recommendation letter for phd from professor

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Stanford Online

A guide to letters of recommendation for graduate school applications.

Embarking on a journey toward higher education is an exciting yet overwhelming endeavor, and the path to graduate school is no exception.

As you gather the necessary materials for your application, one critical component can be particularly complex: letters of recommendation. These letters provide insight into your academic and professional capabilities, offering admissions committees a glimpse into your potential as a graduate student, but how can you impact this important part of your application? In this guide, we'll explore how to approach this aspect of your application, using Stanford University's recommendations and insights from the Graduate Admissions website .

How Many Letters of Recommendation Do You Need?

Requirements vary considerably across different types of graduate level educational programs. Nearly all master’s degree programs, including all of Stanford’s programs, require letters of recommendation, however graduate certificate programs often do not. If you choose to pursue a graduate certificate at Stanford, letters of recommendation are not required with your application. If you're determining whether to pursue a graduate certificate or master’s degree through Stanford Online, you may find this comparison tool helpful .

Most master’s degree programs, including MS programs through Stanford , require three letters of recommendation. However, it's essential to verify the specific guidelines set by your target institution and program. Once you know the number of letters that are required, it's a good strategy to have additional recommenders in mind. For every letter you need, aim to identify at least two individuals who could provide strong endorsements on your behalf. This precautionary approach ensures that you have a backup plan in case one of your intended recommenders is unable to fulfill your request.

Who Should Write Your Letters Of Recommendation?

Securing strong letters of recommendation begins with choosing the right individuals to vouch for your abilities. Stanford advises that your recommenders be academic or professional references who know you well and can most accurately assess your potential for graduate study. Ideally, at least one of these letters should come from a university professor familiar with your academic work.

Consider individuals who have worked closely with you and can attest to your skills, achievements, and potential. The goal is to select people who can provide detailed and authentic insights into your capabilities, whether it's a professor whose course you excelled in, a supervisor from an internship, or a professional colleague.

What Makes a Good Letter of Recommendation?

Recommendation letters are a window into your character and potential.Stanford's guidelines shed light on what these letters should encompass. Recommenders are asked to respond to specific questions, such as the level of your abilities in comparison to other students, the number of years they've evaluated people in your peer group, and your standing in terms of academic performance.

The recommendation letter prompt encourages recommenders to provide candid assessments of your qualifications,including your potential for advanced study, analytical thinking capabilities, and ability to express ideas clearly. Descriptions of significant achievements, personal qualities, and character traits relevant to your scholarly pursuits are highly valuable.

How Should You Ask Someone to Write You a Letter of Recommendation?

Even after you’ve identified people who you think would be good choices for recommenders, it can be intimidating to ask them! We’ve put together some tips to aid you in this process:

• Plan Ahead and Communicate Timely Start the process well in advance to give your recommenders ample time to write a thoughtful letter. It's courteous to reach out at least two months prior to the application deadline. But if you're especially eager to get started, you can reach out as early as six months ahead of time. Reaching out early demonstrates your respect for your recommender's time and allows them to allocate sufficient time to craft a compelling letter.
• Initiate a Personalized Conversation When approaching someone for a recommendation, make it a personalized interaction. Reach out in-person, if possible, or schedule a phone or video call with them. If the person is very busy you may be most successful with a well-composed email. When you reach out, express your gratitude for their guidance and mentorship, and explain your intention to apply for graduate school.
• Provide Them with Context and Information In your request, offer context about the program you are applying to, the field of study, and specific details that might be relevant. This information will help your recommender tailor their letter to align with the expectations of the program and highlight the qualities that are most important for admission.
• Make the Request Explicit Clearly state that you are requesting a letter of recommendation. Politely ask if they would be willing to support your application by writing a strong letter on your behalf. Be direct, yet respectful, in your approach.
• Offer Resources and Materials To facilitate the process for your recommender, provide essential information such as your resume, transcripts, personal statement, and any relevant assignments or projects you've worked on together. This will give them the necessary material to craft a well-informed and accurate letter. Be sure to also share the information you have about the process. For example, if you’re applying to Stanford, each of your recommenders are also asked to fill out an additional form of questions. Stanford also provides a general prompt for the letter which would be helpful for you to share. However the exact prompt displayed to the recommender may differ depending on the graduate program you select.
• Follow Up and Stay Engaged Once your recommender agrees to write the letter, stay engaged and responsive. Offer any additional information they might need, answer their questions promptly, and provide periodic updates on your application progress. A thankyou note after the letter is submitted is a thoughtful gesture.
• Express Your Gratitude Throughout your request, convey your sincere appreciation for their assistance. Recognize that writing a recommendation letter takes time and effort, and express your gratitude for their willingness to contribute to your academic journey.

How do you submit your letters of recommendation once they are complete?

This part of the process depends entirely on the program and institution for which you are applying, check with the information specific to your program.

At Stanford, recommenders must register on the online application system. Timeliness is crucial, so aim to complete this step as early as possible to ensure that the letters are received by the application deadline. Stanford's system will generate personalized links for your recommenders to submit their recommendations online.

After your recommenders have submitted their letters, you'll receive email notifications confirming their completion. The application system allows you to manage your recommenders on the same page where you registered them. This includes sending reminder emails and making changes, if necessary.

How Can Ethical Integrity Be Maintained?

It's important to emphasize that you must respect ethical guidelines throughout this process. You should not draft, write, translate, or submit your own reference. Stanford University's application terms explicitly state that the letters of recommendation must be authored solely by your recommenders. Informing your recommenders about this policy is your responsibility to ensure the integrity of your application.

In summary, letters of recommendation play an integral role in your graduate school application, providing valuable insights into your potential as a student and future scholar. By selecting the right recommenders, registering them early, guiding them with prompts and being prepared with your examples and materials, you can ensure that your application showcases your strengths and capabilities in the best light possible. As you embark on this next chapter of your academic journey, remember that your recommenders are your allies, championing your cause as you strive to reach new heights in your field of study.

We hope you found this letters of recommendation guide useful as you’re applying to grad school, please know that following the advice in this article does not guarantee your admission to any program.

Best of luck!

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Letter Of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Format And How to Write

Updated on 19 july, 2024.

Urvi Agrawal

A letter of recommendation for PhD, or LOR for a PhD is an important document required for admission into PhD programs at foreign institutions if you are planning to  study abroad . While scores, transcripts, and other vital documents are mostly factual, the LOR is an independent and objective analysis of applicants. 

Many students question me about the number of LORs that need to be submitted. Based on my research about the admission process of various universities, I have realized that most PhD courses usually require two to three recommendations. These provide committees with an overview of the applicant’s core strengths, skills, and accomplishments. 

Let’s dive deeper into the recommendation letters for PhD, their format, and samples.

Table of Contents

What is the need for letter of recommendation for phd students, whom should you ask for phd lor.

• Academic LOR:
• Professional LOR:

Introduction:

Conclusion:, lor for phd: guidelines, popular guides to simplify your study abroad journey, sample lor for phd:, important tips to write lor for phd, download country guides (free pdfs).

A letter of recommendation is crucial for PhD students as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of their academic abilities, research potential, and personal qualities from a credible source. 

Admissions committees rely on these letters to gain insight into the applicant's previous achievements, work ethic, and suitability for advanced study. Such letters often highlight the student's strengths, accomplishments, and specific examples of their contributions to research projects.

This external validation helps differentiate candidates in a competitive selection process, ensuring that those with the necessary skills, dedication, and intellectual curiosity are chosen for the program.

The vital part of writing a LOR is choosing the right recommender. For a PhD SOP, the recommender should be someone who can endorse your candidacy and provide an unbiased application essay. Since all the other documents are self-prepared, they are likely to be biased. LOR provides an external perspective, which entirely depends on your recommender. It is unique because it is your assessment from an external viewpoint. Your recommender for PhD should be someone who can be described as follows:

One who has a good rapport.

Who understands your personality, achievements, and capabilities.

With whom you have shared your academic and professional experiences and journey 

Who is aware of your current research ideas

Who supports your research ideas.

Types of LOR for PhD

International universities offering PhDs require two to three LORs, depending on your academic and professional experience. Two academic LORs are needed, and one professional LOR is required if you have work experience. Basically, the LOR for a PhD is classified into two categories:

Academic LOR: 

An Academic letter of recommendation is provided by the professor of your educational institution. Most commonly, you are asked to provide two academic LORs for a PhD at an international university. In such LORs, professors need to highlight the applicant’s capabilities and achievements. It should reflect the recommender’s perspective on you and your research ideas.

Professional LOR: 

The applicant’s professional letter of recommendation asks if they have any work experience. Only one professional LOR is needed in that case. It is provided by your immediate supervisor or employer. It should reflect the recommender’s perspective on your professional ability to work within a team.

How to write LOR for PhD

When your recommender is willing to write your LOR for a PhD, you should share your research ideas, achievements, capabilities, objectives, and relevant information. The format of the LOR should consist of the answers to several questions related to your suitability for a PhD. The LOR, whether academic or professional, written by your recommender should sound realistic and authentic. The standard LOR format for PhDs should have the following details:

This part of the LOR should include the details regarding the recommender. It is a brief introduction of the recommender, with their current designation and professional experience mentioned in the LOR. They also need to mention their relationship with and duration of association with the applicant. The details of the recommender’s association and guidance must be mentioned in the LOR.

It includes the details of the applicant’s technical skills, certification, internship work, research ideas, research outcomes, research goals, capabilities, qualities, work experience, presentations, seminars, extracurricular activities, etc. It is quite crucial to add all the relevant information required to consider the applicant’s candidacy and future undertakings. 

This last part of the LOR format summarizes the applicant’s desire for the PhD program. The closing part of the LOR essay application includes the recommender’s signature and contact details.

An excellent LOR for PhD highlights at least three attributes of the aspirant – a social attribute and two subject-linked or technical attributes. Here are some notable guidelines:

The LOR should be 1-2 pages long with 5-6 paragraphs. 

Recommenders should start the LOR by introducing themselves and the aspirant.

Recommenders should also discuss how and from when they are professionally related to the applicants in the first paragraph. 

The following paragraphs should be divided into three segments, each highlighting the aspirant’s particular skill or quality.

Recommenders should emphasize applicant’s analytical abilities, subject knowledge, time management skills, dedication, responsibility, research abilities, etc. 

The conclusion will sum up the qualities of the aspirant while ending with a solid recommendation to the university for accepting the application.

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The following sample LOR for a PhD is one of many ways of writing it.

Dear [recipient’s name] or To Whom it May Concern

I am pleased to get the chance to recommend (name of applicant) for the PhD position in (course/study area name) at your institution. I have taught (name of applicant) for the last (tenure in years) in the areas of (subject areas). I will be delighted to witness him/her excelling in this particular field. The topic (title) proposed by him/her is vital for the modern-day scenario and needs extensive research. It will be beneficial for all the industry stakeholders in the (sector name) and also academicians who can access real-time insights on the subject. (Name of applicant) has completed a research project over a period of (duration) on (name of project) under my supervision. I have witnessed his/her work efficiency, critical thinking abilities, and inquisitiveness regarding various findings. He/she also has brilliant communication skills and the ability to mentor and guide peers. (Name) has a down-to-earth nature and respects others while adhering to rules and regulations. His/her independent or group work on research projects and studies has been immensely satisfying. He/she is an analytical thinker and is stimulated by new academic challenges. This trait makes him/her strive for innovative solutions to real-world problems with a strong desire to improve the world around. Hectic timelines, various constraints, tough work conditions, multitasking, and dealing with multiple people along the way, are things that he/she can tackle with ease while delivering work seamlessly. With these positive abilities, he/she will be an asset to any institution. (Name) has improved consistently every year and is a deserving candidate for an opportunity to work in the field of (topic name). I would be delighted if my recommendation helped him/her obtain admission in to (course name).  If you have any queries regarding research, academics, or other areas pertaining to (applicant name’s) candidature, please feel free to reach me at the following phone or email address. I am usually available on the phone between Monday and Friday from time to time, i.e.,11 am to 4 pm. Sincerely, (Name of Referee) Designation: Phone Number: Email ID:

The following important tips should be considered while writing an LOR for a PhD:

The selection of the right recommender is crucial. Choose your recommender carefully who meets the specifications mentioned in your PhD application.

Choosing your recommenders with finer academic and professional qualifications is of utmost importance.

Stay in contact with your potential recommenders and maintain good communication with them in advance.

Share your research proposal, goals, and achievements with your recommenders.

Your LORs for a PhD should differ from each other.

Your LOR should showcase your qualities, capabilities, and strengths. 

Online recommendation forms should be submitted well before the deadline.

The letter should be realistic and unbiased.

The relationship between the recommender and the applicant should be demonstrated clearly.

All the information stated in the LOR should be genuine, authentic, and accurate. Ensure that no information is false or exaggerated.

A well-crafted Letter of Recommendation is a crucial component of any PhD application, serving as a testament to the candidate's academic abilities, research potential, and character. For recommenders, it's important to provide a balanced, honest, and detailed account of the candidate’s capabilities, tailoring the letter to highlight qualities that are most relevant to the PhD program. For applicants, choosing the right recommenders and ensuring they understand the importance of the letter in the context of a PhD application is key. 

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How long is a letter of recommendation for a PhD?

A letter of recommendation for a PhD program is typically one to two pages long. It should be concise yet thorough, offering detailed insights into the candidate’s qualifications, academic achievements, and research potential. The length ensures that the recommender can provide specific examples and anecdotes that highlight the applicant's strengths and suitability for the program while maintaining clarity and focus.

Who should write my PhD letter of recommendation?

A PhD letter of recommendation should be written by someone who knows the applicant well academically and professionally. Ideal recommenders include professors, research supervisors, or professional mentors who have closely observed the applicant’s work, capabilities, and potential. Their credibility and detailed understanding of the applicant's skills and achievements add significant weight to the recommendation.

Can I get a recommendation letter from a PhD student?

A recommendation letter from a PhD student is generally not advisable. Academic institutions prefer letters from established professionals like professors or research supervisors who have more experience and authority in their fields. These individuals can provide a more credible and authoritative assessment of the applicant.

How many LORs are required for a PhD?

The number of letters of recommendation (LORs) required for a PhD application typically ranges from two to four, depending on the program and institution. Most commonly, three letters are requested.

Is there any format for LOR?

Yes, there is a general format for a letter of recommendation (LOR). It typically includes an introduction that states the recommender’s relationship with the applicant, a body that details the applicant’s qualifications, skills, and achievements with specific examples, and a conclusion that summarizes the recommender’s support for the applicant’s admission. It should be formally written, concise, and tailored to the specific program.

How important is a recommendation letter in a PhD application?

A recommendation letter is highly important in a PhD application. It provides a third-party evaluation of the applicant's academic and research abilities, character, and potential for success. These letters help admissions committees gauge the applicant’s fit for the program, complementing other application materials like transcripts and personal statements. Strong, supportive LORs can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of admission.

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Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Examples 2022-2023

Grad school recommendation letters are an essential part of every graduate school application package–even in this (almost) post-COVID era of remote work and Zoom classes. Nearly all applications to graduate school still require at least two recommendation letters from individuals who can discuss your abilities, competencies, and personal character in a coherent way and recommend you for admission to graduate school.

Many referees have difficulty writing these recommendations themselves (for language issues or simply because they are busy) and some rely on the applicant to pen the draft of the letter and receive confirmation before submitting it to the graduate school. But regardless of who is writing the letter, there are a few key elements the recommender needs to include to craft a stellar recommendation for their graduate candidate.

Who should write a recommendation letter for graduate school?

Choosing which professors, supervisors, or advisors to request a graduate school recommendation letter from can be somewhat overwhelming. Should you choose someone who does not know you personally but who has connections to your target graduate school? If a famous professor writes you a grad school recommendation letter, will this automatically give you an advantage with the admissions committee? 

In general, graduate recommendation letters should come from people who know you well, who respect you enough to say glowing things about you as a student and researcher, and who hold positions in school or work that are above your own. At least one letter of recommendation should be submitted from a past or current professor or academic advisor. 

Another could be from someone in a slightly different role, including an employer, a research adviser, a senior colleague, or a professor from a different department or kind of class (e.g., a discussion class professor instead of a lecturer). No matter who it is, the recommender should know the applicant and recognize their accomplishments. It also helps if the recommender understands some details about the program to which their candidate is applying.

Here are some guidelines to follow when choosing who to ask for letters of recommendation for graduate school. Select someone who:

• Knows you well and can answer positively. Choose an individual who you have spent time with outside the classroom if possible. They should also be familiar with your career goals and hold a favorable view of you. 
• Has known you for quite a while. A recommendation letter for graduate school carries more influence if the person has known you for months or years instead of months. If you can, find someone who knows you from various contexts, such as a professor who is also your advisor. 
• Can speak to your strengths in relation to your graduate program. Choosing a finance professor to write your recommendation letter for an MBA program would be a good idea because they can write about the qualities that will aid you in pursuing an MBA (qualities you can also include in your MBA essay ) and a broader career in business. 
• Has substantive stories to share about you. Who was fortunate enough to see you succeed in an academic, extracurricular, or professional setting? Having someone write your LOR who has good stories to share about you is certainly going to benefit you more than someone whose class you took with two hundred other students. 

How to Request a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

Knowing how to request a letter of recommendation for graduate school can directly impact the quality of the letter your referee writes for you. Show respect and consideration for the time that your recommender is taking to write a glowing review that will get you into graduate school and positively impact the rest of your life. 

With this in mind, it may seem obvious that the very best way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is to do so in person. While this isn’t possible for all students (due to availability or schedule), it is the best route if you want to ensure that your LOR is not only written on time, but includes all the positive information about you that admissions committees want to see in a graduate candidate. When you cannot ask in person, sending an email is an appropriate second-best option. But remember to always be cordial and polite when making this request. 

What information should be included in a graduate recommendation letter?

Your referral letter should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

Your letter of recommendation should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

• What is your relationship with the student?
• Why should the graduate faculty listen to your opinion? (include your status, title)
• What makes this student special? (discuss their characteristics, qualities, traits)
• What specifically did this student do to impress you? (discuss their accomplishments, habits in class)
• What makes this student qualified for graduate school and for this program? (include specific courses or interests of the student in addition to abilities and traits)
• What do you know about the program the student is applying to?

What information does the LOR recommender need from me?

The recommender should be given sufficient time to write (and/or confirm) the letter. If it has been a while since you were last in contact, sending a background information file will make things easier. Include the following information so that the recommender can use a few details to bolster their letter:

• Classes the student has taken with the recommender
• Experiences you have shared
• Transcripts
• Research experience and internships
• Awards and achievements
• Academic/career goals
• Relevant professional experience

In addition to background information, make sure that the recommender has the necessary information to plan the writing in a timely manner and target the letter as much as possible:

• Graduate program application due date
• Copy of recommendation forms (if applicable)
• Instructions for submitting LORs (hard copy, soft copy, or direct to school)
• Details about the program and school the student is applying to

What style of writing should be used in a recommendation letter?

