Requests for Letters of Recommendation
If your school is requesting letters of recommendation, you will usually be required to secure them from a math/science teacher AND an English/history teacher. Occasionally, you may be asked to get a letter of recommendation from both a teacher and someone who can serve as a character reference (a boss, coach, employer, pastor, etc.). Even if you do not need a letter of recommendation for your college application, you may need one for scholarship applications.
When you ask for letters of recommendation from people, the most important thing to remember is that there is etiquette involved. Be well-mannered and prepared so that your recommender's job is easy and he/she is left with a good impression of your request. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW that if you need more than one letter for different schools, most teachers and professionals will write only one letter and adjust the wording slightly to make it appropriately addressed to each school. Do not ask for or expect someone to write more than one letter of recommendation for you. Instead, request that the ONE letter they write be saved for future scholarship applications or sent to each school you are applying to.
When you ask for letters of recommendation from people, the most important thing to remember is that there is etiquette involved. Be well-mannered and prepared so that your recommender's job is easy and he/she is left with a good impression of your request. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW that if you need more than one letter for different schools, most teachers and professionals will write only one letter and adjust the wording slightly to make it appropriately addressed to each school. Do not ask for or expect someone to write more than one letter of recommendation for you. Instead, request that the ONE letter they write be saved for future scholarship applications or sent to each school you are applying to.
Write a business letter to request letters of recommendation.It is best to ask for letters of recommendation IN WRITING. People are forgetful, so having a physical reminder is helpful. Make your request by writing a business letter. In this letter, explain:
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Sample Request Letter |
Deliver this business letter in person if possible. Enclose the following in a folder or document envelope and leave it with your recommender:
- your business letter requesting a letter of recommendation
- a copy of your resume
- any extra necessary materials (forms, links, stamped & addressed envelopes, etc.)
RESOURCES TO HELP YOU
- Advice on the Etiquette of Requesting Recommendation Letters
- Letters of Recommendation: How to Get the Best Letters of Recommendation for Your College Application by Allen Grove, About.com guide
- Writing the Basic Business Letter, Purdue OWL
- SAMPLE ANNOTATED LETTER, Purdue
- SAMPLE BUSINESS LETTERS, Purdue