sample of phd reference letter

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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD Students (with Sample) - Need, Parts, Qualities

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Students: For PhD students, a letter of recommendation is a crucial component of the application documents. While other admissions materials, like transcripts and test results, are factual, a letter of recommendation for PhD students integrates the plans and facts of a CV and statement of purpose. A résumé is a summary of your accomplishments, transcripts are evidence of your achievements, and an SOP describes the significance of the course and your readiness for it. A reference letter for a PhD is an unbiased opinion on everything mentioned above. TOP EXAMS : IELTS | TOEFL | GRE | GMAT Country Guide : UK | Ireland | Australia | Canada

What is the need for a letter of recommendation for PhD students

Types of lors for phd, select the right person to write recommendation letter for phd, letter of recommendation for phd students: qualities to focus on, parts of a lor for phd students, elements of letter of recommendation for phd students.

A PhD application usually requires at least two letters of recommendation for students from their professors. This allows the admission committee to know the applicants as people with skills that would otherwise be difficult to know from their resumes, transcripts and SOP. A letter of recommendation for PhD students should mention at least three qualities of the applicant – a social quality and at least two technical or subject-related qualities.

Moreover, as a PhD is an advanced specialised programme, the subject-related quality should be focused on projects carried out and specialised courses that will aid his/her PhD research. Read the complete article to know all the details about PhD letter of recommendation, PhD reference letter samples, and more.

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A recommendation letter for PhD student from professors holds much more importance than those applying for undergraduate or master's courses. Grades and GRE scores play a big role in receiving admission from a university. The LOR for PhD admission is usually the deciding factor when choosing between candidates with similar credentials. Go through the key points to be included in the reference letter for PhD students from the professor to gain an understanding of what it is before you ask your professor to write a PhD reference letter for you.

A PhD candidate must provide two letters of recommendation (LORs). Nevertheless, to ensure caution, it is recommended that the candidate should prepare a minimum of three LORs. Various universities may have different requirements for LORs from recommenders.

Academic Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

Usually, universities require applicants to submit two or three Letters of Recommendation (LORs) for PhD from their previous educational institution. For undergraduate programs, these LORs can be obtained from teachers at your high school, while for masters or PhD, professors from your university can provide them.

Professional Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

A Professional Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD from a Supervisor differs from an Academic LOR by emphasizing certain content related to the applicant's teamwork skills, industry knowledge, and leadership qualities.

Before asking someone for a recommendation letter for PhD application, you should know whom to ask. PhD is purely an academic degree and therefore you need to have a recommendation letter for PhD from those who can vouch for your academic inclination and strengths. PhD recommendation letter should be written by academicians with whom you have worked or someone who has supervised or taught you. If you are aspiring for a PhD programme or want a lor for PhD post-doctoral research, you should ideally ask your master's project guide or PhD guide to be one of the referees for your letter of recommendation for PhD students.

Your faculty must go through a sample recommendation letter for a PhD from a professor before sitting down to write one recommendation letter PhD for you. Other letters of recommendation for PhD students from teachers and professionals can be taken from persons who are from the same field or specialization in which you intend to do your PhD. You can also take your recommendation letter for doctoral programs from your supervisor who has an understanding of your academic capabilities.

Friends and relatives are not supposed to write your LOR for PhD admission for a number of reasons; first, they do not have first-hand information about your academic capabilities. Second, as they have not professionally or academically worked with you, they would not be able to present relevant information in the PhD letter of recommendation about you. Also, the recommender might not have in-depth knowledge of the discipline you intend to do a PhD. Last but not least, relatives cannot be objective about your qualities. That's why it is not a great idea to take your student recommendation letter from them. So a letter of recommendation for PhD students from teachers, professors, supervisors, coaches, etc., is only applicable.

The person who is writing a letter of recommendation for PhD students would be a professional who has known the applicant academically for no less than one year. The recommender should not only know you as one of the students in the department, but they should also know you as a person, your capabilities as a student, as well as your control over the subject they have been teaching. They should also be aware of your plans.

Recommendation letters for Ph.D. students from supervisors, and professors are very subject-specific. Referees should speak of strong subject knowledge as well as analysis traits. A Letter of recommendation for student should show the student as possessing positive qualities like intelligence, self-motivation, responsibility, and amiableness. Emphasis should be given to passion and dedication as well.