Although the letter of recommendation is more informal than academic writing, you should make sure that your language has no grammatical or mechanics errors and that it is of an academic level that reflects the author’s educational level and qualifications. Apply the following standards to the writing and the essay-drafting process:

• Make your language more personal in tone than research writing.
• Use the active voice and first-person point of view more often.
• Write chronologically, starting from important traits and then moving on to actions and achievements.
• Use lots of details—list course names, scores, and specific achievements of the student.
• Edit your letter before submitting it to the graduate admissions faculty.

How to Write a Grad School Letter of Recommendation Letter: LOR Outline

A well-structured recommendation letter (like any organized essay) will guide the reader logically towards an understanding of why this student is worthy not only of praise but of admission to graduate school. Grad school requires quite a few high-level scholastic attributes that not all students possess, and therefore it is important to focus on both the achievements of the candidate and on their personal character and potential to thrive in a difficult academic environment.

Use this outline as a letter of recommendation template in which to input your candidate’s achievements, skills, and traits. Note that the flow of information moves the reader into greater detail, using form phrases and transitions that increase the readability of the letter.

1. Greeting to the recipient

Dear {Name}, or To Whom It May Concern, To the graduate faculty of the {University / Department}

2. Opening paragraph: position; relationship to the applicant; general assessment of the applicant

It is my absolute pleasure to recommend {Name} for admissions to {Program} at {University}… I am a professor of {area of study} in the department of {department} at {University}.

3. Second paragraph: positive skill or trait; evidence of trait or skill; anecdotes demonstrating this skill

Jane has excellent communication skills. Her written work is both clear and concise, as well as interesting to read…

4. Third (up to fifth) paragraph: Other skills or traits; evidence of character and skills; detailed anecdotes

At a personal level, Jane is a well-disciplined, industrious student with a pleasant personality. She went well beyond the course expectations…

5. Final Paragraph: clear recommendation of the candidate to the specific school or program.

Jane is unquestionably an exceptional candidate for graduate study in {Program Applying for}. Jane’s work in “Developments in Anthropology” suggests that she would greatly benefit from the opportunities for intellectual development provided by a sustained period of graduate study…

6. Closing line: polite offer to be contacted if needed

If I can be of any further assistance, or provide you with any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Letter of Recommendation Template and Useful Phrases

Admission essays often contain template phrases or “form phrases” that allow the writer to plug in their specific information while not spending too much time deciding how to compose every single aspect of the writing. This can be especially useful for ESL authors because conventional expressions used in academic and essay writing can be difficult to learn and memorize. Use the following form phrases to help craft a more professional letter of recommendation.

Introducing yourself

• My name is  {Author}  and I have been a Professor of Math at  {University}  since  {date} .
• I write to you today to proudly express my support for  {Student}  in applying to your prestigious university.

Discussing your relationship with the applicant

• I first came to know  {Student}  while teaching him/her in my  {Course Name}  course…
• I was  {Student} ’s thesis advisor during his/her senior year.
• I have known  {Student}  for several years now and can attest to his/her strengths and quality of character.

Discussing the student’s general positive traits

• {Student}  has excellent communication skills and displays them regularly in class discussions.
• He/She is a highly intelligent and competent student who excels in many areas.
• Not only is  {Student}  hard-working and thoughtful, but he/she also demonstrates kindness and generosity towards his/her peers.

Demonstrating evidence of student’s character and skills

• She/he has shown herself/himself to be a true leader who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them in his/her work.
• {Student}  demonstrated his/her independence daily, completing difficult lab exercises by researching outside of class.
• During his/her internship,  {Student}  consistently managed his/her work responsibilities diligently and learned quickly. For example…

Discussing the school/program the student is applying to

• As  {University}  is renowned for its  {Program} , I believe this is an ideal place for  {Student}  to solidify his/her abilities and cement his/her knowledge of  {area of study} .
• The learning environment that  {University}  is famous for creating excellent opportunities in which  {Student}  to apply his/her skills.

Final endorsement and offer to be contacted

• For the above reasons, I am confident that  {Student}  will make an excellent addition to your graduate program, and I wholeheartedly support him/her for admission to your program.
• Thank you for your time and attention in reading my endorsement.

Further Tips for Writing Admissions Essays

• Highlight your self-motivation, competence, and potential in this essay
• Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in the active voice.
• Demonstrate through examples; don’t just write that you are a “persistent person”—show it!
• Approach every topic with continuity and focus.

The Final Step: Editing Your Recommendation Letter

As any good writer knows, it takes more than one draft to create a strong and compelling work of writing. After you have written your recommendation letter draft, there is still a lot of room for revision. One way to ensure that grammar mistakes and style errors do not get in the way of a strong letter is to let the admissions experts at Wordvice’s Admissions Editing Services edit and proofread your (of your candidate’s) letter of recommendation or other application essays, raising the chances that your candidate will be admitted to the program of their choice.

With a full suite of professional proofreading services , we edit thousands of admission documents each year for all kinds of authors of academic and admissions documents just like you. Furthermore, our application essay editing services , recommendation letter editing services , personal statement editing services , CV editing services , cover letter editing services , and SOP editing services are tailored to the needs of your specific admissions essay.

For more articles on writing and editing your essays and academic work, visit Wordvice’s Academic Resource page . 

Top 10 Letter of Recommendation Templates for PhD Applicants

Are you struggling with writing a convincing letter of recommendation for a PhD candidate? Look no further than our letter of recommendation template for PhDs. This comprehensive guide provides examples that fit various academic disciplines, so you can edit them as needed to make sure the letter addresses your candidate’s unique strengths and experience.

Crafting a letter of recommendation for a PhD can be daunting, but with our template as your starting point, you’ll be able to approach the process with more confidence. Our examples cover all the critical elements of a well-written letter, from a warm and personalized opening to a specific discussion of the candidate’s accomplishments and contributions to the field.

Whether you’re a professor, employer, or colleague of the PhD applicant, you want to present a detailed, thoughtful letter that captures their potential and highlights their strengths. Using our letter of recommendation template for PhDs, you’ll have a framework that allows you to do just that. Start with our examples and customize them to match the candidate and program requirements, and you can be sure that the recommendation you provide will help boost your candidate’s chances of being accepted.

The Perfect Structure for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Are you tasked with writing a letter of recommendation for someone who is applying for a PhD program? Well, let me tell you – it can be a daunting task. But fear not, because I’m here to help you out with the perfect structure for your letter of recommendation.

First things first, you want to start your letter off strong with an introduction. This should include who you are and how you know the applicant. You want to establish your credibility upfront so that the admissions committee knows that your opinion holds weight.

Next, it’s important to provide an overview of the applicant’s academic and professional qualifications. This is where you can really highlight their strengths and show why they would be a great fit for the PhD program. Be specific and provide examples of their accomplishments and achievements.

After that, it’s time to get personal. In this section, you want to talk about the applicant’s character and work ethic. Admissions committees want to know that the applicant is not only qualified but is also a good fit for their program. Give examples of how the applicant has demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and a passion for their field of study.

Finally, wrap up your letter with a strong conclusion. Reiterate why you think the applicant would be a great addition to the PhD program and encourage the admissions committee to seriously consider their application.

Remember, your letter of recommendation can make all the difference in the applicant’s acceptance into the program. By following this structure, you can ensure that you’re providing a well-rounded and impressive recommendation.

Good luck and happy writing!

Best, [Your Name]

Recommendation Letter Template for PhD Application

Recommendation for phd in computer science.

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for John Doe, who is applying for a PhD program in Computer Science. John was my student for two courses in computer programming, and he consistently demonstrated his passion for the subject and his ability to grasp complicated concepts. He was also an active participant in discussions and offered valuable insights on various topics.

John has a strong academic record, with grades consistently in the top 10% of his class. He has also been involved in several research projects, with two of them resulting in published papers. His dedication to research and problem-solving make him an excellent candidate for a PhD program. John will undoubtedly make valuable contributions to the research community and improve the field of Computer Science.

As such, I wholeheartedly recommend John for admission to your esteemed PhD program in Computer Science.

Professor Jane Smith

Recommendation for PhD in Psychology

I am writing to recommend Jane Doe for admission to your PhD program in Psychology. Jane has been a research assistant in my lab for two years, during which she has demonstrated exemplary research skills and dedication to her work. She has contributed to several projects, including authoring two peer-reviewed journal articles.

Jane has a sharp mind and analytical skills, which are critical for research in Psychology. She is also a great communicator and has presented her findings at several conferences. She is an excellent team player and has collaborated with other researchers to produce meaningful insights.

I have no doubt that Jane will continue to excel in her research and become an accomplished researcher in Psychology. I highly recommend her for admission to your PhD program.

Warm regards,

Professor John Smith

Recommendation for PhD Scholarship

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am writing this letter of recommendation for Tom Smith, who is applying for a PhD scholarship. Tom was my research assistant for two years, during which he exhibited hard work, dedication, and a deep interest in the research field. He has shown an impressive ability to understand and apply research concepts from diverse fields.

Tom has an excellent academic record, and he has received recognition for his contributions to several published papers. He has also demonstrated leadership skills by organizing research seminars and workshops. Tom’s dedication to research sets him apart, and he promises to make significant contributions to the research community.

Therefore, I highly recommend Tom Smith for the PhD scholarship. His passion for research, tireless work ethic, and profound intellect make him an excellent candidate for the scholarship.

Professor Emma Brown

Recommendation for PhD Teaching Assistantship

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Maria Brown, a former student of mine who is applying for a PhD teaching assistantship in your department. During her studies, Maria demonstrated an exceptional grasp of the course material, and she regularly outperformed her peers in coursework and exams.

As a teaching assistant, Maria was dedicated and highly effective. She went above and beyond in her duties, devoting extra time to help students grasp difficult concepts. Maria’s excellent communication skills and ability to simplify complex material made her a valuable asset to the department.

Overall, I recommend Maria Brown without hesitation for the position of PhD teaching assistant. Her passion for the subject matter, strong work ethic, and excellent communication skills make her a strong candidate for the role.

Best regards,

Professor Michael Lee

Recommendation for PhD Research Internship

Dear Internship Program Director,

I am writing this letter of recommendation for Jack Wilson, a student of mine who is applying for a PhD research internship in your department. Jack has an excellent academic record, and his aptitude for research is exceptional. I have supervised him for the past two years and have been impressed by his excellent research skills.

Jack demonstrates a keen understanding of research methodology and the ability to critically evaluate research. He approaches every project with a dedicated and focused mind and strives to illustrate the significance of his work. His attention to detail ensures that the work he produces is of the highest quality.

I strongly recommend Jack for the PhD research internship. His passion for research, excellent analytical skills, and dedication to detail make him an excellent choice for the program.

Professor Eric Johnson

Recommendation for PhD Program Extension

I am writing to recommend extending the PhD program duration for Jane Smith. Jane is a PhD candidate under my supervision, and she is an exceptional researcher with great potential.

Jane has made significant contributions to research in her field, and her work has resulted in several high-impact publications. However, some unexpected life events have hindered progress on her dissertation. As a result, Jane requires additional time to complete her research and write her dissertation.

Jane has demonstrated excellent academic performance and has a record of service to the department, and she is ideally qualified to complete her PhD research in this field. I strongly recommend granting Jane the extension of her PhD program duration and offering her the opportunity to complete her research and authority in the field.

Professor Katherine Hill

Tips for Crafting a Compelling Letter of Recommendation for PhD Applicants

Writing a letter of recommendation is an important responsibility that can greatly impact a PhD applicant’s chances of being accepted into a program. Crafting a compelling letter of recommendation requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Below are some tips to help you create a strong letter of recommendation that accurately reflects the applicant’s qualifications:

• Include specific details: When writing a letter of recommendation, it’s important to include specific details about the applicant’s qualifications, achievements, and abilities. Rather than using generalizations, try to include concrete examples that demonstrate why the applicant would be an excellent candidate for the PhD program.
• Avoid clichés: While it can be tempting to use clichés in a letter of recommendation, doing so can diminish its impact. Instead, try to use unique and descriptive language that highlights the applicant’s strengths and abilities.
• Be honest: It’s important to be honest when writing a letter of recommendation. If you cannot honestly recommend the applicant, it’s better to decline the request for a letter of recommendation than to write a lukewarm or negative letter.
• Keep it concise: While it’s important to include specific details, it’s also important to keep the letter of recommendation concise. Try to focus on the applicant’s most important qualifications and achievements and avoid unnecessary details.
• Address weaknesses: If the applicant has any weaknesses or areas where they may not be as strong as other candidates, it’s important to address these in the letter of recommendation. However, it’s important to do so in a constructive way that highlights the applicant’s strengths as well.
• Proofread: Like any written document, it’s important to proofread the letter of recommendation carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that the document is well-organized and easy to read.

Overall, writing a letter of recommendation can be a challenging but rewarding task. By following these tips and putting thought and care into the process, you can help the applicant stand out and increase their chances of being accepted into the PhD program of their choice.

That’s all folks!

And that’s a wrap! I hope you found this letter of recommendation template for PhD students helpful. Remember, your recommendation letter should highlight your strengths, achievements, and potential as a researcher. And don’t forget to ask for your recommender’s permission before using their letter as a template! Thank you for reading and please feel free to visit again for more tips and tricks to help you succeed in your academic journey. Stay curious and keep learning!

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Letter of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Examples & PDFs

• Last Updated On August 14, 2024
• Published In General

Did you know that by 2030, over 8,00,000 people in the US will get their doctorates? That’s a lot of competition! To stand out, you need more than just strong grades. Letters of recommendation offer a crucial personal perspective on your research abilities.

Table of Content

These letters, written by professors or supervisors, highlight your potential and confirm your application’s claims. Admissions committees rely on them to make informed decisions.

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This guide will help you create an influential letter of recommendation for a PhD that opens doors and advances your academic journey. Dive in!

Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in greater detail in this blog on the letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

What is a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program?

A Letter of Recommendation, or LOR, is a crucial component of your PhD application. It provides valuable insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. 

Many universities in the United States, such as Harvard University and Stanford University , mandate the submission of two to three academic Letters of Recommendation for PhD applicants. 

Crafting a compelling LOR can be challenging, which makes having a sample LOR an invaluable resource. By studying a well-structured sample, you can effectively highlight your strengths and experiences, impressing the admissions committee.

What is the Need for Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Student?

A letter of recommendation is crucial for PhD students because it offers a detailed look at your academic skills, research potential, and personal qualities from someone who knows you well. 

Universities like Stanford require three letters of recommendation for their PhD programs. Admissions committees use these letters to understand your past achievements, work ethic, and fit for advanced study. 

LOR’s often highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and specific contributions to research projects. This outside perspective helps set you apart in a competitive selection process, showing you have the skills, dedication, and curiosity needed for the program.

Whom Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

Selecting the right recommender is critical in crafting a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD. Your recommender should be a determined advocate capable of providing an unbiased assessment. 

Given that 25% of the US’s one million foreign student population is Indian, competition is fierce. Unlike self-authored documents, an LOR offers an external perspective exclusively shaped by the recommender’s observations. This unique viewpoint is invaluable. 

Your PhD recommender should be someone who:

• Has a good rapport with you.
• Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and potential.
• Has witnessed your academic and professional growth.
• Is familiar with your research interests.
• Believes in your research goals.

2 Types of Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Securing admission to a prestigious PhD program like MIT’s is highly competitive. A critical factor in your application is the strength of your Letters of Recommendation (LORs). Universities like MIT often require three LORs, with a strong preference for academic references who can testify to your research potential.

Of course, you might be eager to check out a sample letter of recommendation for a PhD. However, you first need to understand the types of LORs, listed below.

1. Academic LOR

An academic LOR is typically penned by a professor or academic advisor who can confirm your intellectual abilities and scholarly potential. 

A letter of recommendation for a PhD dives deeper into your research aptitude, critical thinking skills, and independent research capabilities. This type of recommendation emphasises your readiness for doctoral-level research.

2. Professional LOR

A professional LOR is typically authored by a supervisor or manager from your workplace. A letter of recommendation for a PhD from an employer should emphasise your research contributions, problem-solving abilities, and potential for independent scholarly work. 

It should demonstrate how your practical experience has equipped you with the foundation to excel in doctoral studies.

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Letter of recommendation for phd sample: structure.

When constructing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program, academic and professional recommendations are typically the most sought-after types. These letters are the unsung heroes of your application, providing crucial external validation of your qualifications.

Here’s a quick overview of a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) sample structure.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample: Format

While you’re likely engaged in GRE preparation and other PhD application requirements, don’t forget to notice the critical role of a strong letter of recommendation for a PhD. This document can significantly influence your admission chances, making crafting a compelling and well-structured LOR essential.

Here is the format you need to follow for your sample letter of recommendation for PhD.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample

A sample letter of recommendation for a PhD program can provide valuable guidance in crafting a compelling recommendation. However, it’s essential to remember that these samples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be copied directly. 

Below, you’ll find sample LORs for the two primary types of recommendations: academic and professional. These examples demonstrate how your professors or supervisors can effectively articulate your qualifications for doctoral studies.

Academic Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “Rose Tennent” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Dr. [Full Name]

Professor of [Department]

[University Name]

[University Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Rose Tennent, who has been an exemplary student in my [Course Name] class at the [College/University Name]. I have had the privilege of teaching Rose for the past [Mention Years], during which time she has consistently impressed me with her intellectual curiosity, dedication, and exceptional academic abilities. Rose has consistently demonstrated a profound understanding of [Subject Area] concepts and theories. Her ability to analyse complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and articulate her ideas clearly is exceptional. 

For instance, in a class project on [Project Topic], Rose took the initiative to explore [Specific Aspect of Project] in depth. Her research was meticulous, and her findings were presented clearly and precisely. Beyond her academic achievements, Rose has shown a remarkable aptitude for [Specific Skill, e.g., data analysis, research methodology]. Her proficiency in [Software or Tool] was evident in her coursework, where she produced exceptional results. Her ability to [Specific Skill Application] significantly enhanced her work’s quality and demonstrated her research potential.

Rose’s dedication to her studies is unparalleled. She consistently sought opportunities to challenge herself inside and outside the classroom. She participated actively in class discussions, offering insightful perspectives and stimulating intellectual debate. Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious, and she can inspire and motivate her peers.

Furthermore, Rose has demonstrated exceptional research potential. As a research assistant on my project, [Project Title], she significantly contributed to data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Her attention to detail and strong analytical skills allowed her to identify patterns and trends that were instrumental in advancing our research. Rose is also a highly collaborative and supportive classmate. She is always willing to help her peers and has a strong sense of teamwork. Her positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm create a supportive learning environment for everyone.

In conclusion, Rose Tennent is an exceptional student with a bright future. Her intellectual abilities, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit make her an ideal candidate for a PhD program. I wholeheartedly recommend her for admission to your program and am confident she will significantly contribute to your academic community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

[Full Name]

Professional Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “John Smith” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Research Scientist

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation in solid support of John Smith, who has been an exceptional research team member at [Company Name] for the past three years. During this time, I have had the pleasure of directly supervising John Smith and witnessing firsthand his remarkable intellectual abilities, unwavering dedication, and exceptional problem-solving skills.

John Smith has consistently exceeded expectations in his role as a research scientist. His contributions to our team have been invaluable, particularly in [specific research area]. For instance, his pivotal role in the [project name] initiative was instrumental in achieving [specific outcome]. John Smith demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex challenges associated with this project and developed innovative solutions that significantly advanced our research goals.

