Why a Strong Recommendation Matters
A compelling letter of recommendation can be the key that unlocks your future. Whether you’re applying to college, seeking a new job, or pursuing a scholarship, a well-written recommendation from someone who knows you well can significantly boost your chances of success. It provides an objective perspective on your skills, qualities, and potential, adding credibility to your application. The following templates are designed to help you craft effective requests that will make it easy for your recommenders to say ‘yes’.
Crafting the Perfect Request: Essential Elements
When requesting a letter of recommendation, remember to be polite, specific, and provide ample information. Clearly state why you need the letter, the deadline, and the key qualities you’d like the recommender to highlight. Including your resume, personal statement, and any other relevant materials will greatly assist them in writing a strong and personalized recommendation. Don’t forget to express your gratitude for their time and effort, regardless of whether they are able to write the letter.
Tips for a Successful Recommendation Request
Start by choosing someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your abilities. Give them plenty of notice – ideally, several weeks or even months before the deadline. Make the process as easy as possible for them by providing all the necessary information upfront. Follow up politely a week or so before the deadline to ensure they have everything they need. Remember, a thoughtful and well-prepared request demonstrates your professionalism and respect for their time.
Sample Letters of Recommendation Request
Below are 25 sample letters you can adapt for your specific situation. Remember to personalize each letter to reflect your relationship with the recommender and the specific requirements of the application.
25 Sample Request Letters
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Organization]
[Recommender’s Address]
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Name of Program/Job] at [Name of Institution/Company]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
As my [Your Relationship to Recommender] in [Context of Relationship], you have a strong understanding of my [Key Skills/Qualities]. I believe your insights into these areas would be particularly valuable to the admissions/hiring committee.
I have attached my resume and a brief personal statement for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date]. I understand your time is valuable, and I greatly appreciate your consideration.
Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Professor’s Name]
[Professor’s Title]
[Department]
[University Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] graduate program at [University Name]. The deadline for submitting the recommendation letter is [Date].
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester, and I learned a lot from your lectures on [Specific Topics]. Your insights into [Field of Study] inspired me to further pursue my studies in this area.
I have attached my resume, transcript, and a statement of purpose for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand you are very busy, so I greatly appreciate your consideration.
Thank you very much for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date].
During my time working under your supervision as a [Your Position], I developed and demonstrated several key skills, including [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I believe your insights into my work ethic and abilities would be invaluable to the hiring manager.
I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation by [Response Deadline]. I understand your schedule is demanding, and I am grateful for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Coach’s Name]
[Coach’s Title]
[Team/Organization Name]
[Team/Organization Address]
Dear Coach [Coach’s Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a scholarship to [Name of University/College]. The scholarship is designed for student-athletes, and the deadline for the letter is [Date].
Being a part of the [Team Name] under your guidance has been an incredibly valuable experience. I’ve learned not only how to improve my athletic skills but also the importance of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. I believe you can attest to my dedication and commitment to both sports and academics.
I’ve attached my athletic resume and a brief personal statement outlining my goals. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand you are busy, and I sincerely appreciate you considering my request.
Thank you for everything you’ve taught me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator’s Name]
[Volunteer Coordinator’s Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application to [Program Name/Organization]. The deadline for the letter of recommendation is [Date].
My experience volunteering at [Organization Name], under your supervision, has been incredibly rewarding. I learned a great deal about [Specific area you learned about] and developed important skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2]. I believe your insights into my dedication and work ethic as a volunteer would be very helpful to my application.
I’ve attached my resume and a brief description of the program I am applying to. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation by [Response Deadline]. I understand your time is valuable, and I am very grateful for your consideration.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Mentor’s Name]
[Mentor’s Title]
[Organization/Institution Name]
[Organization/Institution Address]
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Name of Program/Opportunity]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
As my mentor, you’ve provided invaluable guidance and support as I’ve pursued my goals in [Field/Area of Interest]. I especially appreciate your advice on [Specific example of their help], which has significantly impacted my approach to [Relevant skill/area].
I have attached my resume, a personal statement, and the requirements of the program. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand that you’re busy, and I truly appreciate your consideration.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Former Colleague’s Name]
[Former Colleague’s Title]
[Company Name (if applicable)]
Dear [Former Colleague’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for a position I’m applying for: [Job Title] at [Company Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During our time working together at [Previous Company Name], I always valued your insights and perspective, especially on [Specific Project/Skill]. I believe you could speak to my abilities in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and my collaborative approach to problem-solving.
I’ve attached my resume and the job description. Please let me know if you’re able to write a recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Club Advisor’s Name]
[Club Advisor’s Title]
[Club/Organization Name]
[School/Institution Name]
Dear [Club Advisor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] at [Institution Name]. The deadline for the recommendation is [Date].
As the advisor for [Club Name], you have seen my dedication and leadership abilities firsthand, especially during [Specific event/project]. I believe you can speak to my skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and my commitment to the club’s mission.
I have attached my resume and a brief summary of the program. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation by [Response Deadline]. I understand your busy schedule, and I appreciate your consideration.
Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Tutor’s Name]
[Tutor’s Title]
[Organization/Institution Name (if applicable)]
Dear [Tutor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [University/Program Name]. The deadline for the recommendation is [Date].