Advanced study like a Ph.D. is often a challenging and demanding program. Therefore, the LOR for PhD admission should also display perseverance, competitiveness and the ability to work independently. Courses and knowledge related to PhD programme-related packages, extra courses, and statistical analysis techniques should be exemplified in the letter of recommendation for the PhD program.

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A student recommendation letter for a PhD will typically be between one to two pages. The document of recommendation letter for PhD student should be well differentiated into 5–6 paragraphs. The LOR for PhD should begin with an introductory paragraph about the recommender and his/her association with the applicant. You must read a PDF of the PhD recommendation letter sample before you ask your recommenders to give you one.

The next 3 to 4 paragraphs in the letter of recommendation for PhD program should outline the different academic and social qualities of the applicant with suitable substantiation. No quality should be mentioned without a suitable example. Finally, the concluding paragraph will sum up the above with a line recommending the applicant for the programme.

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Below is a LOR for PhD sample from a professor. Candidates can consider it as a letter of recommendation format for PhD and refer to it while writing their LOR for PhD.

Reference letter sample for PhD student

Like there is a letter of recommendation for PhD students from professors, you can also read about PhD reference letter sample pdf, sample LOR for graduate school from coworker pdf, letter of recommendation for PhD in computer science, sample recommendation letter for employee, etc which will give you a fair idea what a recommendation letter is all about.

A recommendation letter for PhD students from a professor or supervisor gives a human touch to the applicant’s profile. A reference letter for PhD student from a professor is the only document that can present the applicant’s social side to the admission committee. Therefore, choose a referee who can not only substantiate your academic strengths but also cite appropriate examples of your social qualities in your recommendation letter for PhD students.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

It is crucial that the person writing your recommendation letter is someone who is familiar with your academic abilities. The most frequent writers of letters of recommendation are academics; professors or supervisors, but, other experts who are familiar with you and have overseen your academic or research work may also be suitable candidates.

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

PhD suggestions are highly specialised. Referees should emphasise both analytical skills and in-depth topic understanding. Letters of recommendation for students should highlight their intelligence, initiative, responsibility, and interpersonal skills.

Yes, PhD, postdoc, and scholarship applications typically require two to three letters of recommendation. These letters should come from professors who know your work and can detail your possibilities.

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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 . 

5 Best Letter of Recommendation Templates for PhD Students

Are you a PhD student looking for a high-quality letter of recommendation template? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with examples of tried and true letter of recommendation templates that you can use or edit as needed.

One of the most important parts of any PhD program is the recommendation letter. It can make or break your chance of getting into a program, securing funding, or landing a job. However, writing a solid letter of recommendation can be an arduous task that requires a considerable amount of time and effort. That’s where our letter of recommendation templates come in – they have been carefully crafted to help make the process a lot easier for you.

Whether you need a template for a professor, employer, or advisor, we have got you covered. With our templates, you can be sure that your recommendation letters will be professional, accurate, and persuasive. So why wait? Check out our letter of recommendation templates for PhD students today and take the first step towards success!

The Best Structure for Letter of Recommendation Template for PhD Students

Writing a letter of recommendation for a PhD student can be a daunting task, but don’t worry–with the right structure and language, you can create a glowing recommendation that will showcase the student’s talents and qualifications.

First things first, make sure to address the letter to the appropriate person or group, whether it be a university, scholarship committee, or potential employer. It’s also important to state your relationship to the student, whether you’re their professor, mentor, or colleague.

Next, start off by providing a brief overview of the student’s accomplishments and qualifications, including their field of study and any notable research or publications. From there, delve into specific examples of the student’s intellectual abilities and work ethic. This could include analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

It’s also important to address the student’s personal characteristics, such as their leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and communication abilities. Providing anecdotes of times when the student went above and beyond in their academic or professional pursuits can be particularly impactful.

Finally, wrap up the letter with a strong endorsement of the student’s potential for future success, including any specific recommendations for opportunities or programs they would excel in. Reiterate your confidence in the student’s abilities and emphasize how their strengths and qualities make them an asset to any academic or professional community.