One of John Smith’s most impressive qualities is his ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application seamlessly. His work on [specific project or task] is a prime example. By [briefly describing particular actions taken], John Smith could [quantifiable result]. This achievement highlights his exceptional analytical skills and ability to translate complex scientific concepts into tangible outcomes.

Beyond his technical expertise, John Smith possesses exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. He is a collaborative team player who readily shares his knowledge and insights with colleagues. His ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely has been invaluable in internal and external presentations. John Smith has also taken on leadership roles within the team, mentoring junior researchers and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

John Smith’s enthusiasm for research and relentless pursuit of knowledge are truly inspiring. He is constantly seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth. For example, [describe a specific instance of initiative or self-directed learning]. This proactive approach to his work demonstrates his intellectual curiosity and commitment to professional development.

I am confident that John Smith possesses the intellectual capacity, technical skills, and personal qualities necessary to excel in a PhD program. His strong foundation in [specific field] and his passion for research make him an ideal candidate for advanced studies. I wholeheartedly recommend John Smith for admission to your program, and he will be a valuable asset to your research community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Struggling with your LOR? Join LeapScholar’s live events now! Network with other students and get expert advice on how to create a winning recommendation letter.

Vocabulary for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

A compelling Letter of Recommendation (LOR) requires proper structure and precise language. The words used can profoundly influence the admissions committee’s perception of you. 

Below, you’ll find a selection of vocabulary to enhance your LOR’s impact. 

Remember, these words are merely suggestions to complement your writing, and thoughtful use will improve your LOR’s professionalism and appeal.

Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program: Guidelines for Top Universities

When universities offer PhD programs, they want to pick candidates who can work well with mentors and achieve great results. They expect you to be dedicated and focused on your chosen field. 

Letters of recommendation are crucial in helping them find the right fit. You will find the requirements for a letter of recommendation for a PhD from the famous institutions listed below.

8 Tips to Write A Better Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Are you aspiring to join the ranks of 1.3 million Indian students pursuing higher education, such as PhDs abroad ? Then, crafting exceptional LORs is crucial. 

This section will highlight typical letter of recommendation for a PhD program mistakes to avoid. A little motivation: The average monthly salary for a research scientist in the US and UK is INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K). 

Now, please find below the essential tips for writing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

• Strategic Recommender Selection: Carefully choose recommenders who align with your PhD program’s requirements and can effectively highlight your strengths.
• Open Communication: Maintain regular contact with your recommenders, sharing your research goals and achievements to provide them with plenty of information.
• Diverse Perspectives: Encourage each recommender to focus on different aspects of your qualifications to create a well-rounded picture.
• Timely Submission: To avoid last-minute stress, ensure that online recommendation forms are submitted well in advance of the application deadline.
• Authenticity and Accuracy: Emphasise the importance of honest and detailed information in the LOR, avoiding exaggeration or false claims.
• Clear Relationship: The recommender’s relationship with you should be established within the letter.
• Highlight Strengths: The LOR should effectively showcase your unique qualities, abilities, and potential for doctoral research.
• Avoid Generic Templates: Encourage recommenders to write personalised letters that avoid generic or formulaic language.

To Conclude

Imagine yourself studying for a PhD at prestigious institutions like Stanford University or Oxford University , followed by a fulfilling career as a research scientist earning competitive salaries—up to INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K) per year, respectively. 

Achieving this dream begins with a strong Letter of Recommendation for a PhD program. Our expert counsellors at Leap Scholar are dedicated to helping you craft a standout LOR and guiding you through the entire admissions process. Let us help you realise your potential.

Take the first step towards your ideal future. Book a consultation now .

Also Read: Study PhD Abroad for Indian Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is a letter of recommendation for a phd.

A. A Letter of Recommendation for a PhD is a critical document in your application process. It provides insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. This letter helps admissions committees evaluate your readiness and fit for a doctoral program.

Q. Who should I ask to craft a Letter of Recommendation for my PhD application?

A. It’s essential to choose recommenders who know you well and can confirm your abilities. Ideally, this would be a professor familiar with your academic performance or a supervisor who understands your professional contributions. They should be able to provide a detailed assessment of your strengths, achievements, and potential for research.

Q. How many Letters of Recommendation do I need for a PhD application?

A. Most universities require two to three letters of recommendation for PhD applications. These letters should come from individuals who can attest to different aspects of your abilities and potential, ensuring a well-rounded view of your qualifications.

Q. What are the types of Letters of Recommendation for PhD programs?

A. There are two primary types of LORs: Academic and Professional. An Academic LOR is written by a faculty member who can highlight your intellectual abilities and research potential. A Professional LOR, on the other hand, is provided by an employer or supervisor who can discuss your skills and contributions in a workplace setting.

Q. How long should a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD be?

A. A typical LOR should be 400-500 words, spanning one to two pages. It should provide a comprehensive view of your qualifications, achievements, and potential without being overly verbose or too brief.

Q. How does a Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission impact my application?

A. A Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission is crucial because it provides an external perspective on your abilities, character, and potential as a researcher.  This letter helps the admissions committee understand your readiness for a doctoral program by highlighting your academic achievements and personal qualities, offering insights beyond what grades and test scores can convey.

Q. How can a sample LOR help me write my recommendation?

A. A sample LOR can provide a useful template or guide, showing how to structure the letter and what elements to include. It helps you understand how to effectively highlight your strengths and tailor the letter to the specific program you’re applying to.

Q. How should I format a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Use Times New Roman font, size 10 to 12, with 1-inch margins. The letter should be single-spaced with double spaces between paragraphs, left-aligned, and include the recommender’s signature and contact information.

Q. What common mistakes should be avoided in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Avoid generic or vague language, unclear descriptions of your relationship with the recommender, and late submissions. Ensure the letter is honest and detailed and highlights your strengths and unique qualities.

Q. Can a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD impact my application?

A. Absolutely. A strong LOR can significantly influence the admissions committee by providing validation of your academic and research capabilities. It adds a personal dimension to your application that grades and test scores alone cannot convey.

Q. What should I include in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application?

A. When writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application, include details about your relationship with the applicant, their academic and research achievements, and specific examples of their skills and contributions.  The letter should also discuss the applicant’s potential for success in a doctoral program, and why they are a strong candidate for the PhD program they are applying to.

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How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation

Published on October 30, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Letters of recommendation often make or break a graduate school application . It’s important to think carefully about who to ask and how to do it.

Ideally, you should approach former supervisors who know you and your work well, and can advise you. Different programs require different types of recommendation letters, but the process of requesting them is similar.

Follow these five steps to guarantee a great recommendation, including program-specific tips and email examples.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose who to ask, step 2: reach out and request a meeting, step 3: ask for a letter of recommendation, step 4: share your resume and other materials, step 5: remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about recommendation letters.

Your first step is to decide who you’ll ask to write a letter for you. Ideally, this should be someone who you worked with outside of just the classroom context—for example, a former professor who supervised your research.

It’s important to ask someone who knows you well, even if they are less well known than other professors at your institution. Graduate admissions committees want to get a good sense of your ability to perform well in their program, and this is difficult to accomplish if your recommender only knows you as a face in the crowd.

Who you should ask also strongly depends on the type of program that you’re applying to. Different programs prefer different qualities in their admitted students, and thus weigh types of recommenders differently. Take a look at the program-specific tips below.

For research programs (MPhil, DPhil, PhD , Research Master’s), graduate admissions committees are looking for evidence of your potential as a future researcher.

Since this is tricky to assess from test scores and transcripts, letters of recommendation are often the most important part of a graduate research program application.

Your letter should thus be from someone who can speak to your skills as a researcher. This could be, for example, a professor who supervised you on an independent research project, or the head of a lab that you worked in as an undergraduate.

If you worked as a full-time research or lab assistant after undergrad, ask your managers, who are usually full-time researchers themselves and therefore experts on what makes a good researcher.

Unlike most graduate programs, business schools are less interested in your undergraduate academic performance. Instead, they try to assess your potential to succeed in the workplace, particularly in managerial or leadership positions. The same applies to public policy and other professional programs.

Ideally, your letters of recommendation should come from current supervisors at your work. If this isn’t possible, you should ask coworkers who are senior to you and know your work well.

Although business schools normally prefer candidates with several years of experience, current undergraduates sometimes apply as well. In this case, you should ask internship supervisors or—as a last resort—professors who know you well.

Medical schools look for evidence that you are academically prepared for the study of medicine and that your character is well-suited to becoming a doctor. Admissions committees in medicine prefer academic references, but they also require a few extra steps.

Firstly, while graduate programs usually require two or three recommendation letters, medical schools often ask for more—you may have to submit up to six letters, some of which should be from former professors in the natural sciences.

In addition, many schools recommend that you submit a letter from the premedical advisory committee at your undergraduate institution, which summarizes your overall suitability for medical school. Be aware that deadlines for materials for these letters are very early—often the spring of the year before you are due to start medical school.

Finally, if you’ve worked on any research projects, you should submit a letter from your supervisor. Medical schools view research competence as a plus.

Law school letters of recommendation should mostly be from former professors or other academic supervisors.

You should only use non-academic recommenders if they can directly speak to your suitability to study law—for example, if you regularly work with lawyers, or if your job involves skills like critical reading or research that are relevant to legal practice.

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The next step is to get in contact with your potential recommender. If you haven’t talked to them in a while, begin your email with a quick reminder to jog their memory. Be friendly, direct, and concise.

If possible, it’s best to plan a meeting to discuss your request. However, if this isn’t practical (for example, if you’ve moved far away from your undergrad institution), you can skip this step and head straight to the third.

Hi Professor Smith!

I hope that everything is going well with you and that you’re still enjoying teaching your seminar on the post World War II international order. I thoroughly enjoyed taking it with you last year as a junior.

I’m currently thinking about what I want to do next year, which will hopefully involve graduate work in political science, and was hoping to meet with you to discuss your thoughts on graduate school. Do you have any time over the next few weeks to meet?

Make your request during your meeting or, if necessary, via email. Let them know what sort of programs you are applying to and when the deadlines are. Make sure to give your recommenders plenty of time!

Instead of just asking for a recommendation letter, specifically ask if they can write you a strong recommendation . This allows your recommender an “out”—for example, if they don’t feel they know you well enough. A bad or even lukewarm recommendation is the kiss of death for any application, so it’s important to ensure your letters will be positive!

If they say they can’t give you a strong recommendation, don’t panic. This gives you the opportunity to ask someone else who can provide you a better recommendation.

Hi Professor Jones!

How are you? I hope everything is going well and you’re still teaching Introduction to Labor Economics to eager students!

I’ve been out of school for a year now, working as a full-time research assistant in New York City. Come this fall, I’m hoping to apply to a few programs for graduate school, mostly doctoral programs in Economics.

Since I took two economics classes with you (Introduction to Labor Economics in Spring 2018 and Industrial Organization in Fall 2019), I was hoping that you might agree to serve as a letter writer for my graduate program. I wanted to highlight my work in labor economics, since that’s what I’m hoping to study in graduate school. Also, since I loved your classes, I thought you might be a good person to ask!

The letters of recommendation would be due to each individual program’s website in December. I understand, of course, if you’re too busy this summer or if you don’t feel that you would be the best fit to write a letter. My goal is simply to paint as complete a picture as possible of my undergrad career at Western. If you’d like, we can also discuss this on the phone.

I look forward to hearing back from you!

You should send your resume or CV to your recommenders, along with any other material that might jog their memory or aid in their recommendation.

For instance, you may want to send along your statement of purpose or writing sample if one is requested in your application. Admission committees are looking for a cohesive story that the letters of recommendation, personal statement , and CV work together to tell.

You should also check whether the school provides any prompts or guidelines for recommenders. Many programs want your recommenders to comment on your potential to serve in the specific role the graduate program prepares you for. See the program-specific tips below.

Finally, you should send an email to your recommenders a few weeks before the letters are due, reminding them of the deadline and asking if there is anything else you can send them to assist in writing the letter.

If any materials are late, programs will often reject your entire application, so it is imperative that your recommenders get their letters in on time. However, you should also keep in mind that your letter writers are probably quite busy, so don’t send too many reminders!

Dear Professor Jones,

Hope the semester is going well! Thank you again for agreeing to serve as my recommender. I just wanted to send you a quick reminder that recommendations for Program X, Y, and Z are due in two weeks, on December 15. Please let me know if you need anything else from me, and thank you again!

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

College essays

• College essay examples
• College essay format
• College essay style
• College essay length
• Diversity essays
• Scholarship essays

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Avoiding repetition
• Literature review
• Conceptual framework
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• Thesis acknowledgements
• Burned or burnt
• Canceled or cancelled
• Dreamt or dreamed
• Gray or grey
• Theater vs theatre

Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your ability to succeed in the program that you are applying to.

Remember, it is far more important to choose someone who knows you well than someone well-known. You may have taken classes with more prominent professors, but if they haven’t worked closely with you, they probably can’t write you a strong letter.

This depends on the program that you are applying for. Generally, for professional programs like business and policy school, you should ask managers who can speak to your future leadership potential and ability to succeed in your chosen career path.

However, in other graduate programs, you should mostly ask your former professors or research supervisors to write your recommendation letters , unless you have worked in a job that corresponds closely with your chosen field (e.g., as a full-time research assistant).

It’s best to ask in person if possible, so first reach out and request a meeting to discuss your graduate school plans.

Let the potential recommender know which programs you’re applying to, and ask if they feel they can provide a strong letter of recommendation . A lukewarm recommendation can be the kiss of death for an application, so make sure your letter writers are enthusiastic about recommending you and your work!

Always remember to remain polite. Your recommenders are doing you a favor by taking the time to write a letter in support of your graduate school goals.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Thomas, L. (2023, June 01). How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation. Scribbr. Retrieved August 26, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/graduate-school/letter-of-recommendation/

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• CAREER COLUMN
• 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

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Three scientists offer their tips on writing a stellar letter of recommendation. Credit: Getty

Undergraduates need them for graduate-school applications; PhD students and postdocs use them to apply for fellowships and jobs; senior scientists often have to have them to apply for awards and promotions. But writing an effective and personal recommendation letter can be time-consuming, especially for academics who must juggle grant applications, manuscripts, teaching and student supervision. And some might struggle to say the right things to support a former employee or student in their career move, while sounding original and unique.

Nature spoke to three experienced professors to get their tips for writing the perfect recommendation letter.

ELIZABETH NANCE: Create a process

Elizabeth Nance, assistant professor of chemical engineering, University of Washington, Seattle

For the past five years, as an assistant professor, I have written recommendation letters for 15–20 students each year. I commit a significant amount of time to make each letter personal.

In preparing letters, I follow a defined process, outlined on my website, that I make clear to my students. Students should ask me at least four weeks before the letter deadline — and I do not always say yes, because I might not know the student well enough to write something compelling. Once I confirm that I will write a letter, students should send me an updated CV, a draft of their application essays and notes about why they are applying for this particular opportunity.

Collection: Coronavirus and scientific careers

In every recommendation I write, I aim to comment on the individual’s traits beyond the classroom or laboratory when I can do so meaningfully. For example, students who organize events demonstrate abilities in project management and troubleshooting that go beyond the prescriptive nature of most classroom assignments. I think these aspects of a student’s life are important to capture, and should be treated similarly to highlighting academic and technical achievements.

Occasionally, I’ll seek input from graduate-student mentors in my lab, or even faculty members if they can provide examples or comments.

Creating a process for my students to request a letter, and making sure they know about it well in advance, has been useful in allowing me to produce quality letters for students and to communicate clearly what I need to write a strong letter.

ALEX SHALEK: Manage expectations

Alex Shalek, associate professor of chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge

A good recommendation letter needs to speak to its audience. When I am writing letters for students who are applying for jobs or admission to academic institutions, I not only emphasize their strengths, achievements and potential, but also try to convey a sense of what makes them a potential fit. When I am writing letters to nominate colleagues for awards, depending on the particular opportunity, I might place stronger emphasis on their achievements and contributions to a field, or on their track record of mentorship, to aid the panel in their judging. I feel that a good letter writer should consider the purpose of the recommendation and present information that helps to properly inform readers to that end.

Before I agree to write such a letter, I try to have an open conversation with my student or colleague to let them know what I can and cannot say. For instance, when I write letters for undergraduates who have taken my class and are applying to graduate schools, but with whom I’ve otherwise had limited contact, I emphasize that I can comment strongly on their class performance but not their character or research achievements, for which I have limited evidence. To me, this is important for cultivating a sense of trust with those who read my letters now and in the future.

A clear conversation with a student or colleague about what they’re hoping for in a letter helps me to understand how they would like my letter to be read in the context of their entire application package, which could include a personal statement, additional documents and other letters. Whenever possible, I want my writing to highlight the individual and ‘fill in the gaps’ left by the other documents. These frank conversations allow me to understand the individual’s ambitions and goals. With students, this helps me to mentor them on a deeper level going forward, and with colleagues, it enables deeper and richer interactions in the future.

DINO DI CARLO: Tell detailed stories

Dino Di Carlo, professor of bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles

Over years of reading recommendation letters for graduate students, postdocs and junior faculty members, I took note of techniques that I found compelling. One of them is using stories rather than a standard ‘list’ format to emphasize a candidate’s positive traits. Often, candidates will all sound the same in letters and will have the same positive traits listed — so one that comes with a story that demonstrates the applicant’s skillset will ring more true.

Rather than simply writing “Applicant A is a compelling speaker,” for example, I might write, “Applicant A’s storytelling skill during his talks is so compelling that other group members have asked him to provide separate training sessions in public speaking.” And “Applicant B is a good collaborator” doesn’t have anywhere near the same weight as “Applicant B leads collaborations with five different groups, which led to two funded collaborative grants.” The bottom line is that letters with more detail will count for more. Now, before I start writing, I first think of two or three key accomplishments and traits of the candidate, and tell a story based on those stand-out features.

In telling the story, I use bolding and underlining to highlight key points or accomplishments. In this way, the reader does not have to keep a lot of complex or nuanced ideas in mind and can easily refer to key points that are highlighted. For instance, for candidates going for academic positions, I normally highlight their experiences in grant writing.

Writing recommendation letters is great fun — it allows me to reflect on my interactions with pupils, remember the creative times together and promote them in their future careers. It is like flipping through old photos to pull out the best shots: inevitably, you find yourself nostalgic.

Nature 584 , 158 (2020)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-020-02186-8

These interviews have been edited for length and clarity.

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Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters

The three sample recommendation letters that follow, which you can download by clicking on the link below, are effective because they detail what makes the students stand out as exceptional and because they paint individual pictures of each student. Note how these excerpts, excerpted from each of the three letters, individualize and humanize the student:

“I have been especially impressed by Janet’s determination and sparkle.” “I enthusiastically supported her application for the student position on the Mythic University Board of Trustees for the same reasons. She was the runner-up for that distinguished post, and Mythic University lost out on a true leader. But I believe her time is yet to come.” “In short, John is both scholarly and culturally entrenched, ambitious but not pretentious, self-deprecating yet confident, forthright but unassuming, delightfully irreverent yet appropriately respectful—a complex and whole human being.”

In addition, the writers of these three letters take advantage of many of the rhetorical strategies discussed in Chapters 3 and 4 of this manual: enhancing their own credibility, narrative technique, anecdotal evidence, recommending by citing others, and using active verbs and transitions.

Finally, a late paragraph in the last letter, at the prompting of the graduate scholarship application, even provides a few criticisms of the student. Because these criticisms are offered even-handedly and efficiently, I would argue that the letter has even more ethos, and it is noteworthy that the student still landed the desired scholarship.

WTO / Letters and Emails / Recommendation / Letter of Recommendation Examples for Graduate School

Letter of Recommendation Examples for Graduate School

It is a letter of recommendation written by your undergraduate professor, supervisor, mentor, manager, etc. that highlights your academic performance, personal qualities, capabilities, and accomplishments that make you a good fit for a particular graduate school or program.

These letters primarily serve one purpose, they are a form of peer-to-peer advice. They are required explicitly by an academic program and are usually sent directly to the graduate program faculty without the applicant seeing them. This means that the professor can provide the graduate program faculty with an assessment of your potential as a graduate student and a researcher from an objective perspective, helping them make an informed decision about accepting you into their program over the other qualified applicants.

It plays a significant role in helping you secure an admission offer. If you have any weak areas in your application

A slightly below-average GPA, a positive and detailed letter from your undergraduate supervisor can influence the admissions committee to consider you over other applicants.

This is why it is important to understand how to secure strong and impressive recommendations from competent recommenders.

Graduate School Recommendation Letter Examples

When to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?

Undergraduate professors and other professionals usually receive countless requests for such letters from other students. To secure an enthusiastic and positive document, you should give your contact plenty of lead time to write it. Ideally, it is a great idea to ask for it at least one month or more before the application deadline. 

If your recommender is a college professor, you should also be mindful of their schedule and current state of mind, as crafting such letters takes time. Balancing between planning lectures, advising students, grading college essays, and finding some free time to provide a positive recommendation letter for a particular student can be overwhelming for the professor. Therefore, you should ask for it at the beginning of the semester, rather than mid-semester or towards the end of the semester.

You should also consider asking for it during your professor’s working hours. You should never ask them outside of their office hours, as this may seem unprofessional. You should always ask them in person and be clear about what you ask and how the letter fits your educational and professional goals. If they seem reluctant to write you a positive letter, do not push the matter. Instead, consider requesting another professor who is more than willing to write a positive recommendation for you. 

Who to Ask?

Getting the right professor, supervisor, or college advisor to write you this letter can be difficult. These letters play a significant role in helping you get an admission offer. You should consider choosing a recommender who can discuss your abilities, competencies, and personal traits in a coherent way to maximize your admission odds.

The following guidelines will help you know whom to ask for it for graduate school:

Someone who knows you well

Your recommender should be someone you have spent time with within class and outside of the classroom. They should be able to speak about your career goals and aspirations and should hold a favorable opinion of your personal qualities and capabilities.

A professor who directs and advises your extracurricular activity club, such as the debate club, volleyball team, etc., can make an excellent reference.

Someone you’ve known for a long time

Reach out to a recommender who has known you for at least one or more years to ensure that the letter impacts the admissions board. The recommender must also hold a current perspective on you. Thus, a teacher from several years ago is not a good choice.

Who is related to the program you are applying for

A college professor who has background knowledge of the discipline or program you want to pursue can make a good reference. This is because they know and can speak to the specific qualities needed to succeed in that course or career line. As a result, the admissions board will trust the individual’s evaluation and perspective of you, and they will be more willing to admit you into the program.

A professor at the school granting your undergraduate degree, a professor with the degree you are seeking, a supervisor at a job or internship related to your graduate program, and a professor who has academically evaluated you in a class related to the program can provide good recommendation letters.

Someone who has seen your successes

A person who has witnessed some of your most significant achievements or seen you demonstrate high levels of initiative, commitment, hard work, and teamwork can also provide an effective document. Include specific examples of achievements in the letter. A person who has witnessed your accomplishments can give a first-hand account of what you can do and the value you will add to the graduate program faculty.

An effective communicator

Your recommender should be able to craft a strongly-worded and persuasive letter to convince the admissions board or committee to offer you admission into the desired program. A well-crafted, enthusiastic letter from a college professor may not only get you into a graduate program but may also persuade the department faculty to give you a tuition scholarship or paid employment to help you settle your school fees. Hence, you should always consider recommenders who are more generous, organized, and enthusiastic, and those who can write a memorable letter.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

While, as an applicant, you cannot control what your recommender writes in the letter or ensure the document is submitted before the application deadline, there are certain things you can do to make the process as successful and efficient as possible. How you ask for it can also impact the quality and type of response you receive from your potential references.

Here is a detailed guide on how to ask for it for graduate school:

Ask in person

Writing it is a big favor. Consequently, your approach to making a request should always be respectful and formal, and you should express gratitude. Asking for such requests in person is usually advocated for, as it helps the recommender gain a deeper understanding of how your motivation aligns with that of the graduate program.

Here are some useful tips for asking for a recommendation in person:

Ask the recommender if they would provide the letter

It is considered standard practice to have a conversation before you submit your written request for a recommendation. This is to ensure that your chosen contact is willing and available to write the letter. Thus, schedule a meeting with your chosen contact and politely ask them if they would be willing to write this letter for you. If they are unwilling or seem reluctant, consider asking another person from your list of potential recommenders. 

Arrange a meeting

If the recommender is willing to provide you with a strong recommendation, schedule a one-on-one meeting appointment . This demonstrates that you respect your professor’s time and that you are taking your graduate school application seriously. During the meeting, clarify to your supervisor why you chose them to recommend you and why you value their honest assessment of your academic life and personal qualities. To convince them further, state how your experience and interactions with them have contributed to who you are today, what you have achieved, and, if applicable, how they have influenced your decision to pursue the specific graduate program.

Give a copy of your resume, transcripts, and personal statement

You should provide your recommender with sufficient details and crucial information to enable them to tailor this letter to reinforce your cover letter, personal statement, and resume. Consider giving them a copy of your current resume, copies of your transcripts, your cover letter, personal statement, details of the program to which you are applying, and any other essential information to help them understand your background and interests.

Provide a list of your achievements and abilities

Next, refresh the memory of your recommender by providing them with a list of achievements and abilities that you would like them to highlight in the letter to increase your chances of getting an interview with the graduate school’s admission board.

If you are seeking admission into an MBA in a tech-related course, you can request that your recommender highlight your computer-savvy skills, such as programming, and coding, and the awards or achievements you have received in the specific field.

Provide a list of your extracurricular and volunteer activities

Most higher-learning academic institutions prefer candidates who are well-rounded scholars. Therefore, your professor will need to highlight your extracurricular and volunteer activities in the recommendation letter to help strengthen your application. If you have participated in any of these activities, be sure to provide your supervisor with a detailed list of the activities and your relevant accomplishments.

Provide a list of graduate schools you are applying to

If you are applying to various graduate schools, you can provide your recommender with a list of the schools and details of their program to help them customize each letter to the particular school.

Give receiver details

The letter will need to incorporate the recipient’s details. This includes the school’s name, address line, admitting professor’s name, etc.

Give a deadline to submit the letter

The admission board will most likely disregard application materials received after the institution’s stipulated submission deadlines, and this will paint a negative picture of how the admitting team perceives your recommender. It is essential that you give the recommender a deadline to submit the letter to enable them to plan their time well and submit it on time.

Send an email

Although the best way to ask for it is in person, sometimes it might be impossible to meet with your recommender face to face. In such cases, sending a professional email might be considered an appropriate option. However, the email method is only advisable if you know the recommender well enough. However, if you have someone in mind that you haven’t seen or spoken to recently, then it is essential that you meet with them in person to discuss your request.

Essential Elements of a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

It will typically cover a range of skills- from academic abilities to research experiences and applied experiences in and out of the classroom.

The letter will generally include the following essential elements:

• A brief description of who the recommender is, why they are qualified to recommend you, and their professional relationship with you
• A description of why the recommender thinks you are the perfect fit for the program, using specific examples and anecdotes to validate their claims
• Specific examples of your greatest accomplishments and personal qualities while in undergraduate school
• A comparison with your peers, i.e., what makes you qualified for the graduate school program over the other qualified applicants
• What the recommender knows about the program or course you are applying to.

Graduate School Recommendation Letter Template

[Your Name]

[Your Job Title]

[Your Institution/Organization]

[Institution/Organization Address]

[City, State, Zip]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Admissions Committee or Specific Person’s Name, if known]

[Graduate Program Name or Department]

[University Name]

[University Address]

Dear [Admissions Committee or Specific Person’s Name],

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to your [specific graduate program name] at [University Name]. As [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., “their professor for X courses” or “their supervisor at Y organization”], I have had the pleasure of witnessing [Applicant’s Name]’s remarkable growth and academic/professional achievements over the [duration of your relationship with the applicant].

[Applicant’s Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional abilities in [mention specific skills or areas, e.g., “critical thinking, research, and analytical skills”]. For instance, in [mention a specific project, course, or task], they [describe what the applicant did, highlighting their responsibilities, achievements, and the skills they demonstrated]. This experience showcased not only [Applicant’s Name]’s solid grasp of [mention the relevant subject or field] but also their capacity for [mention important qualities, e.g., “innovative problem-solving and dedication to excellence”].

Beyond [his/her/their] academic prowess, [Applicant’s Name] exhibits qualities that I believe will make [him/her/them] a valuable contributor to [University Name]’s academic community. [He/She/They] is [mention personal qualities, e.g., “a natural leader, highly motivated, and possesses an unwavering commitment to personal and professional development”]. [Provide an example that illustrates these qualities, if possible].

[Applicant’s Name]’s passion for [mention the field or subject] is evident in [his/her/their] [mention any relevant projects, research, or interests]. [He/She/They] has a clear vision for how [he/she/they] plans to use the education and experiences gained from your program to [mention the applicant’s goals or potential contributions to the field].

In conclusion, I have no doubt that [Applicant’s Name] will excel in your graduate program and contribute significantly to your academic community. [His/Her/Their] dedication, intelligence, and work ethic set [him/her/them] apart as an outstanding candidate. I strongly endorse [his/her/their] application and look forward to [his/her/their] continued achievements, which I am confident [he/she/they] will find at [University Name].

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address] should you require any further information or have any questions regarding [Applicant’s Name]’s application.

Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School (Sample Letters)

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

I am writing with great enthusiasm to recommend Emily Chen for admission into the Master’s Program in Communication at Prestige University. As Emily’s professor in several advanced communications courses and her academic advisor at City University, I have witnessed her profound commitment to her studies, her exceptional research skills, and her ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and creativity.

Emily has consistently demonstrated her passion for communications, particularly in digital media and public relations, through her outstanding academic performance and involvement in extracurricular activities. One of her most notable achievements was her capstone project, which focused on the impact of social media on brand reputation. Her research was not only rigorous but also innovative, incorporating a comprehensive analysis of social media trends and their implications for public relations strategies. This project underscored her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, a skill that will serve her well in graduate studies and beyond.

Beyond her academic prowess, Emily exhibits qualities that I believe are essential for success in the field of communication. She is a natural leader, as evidenced by her role as the president of our university’s Communications Club, where she spearheaded initiatives to enhance student engagement and professional development. Her leadership in organizing a successful panel discussion on the future of digital media brought together industry professionals, faculty, and students, facilitating a meaningful dialogue on a topic of great relevance.

Emily’s dedication to her personal and professional development is matched by her genuine desire to contribute to the broader community. She has volunteered her skills to several non-profit organizations, developing social media campaigns that have significantly increased their visibility and impact. Her ability to leverage digital platforms to foster community engagement is just one example of her strategic and empathetic approach to communication.

I have no doubt that Emily will bring the same level of excellence, dedication, and innovation to the Master’s Program in Communication at Prestige University. Her academic background, combined with her practical experience and personal qualities, make her an ideal candidate for your program. I am confident that she will not only benefit from but also contribute significantly to the academic community at Prestige University.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information or insights regarding Emily’s application. I am eager to see the contributions she will undoubtedly make to the field of communication and am confident that she will excel in your graduate program.

Dr. Alicia Ramirez

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to recommend Jordan Lee, a distinguished graduate of University City College, for admission to the Master’s Program in Sociology at Prestige University. As Jordan’s professor in several upper-level sociology courses and supervisor for their undergraduate thesis, I have had ample opportunity to observe their academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering dedication to the field of sociology.

Jordan has consistently demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and a profound understanding of sociological theories and methodologies. Their coursework, particularly in areas of social stratification and race relations, has not only been exemplary in terms of academic rigor but also indicative of a deep engagement with the material and a genuine desire to contribute to our understanding of societal dynamics.

One of Jordan’s most notable accomplishments is their undergraduate thesis, titled “Digital Communities and Social Identity,” which explored the impact of online platforms on youth identity formation. This ambitious project showcased Jordan’s ability to conduct comprehensive research, apply complex theoretical frameworks, and communicate findings with clarity and insight. Their work has been recognized as a significant contribution to the department, exemplifying potential for further scholarly research in graduate studies.

Beyond their academic achievements, Jordan has actively contributed to the university community. They served as president of the Sociology Club, organizing events that bridged academic learning with practical social issues, thereby enhancing the intellectual life of the campus. Jordan’s leadership and initiative in these roles have been commendable, demonstrating their commitment to applying sociological insights to effect positive change.

Jordan’s passion for sociology is matched by their compassion and empathy towards others. They possess a unique ability to understand diverse perspectives, making them not only an outstanding student but also a valued member of any academic community. Their ethical approach to research and dedication to social justice are qualities that I believe will serve them well in graduate studies and beyond.

I have no doubt that Jordan will excel in the Master’s Program in Sociology at Prestige University. Their intellectual curiosity, combined with a solid foundation in sociological research and theory, makes them an ideal candidate for your program. I strongly endorse their application and am confident that Jordan will make significant contributions to the field of sociology.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information or insights regarding Jordan’s qualifications and character.

Dr. Emily Thompson

Associate Professor of Sociology

University City College

Key Takeaways

The sample recommendation letters provide thorough endorsements of the candidates’ academic achievements, personal qualities, and potential contributions to their respective fields. Both letters are effective for several reasons:

Strong Academic Endorsement: Both letters provide a comprehensive overview of the candidate’s academic achievements, highlighting their exceptional performance in relevant courses, research projects, and extracurricular activities. This demonstrates the candidates’ academic aptitude and dedication to their field of study.

Specific Examples: Each letter includes specific examples of the candidate’s accomplishments and contributions, such as capstone projects, thesis titles, and leadership roles. These concrete examples provide evidence of the candidates’ skills, knowledge, and potential for success in graduate studies.

Personal Qualities: The letters also touch upon the candidates’ personal qualities and character traits, such as leadership, empathy, and dedication to social justice. This holistic view of the candidates helps the admissions committee assess their suitability for the program and their potential to contribute positively to the academic community.

Professional Tone: Both letters maintain a professional tone throughout, with clear and concise language used to convey the writer’s endorsement of the candidate. This professionalism enhances the credibility of the recommendations and reflects positively on the candidates.

Endorsement of Fit: Each letter explicitly states the writer’s confidence in the candidate’s suitability for the Master’s Program at Prestige University, emphasizing their academic background, personal qualities, and potential for further scholarly research. This endorsement of fit strengthens the candidates’ applications and aligns with the admissions committee’s criteria for selection.

Overall, these recommendation letters effectively advocate for the candidates’ admission to the Master’s Program at Prestige University by providing a thorough and compelling endorsement of their academic achievements, personal qualities, and potential for success in graduate studies.

Tips for Getting an Impressive Recommendation Letter

To get a strong and positive letter from your selected recommenders, consider the following useful tips:

Give your recommender ample time to write the letter

If you ask your college professor to write you this letter right away, they may be unwilling to accept the offer, or they most likely will provide a recommendation that does not strongly endorse your candidacy, which is worse than no recommendation at all. As such, a few weeks’ notice before the application deadline date is considered sufficient to write a detailed, impactful letter.

Choose the best from all your recommenders

When asking for it from someone, you must choose the right person. Someone who knows you well enough to vouch for your candidacy can be persuasive enough to encourage the admissions board to offer you an opportunity at their school.

You will also want to consider someone who can speak to your specific strengths and describe how these strengths will serve you well in the graduate program, rather than a recommender who will simply write a letter that states specific skills with no supporting evidence. Admissions committees want to know how you would benefit their program, so you want reference letters that will help bring that to life.

Shape your letter

Most recommenders tend to create generic letters for all the students, and then customize them before submitting them to the graduate faculty program. Such letters usually don’t help the student stand out from the competition. You can avoid this by providing your recommender with all the necessary information to craft a strong letter and asking them to emphasize certain things in the letter

Specific skills, relevant accomplishments, or unique circumstances you overcame to succeed as an undergraduate.

Waive your right to review the letter

These letters are supposed to be sent to the admission board without the student reviewing them. While it might be tempting to want to know what your recommender wrote about you, it is essential to waive your right to review the letter to encourage the recommender to provide a more candid document. Besides, the admissions board will know your writers felt free to objectively assess your academics, making the letter more impactful.

Be organized

For your recommender to provide the most comprehensive letter, you need to provide them with as much information on the qualifications that make you suitable for the program as is necessary. You can provide them with your application documents, such as your resume, academic transcripts, your achievements, research experience, internships, experiences you’ve shared with them, and academic and career goals, as well as all the information that the recommender may need to plan the writing promptly and target the letter as much as possible. You also need to foster relationships with potential referees and request recommendations early enough to avoid last-minute rushes and unwillingness from potential recommenders.

Thank your recommender

Regardless of the result of your application to a graduate school, you should always inform your recommenders of the outcome. A well-written thank-you letter, email, or card, expressing your gratitude for the recommender’s help is considered appropriate. This is important as it encourages the professor to provide you with future reference letters when the need arises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, these letters should be written by someone who knows you well academically. Faculty members, research supervisors, and undergraduate academic advisors are often the most qualified to provide such letters. However, other professionals, such as an employer who has known and supervised you for at least six months and above, can also provide a strong letter. However, the employer must have specialized in a program related to the course you are applying for or work in a field related to the course you want to pursue.

It should always be written in more than two paragraphs. Anything less than two shows that you have no clue what the person’s academic performance is overall and that you don’t know much about them. Although you don’t want to write less than two paragraphs, you should also avoid writing more than one page because you want to keep it on point and be focused on only a few key points.

In it, you essentially include a comprehensive summary of the individual’s achievements and academic performance. The only difference in writing this letter is that this particular letter is only well written by a professor at a college or university.

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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) FOR PhD: Structure, Guidelines and Sample for International Students

Collegedunia Team

Content Curator

Admission committee affirms their decision by matching the recommendations and information given by study abroad aspirants in the admission application as well as supporting documents like motivation statements and achievements etc. Letter of Recommendation for PhD is thus an essential part of the application.

