Asking for a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but it’s a crucial step for academic applications, job searches, and even scholarship opportunities. A well-crafted request demonstrates professionalism and helps the recommender write a compelling letter on your behalf. This article provides sample requests and helpful tips to guide you through the process. Remember, the key is to be clear, concise, and respectful of the recommender’s time.
Before diving into the sample letters, it’s important to remember a few key best practices. Always allow ample time – at least 2-3 weeks, and preferably more – before the deadline. Provide the recommender with all the necessary information, including your resume, transcript (if applicable), a statement of purpose or cover letter (if applicable), and a clear explanation of the purpose of the recommendation. Following up politely is also crucial to ensure they have what they need.
Consider the relationship you have with the person you’re asking. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills and accomplishments. If possible, schedule a brief meeting to discuss your goals and provide them with specific examples of your work. This personalized approach will significantly increase the quality of the recommendation letter.
19 Sample Letter of Recommendation Requests
Sample Request 1: General Academic Recommendation
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your 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 [Name of Program/University] for [Degree Program]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester, and I believe you witnessed my strong work ethic and understanding of [Subject]. I have attached my resume and a draft of my statement of purpose for your review.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I am happy to provide you with any further information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 2: Specific Job Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Application
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I’m very excited about this opportunity because [briefly explain why the job appeals to you]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
During my time working with you at [Previous Company/Organization], I learned a great deal about [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2]. I believe the skills I developed then would be directly applicable to this role. I have attached my resume, the job description, and a brief overview of my accomplishments while working under your supervision.
Would you be comfortable writing a letter of recommendation highlighting my qualifications for this position? Please let me know if this is something you can do. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 3: Internship Application
Subject: Internship Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Professor’s Name/Supervisor’s Name],
I am applying for an internship at [Company Name] as a [Internship Title], and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my experiences in your [Course Name/Project Name] have prepared me well for this internship. I learned [Specific Skill] and demonstrated [Specific Skill] which I believe are crucial for this role. I’ve attached my resume and a description of the internship responsibilities.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I’m available to meet with you to discuss my qualifications further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 4: Scholarship Application
Subject: Recommendation Request for [Scholarship Name] – [Your Name]
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I am applying for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, which would greatly assist me in pursuing my academic goals. The deadline for the letter of recommendation is [Date].
Your guidance and support in [Context – e.g., my research project, your mentorship role] have been invaluable to my development. I believe your insights into my [Specific Quality – e.g., dedication, analytical skills] would be highly beneficial to my application. I have included my resume, a copy of the scholarship application details, and my personal essay.
Would you be able to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? Please let me know if you need any further information. Thank you very much for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 5: Graduate School Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Graduate School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to graduate school at [University Name] for a [Degree Program] program. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
I especially valued your [Course Name] class, where I had the opportunity to [Specific Project/Achievement]. I believe your insights into my [Specific Skill] and [Specific Quality] would be a valuable addition to my application. I’ve attached my resume, transcript, and a draft of my personal statement.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I am happy to meet with you to discuss my research interests and career goals. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 6: Volunteer Position
Subject: Recommendation Request for Volunteer Position – [Your Name]
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for a volunteer position at [Organization Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my experiences working with you on [Project/Activity] have equipped me with the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Your insights on my [Specific Skill or Quality] would be invaluable. I have attached a description of the volunteer position and my resume.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 7: Law School Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Law School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to law school. I plan to apply to [mention specific schools if applicable]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class, particularly the discussions on [Specific Legal Topic]. Your guidance helped me develop my critical thinking and analytical skills, which I believe are essential for success in law school. I have attached my resume, transcript, and a draft of my personal statement.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I would be happy to schedule a meeting to discuss my application and goals further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 8: Medical School Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Medical School Application
Dear Dr. [Doctor’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 medical school. The deadline for submission is [Date].
My experience volunteering/shadowing with you at [Hospital/Clinic] was incredibly valuable, and I learned a great deal about [Specific aspect of medicine]. I believe your insights into my empathy and work ethic would greatly strengthen my application. I have attached my resume and personal statement.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? I am available to discuss my application and aspirations further. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 9: Business School Application
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Business School Application
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to business school. I am applying to [mention specific schools if applicable]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my time working under your leadership at [Company Name], I developed valuable skills in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2]. Your mentorship has been instrumental in my professional growth. I have attached my resume and my statement of purpose.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation highlighting my leadership potential and qualifications for business school? Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 10: Recommendation from a Peer/Colleague (Less Common)
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to see if you might be able to write a brief letter of recommendation for me for [purpose – e.g., a board position, a volunteer leadership role]. The deadline is [Date].