Remember, the best recommendation letters are specific, detailed, and personal. Use concrete examples to illustrate the student’s strengths and don’t be afraid to inject some personality and enthusiasm into your writing. With these tips and a solid structure, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an outstanding letter of recommendation for your favorite PhD student.

[Your name]

Letter of Recommendation Templates for PhD Students

Letter of recommendation for phd program admission.

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for the PhD program in [Field]. I had the privilege of working with [him/her] as [his/her] research advisor for [duration]. During that time, I observed [his/her] passion for [field of study]. [He/She] possesses the intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and analytical skills necessary for success in the program.

Moreover, [Student Name] demonstrates excellent communication skills and consistently engages in constructive discussions with [his/her] peers and advisors. [He/She] is a quick learner and adapts well to new challenges, which will serve [him/her] well in the highly competitive and rigorous PhD program. I believe [Student Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the field and I strongly recommend [him/her] for admission to the program.

[Your Name]

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Scholarship

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am writing to endorse [Student Name] for the [Name of Scholarship] for [Field] PhD studies. In my capacity as [his/her] mentor and research advisor, I have been impressed with [his/her] dedication to [field of study] and [his/her] ability to excel academically despite facing various challenges.

[Student Name] has demonstrated exceptional potential in [areas of interest]. [His/Her] research work has already resulted in several publications in leading journals, which speaks to [his/her] intellectual rigor and analytical skills. [He/She] is also actively involved in various extracurricular activities related to [field of study], such as [Name of Club], where [he/she] has demonstrated leadership and teamwork.

I strongly believe that [Student Name] is an ideal fit for the [Name of Scholarship] based on [his/her] achievements and potential. [He/She] will not only benefit from the financial support but will also make significant contributions to the scholarship and [field of study].

Yours sincerely,

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Job Application

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing this letter to recommend [Student Name] for the position of [Job Title] at your organization. I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] as [his/her] supervisor during [duration] at [Company/Organization]. [He/She] was a valuable asset to our team, demonstrating impressive intellectual and analytical skills.

[Student Name] has an outstanding academic record and has already published several research papers in leading journals. Moreover, [he/she] has honed exceptional communication skills and has presented [his/her] work at various conferences. [He/She] has also demonstrated leadership skills, both in academic and extracurricular settings. [His/Her] experience in [specific skills related to job] and [related experience] also make [him/her] a perfect candidate for the position.

Based on [his/her] achievements and potential, I strongly recommend [Student Name] for the position. [He/She] will undoubtedly exceed your expectations and make significant contributions to your organization.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Internship

Dear Internship Coordinator,

I am writing this letter to recommend [Student Name] for the PhD Internship Program at your organization. I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] as [his/her] research advisor for [duration]. During that time, [he/she] demonstrated exceptional research skills and a keen interest in [specific field of study related to internship].

[Student Name] has already published several research papers in leading journals and has presented [his/her] work at various conferences. [He/She] has also demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork skills, as evidenced by [specific example]. [His/Her] exceptional communication skills also make [him/her] a great fit for the internship, where [he/she] will likely collaborate with a diverse group of people.

Based on [his/her] research achievements and potential, I strongly recommend [Student Name] for the internship program. [He/She] is an excellent candidate who will no doubt make significant contributions to your organization. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Fellowship

Dear Fellowship Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for the [Name of Fellowship] for [Field] PhD studies. I worked with [him/her] as [his/her] research advisor for [duration], during which I observed [his/her] exceptional research skills and intellectual curiosity.

[Student Name] has already published several research papers in leading journals and has presented [his/her] work at various conferences. [He/She] has also actively engaged in various extracurricular activities related to [field of study], such as [Name of Club/Community], where [he/she] has demonstrated leadership and teamwork. Overall, [he/she] is a dedicated and passionate researcher with a unique perspective and approach to [field of study].

I strongly believe that [Student Name] is an exemplary fit for the [Name of Fellowship] based on [his/her] achievements and potential. [He/She] will not only benefit from the financial support but will also make significant contributions to the fellowship and [field of study].

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Research Proposal

Dear Research Committee,

I am writing to endorse [Student Name]’s proposed research project for [duration] in [field of study]. [He/She] has approached me with [his/her] ideas and I have been thoroughly impressed with [his/her] creativity, vision, and rigor in designing the proposal.