Letters of Recommendation are written by the academic staff like professors, teachers, counselors, or work supervisors if the applicant has any voluntary or professional work experience. LOR for PhD is significant because selection committees gauge the potential of the applicant to go through the academics and research capability mainly through these documents.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD: Structure and Guidelines

Professors and faculty members who taught you earlier and the immediate supervisors who saw you working are the best people to analyze your skills, potential, shortcomings. They are able to judge what makes you most worthy of the course you are opting for. Thus, universities expect a Letter of Recommendation for PhD in Canada , USA, UK, etc from them with all this information.

Following are some of the topics that should be covered in the LOR for PhD are:

Knowledge about Subject: Students have to present their own findings on a particular subject after doing thorough research in a doctorate program. Hence, universities offering PhD want to know about your understanding of academic concepts and their applications. They are also interested in getting more details about your ability to conceive creative and critical thinking on the topic to discover new areas of the study. All this information should be discussed in the Letter of Recommendation for PhD.

Positive Qualities of Applicant: The structure and the contents of the LORs are prerogatives of the writer. Hence, normally they should write about the applicant’s positive qualities suitable for the course, and how their observation came about these points.

Personal Opinion of Recommender: In LOR for PhD from the UK , USA, or any other country, the writer should talk about the time spent with the applicant and the outstanding skills that are seen in the applicant academically and outside the academic arena. Also highlight points about the researching skills of the person and how the opted course is a right fit for him/her should also be mentioned

Contact Details of Recommender: In the end, the writer is required to provide his official contact details with a willingness to answer any further questions facilitating the admission of the applicant in question.

Whenever selectors have to deliberate on any applications, supporting documents like statements of purpose and LORs come into play and prove to be extremely vital. Letter of Recommendation for PhD in Germany , Canada, USA, etc have a lot of weightage as the selectors have not met the applicant personally but want to be sure about his academic and research abilities.

• Recommenders should talk about your subject knowledge, personality, life and literacy skills, diligence, and research abilities
• The credentials mentioned must be authenticated and their recommendation should be based on the grounds they have built in the letter.
• LOR for PhD needs to be written in an official language and no personal biases or acquaintances should reflect in the language even if you are on very good terms with the writing officials.

Both professional and academic Letters of Recommendations are written on the official letterhead under the seal of the institution and are submitted the way foreign institution asks for them. Some universities like them to be uploaded online, some want them to be completed online, and rest receive the hard copies. In these too, some like it in sealed envelopes and some accept it through the applicant too.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR): Guidelines for Top Universities

Universities offering Ph.D. courses want to make sure that they choose the right candidate who will be able to work with the mentor to achieve the desired results. They expect specialization in the course and extreme dedication from international students.

LORs play a vital role in helping them to choose the most suitable candidates as the recommendations are made by academicians on almost similar standards that are accepted worldwide.

Requirements of LOR for PhD by the major popular institutions are listed below:

Sample LOR for PhD

I am delighted to have this opportunity to recommend a student like XXXXX for a Ph.D. in Marketing Management at your esteemed university. I have taught XXXX for the past three years in the areas of marketing and supply chain management and I am one of those who really would like to see him excelling in this field.

His proposed topic of XXXXX is also extremely relevant and requires in-depth analysis and research that will be useful not only for the companies and industry but also for the academicians to see the real-life issues arising out of topics taught at our institutions.

XXXX has done a one-year research project on ‘Plastic money usage in marketing’ under my supervision and I have seen him working diligently with an out of box approach. He has reflective thinking skills and is quite inquisitive about the findings that help him to dig deeper into conducting and analyzing the research. He possesses impeccable communication skills and has the ability to take his learning to the highest level through his commendable peer mentoring skills.

His working in teams or independently on projects, researches, or on the academic subject matter is beyond comprehension at this level. He is a student of higher thinking order who likes to be challenged and work for new innovations and creativity. He has a zeal for making the world a better living place and wants to have an improved version of himself by every passing year.

Tedious working schedules, difficult working conditions, collaborating with people, and multitasking are the areas that he can handle very skillfully and makes the work look effortless. With all these charismatic qualities he is quite a simple and down to earth person who respects everyone and follows all the rules.

He is a strongly deserving candidate to get a chance for doing research in XXXXX area and I would be happy if this recommendation helps him to get admission to the Doctorate of Philosophy in Marketing Management.

If you have any queries about the academic, research, or related areas, please feel free to contact me at the following email address or phone. I am generally available on phone from 11.30 to 3.30 IST from Monday to Friday.

Tips for Writing Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

LOR for PhD preferably should be written by the faculty of the latest institution attended by the applicant. Writers can also be the supervisor of academic or professional/voluntary or community work.

• The writer must support the positive traits regarding the academic and research skills of the applicant mentioned in the statement of purpose .
• As research is an important part of the doctorate degree, the qualities required to do research independently, in teams, and under supervision should be elaborated upon.
• The Letter of Recommendation for PhD should not contain any misrepresentation about the writer or the applicant and the details mentioned should be verifiable if the need arises.
• The writer must mention the time period during which he was associated with the applicant and the capacity in which they interacted. It clarifies how the writer came to know about the skills and positive traits of the applicant.

For Example: As a professor of Marketing management I taught xxxxx for the past three years and he did his internship and three projects under my supervision out of which one project was at the International level.

Recommendations given by the referees are quite vital in the admission decision hence they should be professionally written and should be real. The writer and applicant need to share a good rapport as sometimes these LORs are to be completed online requiring a lot of time and patience on part of the writer.

Ques What is a LOR?

Ans. LOR is a letter written by the academic or professional supervisors certifying that the applicant is worthy to get admission to a higher education course and the writer recommends the applicant.

Ques. Why are three LORs required for Ph.D. admission generally?

Ans. Ph.D. is a specialized education in a particular subject area, the selecting university wants to know about the applicant from various academicians or supervisors to get a holistic view rather than a specific view in one subject in which the applicant is normally good.

Ques. What is the main content of an LOR for PhD?

Ans. It must contain positive traits, potential, and achievements in the academic and research fields of the applicant. It also needs to specifically mention how the writer observed these.

Ques. Can I draft a LOR for PhD for my professor to sign?

Ans. It is not advisable to do so, as the academic language of a teacher and a student differs and it can be easily identified by the receiving institution.

Ques. Can LOR for PhD be copied?

Ans. Every person is unique and the professors and supervisors notice these unique qualities in them in their own way, hence they are not required to be copied.

Ques. Can I use one LOR for PhD for different universities?

Ans. Normally LORs are university-specific and are appreciated if they show that you shared the information with the referee about future studies.

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A Sample Letter of Recommendation

Professor's Recommendation for a Student Applying to Graduate School

• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

In this sample letter , a college professor recommends a student for a place in a graduate program. Note some of the key characteristics of this letter, and let them guide you as you create your own letter.

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph and closing paragraph of the recommendation letter are shorter than the body paragraphs and more general in their observations.

In the first sentence, the recommending professor (Dr. Nerdelbaum) identifies the student (Ms. Terri Student) and the particular program she's applying for (the Mental Health Counseling program at Grand Lakes University). In the second sentence of the opening paragraph, the professor gives an overview of the student's academic strengths.

Body Paragraphs

The two body paragraphs are organized chronologically . In the first sentence of the first body paragraph, the professor describes his supervisory relationship with the student and specifies how long he served in that role. The first body paragraph provides specific examples of how the student "generously assisted others." The first body paragraph includes a positive evaluation of the student's communication skills.

In the second body paragraph, the professor focuses on the student's work in the master's program that he directs. The second paragraph notes the student's ability to conduct independent research and complete projects "in record time."

Concluding Paragraph

The short conclusion highlights the student's sense of commitment and determination. In the final sentence, the professor clearly and firmly delivers his overall recommendation.

Sample Letter of Recommendation

Use this sample letter as a guide, but feel free to make changes according to the specific circumstances and student.

Dear Professor Terguson:

I welcome this opportunity to recommend Ms. Terri Student for a place in the Mental Health Counseling program at Grand Lakes University. She is an extraordinary student and an exceptional individual—extremely bright, energetic, articulate, and ambitious.

For more than two years, Ms. Student worked for me as an assistant in the Office of Liberal Studies, managing routine office duties, helping to organize student workshops and forums, and interacting daily with faculty members, staff, and students. During this time I grew increasingly impressed by her academic and personal achievements. In addition to her outstanding work in a challenging undergraduate psychology program, Terri generously assisted others both on and off campus. She provided tutoring for other students, was actively involved in HOLF (Hispanic Outreach and Leadership at Faber), and served as a lab assistant in the psychology department. An accomplished writer and a gifted presenter (in both English and Spanish), she was recognized by her professors as one of our most promising graduates.

Later, while working as an assistant to the director of the college's residence halls, Terri continued her studies at the graduate level in our Master of Liberal and Professional Studies degree program. I think I can speak for all of her professors when I say that she was a model student, effectively augmenting her coursework in leadership and international studies with independent research in psychology. Terri's overall graduate GPA of 4.0 was hard earned and richly deserved. In addition, she completed all required coursework in record time so that she could accept an internship at the Coolidge Center in Arizona.

I assure you that Ms. Student will serve your program exceedingly well: She sets the highest standards for herself and does not rest until she accomplishes all that she sets out to do. I recommend Ms. Terri Student most highly and without reservation.

Dr. John Nerdelbaum, Director of Liberal Studies at Faber College

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The DOs and DON’Ts of Letters of Recommendation

In addition to transcripts, test scores, and research proposals, PhD and postdoc applications also require candidates to submit letters of recommendation. These letters offer insight into who your academic potential and could be the deciding factor in your admissions. To ensure you get strong letters of recommendation, follow these simple dos and don’ts.

DO Choose Your Letter Writers Carefully

PhD, postdoc, and fellowship applications typically require two to three letters of reference. These letters should come from professors who know your work and can speak to your potential in detail. That last part is important. Choose faculty members who know your personal characteristics, professionalism, achievements, and academic potential. The ideal letter writer is someone you have taken multiple classes with and who has given you positive evaluations. If you have worked closely with a professor on a major research project (such as a PhD or Masters thesis) they should also be one of your letter writers.

DON’T Use Someone as a Reference Without Contacting Them First

It’s bad form to give someone’s name as a reference without asking them for permission first. While professors expect to write letter of recommendation as part of their job, it also requires fair warning and a few hours of their time. Once you have decided which professors you would like to have give recommendations, ask them—during office hours or over email—if they feel comfortable writing you a letter of recommendation.

DO Ask Early

Ask this question four to six weeks before the application deadline. Professors are busy and writing a high-quality recommendation letter takes time. Don’t wait until the last minute if you want a good recommendation.

DON’T Be Offended if They Say No

If one of your professors declines to write you a letter, don’t get upset. The professor is doing you a favour by declining to write a letter. You want to have strong letters of recommendation, and for whatever reason this professor doesn’t feel they can write you one. Now you have the chance to improve your application with a better reference.

DO Give Them Information

To help your professors write strong letters, you need to provide them with background information about the program, grant, or job you’re applying for. You can ask your references what sort of information they would like, but it’s standard practice to give them a copy of your application materials as well as some background information like which classes you took with them, why you are interested in each program, and your research interests. Make sure to get them this material well in advance of the deadlines.

DON’T Keep Them in the Dark

In addition to background information, you should also clearly communicate the due date for each application so that your professors aren’t blindsided by a last minute request. If you can, let them know what format their letter should be submitted (hard copy, uploaded, emailed etc). If the letters must be mailed, it’s common courtesy to provide your references with an addressed and stamped envelope.

DO Send a Reminder

One week before the application is due, send your references an email reminding them to submit their letters if they have not already done so. There is often a lot going on around the end of the semester so you don’t have to worry that you’re “nagging” them. They will appreciate the reminder. If a professor misses a deadline, follow up in person and offer to pay for overnight postage if needed.

DON’T Forget to Say Thank You

Once all your applications are in, you should send a thank you note to each professor who wrote you a letter of recommendation. It doesn’t matter if it’s a handwritten note or an email as long as it gets the point across. You should also let your professors know the results of your applications. They will want to know if you were successful since they have contributed to your application.

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The Professor Is In

Guidance for all things PhD: Graduate School, Job Market and Careers

How to Write a Recommendation Letter

By Karen Kelsky | September 7, 2016

The wonderful Shit Academic Say (@AcademicsSay) retweeted a hilarious parody of American vs. British recommendation letters this week. (December 8, 2016)

It’s so painfully accurate that it immediately brought back traumatic memories of my time as a department head.  European tenure letters were the bane of my existence. (Indeed here is the first comment on FB:  Britta Hoyer the German style:” I confirm that Jones has worked here as a PhD student. “)

I spent hours undoing the damage caused by purportedly “positive” letters written by UK and European writers to my junior faculty members’ tenure cases.  So today I share my post on how to write a recommendation letter, American style.  May it produce the hoped-for results.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Today I offer a special request post for all the people who have asked for information on writing recommendation letters. A few of these folks have been letter-writers, but most of them are the sorry subjects of letters that they they were horrified to have had the chance to see.  Others have been asked to write their own recommendation letters by irresponsible and lazy recommenders. I disapprove of this practice completely.  Go ahead and tell me I’m wrong. I don’t care. Recommendations are to be written BY THE PERSON WHOSE NAME IS AT THE BOTTOM.

Anyway, recommendation letter-writing is really a little-understood art, considering the major role that these letters play in every scholar’s career. And if anyone thinks those letters aren’t really read—think again. They are taken very, very seriously, and pored over, and deconstructed, and discussed. And sometimes, acknowledged as works of writing in their own right as when I once overheard one tenured colleague say to another: “I loved the letter you wrote for XXX; it was a beautiful piece of writing.  Nicely done!”

So, what needs to happen in a recommendation letter?

I will first lay out a paragraph structure. This is just a suggestion. Obviously this kind of writing will be completely personalized.

• An opening that indicates a general but not excessive warmth. “I am pleased to write this letter on behalf of xxxx.” Followed by explanation of who writer is, how they know the subject of letter, in what capacities, and for how long. Brief sketch of the subject in terms of discipline and topical/thematic focus. General comparison of the subject within the field/fields. “XXX is among the very top young cultural anthropologists of Japan, and promises to ….”
• Substantive description of major research work (diss or otherwise), describing the topic, but then, more importantly, providing critical context for the topic within a field or fields, or body of literature. The most important thing a letter can do is contextualize a candidate’s research for its larger scope, import, and promise. Many times on searches one of us would remark, “the advisor understands the candidate’s project better than the candidate does.” By this we were referring to the ability to see not just the trees of the project, but also the forest. This of course was not good for the candidate’s chances…. but it does indicate a powerful and memorable letter.
• A second paragraph continuing from above about the status of the main writing project. The most effective letter will reassure skittish search committees that the dissertation is in fact done or almost done, and/or that the book manuscript will be quickly forthcoming. Pace of work and productivity are valuable here. The key  is that the candidate be described as a (soon-to-be) scholar, not as a graduate student still enmeshed in the minutiae of a graduate program or dissertation.
• Evidence of the wider success of the candidate in the profession—the grant support, awards, and of course publications associated with the primary research. Conference activity can be mentioned here.
• A brief indication of next steps in research and publishing, so that search committees feel reassured that the candidate has a long-range plan.
• Discipline-specific attributes, such as experience in country of research, language fluency, technical skills, or other such things. For example, because I sometimes visited my Ph.D. students in the field in Japan, I had the opportunity to see them operate in their field settings, in Japanese. I always made a point to provide my “objective” account of their skills.
• Description of teaching abilities. This will be specific, mentioning course names, and methods used by the candidate, and departmental observations, evaluations, or feedback, to the extent the writer has this information available. Ideally the writer will have personally witnessed teaching by the candidate. If he/she has, this must be specified in the letter. Awards given for teaching should be mentioned.
• Service if applicable. One of my Ph.D. students was active in mobilizing the graduate students to overturn an outdated requirement in the program. The student’s effectiveness in this work demonstrated a real ability in departmental administrative responsibilities, and I made a point to mention it in my letter. One of the fears of search committees is that a candidate will be tiresomely focused on their research, and will be unable to assist in the running of the department. The letter can assuage those fears.
• A brief final remark about character and personality, insofar as these pertain to the candidate’s potential collegiality. This must be non-emotional and strictly non-gendered. Attributes to emphasize include resourcefulness, responsibility, good humor, organization, energy, etc. For women candidates it is essential to avoid anything that depicts them as any of the following: nice, selfless, giving, caring, bubbly, sweet, warm, nurturing, maternal, etc.
• “ In sum, I expect XXX to have a career in the first rank of xxxx scholars in the country, and give him/her my unqualified recommendation. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at [phone number and/or email address] if you should require any additional information.”

Some basic expectations of the recommendation letter:

1. It will be at least two solid single spaced pages long.

2. It will be on letterhead

3. It will not gush or wax emotional

4. It will stay strictly at the level of evidence and substance

5. It will not rely on cheap and empty adjectives such incredible, remarkable, extraordinary, amazing, etc.

6. It will not damn with faint praise (“XX is one of the better graduate students we’ve had in the department”)

7. It will emphasize depictions of the candidate as a professional scholar, NOT a graduate student.

8.  It will remember to include the wider context, providing a discipline-level view of the candidate’s accomplishments and promise.

9. It will provide specific information or examples about research, argument, methods, teaching, or service–not vague generalities. The exception to this is (as noted in the comment stream): if you are in a position of a certain amount of obligation to the subject (as in, on their committee), but don’t feel able to write a detailed letter, and are also aware that the absence of your letter would send a strong but unwarranted negative message about the subject’s position in the department, and also feel positively disposed toward the subject in general, then write a generic letter that “first, does no harm,” but–and this is important–make sure the candidate knows that he or she needs another letter that will be more detailed.

10.  It will be unfailingly (although not gushingly) positive.  Any writer who cannot be 100% positive about the subject should not write a letter. In the event that you are ambivalent about the subject, it is better to tell the subject that you cannot write the letter.  A tactful method is to say you don’t know the record well enough to write a detailed letter.  

And indeed, if the subject is really problematic in your view, you are doing the subject a favor by stating that clearly, and not “enabling” self-destructive or substandard performance through misplaced “niceness” or conflict avoidance.

When candidates write their own letters, they typically fall afoul of #3 and #5 in particular. Remember: stay at the factual, don’t go emotional!  And #8, which, after all, no candidate is really positioned to write.

Now, some of you will wonder where the warmth comes in. Indeed, warmth is necessary for an effective letter. But in reality, the warmth comes through, even without a lot of cheap adjectives. Any writer who can speak with great care and thoroughness and respect about a candidate’s achievements is a writer demonstrating warmth about and investment in that candidate. Extra efforts to “sound warm” just end up muddying the message and in the case of female candidates, overly-gendering the profile in ways that do not work to women’s benefit on any professional job market.

Bonus tip for European, Asian and other international letter-writers:   American letters of recommendation, like American tenure file external review letters, must be entirely and energetically and overtly positive (but without degenerating into gushing or encomium).  “Objective” and “realistic” are not qualities of this genre of writing.  As a department head, I had more than one tenure case almost derailed by European external review letters that very reasonably provided a “strengths and weaknesses” assessment of the candidate.  In the U.S. context, there can be no mention of weaknesses.  I’m not saying this is good.  I’m just saying this is true.  So international writers for the U.S. market: please be alert to this cultural difference, and have an American colleague review your letters when possible.  Candidates with international references:  consider sharing this post with them!

