Requesting Recommendations: 22 Sample Letters & Tips

Why a Strong Recommendation Letter Matters

A compelling letter of recommendation can be the key that unlocks doors to your future. Whether you’re applying for a coveted graduate program, seeking a new job opportunity, or vying for a scholarship, a well-written recommendation from someone who knows you well can significantly boost your chances of success. It provides an objective assessment of your skills, character, and potential, often carrying more weight than your own self-assessment. Choosing the right person to ask, and making their job easier, is crucial.

Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Request

Don’t leave asking for a recommendation to the last minute. Give your potential recommender ample time (at least a few weeks) to write a thoughtful and personalized letter. When you reach out, be polite, professional, and clearly explain why you’re asking them specifically. Provide them with all the necessary information, including deadlines, application requirements, your resume or CV, and a brief summary of your accomplishments. Highlight experiences you had with them and skills they can specifically speak to.

Essential Elements to Include in Your Request

Your request should include a formal greeting (e.g., “Dear Professor Smith”), a clear statement of your request (“I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you in support of my application to…”), the purpose of the recommendation (e.g., “for graduate studies in Computer Science at Stanford University”), a brief overview of your relevant achievements and qualifications, and the deadline for submission. Furthermore, offer to provide any additional information they might need. A thank you in advance shows your appreciation for their time and effort.

Following Up and Expressing Gratitude

A gentle reminder a few days before the deadline is perfectly acceptable. After the recommender has submitted the letter, be sure to send a thank-you note expressing your gratitude for their support. This simple act of appreciation strengthens the professional relationship and leaves a positive lasting impression. Remember, a good recommendation is a valuable gift, so acknowledge it accordingly.

22 Sample Letters for Requesting a Letter of Recommendation

Here are 22 sample letters you can adapt to your specific situation. Remember to personalize each letter to make it genuine and effective.

Sample Letter 1: General Recommendation Request for Graduate School

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 Master’s program in [Program Name] at [University Name]. I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year] and learned a great deal about [Specific Topic].

The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief statement of purpose for your review. I would be grateful if you could speak to my [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2] based on my performance in your class. Please let me know if you require any further information.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 2: Recommendation Request for a Job

Dear [Recommender’s 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]. I learned a great deal from working with you as a [Your Role] at [Company/Organization].

The job description emphasizes [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], which I believe align with the experience I gained under your guidance. I have attached the job description and my resume for your reference. The deadline for submission is [Date]. Please let me know if you’re able to provide a recommendation and what further information I can supply.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 3: Requesting a Recommendation from a Supervisor

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I’ve been working as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name] for the past [Number] years, and I’m now applying for a [Type of Position] position at [Desired Company or Organization]. I was hoping you might be able to write a letter of recommendation for me.

During my time here, I’ve had the opportunity to [List of Accomplishments]. I believe my contributions to the team and my skills in [Key Skills] make me a strong candidate for this new role. I’ve attached my resume and the job description for your review. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if you’re able to support my application. I truly appreciate your guidance and support throughout my time here.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 4: Requesting a Recommendation – Focusing on a Specific Project

Dear [Professor/Manager Name],

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity, e.g., a scholarship, internship, program]. I am applying because [briefly state why you’re applying].

I believe you would be an ideal recommender because of my work on the [Project Name] project in your [Course/Department]. My role involved [brief description of your responsibilities]. I learned a great deal about [Specific Skills/Knowledge gained] through this project. I have attached my resume and a brief statement outlining the opportunity and its requirements. The deadline is [Date].

Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of support. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 5: Requesting a Recommendation – From a Mentor

Dear [Mentor’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for [Opportunity – e.g., a leadership program, a job]. As you know, I’ve been focusing on developing my [Specific Skill] and [Specific Skill] with your guidance over the past [Time Period].

I believe your insights into my growth in these areas would be invaluable to my application. I’ve attached my resume, a brief statement about the opportunity, and a summary of my accomplishments during our mentoring sessions. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Thank you for your continued support and guidance. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation and if there is anything else I can provide.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 6: Requesting a Recommendation – For Scholarship Application

Dear [Recommender’s 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, which aims to support students excelling in [Area of Study]. My application emphasizes my dedication to [Specific Achievement or Goal] and my financial need, which aligns with the scholarship’s mission.