[Student Name] is an outstanding researcher with significant experience in [related skills/expertise]. [He/She] is highly motivated and passionate about [field of study], demonstrated by [relevant examples]. Moreover, [he/she] has excellent communication and leadership skills, which will undoubtedly be useful in working with other researchers and stakeholders.

Based on [his/her] research achievements and proposed project, I strongly recommend [Student Name] for the research program. [He/She] is an excellent candidate who will no doubt make significant contributions to the project and advance knowledge in [field of study]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Best regards,

Tips for Writing a Letter of Recommendation Template for PhD Students

Writing a letter of recommendation for a PhD student can be a challenging task. As a recommender, it’s essential to ensure that your letter truly represents the student’s abilities, potential, and achievements. To help you create an effective letter of recommendation, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Get to know the student: Before you start writing the letter, take some time to learn more about the student. Understand their research, their academic achievements, and their aspirations. This will help you write a more personalized and impactful letter.
• Focus on achievements: When writing your letter, highlight the student’s achievements and the impact of their research. This will demonstrate their value and potential to the admissions committee or potential employer.
• Provide examples: Use specific examples to illustrate your points. This will help the reader understand the student’s strengths and accomplishments. It’s also a good idea to include examples of challenges the student faced and how they overcame them.
• Be honest: Don’t exaggerate the student’s accomplishments or abilities. Be honest and provide a balanced view of their strengths and weaknesses. Admissions committees and employers value letters that are transparent and authentic.
• Be concise: Keep your letter brief and to the point. You don’t want to overwhelm the reader with unnecessary details. Focus on the most significant accomplishments and areas of strength.
• Use a professional format: Use a professional format for your letter, starting with a formal greeting and closing. Address the letter to the appropriate person, and include the student’s name and program details.
• Proofread: Before submitting your letter, make sure to proofread it carefully. Correct any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation, and ensure that the letter is structured well and easy to read.
• End with a strong recommendation: End your letter with a strong recommendation for the student. Be confident in your endorsement, and close by offering to provide further information or support if needed.

Writing a letter of recommendation for a PhD student requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the student’s strengths and potential. By following these tips, you can create a compelling letter that highlights the student’s achievements and positions them as a strong candidate for their desired program or career path. Remember, honesty, specificity, and professionalism are key elements of an effective letter of recommendation.

Well, there you have it, folks! A letter of recommendation template for PhD students! I hope this has been helpful in alleviating some of the stress associated with asking for letters of recommendation. Remember to personalize the template with your own unique accomplishments and achievements. Be creative, and don’t be afraid to show your personality through your writing. And always, always, always show gratitude to those who have taken the time to write a letter for you. Thank you for reading and be sure to visit us again for more useful tips and tricks. Wishing you all the best on your academic journey!

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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

When someone asks you to write a graduate school letter of recommendation , it demonstrates that they value your opinion, trust you and believe in your writing skills.

But as flattering as it is to be asked, there is also some pressure associated with crafting an effective and convincing letter of recommendation. After all, the applicant is counting on you to influence the admissions board and highlight their accomplishments, strengths and skill sets.

The good news is, writing a graduate school letter of recommendation is more intuitive than you think. Below, we’ve rounded up all the tips you need to write the perfect letter for anyone in your sphere.

What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

First off, let’s go over what a letter of recommendation is.

A letter of recommendation is a brief, written endorsement needed for certain jobs, programs or schools that details a person’s qualifications for whatever they’re applying for.

It’s written by a trusted and valued source: usually a past employer, teacher, mentor or colleague. In a letter of recommendation for graduate school, the writer describes the person’s skills, their personality and why they’re the right fit for the program. This is all so the institution has confirmation of the applicant’s ability to succeed in the program.

If you don’t believe you’re the right fit to write a student’s recommendation, that’s OK, too. You can politely decline and explain to the student why. You can also offer to help them find someone else who’s a more appropriate choice.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Writing a Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

Once you’ve decided to accept and write the letter of recommendation, take a moment to consider some key questions before you begin crafting your statement.

• What is your relationship like with this person?
• What do you think of their work you’ve seen? How would you describe it?
• What are significant memories you have with them?
• What qualities or strengths does this person have?
• What would you specifically want somebody to know about this person?
• What value would this person bring to this grad school program, and how would they thrive in the field after the program?

