Guide to Letters of Recommendation

Wait...what even Wait...what even is is a letter of recommendation? a letter of recommendation?

It is a letter written by a professional adult -- typically a teacher -- that describes and endorses you as a student based on your academic performance and strengths and even your character and integrity in the classroom. However, many schools have begun to open up the option for students to also submit additional letters of recommendation from adults who know them outside of the classroom too. They can make a huge difference in your application!

Okay, now what?

Find out if you are even going to need any letters of recommendation!

Most community colleges don't ask for them at all.

If the college does not provide any way to submit a letter of recommendation, then you don't need to submit any.

At many 4-year colleges, they are totally optional (not required but can still be submitted). You may not need any for your college applications, but you might for scholarship or honors program applications.

How do I find out if a college requires them?

Go to the college's website and type "letters of recommendation" in the search bar, which should give you to the correct page on their site with the information you are looking for (if you can't find any information, you may need to call the Admissions Office at that college).

If using the Common App, each college's recommendations policy is listed in the "My Colleges" tab and then open each schools' accordion menu. Look under "Recommenders and FERPA" section. You will need your Recommenders' email address.

Don't forget! Even if the school says they don't require recommendation letters for your general application, they might still be required for scholarships or honors program consideration!

None of my target colleges require any LORs...do I still need one?

Some colleges allow students to submit letters of recommendation as an optional supplement to their application -- each college has different rules for how many can be submitted. If it is optional then it is generally a good idea to go ahead and submit one.

Who should I ask to write my LOR?

Usually this needs to be a "core subject teacher" (English, Math, Science or Social Studies) and a teacher that has taught you in high school. Use a core subject teacher for an Academic Reference.

Choose teachers who know you and know your academic ability whether that means your exceptional skills or the growth you achieved in their class. Some of the best LORs are written by teachers about students who may not have even received an A in their class but the student demonstrated marked growth and the desire to learn.

Ask teachers in Spring of your Junior year if they would be willing to serve as a Recommender for you. This is best done in person but can also be accomplished by a polite email or note.

Before the LOR is due, be sure to provide the teachers with either your updated Activities Resume or some sort of formal update on your school activities, recognitions, hobbies and goals for college/career. This offers the courtesy to the Recommender of having your information readily available but also prevents unintentional mistakes (did she do Debate Club or Quiz Bowl? was she interested in Theater or Music?). These teachers are likely writing dozens of LORs each and every application cycle so it is easy to get some small details mixed up among so many students.

After application season has wrapped up, be sure to say THANK YOU to each recommender for taking the time to do this for you. Write them a note!

Can I use a coach or work supervisor as my Recommender?

No, not for an Academic reference.

If you can submit additional LORs or letters of support, then absolutely use a coach or work supervisor. Many students reach out to mentors, clergy, club sponsors, principals and others. These types of adults in your life can potentially all be solid references. The same basic advice applies here. Choose some one who can speak to your skills and some one who has witnessed growth in you. Ask them in advance and provide them with your updated information for reference. Follow up with a warm thank you!

Do not use a family member or a peer (friend) unless it is specifically requesting a "peer reference" which is more likely to appear on a scholarship application than a college one.