Considering your mentorship during my [Project/Course], I believe your insight into my [Specific Skill] and my work ethic would greatly strengthen my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my academic transcript, personal statement, and details about the scholarship.

Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter. Your support would be invaluable in helping me achieve my academic goals.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 7: Requesting a Recommendation – For Volunteer Work

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for a volunteer leadership position with [Organization Name]. As you know, I’ve been volunteering with your team at [Organization/Event] for the past [Time period].

My application highlights my commitment to [Organization’s Mission] and my demonstrated skills in [Key skills relevant to volunteer work, e.g., teamwork, communication, problem-solving]. I believe your observations of my contributions during our volunteer efforts would significantly enhance my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached a summary of my volunteer experience and details about the leadership role.

Please let me know if you can write a letter of support. I truly value your opinion and believe your recommendation would be incredibly helpful.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 8: Requesting a Recommendation – For Study Abroad Program

Dear [Professor/Advisor Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Study Abroad Program Name] program in [Country]. The program focuses on [Area of Study], which is closely related to the knowledge I gained in your [Course Name] class.

I am eager to immerse myself in a different cultural environment and expand my understanding of [Specific Topic] through this program. Your recommendation would be highly valuable, as you’ve seen my academic capabilities and my interest in [Area of Study] firsthand. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my program application details, my resume, and my academic transcript.

Please let me know if you can provide a letter. I greatly appreciate your consideration and would be happy to provide you with any additional information.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 9: Requesting a Recommendation – For Internship Opportunity

Dear [Professor/Professional’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for an internship at [Company Name] as a [Internship Role]. This internship directly aligns with my career interests in [Specific Field] and presents an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning.

Given your expertise in [Relevant Field] and my performance in your [Course/Project], I believe you can provide valuable insights into my skills and potential. My resume and the internship details are attached for your reference. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if you are willing to write a recommendation. Your guidance and support would significantly contribute to my professional development.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 10: Requesting a Recommendation – From a Research Supervisor

Dear [Professor’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program/Opportunity Name] which will allow me to continue my research in [Research Area]. As you know, I have been working under your supervision on the [Research Project Name] project for [Time period].

I believe your insight into my research abilities, analytical skills, and dedication to the project would be very helpful. The application deadline is [Date], and I have attached my CV, a summary of the project, and the requirements for the letter.

Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation. I appreciate your guidance and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 11: Requesting a Recommendation – For Law School

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 applications to law school. I plan to apply to [List a few schools or mention the type of law school you are targeting].

I particularly valued your [Course Name] class, where I developed my skills in [Mention specific skills like critical thinking, legal analysis, writing]. I believe your insights into my academic abilities and my potential as a law student would be invaluable to my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my personal statement, transcript, and resume for your convenience.

Please let me know if you are able to write a letter. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 12: Requesting a Recommendation – For Medical School

Dear Dr. [Doctor’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application to medical school. My goal is to attend a program that will allow me to specialize in [Area of interest in medicine].

I greatly appreciate the time I spent shadowing you at [Hospital/Clinic Name]. Your mentorship and guidance gave me valuable insights into the medical field and solidified my desire to become a physician. I believe your observations of my dedication, compassion, and work ethic would significantly strengthen my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my MCAT score, personal statement, and resume.

Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter. Your support would be incredibly meaningful to me.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 13: Requesting a Recommendation – For a Teaching Position

Dear [Principal/Department Head Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a [Specific Teaching Position] at [School Name]. I am passionate about education and dedicated to creating a positive and engaging learning environment for students.

During my time as a [Your previous role], I gained valuable experience in [List relevant skills and experiences, such as curriculum development, classroom management, student assessment]. I believe your observations of my teaching skills, classroom management abilities, and dedication to student success would greatly enhance my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume, teaching philosophy statement, and sample lesson plans.

Please let me know if you can provide a letter of recommendation. I greatly appreciate your support and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 14: Requesting a Recommendation – For a Promotion

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Promotion Position] within the [Department] team. I am confident that my skills, experience, and dedication make me a strong candidate for this role.