What to Ask From Someone Before Writing a Letter of Recommendation

Of course, there is some student information you’ll want to obtain before starting your recommendation. To ensure you’re addressing all the right points and representing them in the best light possible, make sure you ask them the below questions.

The basics . First off, you should find out where this letter is going, to whom it should be addressed, what the deadlines are and how they’d like you to submit it (mail, email, etc.).

Why they want to go to this program and why they are drawn to this school . It’s important to know the motivation behind their graduate school studies: Is it for the love of learning? To get a better job? To switch fields altogether? This will help inform what you write in the letter. Similarly, it’s good to know why a specific school is calling them as well.

Any strengths or qualities they want highlighted . Each person will have different qualities they want you to discuss in their letter of recommendation. If the strengths they mention are ones you agree with and seem relevant to the degree program, definitely include them. You should also ask about what achievements they’ve made that will help them stand out from the crowd of applicants.

Their resume . No one can memorize a person’s entire job and education history. A resume can help remind you of special projects and exemplary work they’ve accomplished in the past, which you can then emphasize in your letter.

What to Include in a Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

There are specific things you should always include in a letter of recommendation for graduate school to make it shine and improve the applicant’s chances of admission.

These are the points that you must undoubtedly touch on throughout your recommendation:

How do you know the applicant? It’s important to describe who you are and how you know the applicant, as well as how long you’ve known them. Personal anecdotes are a must, and they boost your credibility.

Why are they a good fit for the program? Include an explanation for why you think they would specifically thrive in the program. Avoid being vague or general. Dive into why the school would be the perfect fit, and vice versa!

What are their most shining accomplishments? Describe their achievements, especially the ones you’ve personally witnessed. In addition, reference their top strengths and qualities. Again, avoid generalities and use vivid anecdotes.

Can you explain any gaps or discrepancies? A letter of recommendation is often a good time to clear up any troubling parts of the student’s resume or work history — perhaps there was an employment gap or grades dip because they were caring for a sick relative, for example. If you’re aware of any weak spots on their resume from extenuating circumstances, this is the time to note it.

What sets the applicant apart from the rest? Be sure to conclude on a strong note with a very clear, concise recommendation. Highlight what sets them apart from other people, so the program can clearly understand why they should admit this candidate into their college or university.

How to Format and Structure a Graduate School Letter of Recommendation

As for structure, letters of recommendation should not be longer than a page. Start off with a greeting (“Dear [Name]” or “To Whom It May Concern,” if you don’t know the recipient). In the opening paragraph, explain who you are, the nature of your relationship with the student and your overall impression of them.

Within the body of the letter, you can expand on their personality, skills and achievements — along with personal anecdotes — before wrapping up with a final strong and clear recommendation for the applicant.

Then, feel free to add in a polite offer to contact you if they need more information and a formal parting signature. Double-check for spelling and grammar, too, as any mistake could weaken your credibility.

Once you’ve proofread the letter, all you have to do is submit it as instructed and patiently wait for an update from the applicant. Best of luck!

For more information, explore  USC Online ’s master’s degrees, doctoral programs and graduate certificates.

Sample Graduate School Recommendation by a Professor

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The success of your graduate school application relies on the quality of the recommendation letters professors write on your behalf. What goes into a helpful recommendation letter? Check out the sample letter of recommendation written by a professor. What makes it work?

An Effective Recommendation Letter for Graduate School 

• Explains how the professor knows the student. The professor speaks to the student’s abilities in several contexts rather than just in class.
• Is detailed.
• Supports statements with specific examples.
• Compares a student to her peers and the letter explains exactly what makes the student stand out.
• Describes a student's capacities in specific ways rather than simply noting that she is an excellent student prepared for grad school.

Below is the body of an effective recommendation letter, written by a professor.

To: Graduate Admissions Committee

It is my pleasure to write on behalf of Jane Student, who is applying to the Ph.D. program in Research Psychology at Major University. I have interacted with Jane in several contexts: as a student, as a teaching assistant, and as a thesis mentee.

I first met Jane in 2008, when she enrolled in my introductory Psychology class. