 22: Asking a Colleague for Recommendation (LinkedIn)
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – LinkedIn
Hi [Colleague’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m updating my LinkedIn profile and would really value a recommendation from you highlighting our work together on [Specific project or team].
Your insights into my [Specific Skill] would be fantastic. Of course, feel free to write about anything you think is relevant. If you need a reminder, we collaborated on [Project Details].
Thanks so much! Let me know if I can return the favor.
Best,
[Your Name]
Sample Template 23: Expressing Gratitude Even if They Decline
Subject: Re: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity]
Dear [Professor/Mr./Ms. Last Name],
Thank you so much for considering my request for a letter of recommendation. I completely understand if you’re unable to write one at this time due to your busy schedule.
I appreciate you taking the time to review my materials. I value your guidance and mentorship and I look forward to continuing to learn from you.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Crafting an effective email requesting a recommendation letter is crucial for a successful application process. By following these templates and tailoring them to your specific situation, you can increase your chances of receiving a strong and compelling letter that highlights your strengths and qualifications. Remember to be polite, professional, and provide all the necessary information to make the process as easy as possible for your recommender.