Throughout my time as a [Your current role], I have consistently exceeded expectations in [List key accomplishments and contributions]. I believe your insights into my performance, leadership abilities, and contributions to the team would significantly strengthen my application. I have attached my resume and the job description for the new role. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter. I greatly appreciate your support and guidance.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 15: Requesting a Recommendation – After a Long Time

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I know it has been some time since we last spoke, but I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity, e.g., graduate program, job].

I remember your guidance during [Shared Experience] and the impact it had on my [Skill/Career Path]. I am now applying for [Briefly Explain the Opportunity] and your insights from our time together would be incredibly valuable. I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the opportunity. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if this is something you would be able to assist with. I understand it has been a while, so I am happy to provide any additional context or information you need.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 16: Requesting a Recommendation – Emphasizing a Specific Skill

Dear [Professor/Manager Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity – e.g., a program, a job, a grant]. One of the key requirements for this opportunity is [Specific Skill], which I believe you have witnessed in my work.

Specifically, my work on [Project/Task] under your supervision demonstrated my [Specific Skill] through [Example of how you used the skill]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if you are comfortable highlighting my [Specific Skill] in a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 17: Requesting a Recommendation – With a Personal Connection

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. It was great seeing you at [Recent Event or Conversation]. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Opportunity].

As someone who knows me well, both personally and professionally (or academically), I believe you can offer a unique perspective on my character and abilities. The [Opportunity] aligns with my goals of [Explain your goals], and I believe your insights would be incredibly valuable. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the opportunity.

Please let me know if you’re able to assist with this request. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 18: Requesting a Recommendation – After a Course Completion

Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity – e.g., Graduate Program, Job related to the course]. I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] course this [Semester/Year] and learned a great deal about [Specific Topic].

I believe the knowledge and skills I gained in your class are directly relevant to [Opportunity]. Specifically, my work on [Assignment/Project] demonstrated my understanding of [Key Concepts] and my ability to [Specific Skill]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my transcript and a brief statement outlining the opportunity.

Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of support. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 19: Requesting a Recommendation – For a Portfolio

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation to accompany my portfolio, which I am using to apply for [Type of opportunity – e.g., freelance work, entry-level positions in a creative field].

Your feedback and guidance during my time [Mention the context – e.g., taking your course, working on a project under your supervision] were invaluable to the development of the work included in my portfolio. I believe your perspective on my creative skills and potential would be a great addition to my application. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I can provide you with a link to my online portfolio or send you a physical copy if preferred.

Please let me know if you’re willing to provide a recommendation and if there’s any specific information about my portfolio or the types of opportunities I’m seeking that would be helpful.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 20: Requesting a Recommendation – Focusing on Character Traits

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity – e.g., a volunteer position, a scholarship focused on character]. This opportunity places a strong emphasis on [Character Trait 1] and [Character Trait 2].

Based on your observations of me during [Shared Experience], I believe you are well-positioned to speak to these qualities. For example, you witnessed my [Example of Character Trait 1] when [Specific situation]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity.

Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter highlighting these aspects of my character. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 21: Requesting a Recommendation – Stressing Long-Term Goals

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Opportunity – e.g., a program that aligns with future career goals]. As you know, my long-term goal is to [State Your Long-Term Goal].

I believe that [Opportunity] is a crucial step in achieving that goal, and that your insights into my potential in [Relevant Field] would be highly valuable. I’ve attached my resume, a summary of the opportunity, and a brief statement about my long-term career aspirations. The deadline for submission is [Date].

Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 22: Requesting a Recommendation – After Receiving Feedback

Dear [Professor/Manager Name],

I hope this email finds you well. Following your insightful feedback on my [Project/Assignment], I’ve been working diligently to improve my [Specific Skill]. I am now writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Opportunity – e.g., a new job, a promotion, an advanced course].

Your guidance was instrumental in helping me understand [Specific Concept/Area for Improvement]. I believe that the progress I’ve made since then, combined with your initial assessment, would provide a well-rounded perspective on my abilities. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I’ve attached my updated resume and a description of the opportunity.

Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation based on my current work and potential. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]