Your tutoring assistance in [Subject Name] was incredibly helpful in improving my understanding and performance. I believe you can attest to my work ethic, my willingness to learn, and my ability to overcome challenges in that subject.
I’ve attached my transcript and a short statement of my academic goals. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand your time is valuable, and I appreciate your consideration.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Internship Supervisor’s Name]
[Internship Supervisor’s Title]
[Company/Organization Name]
Dear [Internship Supervisor’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for a full-time position I’m applying for: [Job Title] at [Company Name]. The application deadline is [Date].
My internship at [Company Name] under your supervision was a valuable experience. I gained practical skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], and I learned a great deal about [Industry/Area]. I believe you can speak to my professionalism, my work ethic, and my ability to learn quickly.
I’ve attached my resume and the job description. Please let me know if you’re able to write a recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Thank you for your guidance during my internship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Religious Leader’s Name]
[Religious Leader’s Title]
[Religious Organization Name]
Dear [Religious Leader’s Name],
I hope this message finds you in good health. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Organization/Program Name]. The deadline for the letter of recommendation is [Date].
As a member of our congregation and through my involvement in [Specific Activities/Roles], I believe you have witnessed my commitment to service, my integrity, and my compassion for others. These are qualities that are highly valued by [Organization/Program Name].
I have attached a personal statement and information about the program/organization to this email. Please let me know if you’re able to provide a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand your time constraints and deeply appreciate your willingness to consider my request.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Family Friend’s Name]
Dear [Family Friend’s Name],
I hope you and your family are doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [College/University Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
Having known me for [Number] years, you have seen me grow and develop into the person I am today. I believe you can speak to my character, my work ethic, and my aspirations for the future.
I’ve attached my high school transcript, a personal statement, and a list of my extracurricular activities. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I understand you’re busy and I really appreciate you considering my request.
Thank you for your time and your friendship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Professor’s Name]
[Professor’s Title]
[Department]
[University Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The deadline for the letter of recommendation is [Date].
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. Your lectures on [Specific Topics] were particularly inspiring and helped me develop a deeper understanding of [Field of Study].
I’ve attached my resume, transcript, and a personal statement highlighting my academic achievements and goals. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. Your support would mean a great deal to me.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[High School Teacher’s Name]
[High School Teacher’s Title]
[Department]
[High School Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Summer Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for the letter of recommendation is [Date].
I greatly enjoyed your [Subject Name] class during my [Grade Level] year of high school. You encouraged me to pursue my passion for [Subject Area] and helped me develop my critical thinking skills.
I have attached my transcript, a personal essay, and a brief description of the summer program. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. I truly value your opinion and guidance.
Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Research Advisor’s Name]
[Research Advisor’s Title]
[Department]
[University Name]
Dear Professor [Advisor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for a [Graduate Program Name] at [University Name]. The submission deadline for this letter is [Date].
Participating in your research lab on [Research Topic] for the past [Number] years has shaped my interests and ambitions significantly. Your mentorship has taught me how to conduct rigorous scientific research, analyze data effectively, and communicate my findings clearly. I believe you are the best person to speak to my skills, hard work, and my ability to learn on the fly.
I have included my resume and a personal statement outlining my research experience and aspirations. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation by [Response Deadline]. I am extremely grateful for your advice and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Volunteer Supervisor’s Name]
[Volunteer Supervisor’s Title]
[Organization Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a position at [Company Name] in the role of [Role]. The deadline for sending a reference is [Date].
I value my time volunteering at the [Organisation Name] immensely. During that period I developed strong collaborative skills and learned the value of communication. Your guidance helped me see my passion for this role and I hope you are able to write a reference for me.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of the volunteering I did at the organisation. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. It would be wonderful to get your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Former Supervisor’s Name]
[Former Supervisor’s Title]
[Organization Name]
Dear [Former Supervisor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a [Full time] role at [Company Name]. The deadline for sending a reference is [Date].
I remember my time in your department as one of immense learning. I developed a strong understanding of the companies product and enjoyed the collaborative work ethic. I hope that you would be able to speak to my enthusiasm for the company and my growth in the role.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of my experience at the organisation. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. It would be wonderful to get your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Music Teacher’s Name]
[Music Teacher’s Title]
[School/Organization Name]
Dear [Music Teacher’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [University Name] to become a part of their music program. The deadline for sending a reference is [Date].
Your guidance in music class was critical for improving my talent with the [Instrument] and my appreciation for the subject in general. During the time, you helped me find an appreciation for music theory and taught me a lot about the works of famous composers. I hope you can attest to the enthusiasm I developed.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of my musical qualifications and achievements. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. It would be amazing to get your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Sports Coach’s Name]
[Sport Coach’s Title]
[School Name]
Dear [Sports Coach’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the sports program at [University Name]. The deadline for sending a reference is [Date].
During my time playing sports under your tutelage, I have been able to sharpen my skills and develop strong communication skills. You helped push me to new heights and encouraged me when things got difficult. I hope you will be able to speak to these qualities when sending the letter.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of my sports qualifications and achievements. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Response Deadline]. It would be amazing to get your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Senior Colleague’s Name]
[Senior Colleague’s Title]
[Organization Name]
Dear [Senior Colleague’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a promotion at [