Similar Posts:

• The Perils of “Nice,” Cont’d: Recommendation Edition
• How to Write Your Own Rec. Letter, plus All of my Vitae columns
• “I’m the Ideal Candidate for Your Position!”
• Do Your Homework! A Live Report From a Job Search
• The Role of Your Tenure Committee and Department Head

Reader Interactions

September 7, 2012 at 4:53 pm

Excellent. Thank you.

September 7, 2012 at 6:11 pm

Excellent… this is great from the grad student’s perspective. It’s quite helpful to see how we can “help” our referees craft strong letters.

Your point of seeing your students using their language skills hit home for me. My adviser regularly uses terminology and phrases in their original language, almost never in English (though there are translated words/phrases that I’ve always used), and she shared a few stories of how she used those languages to “prove” herself as a competent scholar. After reading this post, it hit me that I’d better damn show her that I can capable of utilizing those languages in scholarly conversations too! Perhaps, not quite wait until I actually am in such a situation where my language skills may be tested in front of her.

September 7, 2012 at 6:48 pm

Great advice for the next time I’m asked to write my own recommendation…

November 13, 2014 at 12:07 pm

I hear your pain…I was told this is “good practice’ and “fair” to ask me to do this, and in any case it’s the “only way it’ll get done”.

September 7, 2012 at 7:31 pm

Quick question about when you cannot write such a letter, either because you don’t know a student well enough or your regard is not high enough. Is it best to demure rather than write a half-hearted or overly general letter?

September 8, 2012 at 9:05 am

When I get into that situation with an undergraduate I just tell them plainly that I can comment on this or that, but that they need a stronger letter than I can produce. Then I ask them about their contact with other professors and help them find someone else — or cultivate someone else. If it’s a grad student going on the job market, sometimes one really needs to write the letter since it will look strange if one doesn’t. Example: there was a woman on my dissertation committee that I needed to have a letter from so as not to raise suspicion but I had had only arm’s length contact with her (she moved to another university a year before I was done). So, she didn’t know me very well but I got a letter from her in any event suspecting it might say something to the effect that I was a fine student but that she just hadn’t had that much contact with me. To solve this, I got four letters (instead of three) so that she was not absent but the other three (I’m guessing?) were just more detailed.

There are key people who must write a job candidate a letter and if for some reason they can’t write the strongest letter, candidates should just get more letters, I think. Indeed, who writes letters for whom can be highly political and I’ve seen PhD’s made terrified, miserable and unhire-able when key faculty on their committee refused to write them a letter of any kind. So be frank about what you can do but also respectful of the power you wield as a referee.

September 8, 2012 at 7:48 am

Thanks for writing this, Karen! It is interesting that the suggested length of a recommendation letter exceeds the suggested length of the research proposal. That is not what I would have expected, so it’s good to know.

September 8, 2012 at 12:32 pm

Having written many letters (in physical science), I agree with almost all of your prescription. However, I wonder why you think it is the letter writer’s responsibility to describe items that will be found in the applicant’s own application materials, such as items 4 and 5 in the above. Do you think hiring committees read the letters and not the applicant’s cover letter and CV? This is not my experience with hiring committees – although it’s true that, in my field, applications tend to number in the dozens, not the hundreds. Of course, in writing letters, I give my own perspective on those items if I have access to information that the hiring committee may not have.

September 8, 2012 at 1:18 pm

To me being able to describe the achievements shows that you are, in fact, keeping up with the candidate’s record–ie, care enough about the candidate to actually know his or her record well. You definitely don’t have to list ALL the publications or grants, just the highlights. Ie, “She is the only person in the program to win both the AAUW and the Fulbright…” That kind of thing. That lends credibility to the letter.

September 8, 2012 at 4:56 pm

I’d like to suggest a couple of do’s and don’t’s if the person you’re recommending is an adjunct colleague or member of your department. I recently got a full-time position after working as an adjunct at the same school for four years, so I am sensitive to these issues. I also got to see all of my letters of recommendation once I was hired.

First, do NOT belabor the person’s adjunct status. Mention it ONCE ONLY, in the first paragraph, when you are describing how you know the person. After that, stick strictly to describing the candidate’s teaching, research, collegiality, and so on, as described in Karen’s post. Please avoid saying things like “Susie carries on an active research agenda even though she’s an adjunct” or “Jeffrey was regarded by his colleagues as an equal member of the XYZ Committee despite being only an adjunct.”

Secondly, do NOT, under any circumstances, refer to how small the candidate’s salary is in your letter. Never say things like, “Susie’s diligence and generosity are clear because she worked hard to provide quality instruction despite making so little money as an adjunct.” I had a letter-writer who said something along those lines and I was mortified when I saw it. It’s like telling someone I am an intellectually stimulating cheap date.

These types of comments send the wrong message, IMO. I know you may think that you’re praising someone’s ability to overcome adversity, or to make something out of nothing. But you aren’t doing that if you write those kinds of things. You’re actually diminishing the candidate’s value. You’re telling the search committee that this applicant is a superior adjunct, and I can’t help but assume that will undermine the candidate’s chances. As I said, I did get a job from the only interview I actually scored after sending out dozens and dozens of applications. I do wonder if I wouldn’t have gotten more interviews without letters that made those types of comments.

September 8, 2012 at 6:31 pm

Amen and thank you.

September 11, 2012 at 4:42 am

This probably won’t come up as much in a job recommendation letter, but for highly competitive fellowships please also do not belabor the fact that a candidate may have struggled with poverty or other difficult circumstances. It is fine to mention it — as noted above, abililty to overcome adversity is to be admired and many review committee’s are looking for economic as well as other types of diversity — but the primary focus of the letter should be the candidate’s stellar academic credentials, great potential (that, given your observations of their strong character, they are likely to live up to), and solid research question/ project design.

September 10, 2012 at 10:04 am

I have heard in the past that giving excessive praise in a recommendation letter can be function as a sort of code that the recommender is not actually in support of the candidate. It sounds a bit ridiculous, but it’s made me concerned about being perceived by readers as excessively praising a student and inadvertently hurting their chances. Any sense of this?

September 10, 2012 at 2:30 pm

That is where the superlatives must always be avoided! Just always back all statements up with evidence.

November 13, 2014 at 12:20 pm

Also – outside of the U.S. superlatives that might fly there are often seen as insincere or, even faked. When I was a student member on an admissions committee we received one letter so over the top that several of us thought it was faked. Fortunately we had some folks who knew U.S. letter writing culture well (and I’m only in Canada, where generally all the rules outlined here still apply).

September 12, 2012 at 6:53 pm

Dear Karen, Thanks for this play-by-play. This is great, and just the guidance that I’ve been seeking.

September 13, 2012 at 1:35 am

Is the 2 page single line recommendation for graduate students the same as those for undergraduate students applying for grad school? Or is only for masters students applying for PhD positions?

September 13, 2012 at 11:20 am

I was definitely envisioning the letters that Ph.D.s need for jobs and postdocs and fellowships in this post. When you’re writing for someone applying to a grad program, a one page letter is often totally sufficient.

January 17, 2014 at 10:55 am

I had exactly the same question in mind. Being important, I think you should include this information in to the original post.

September 14, 2012 at 1:21 pm

This is a wonderful how-to guide. I read (and write) a lot of recommendations myself and can second your point that hiring, fellowship, and graduate admissions committees read them very carefully. I would say, however, that external letters for tenure and promotion files are a different genre. Those that read like standard recommendation letters (i.e., letters solicited by the candidate) aren’t given the same weight as relatively dispassionate “strengths and weaknesses” letters–at least in my experience.

September 19, 2012 at 6:56 am

I’m a recent PhD going out on the job market for the first time this year. I’ve heard that if I give my permission, my supervisor can read all of my letters and, if need be, steer me away from using any “damning” ones. Anyone know if this is true?

September 20, 2012 at 12:32 pm

Some departments have a mechanism or culture of doing that. It depends i9f you use Interfolio or such services. If not, and the letters are personal, then no your advisor can’t just ask for them to see.

September 21, 2012 at 7:59 pm

What are your thoughts if referees request the letter be drafted by the candidate and then make appropriate edits? As I am a first year direct-entry Ph.D. student, I am thinking specifically of letters that apply to competitive studentships and other scholarships. My advisor has informed me that it is common to write a draft reference letter for one’s referees that they can then modify (i.e. he has been very successful in regards to awards, etc. by doing this). . .

October 4, 2012 at 12:45 pm

I’m on a search committee this fall, and we just got in a letter of recommendation from a recently retired Giant in the Discipline. This is the kind of scholar who has a five-page Wikipedia entry. The first line reads: “I am delighted to recommend Joe Schmoe for a position in DEPARTMENT HERE.”

Maybe Expectation #11 is in order?

Something like: “11. It will be bloody well proofread.”

October 4, 2012 at 2:47 pm

LOL. that is just not cool.

October 11, 2012 at 7:20 am

Not only did I see that type of mistake in recommendation letters in our search last year, but also letters that had the incorrect name of the candidate leading me to believe the same letter was sent for all students working with professor to-busy-to-care. Also, in at least one instance the letter writer identified the students grad advisor incorrectly. I only knew this because the letter was for an applicant who worked with my former grad advisor.

October 11, 2012 at 2:57 pm

November 13, 2014 at 12:23 pm

I ran into this as well – this was for grad school admission-level letters. The errors that stood out to me:

– wrong name of institution -half the letter about the letter writer -including inappropriate personal information -reusing a letter (in which someone else’s ethnicity was identified) -directly translated idiomatic expressions

October 14, 2012 at 2:16 pm

Your article was very helpful. By outlining your points using specifics and examples helped to drive home your intended meaning of each point.

I have been searching for information and advice for an undergraduate student who is writing a letter of recommendation for a Professor who has been nominated for a teaching award. Any advice or tips for a letter with this relationship is greatly appreciated.

November 12, 2012 at 5:10 am

Your post about recommentadion letters is very helpful and has a lot of information! It contains a lot of helpful tips when writting a recommendation letter. I agree with you that the person who signs the letter is the one who should be writting it, however, I also think that there are supervisors who doesn’t have the time or the interest to write a good recommendation letter for you. For instance, my current Ph. D. advisor has asked me to prepare my own recommendation letter and I really don’t think that is because he doesn’t want to provide me with a good recommendation letter but because he is really busy and he doesn’t have enough confidence on his English skills.

November 28, 2012 at 10:42 pm

Thanks for sharing this with us. I will be applying for my phd. I got my bachelor’s degree in 2006 and I just obtained my master’s degree from other university. For this phd application, I need three recommendation letters. Two of which will come from my master’s thesis advisor and my head of department where I did my masters degree. Can I ask my undergraduate academic advisor to write this letter?

November 29, 2012 at 8:32 am

December 12, 2012 at 5:16 am

Hello Karen, Thanks for the info. It is really very helpful. Regards, Venkatesh M D

December 28, 2012 at 4:23 pm

How should one refer to the candidate after the first instance? As Ms. or Mr. Surname or by their first name?

December 28, 2012 at 5:04 pm

good question! I generally used first name, although Mr/Ms is ok too.

December 14, 2019 at 1:07 pm

What about using first name vs. addressing as Dr. for those candidates who already have a PhD?

December 15, 2019 at 10:28 am

Use Dr. to start and then make a choice asd to whether to stay with Dr. or go with first name. For women, honestly, I’d suggest using Doctor throughout to avoid any gender bias creeping into your letter (letters for women OFTEN end up downplaying actual prof accomplishments and overemph. stereotypically feminine personal qualities like “nice” “caring” etc.). But this choice will also reflect your relationship with the cand., so there are not hard and fast rules.

December 29, 2012 at 6:41 pm

When a student is requesting letters be sent to multiple universities (PhD programs), should the letters be customized in calling out the name of the university and/or program?

I could see this being true for instances where the writer knows someone in the program (does research with, etc.) but if not, can it be a general letter?

December 30, 2012 at 9:52 am

I always customized letters and generally found the best letters for candidates to my programs to have been customized. I believe that it’s one of the best things you can do for a candidate.

January 19, 2013 at 2:15 pm

Very useful.

My worst/strangest experiences in assessing reference letters: -addressed to the wrong institution -hand written -very strange (and sometimes inappropriate) translations of idiomatic expressions from other languages -too informal (‘he’s a good guy’) -on letter was written almost entirely ABOUT the referee (1.5 of two pages) I feel really terrible for applicants in these situation – who likely don’t know their letters were so out to lunch. I also know of at least one case, where I think a letter template was re-used which (mis) identified the applicant as a member of a very under-represented group. That was a significant factor in the person’s admission.

February 11, 2013 at 10:59 pm

I hope that you have not covered what I am about to ask elsewhere in the blog. What do I do if the job call asks for 3 letters of recommendation but I want to send four? Ideally I would be sending two letters from my two co-chairs, a teaching letter and a letter from an outside (senior) scholar. Can I go ahead and just send all four? Or do I need to count one out? In that case, do I throw out the teaching letter or the outside scholar letter for R1, R2 and SLAC jobs? Also, any advice on how I can point my letter-writers to this post without implying that I think they are not doing their job well?

February 12, 2013 at 9:41 am

The basic rule is send only what they ask for and no more in all things job doc related. However, having said that, it is quite common to send 4 recs when they ask for three so I’d say it’s probably ok. Sometimes, though, ads are very specific about not sending anything extra, and in that case, you’ll need to cut one.

In terms of how to get them to read this… Perhaps you could say that you were asked to write a letter for an undergrad and in researching how to do it, you found this post, and what do they think of it…

February 20, 2013 at 2:26 pm

Great advice. But what of letter writing for undergrads, particularly for those you had in class years ago?

February 21, 2013 at 9:51 am

Hi Gilberto! Since this blog is aimed at new Ph.D.s and their advisors this isn’t an issue that has ever arisen in my work with them. I’ll write on this, though, at some point since it is one of the mysterious tasks of a new assistant professor…

November 20, 2014 at 12:32 pm

Please do! Speaking as an assistant professor and long-time reader who is mining this post and the comments for guidance on just this topic. I want to write a strong letter for a past undergraduate student who is applying to extremely competitive programs.

February 12, 2015 at 10:44 am

I second this request! As a new assistant professor, I have a lot of these to write–and not just for graduate programs, but fellowships, study abroad programs, and the like.

February 12, 2015 at 1:15 pm

OK, OK, I’ll put this in my queue! stay tuned!

October 25, 2015 at 10:39 am

As another new asst prof, I’d like to chime in and add to this request. Particularly, does the advice to avoid describing female candidates as nice, helpful, patient, etc. still apply when it’s an undergrad applying for a graduate fellowship, and broader impacts/ outreach are an important part of the award?

March 10, 2013 at 8:44 am

hi,i am a Cameroonian undergraduate student,i need a recommendation letter before the 15th of march for a scholarship to study medicine in the USA.I went to my high school chemistry teacher for that because he was the leader of the OZONE club in which i was an active member but he told me to write it myself and he’ll only sign.please help me because i dont know how to go about it.thanks

April 1, 2013 at 8:17 pm

Hi Dr. Karen, I have a very morbid question. Recently a prominent faculty in our university passed away unexpectedly. He basically died over the weekend after saying goodbye to his lab the day before at a conference. My question is very selfish, I know, but I was wondering what would happen to supervisor X’s student in terms of getting references (of course, the immediate trauma would be worst of all). My supervisor is of the same age as the faculty who passed on and his passing really hit home in our lab and we were quite shaken up. My PI too seemed quite shaken. I don’t know what the correct approach to this is. I don’t want to live nervously and imagine the worst, but my PI’s letter is a huge deal for me because I’m working with her full time. And she is getting older. But I can’t tell her to write me one…just in case! Any thoughts? Thanks!

July 25, 2013 at 7:43 am

Dear Dr. Karen, Can you explain/expound on why you wrote: “For women candidates it is essential to avoid anything that depicts them as any of the following: nice, selfless, giving, caring, warm, nurturing, maternal, etc.”. I concur, but I’m not sure I fully understand the reasoning (perhaps because these qualities are not objectively useful or relevant for a position, and therefore not helpful to the person applying. Is there a problem with people using these for women??

Thank you– Elisabeth

July 29, 2013 at 9:45 pm

I have one query if anybody can help. I wrote a recommendation to one of my X-firm HR Director starting with “I am pleased to recommend….”. However, he replied that I should not be pleased to recommend as I am having enough experience to recommend. Can I know how to start a line in other way?

August 11, 2013 at 9:38 am

I have written all but one LOR in my career (post grad school app). It was particularly draining when applying for k-awards from NIH, on top of the admin/writing burden, to have to do this task as well …. and make them all not sound like they were in the same voice .I’m currently non tt at R1, applying for tt at a slac. My letter writers for my current search have all requested drafts from me up front and my mentor told me that this is ideal because I can control the content. At least the job docs are less burdensome than a grant app. I agree with dr Karen’s sentiment though. I’ve written many LORs for undergrads for awards/positions never considered asking for a draft. I knew based on their conversations what impressions they wanted to give and I think all mentors should have the acuity to see this. For high stakes letters, like med school, I let the students vet, though I doubt they knew what to look for..

September 18, 2013 at 11:50 am

so helpful. thank you.

October 8, 2013 at 6:32 am

Dear Ma’am, Can you suggest me how to thank one of my Prof who has given me a excellent recommendation for graduate studies.

November 24, 2013 at 7:30 pm

I currently work as an adjunct at two community colleges and am applying for full time teaching positions. I have 2 strong recommendations (from the Head of my Dept. and PhD supervisor) and am just wondering if it would be better to have my third recommendation from the second community college where I teach but have very little interaction with the faculty, another faculty member at the same community college as one of my recommendations that I interact with on a regular basis or a short and sweet recommendation from the Dept. Chair in a 4 year college that I worked for many years ago. Thank-you.

February 11, 2014 at 9:41 am

I had a dissertation committee member who had briefly supervised me after I completed my MA (until I dropped him due to sexual harassment but had to keep him on my doctoral committee due to a lack of enough faculty in my area), write in my letter that he supervised my MA (he hadn’t) on an article I had published but had nothing to do with my actual thesis. Luckily, I still got a number of interviews and a job, but I was shocked when my department secretary showed me the letter a year or two later.

May 2, 2014 at 12:32 pm

Bookmarked forever. Thank you very much for this article.

September 29, 2014 at 11:49 am

I’ve been in an investigator at a non-academic institution for 7 years. A couple years ago I started teaching as an adjunct and I am thinking of making a career switch now. Should my letters still be from my PhD advisor and committee member(s)? Or should I use someone from my current institution?

September 29, 2014 at 3:45 pm

A career switch to what?

October 31, 2014 at 12:46 pm

Hi Dr. Karen, I read this post with interest. I learned that one of my recommendation letters is only one page long (Interfolio doesn’t let you see the content but tells you how many pages it is), which doesn’t even meet the basic expectations #1 listed here. Do you think it’s still possible that it is a strong enough letter?