Working with you on the [Project Name] project, I greatly appreciated your [Specific Skill/Quality] and believe that you would have a good perspective on my ability to [Relevant Skill/Quality]. I’ve attached a brief summary of my involvement and the requirements of the position.
Please let me know if this is something you’d be willing to do. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 11: Request for Admission to a Residency Program
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Residency Application
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 for residency in [Specialty] at [Hospital/Program Name, if known]. The deadline for submission through ERAS is [Date].
My rotation with you in [Specific Rotation, e.g., Cardiology] was particularly impactful, and I especially appreciated your guidance on [Specific skill/area, e.g., interpreting ECGs, patient management]. I believe your perspective on my clinical skills and potential as a future [Specialty] physician would be invaluable. I have attached my CV, personal statement, and a brief summary of my experiences during that rotation.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? Please let me know if you require any further information. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 12: Request for Fellowship Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Fellowship Application
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 a [Fellowship Name] fellowship. The deadline for submission is [Date].
My experience working with you on [Project Name] was instrumental in sparking my interest in [Specific Field/Research Area]. Your guidance and mentorship were invaluable to my development as a researcher. I have attached my resume, a description of the fellowship, and a summary of my research contributions.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? I would be happy to meet to discuss my application and future research goals. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 13: Request for a Promotion
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Promotion Application
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a promotion to [New Position Title]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my tenure at [Company Name], I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Current Position Title]. I have made significant contributions to [Specific Project/Achievement 1] and [Specific Project/Achievement 2], resulting in [Quantifiable Result, if possible]. I have attached my resume and a summary of my accomplishments.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation highlighting my achievements and qualifications for this promotion? Please let me know if you require any further information. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 14: Request for a Conference Presentation
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Conference Presentation Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of support for my application to present my research on [Topic] at the [Conference Name] conference. The deadline for submission is [Date].
Your guidance and feedback on my research project were invaluable in shaping my understanding of [Specific concept]. I believe presenting at this conference would be a significant opportunity to share my work with a wider audience. I have attached my abstract and a brief summary of my research findings.
Would you be willing to write a brief letter of support highlighting the significance and potential impact of my research? Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 15: Request for a Professional Award
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Award Name] Nomination
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my nomination for the [Award Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project/Area] and my commitment to [Specific Value, e.g., innovation, mentorship] align with the criteria for this award. Your insights into my work and its impact would be greatly appreciated. I have attached my resume and a summary of my accomplishments.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation highlighting my achievements and qualifications for this award? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 16: Request for Admission to a Specialized Program
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Program Name] Application
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program, which focuses on [Program focus]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my experience in [Relevant Field] and my passion for [Related Area] make me a strong candidate for this program. Your insights into my [Specific Skill] and my dedication to [Specific Cause] would be invaluable to my application. I have attached my resume and a program description.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? I am available to discuss my application and goals further. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 17: Request when you haven’t spoken to the Recommender in a while
Subject: Catching Up & Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. It’s been a while since I was in your [Course Name] class back in [Year]! I’m writing to you today because I’m applying to [Program/Job] and was hoping you might be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline is [Date].
Since graduating, I’ve been working as a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company], where I’ve been focusing on [Briefly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments]. I remember how much I enjoyed your class and learned a lot about [Specific Skill/Topic]. I’ve attached my resume and a bit more information about the [Program/Job] to give you some context.
I understand it’s been some time, but I valued your insights and believe you could speak to my [Specific Skill/Quality]. Would you be willing to consider writing a letter? I’d be happy to chat briefly to refresh your memory. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 18: Request for a Government Job or Security Clearance
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Government Position
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I am applying for a [Position Type] position with [Government Agency], and as part of the application process, I need to provide references. I would be honored if you would consider providing a reference for me. The deadline is [Date], but the sooner the better as there’s often a background check involved.
Your knowledge of my character, work ethic, and integrity from our time together at [Organization/Context] would be invaluable. Please note that you might be contacted directly by the agency for an interview or to complete a more detailed questionnaire. They will likely ask about my reliability, trustworthiness, and suitability for working with sensitive information. I’ve attached my resume and a description of the position.
Would you be comfortable providing a reference under these circumstances? Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample Request 19: Follow-Up Request (If you haven’t heard back)
Subject: Following Up: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I’m writing to follow up on my previous email from [Date] regarding a letter of recommendation for [Purpose – e.g., graduate school, a job]. The deadline is approaching on [Date].
I understand you are very busy, but I wanted to check in and see if writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf is something you are able to do. Please let me know at your earliest convenience. I’m happy to provide any further information you may need.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Conclusion
Requesting a letter of recommendation requires careful planning and execution. By following the tips and utilizing the sample letters provided, you can increase your chances of securing strong endorsements that will enhance your applications. Remember to be professional, provide ample notice, and show your appreciation to the recommenders for their time and effort.