December 1, 2014 at 8:19 am

Hi Karen, A useful post indeed! One question though – is it always necessary to have the academic LOR written on under-grad college letter-head?Because, of the two LORs I am planning to get written by my lecturers in under-grad, one is likely to be by a lecturer who no longer works with the college, he has started to work somewhere else. Is getting a LOR from him equally fine or I have to get it from members of faculty who are still there? And if its fine, can he just write it as a normal word document (not on a letter-head)? And is a hand-written signature required as well?

December 4, 2014 at 6:49 am

Thank you so much! . I need to write my own letter, so I find this post very helpful.

Thank you also for the tip about USA, I also noticed that when one of my professors wrote a letter on my behalf for a Japanese university.

March 26, 2015 at 11:32 am

I’ve been asked to write a letter of rec for my professor’s tenure. I feel much better writing it now that I have read your blog but a little worried how I can put all your rec into one letter. This is going to be tricky. Can you identify which elements of a letter which are most important to speak on?

July 7, 2015 at 8:10 am

Thank you so much for this, Karen! What about the teaching letter–a letter from someone totally outside your subfield who has observed your teaching?

December 11, 2016 at 11:40 am

When writing a reference letter for a foreign applicant, is it then a good idea to comment (positively, of course) on the applicant’s English skills?

December 16, 2016 at 12:21 pm

My students were often Japanese and Korean, and I did not mention their language skills as it is a given that to do a Ph.D. in cultural anthropology ones skills are exemplary (even though I know in practice that they are not always). I know language can be a real issue for STEM Ph.D.s however, so perhaps if you are coming from those fields, then yes it would be good to mention.

January 3, 2017 at 6:40 am

Thanks for your reply! One more question: Often American universities ask me to place the student in a percentile. The options could perhaps be top 2%, top 10%, top 20%, etc. Is this a question where an honest answer is expected, or is there only one correct answer to this one?

January 3, 2017 at 10:56 pm

LOL. You can be moderately honest… ie, top 1, 2, 5, 10%, maybe even 25%… anything beyond that is basically a negative rec. though.

October 4, 2017 at 8:53 am

What’s the etiquette for recommending two candidates to the same position? If I truly feel either would be absolutely stellar in the job, is it okay to write for both?

October 4, 2017 at 2:09 pm

oh wow. that’s a good question. I do not know the answer. Want me to put it up as a query on FB?

January 23, 2018 at 11:53 am

Here’s another DON’T, especially about women. Please, do not say something like, “despite having two babies in graduate school, candidate x was able to finish in 4 years,” or make any reference to pregnancy, leave, or children. Unfortunately, discrimination exists, and these facts, while in your mind may be a positive, could be detrimental to the candidates!

January 23, 2018 at 1:23 pm

March 23, 2018 at 2:49 pm

I will use this when writing my own letters in the future!

Yes, I have written my own letters ever since a professor wrote me a letter that ended with, and I quote: “That’s all I can offer. I hope it’s enough.”

November 4, 2018 at 11:58 am

I’m a PhD who left the academy twenty years ago (I work at a prominent museum). A colleague who is interested in returning to the academy just asked me to provide a letter of reference.

In many ways, this column provided great and much needed advice as I haven’t written a letter of reference for an academic position in about 15 years. However, as I write this letter and struggle to fit myself back into the strait-jacket of academic writing and customs, I can’t help but contrast this with how I am assessing candidates for a museum position (I’m also about to make an offer to a job candidate this week). All of this just underscores to me how very, very inefficient and fundamentally ineffective academic hiring is.

Outside the academy, it has been a tremendous relief to simply call references and to engage in a candid discussion about an applicant. I’ve found people who provide references to be very honest when you speak with them directly. I suspect some of this has to do with the fact that a phone conversation is not as heavily documented and so people are more willing to be candid (which is actually what I want). But some of this also has to do with the fact that a phone conversation can be more about give and talk. It’s a dialogue and frankly, I want to ask deeper questions about the candidate and not read a boilerplate (tweaked but boilerplate nonetheless) letter about a candidate.

With this approach, I can get clarity on any of the issues the reference has raised. For example, in a recent hire (again of a PhD curator), a colleague at his former place of employment indicated that he was brilliant but very “quirky.” This is true (we hired the individual in question)—but before I did the hire, I was able to learn about this person’s quirkiness and to make a very informed decision on the hire based on what this meant. There were no surprises with this hire which was great (and as the curator’s supervisor, I’ve avoided putting him in a situation where that quirkiness could be a problem).

I also tend to call references only when I am pretty sure I want to hire a candidate. Academic job searches amaze me b/c a candidate submits reams of material to a committee upfront. Why not stagger the process? A search committee in field X should be able to read a CV and make a preliminary assessment of a candidate from that. Make a preliminary cut—and then ask for the various statements and the reference from your top 20 or 30 candidates. Can you imagine how much time you would save—on the part of candidates, references, and the search committee?

And then…when you have narrowed it…CALL the references. Speak to them candidly and engage in a genuine dialogue to get the information you need to make an informed decision.

I know…I am crazy. But I dream of a rational world, in and outside of academia.

November 5, 2018 at 8:27 am

Thanks for these thoughts–they are supremely rational (and thus have almost no chance of being adopted in the academy….) 🙂

November 12, 2018 at 12:13 pm

The lack of rationality is one of the many, many reasons I left academia.

More seriously, though, I will say that it staggers me that academics demand so much material from a job applicant—simply to make a preliminary cut. I say this because an academic friend just sent me an email in which she was bemoaning reading tons of material for an academic job search. I am guessing that any qualified applicant in our field could make an easy preliminary cut just using the cv’s (frankly, if you cannot do that, then, you really don’t know your field and what matters in your field).

I get that there will never be a rational approach to hiring in academia (in fact, I think it is headed in the opposite direction as search committees now routinely demand materials that they did not ask for 20 years ago).

But all of this leads me to lose sympathy with academics who tell me how overworked they are. They have created part of the nightmare themselves by demanding so much information so early on in a search process.

April 26, 2019 at 12:10 pm

My fiance has been asked to write his own recommendation letter by his Doctoral advisor. Obviously we both feel this is unacceptable, but it’s a little too late to do much about it at this point, especially since his future is still very much in his advisor’s hands. I have been trying to help and using this post as guideline, but wow. After all of his experience with his advisor (who is also on my committee, but I didn’t even bother to ask him to be a letter writer for me), I feel he should not be allowed to advise phd students until he receives some guidance from more responsible faculty. I don’t feel we as graduate students have any recourse in this scenario, because failure to comply could result in very serious consequences for us both. What should we do to try to make sure this doesn’t happen to more students in the future?

January 26, 2021 at 12:13 pm

recommendation letters are overated and you never know whether the persons writing them are assholes and most contracts have probationary periods.

October 28, 2021 at 2:19 am

How can I write different description for different courses, and when I want a recommendation from a person?

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Advice for requesting letters of recommendation

Do you want a recommendation letter from me or someone else for a PhD program? Follow the excellent advice of a Brown CS professor (transposing CS to physics, of course, but not much else): http://cs.brown.edu/~sk/Memos/Reco-From-Me/ Note especially his description of a "brag sheet" and its purpose. Consider supplementing this by saying to a particular writer "I hope you will be able to speak to my experience at mentoring other undergrad researchers" or "I hope you will be able to remark on my ability to design and build an experimental setup" (just examples.)

The same principles hold for letters for other purposes (internships, coterm programs, postdocs, faculty positions, industry jobs) though obviously what's expected at different stages and for different roles is different.

See also that same Prof's excellent advice to letter-writers for PhD program applications. Read it, follow its guidance on selecting a complementary collection of letter-writers rather than ones who all speak to just one aspect of your capabilities, and consider sharing it with your writers (in a non-pushy way), especially if they may not be experienced at writing for this purpose or this level of institution. 

http://cs.brown.edu/~sk/Memos/Grad-School-Recos/

A personal story: When I was applying for Ph.D. programs and fellowships, I had a research advisor with whom I had done substantial work. I knew my relationship with him was not perfect, but I asked him for a letter -- I couldn't imagine not asking him. He replied that he expected others could write me more effective letters. Decades later I remain deeply grateful to him: I got into an excellent Ph.D. program and even was awarded fellowships. Probably none of these would have happened had he written one of my three letters luke-warmly (or worse.) I was fortunate to have others who could step in to write for me. I take from this several lessons I'd like to share.

1. When someone asks me for a letter and I don't feel I can write a letter that will help them toward their goal, if possible I suggest that they consider having someone else write for them. This scenario doesn't happen often, but my practice gives people a chance to be judged by their best sides, which is important especially early in studies and career. Of course, if one of my primary Ph.D. thesis advisees or postdoc advisees is applying for a faculty position, it may be practically necessary for them to get a letter for me. This is only one reason to maintain good communications between advisor and advisee.

2. If you want a letter from someone, you can't rely on this degree of candor from your proposed letter-writer. Instead of asking "Can you write me a letter?", consider instead "I'm considering applying to XXX. Do you think you could write me a letter that would help me be selected / be seriously considered?" This gives a reasonably gracious way for them to suggest that you ask someone else. They'll probably even appreciate that -- few of us like the feeling of writing a less-than-positive letter. In my experience, if the rest of one's portfolio is strong one can be successful in obtaining Ph.D. admission, postdoc positions, and even interviews for faculty positions based on one or two stellar letters, combined with other letters that are positive but more generic.

3. Months or even years before you'll want a letter, think about who might be possible letter-writers. Develop and maintain the relevant relationships -- not primarily for the sake of the letters!

Risky Health among Adolescents and Young Adults

The dos and don’ts of asking professors for recommendation letters.

How should you ask a professor for a letter of recommendation?

By Isabella Lanza, PhD

• Identify all potential recommenders.

You should try to have about twice as many potential recommenders in mind than you actually need in order to give you some wiggle room (and less anxiety) if someone does not agree to write you a letter.

• Create a most-to-least preferred list.

Write down the names of those that you would like as a potential recommender. Now rank order those names in terms of whom you think will write you the strongest letter and ALSO who has the highest professional status for the programs you have chosen. Considering the status a recommender has in the field you’re planning to go into is important, and something that gets overlooked frequently. When I was a graduate student instructor I was asked many times to write letters of recommendation, and had to explain to students that my recommendation would weigh much less than a recommendation from a tenure-track faculty with research in the area of interest.

• Ask in an orderly fashion.

If you’re going to ask through email, don’t just send out the same email to all your potential recommenders at once. What if they all say yes? Ask one by one using your preference list. If you receive a no from someone early on, this will give you a chance to re-evaluate your method of asking before you move further down the list.

• Timing is everything.

Asking 6 weeks- 3 months ahead of time is generally the time frame professors like when planning out recommendation letters. Remember the less time you give a professor to write you a letter, the more likely they will say no to your request. Social psychology tells us that people are more likely to say yes to requests no matter what the nature if the task is far into the future.

• Take the time to either write a convincing email to your recommenders or visit their office hours/make an appointment to discuss the possibility of having them write a letter.

A two sentence email asking for a letter or a 30-second request made in person after class when other students have questions are not appropriate ways to ask for a recommendation. Show that you are serious about your future academic and career goals by asking for a personal meeting or coming to office hours to explore the possibility. If you can’t speak to the professor in person, write a thoughtful email. Either way, make sure you present 1) your career goals; 2) programs/school you anticipate applying to; 3) application deadlines; 4) WHY you think the professor could provide you with a good letter.

• Identify 2-3 strengths that you would like your recommenders to point out in their letters.

The first time I brought this up to my professional development students a few of them stated, ‘But you can’t tell a recommender what to put in your letter!’ Well I’m here to let you know that not only can you, but you should. The key is to present strengths, abilities, or other positive features about yourself that the professor has actually observed. Professors will appreciate that you are identifying a few positive attributes that they can expand on in their letter. With many students to attend to, our minds need a little help remembering all the things that make you great. Of course, be careful not to overstate your capabilities or strengths. I have found very few students overestimate themselves, so don’t worry too much about appearing arrogant.

• Prepare a document/package with all the information your professor needs.

Whether it’s over email or a hard copy, prepare one document/package your professor can quickly reference. This should include a list of the schools and programs you are applying to with deadlines, along with physical addresses of the programs (needed for the letter heading). Also, include a brief bio with career objectives and strengths you would like highlighted. Last, make sure you include all the information needed to send out the letters (weblinks or envelopes already addressed and stamped).

• Ask the professor ahead of time if he/she will want a reminder when the deadline approaches.

If you are going to feel anxious about the possibility that letters are not going to be sent out on time, ask your professor early on in the process if he/she would like email deadline reminders. Setting this up early on will make your life easier when you remember that your professor wanted a reminder email vs. just sending a reminder and hoping you don’t come off as annoying.

• Send the professor a thank you card.

A simple thank you card (not email!) can go a long way with anyone, especially someone that has devoted his/her career to teaching and mentoring others. Include a sentence or two stating your appreciation for their time and effort given to not just the letter but also enhancing your learning experience. Your legacy will live on longer when you express your gratitude with an actual handwritten card. Also, if you are going to give the professor a gift (the thank you card is completely sufficient but I know some students insist on gifts) wait until all letters have been sent; otherwise, it is an ethical dilemma.

• Keep in touch.

Besides letting professors know the outcome of the application process, send an email every now and then to let them know what you have accomplished professionally. Professors gain a deep sense of satisfaction knowing former students are achieving their career goals.

• Don’t just ask a professor because you received an A in his/her class.

With grade inflation running rampant, half or maybe more than half of your peers are receiving As. You really need to think about what makes you stand out from your peers in the class (or situation) the professor knows you from. If you don’t stand out in some way, this is a problem.

• Don’t ask a professor if he/she may not know who you are.

Yes, this happens. If you’re not sure if this applies to you, that’s a red flag right there. But if you want to confirm, try to visit the professor’s office hours and see his/her response to you. Is it an ‘Oh hi! How are you doing?’ or ‘ Hello. How can I help you?’ You’ll be able to tell right away if they have no clue.

• Don’t ask a professor just because he/she is nice or cool.

Big mistake. I’m known to be a very nice and friendly professor, but it doesn’t mean that I’m going to write you a good letter of recommendation. I’m judging you on your performance and effort. A nice/cool professor may be super friendly to ALL students, but behind closed office doors he/she is only writing superb recommendations for a few students. Keep this in mind: looks can be deceiving.

• Don’t ask a professor if you never said a word in class.

This should be self-explanatory, but apparently it’s not. If you were in a class with 40 or fewer students and never said a word in class or to your professor, the professor is going to assume you were not as engaged in the class as those who did speak up or came regularly to office hours. If you are shy about speaking class, visit the professor’s office hours more often. Also, discuss the reasons you are not as outspoken – you’ll be seen as making a greater effort to be an engaged student.

• Don’t ask for a letter to be written with less than three weeks notice.

I tell my students in my professional developmental seminar that poor planning will lead to an irate professor writing your letter. He/she may think you’re smart, ambitious, and ready for grad school, but your lack of planning also suggests you may not be as serious or prepared for what’s to come. There is a general consensus that 6 weeks – 3 months is an ideal amount of time to give professors notice that you would like them to write a letter for you. I personally prefer 2 months notice and no less than 3 weeks notice.

• Don’t ask for a letter to be written during finals.

No, just don’t. Do I even have to state why? You know how you’re going crazy in a sleep deprived state studying for 4 finals, 3 papers, and getting in some work shifts? Professors are also under a mountain of grading and stress to get other things done related to research or departmental tasks. There is no worse time to ask, so don’t even try!

• Don’t ask too early!

This is an odd don’t. It’s an issue I didn’t think I would ever encounter, but in the last year I’ve had two students ask me to write letters for applications 1-2 years away. I’m not sure what the cutoff is for asking ‘too early’ but I’m going to say past 6 months is a bit odd. If you’re close to the professor it might not be weird to ask way ahead of time, but for the majority of you breathe and remember that ‘patience is a virtue’.

• Don’t send an email for each letter to be written.

You are likely to be one of several students your professor is writing letters for in a given semester, so keep your communication with the professor minimal. One email (or one packet) detailing all the information needed to write and send out the letters is greatly appreciated. It’s great to have just one email or document to go back to for each student. Be as organized as possible. It will go a long way and make your letter that much better, especially when your professor is comparing you to less organized peers.

• Don’t be a stalker.

Yes, you want to make sure your professor is sending those letters out and on time(!), but tone down the frequency and severity of reminders. One email reminder a few days before the deadline is ok if you think the professor would appreciate a reminder. Some professors find them annoying, or even insulting. I like reminders, but only ONE. You could also just check-in once and kindly ask if anything else is needed to finish the letter. It’s a gentle way of reminding the professor to write and send out the letter. Bottom line: don’t overdo it!

• Don’t do the ‘wham, bam thank you ma’am’.

I can’t remember the last time a student wrote me about the outcome of his/her application process. I want to know what happened! Even if it’s not positive news, it’s still wise to send an update email to a recommender, especially if you are going to ask for a letter again. (2018 update: I’m happy to say most students now make contact with me to let me know the outcome of their application process. I hope this is a sign that students are becoming more savvy in sustaining professional relationships.)

We hope these tips will help as you prepare to ask for recommendation letters. Good luck!

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How to Request Letters of Recommendation for Grad School

• by Heidi Kerr
• June 15, 2021

As you embark on your graduate school admissions process, strong letters of recommendations are a crucial part of your applications. These reference letters are often written by individuals who are familiar with your academic work and interests. As such, they can highlight your potential for success in a graduate program and contribute significantly to your admissions application. 

Unfortunately, requesting and receiving letters of recommendation can be a lengthy process. Additionally, most graduate programs require more than one letter, so it’s important to identify a strategy, develop relationships, and establish a timeline early in your graduate school admissions process. Below we’ve outlined a few tips to help ensure strong letters of recommendations from your professors. 

Identify the right people to ask 

Your letters of recommendation should come from individuals who know you well. Ideally, these people are professors who have evaluated your work in upper-division courses or can comment on your research and professional potential . If it’s been a few years since you’ve graduated from college, it’s appropriate to ask supervisors in your career, though it’s also worth reaching out to professors you were close with as an undergrad. Regardless of who you ask, you want them to write a strong letter of recommendation, not something generic, so it is an advantage to find someone who is familiar with you, your experiences, and your goals. 

Start early and build relationships

It’s important to identify potential letter writers well in advance of the admissions process when applying to graduate school. This will give you the necessary time to build relationships that will help ensure your recommenders will provide strong letters in your favor. Create a list of five potential writers who you would like to ask for a recommendation. While most graduate programs at UC Davis require only three letters, it’s good to have backups. Focus on professors who have areas of expertise that are relevant to your graduate education interests.

Connecting with faculty members is key to securing a strong letter of recommendation. There are multiple ways to build a strong professional relationship with your professors. Consider trying the following as part of your strategy to secure a letter of recommendation: 

• Take multiple courses with the same professor 
• Attend office hours 
• Take smaller classes or seminars with the professor
• Participate regularly in class and make insightful contributions to discussions
• Join a club with faculty mentors 
• Join a professor’s research project or request to do independent research with them as your mentor 
• Attend department events and colloquia 
• Volunteer for opportunities in your department

How and when to ask

Request letters of recommendation at least one or two months in advance of your admissions deadline. It’s important to ask in a timely manner to give recommenders plenty of time to write. It’s also important to make the request personal. Ask to meet with your professor, either virtually or in person, to discuss your plans for graduate school.

Phrase your request this way: “Would you feel comfortable writing me a strong letter of recommendation for graduate school?” This will provide them with an opportunity to answer honestly if they feel they would not be a good choice. 

Make it easy for your recommenders 

Give your recommender supporting documentation about what makes you a strong candidate for graduate school. This will help them write a stronger letter. This information can include: 

• A list of institutions, programs and their deadlines
• A copy of your CV or resume
• An unofficial transcript
• A list of any awards, achievements and papers you may have published
• A copy of your admissions essays
• A statement of purpose or a few paragraphs about what you hope to gain from graduate school and your future goals

Additionally, you should check in with your letter writer as your deadline approaches to ask if they have received their letter of recommendation request and if they have any questions about submitting the recommendation online. Since many graduate school applications only accept letters of recommendations online, you will also want to explain how to submit the letter electronically. 

Send a thank you and updates

Always thank your professors for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation. A handwritten thank you note is a personal and thoughtful way to say thank you, but an email will also suffice. It’s also nice to keep your letter writers updated on your application process, especially if you’ve been admitted to the program of your choice.

Although it can be daunting to ask for these letters, remember that your professors are where they are because others wrote them letters of recommendation. They were once in the very same spot as you! Furthermore, it is an expectation of their profession that they provide letters of recommendation for the students they teach.

For more information on how to prepare for graduate school, visit the UC Davis Office of Educational Opportunity and Enrichment Services . 

Tips for International Applicants

• Explain to your recommender that letters of recommendation should be written in English.  
• Since there may be firewalls or other technology barriers that block individuals from receiving email outside of their organization, ask for the recommender’s personal email address as a backup. 

Special thanks to Josephine Moreno, Ph.D., Graduate Diversity Officer for the Humanities, Arts, Social Science, and Education programs, for her contributions to this article.

Heidi Kerr works as the content and media manager at UC Davis’ Graduate Studies. She has worked as a communications professional at multiple higher education institutions and is passionate about promoting student success.

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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) For PhD 2024/2025 Structure, Guidelines and Sample for International Students

We are aware at mytopschools.com that  Letter of Recommendation (LOR) For PhD 2023/2024 Structure, Guidelines and Sample for International Students has been searched by several individuals as well as sample recommendation letter for phd admission from professors, recommendation letter for phd student sample, recommendation letter for phd student from professor pdf, sample letter of recommendation from research mentor, recommendation letter for student from professor,recommendation letter for student from professor pdf, recommendation letter for student from teacher for masters program, free sample recommendation letter for graduate school

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is written by those people who have seen you in action and weighed your skills and qualities. Hence the selectors at the universities abroad trust their opinions. The doctorate degrees have a component of research in its curriculum. Hence, the institutions want to confirm the ability and sincerity of the applicant to work under the guide and carry out the tasks required to complete the thesis work through LOR for PhD.

Admission committee affirms their decision by matching the recommendations and information given by study abroad aspirants in the admission application as well as supporting documents like motivation statements and achievements etc. Letter of Recommendation for PhD is thus an essential part of the application.

Letters of Recommendation are written by the academic staff like professors, teachers, counselors, or work supervisors if the applicant has any voluntary or professional work experience. LOR for PhD is significant because selection committees gauge the potential of the applicant to go through the academics and research capability mainly through these documents.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD: Structure and Guidelines

Professors and faculty members who taught you earlier and the immediate supervisors who saw you working are the best people to analyze your skills, potential, shortcomings. They are able to judge what makes you most worthy of the course you are opting for. Thus, universities expect a Letter of Recommendation for PhD in Canada , USA, UK, etc from them with all this information.

Following are some of the topics that should be covered in the LOR for PhD are:

Knowledge about Subject: Students have to present their own findings on a particular subject after doing thorough research in a doctorate program. Hence, universities offering PhD want to know about your understanding of academic concepts and their applications. They are also interested in getting more details about your ability to conceive creative and critical thinking on the topic to discover new areas of the study. All this information should be discussed in the Letter of Recommendation for PhD.

Positive Qualities of Applicant: The structure and the contents of the LORs are prerogatives of the writer. Hence, normally they should write about the applicant’s positive qualities suitable for the course, and how their observation came about these points.

Personal Opinion of Recommender : In LOR for PhD from the UK , USA, or any other country, the writer should talk about the time spent with the applicant and the outstanding skills that are seen in the applicant academically and outside the academic arena. Also highlight points about the researching skills of the person and how the opted course is a right fit for him/her should also be mentioned

Contact Details of Recommender: In the end, the writer is required to provide his official contact details with a willingness to answer any further questions facilitating the admission of the applicant in question.

Whenever selectors have to deliberate on any applications, supporting documents like statements of purpose and LORs come into play and prove to be extremely vital. Letter of Recommendation for PhD in Germany , Canada, USA, etc have a lot of weightage as the selectors have not met the applicant personally but want to be sure about his academic and research abilities.

• Recommenders should talk about your subject knowledge, personality, life and literacy skills, diligence, and research abilities
• The credentials mentioned must be authenticated and their recommendation should be based on the grounds they have built in the letter.
• LOR for PhD needs to be written in an official language and no personal biases or acquaintances should reflect in the language even if you are on very good terms with the writing officials.

Both professional and academic Letters of Recommendations are written on the official letterhead under the seal of the institution and are submitted the way foreign institution asks for them. Some universities like them to be uploaded online, some want them to be completed online, and rest receive the hard copies. In these too, some like it in sealed envelopes and some accept it through the applicant too.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) : Guidelines for Top Universities

Universities offering Ph.D. courses want to make sure that they choose the right candidate who will be able to work with the mentor to achieve the desired results. They expect specialization in the course and extreme dedication from international students.

LORs play a vital role in helping them to choose the most suitable candidates as the recommendations are made by academicians on almost similar standards that are accepted worldwide.

Requirements of LOR for PhD by the major popular institutions are listed below:

Sample LOR for PhD

I am delighted to have this opportunity to recommend a student like XXXXX for a Ph.D. in Marketing Management at your esteemed university. I have taught XXXX for the past three years in the areas of marketing and supply chain management and I am one of those who really would like to see him excelling in this field.

His proposed topic of XXXXX is also extremely relevant and requires in-depth analysis and research that will be useful not only for the companies and industry but also for the academicians to see the real-life issues arising out of topics taught at our institutions.

XXXX has done a one-year research project on ‘Plastic money usage in marketing’ under my supervision and I have seen him working diligently with an out of box approach. He has reflective thinking skills and is quite inquisitive about the findings that help him to dig deeper into conducting and analyzing the research. He possesses impeccable communication skills and has the ability to take his learning to the highest level through his commendable peer mentoring skills.

His working in teams or independently on projects, researches, or on the academic subject matter is beyond comprehension at this level. He is a student of higher thinking order who likes to be challenged and work for new innovations and creativity. He has a zeal for making the world a better living place and wants to have an improved version of himself by every passing year.

Tedious working schedules, difficult working conditions, collaborating with people, and multitasking are the areas that he can handle very skillfully and makes the work look effortless. With all these charismatic qualities he is quite a simple and down to earth person who respects everyone and follows all the rules.

He is a strongly deserving candidate to get a chance for doing research in XXXXX area and I would be happy if this recommendation helps him to get admission to the Doctorate of Philosophy in Marketing Management.

If you have any queries about the academic, research, or related areas, please feel free to contact me at the following email address or phone. I am generally available on phone from 11.30 to 3.30 IST from Monday to Friday.

Tips for Writing Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

LOR for PhD preferably should be written by the faculty of the latest institution attended by the applicant. Writers can also be the supervisor of academic or professional/voluntary or community work.

• The writer must support the positive traits regarding the academic and research skills of the applicant mentioned in the statement of purpose .
• As research is an important part of the doctorate degree, the qualities required to do research independently, in teams, and under supervision should be elaborated upon.
• The Letter of Recommendation for PhD should not contain any misrepresentation about the writer or the applicant and the details mentioned should be verifiable if the need arises.
• The writer must mention the time period during which he was associated with the applicant and the capacity in which they interacted. It clarifies how the writer came to know about the skills and positive traits of the applicant.

For Example: As a professor of Marketing management I taught xxxxx for the past three years and he did his internship and three projects under my supervision out of which one project was at the International level.

Recommendations given by the referees are quite vital in the admission decision hence they should be professionally written and should be real. The writer and applicant need to share a good rapport as sometimes these LORs are to be completed online requiring a lot of time and patience on part of the writer.

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Application Checklist Overview

As of August 18, 2024: The UCLA Fielding School of Public Health will now have one required application for the MPH*, MS and PhD degrees in each department. Applicants should complete the requirements for the SOPHAS application as noted below. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed.

The priority deadline for matriculation in 2025 is December 1, 2024 . If you are applying after this date, please contact the department directly to ensure that applications are still being received.

*MPH – this does not apply to the Executive MPH or the MPH-HP programs. This also does not apply to the MHA or MDSH programs.

Step 1: SOPHAS Application

The primary application system for applicants is SOPHAS, the common application for public health schools. Please submit the following materials here :

• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose – Maximum of 1500 words. The statement should describe the following: a) reasons for interest in public health, b) reasons for interest in the program of study and/or concentration; c) reasons for interest in UCLA; and d) career goals. If you are applying to a doctoral program, you should include your proposed research topics.
• Personal Statement – Maximum of 500 words. The personal statement is an additional opportunity for the reviewing committee to learn more about any challenges faced, personal background, and past and future contributions to diversity. Full information can be found on SOPHAS. Applicants should address one or more prompts in the personal statement.
• Applicants with less than three years of post bac professional experience should submit a minimum of two academic letters and one professional letter. 
• Applicants with more than three years of post bac professional experience may elect to submit three professional letters.
•  Applicants with less than three years of post bac professional experience should submit a minimum of one academic letter and two professional letters. 
• Applicants with more than three years of post bac professional experience may elect to submit three professional letters
• Official Transcripts – Applicants should submit one set of official transcripts from each institution they have attended. International applicants must submit transcripts through World Education Services (WES) for an official WES evaluation.
• Official GRE Test Scores* — Please check here to determine GRE requirements. ETS code is: 4225.
• Official TOEFL or IELTS scores – Applicants may view English proficiency requirements here . TOEFL code for SOPHAS is: 5688 IELTS code for SOPHAS: See instructions on submitting your scores to SOPHAS here
• Writing Sample – This component is only necessary for doctoral applicants applying to the Department of Community Health Sciences or the Department of Health Policy and Management.
• SOPHAS Application Fee – The fee is nonrefundable. The amount will vary according to the number of applications submitted.

For questions about the application process please contact SOPHAS at:

SOPHAS P.O. Box 9111 Watertown, MA 02471 Telephone: 617-612-2090 Email: [email protected]

For Overnight Delivery of Materials Only: SOPHAS c/o Liaison International 311 Arsenal Street Watertown, MA 02472

Step 2: UCLA Division of Graduate Education Application Fee

All applicants to UCLA must complete the UCLA Division of Graduate Education application. The information you submit through SOPHAS (step 1) will be transferred over to the UCLA graduate application. However, all applicants must also submit the UCLA application fee in addition to the SOPHAS application fee. The fee is nonrefundable.

Letters of recommendation, transcripts, test scores, professional experience, resume, and supporting should ONLY be uploaded to SOPHAS . 

An application will not be reviewed until both the SOPHAS fee and UCLA graduate application fee have been paid.

** Applicants should receive a separate email from UCLA Division of Graduate Education (DGE) with instructions on how to pay the UCLA DGE application fee. Those applying in August will receive an email in September. 

Application Requirements for Executive Programs:

Applicants to the MPH-HP, EMPH, MHA and MDSH programs are only required to submit the UCLA Division of Graduate Application. If you are applying to any of these programs do not complete a SOPHAS application.

Application Requirements for Joint Degree Applicants:

Prospective applicant applying to MPH Joint Degree

• Submit the SOPHAS Application and pay the application fee.
• Please ensure you fulfill the joint program's application requirements.

**Applicants should receive a separate email from the UCLA Division of Graduate Education (DGE) with instructions on how to pay the UCLA DGE application fee. Those applying in August will receive an email in September. 

Current UCLA Graduate Students Applying to MPH Joint Degree

• Submit the UCLA Graduate Application and ensure you select to be considered for a fee waiver on the fee waiver section of the application. Upon submitting the application, please then reach out to Sukhwinder Sagoo or Jose Ruiz-Rodriguez regarding the fee waiver. 
• Submit a Change of Major petition. Please contact  Sukhwinder Sagoo or Jose Ruiz-Rodriguez for more information on completing this requirement. 

**Please do not pay the UCLA Graduate Application fee as the application fee is non-refundable.

Current UCLA School of Medicine Students applying to MPH Joint Degree

• UCLA MPH/MD or Prime MD students can apply to the MPH program by December 1st of their second year under the new Discovery curriculum. 

Current UCLA Law School Students applying to MPH Joint Degree

• Submit the UCLA Graduate Application and pay the application fee.

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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Marine Sciences

Graduate admissions.

The Department of Marine Sciences welcomes applicants to our graduate programs.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Oceanography

Master of Science (MS) in Oceanography

Application Process and Timeline

Prospective students apply for graduate study in the Department of Marine Sciences via the Graduate School’s online application .

Applicants are expected to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering field, or a bachelor’s degree and a background including at least one year of college-level physics, biology, and chemistry as well as math through calculus, with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the combined science courses.

Admission is competitive, and successful applicants typically have strong recommendation letters, research experience, and GPAs higher than the minimum, usually greater than 3.5 in the last four academic semesters. Students are accepted to the program based on merit and available funding.

Applications for fall semester are preferred as this is the primary admissions period when applicants can be considered for Graduate School fellowships and departmental assistantships.

View the Graduate School's admissions requirements .

Required Materials

In addition to all Graduate School required documents, the Department also requires a personal statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and a CV.

Personal Statement of Purpose

Your personal statement of purpose should be two pages single spaced. This is an opportunity for you to explain:

• Why you are pursuing an advanced degree.
• How you’ve prepared for graduate-level education.
• How our program will support achieving your career goals.
• The objective is to provide as complete a picture of you as an individual as possible, highlighting information that goes beyond your transcripts or CV.

The admissions committee and potential faculty advisor(s) will review your essay to evaluate your academic writing skills, preparedness to conduct graduate-level research, and overall potential for success in our program. In your statement, be sure to:

• Identify your research interests and describe how they align with those of potential faculty advisor(s),
• Describe relevant professional training or research experience(s) and how they have prepared or motivated you to pursue a graduate degree. Examples include undergraduate research projects, academic awards/honors/scholarships, internships, publications, or conference presentations.
• Explain how completing our graduate program will help you achieve your career goals.
• Explain what you bring to the Department and how you may add to diversity.

Three Letters of Recommendation

We recommend at least one letter from someone who has seen you work in a field or laboratory research atmosphere (e.g., an advisor for an undergraduate research project). Individuals providing a letter of reference should provide candid evaluations of your scientific aptitude, training, motivation, teaching talent, and ability to express yourself orally and in technical writing.

Application Deadlines

Fall semester.

Priority deadline: Jan. 5 . Applications accepted through July.

Spring Semester

Priority deadline: Oct. 1

Apply to UConn

Before You Apply

Learn about the department.

We encourage you to explore our website to learn more about the Department. You can also browse our current graduate student directory .

We collaborate with the AGU Bridge Program to enhance the diversity of students pursuing graduate degrees in marine sciences. As a member of the program since 2021, we have hosted several students across a range of oceanographic subject areas. Prospective students apply through the AGU portal , Applications, which are reviewed by all Bridge Program partners, are typically due in mid-March, with interviews in mid-April, and admissions offers in early May. The Department sponsors a fellowship fund to help support Bridge students in the first year of their graduate work.

Contact Prospective Faculty Advisors

We recommend reaching out to faculty members whose research closely aligns with your interests.

• Communicate with faculty by email or phone. Let them know you are interested in their research and ask if they have room available for a new student.
• Give them a short history of your education, research interests, and career goals. You may also wish to attach transcripts or a resume/CV in an email.
• Schedule a visit to campus. Talk to faculty and students about the graduate program and tour our facilities. In cases where visits are impractical, video calls can be arranged. Since we typically do not accept applicants who have not identified a potential advisor or a particular research interest, this phase is important in the application process.

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Admission Steps

English and literary arts - creative writing - phd, admission requirements.

Terms and Deadlines

Degree and GPA Requirements

Additional Standards for Non-Native English Speakers

Additional standards for international applicants.

For the 2025-2026 academic year

See 2024-2025 requirements instead

Fall 2025 quarter (beginning in September)

Final submission deadline: December 16, 2024

Final submission deadline: Applicants cannot submit applications after the final submission deadline.

Degrees and GPA Requirements

Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution.

Masters degree: This program requires a masters degree as well as the baccalaureate.

University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria:

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree.

A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree.

An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher.

Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test are required of all graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, whose native language is not English or who have been educated in countries where English is not the native language. Your TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

The minimum TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test score requirements for this degree program are:

Minimum TOEFL Score (Internet-based test): 80

Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5

Minimum C1 Advanced Score: 176

Minimum Duolingo English Test Score: 115

Additional Information:

Read the English Language Proficiency policy for more details.

Read the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy for more details.

Per Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulation, international applicants must meet all standards for admission before an I-20 or DS-2019 is issued, [per U.S. Federal Register: 8 CFR § 214.3(k)] or is academically eligible for admission and is admitted [per 22 C.F.R. §62]. Read the Additional Standards For International Applicants policy for more details.

Application Materials

Transcripts, letters of recommendation.

Required Essays and Statements

Writing Sample

We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required.

Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed.

Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required.  Academic recommendations preferred.  Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application.

Essays and Statements

Essay instructions.

Applicants should submit a sample of critical prose (e.g., a seminar paper, scholarly publication, or excerpt from thesis or other longer work demonstrating familiarity with the conventions of academic research and writing) not to exceed 20 pages.

Personal Statement Instructions

Personal statements should be 2 pages maximum and should address the applicant's past academic experience, future scholarly goals, and their suitability for graduate study and research in our program.

Résumé Instructions

The résumé (or C.V.) should minimally include the applicant's educational history, work experience, academic experience (including research opportunities or presentations), selected publications, and/or volunteer work.

Writing Sample Instructions

Applicants must submit representative samples of creative work (for Prose, no more than 30 pages; for Poetry, 5 - 10 poems).

Start the Application

Online Application

Financial Aid Information

Start your application.

Your submitted materials will be reviewed once all materials and application fees have been received.

Our program can only consider your application for admission if our Office of Graduate Education has received all your online materials and supplemental materials by our application deadline.

Application Fee: $65.00 Application Fee

International Degree Evaluation Fee: $50.00 Evaluation Fee for degrees (bachelor's or higher) earned from institutions outside the United States.

Applicants should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Visit the Office of Financial Aid for additional information.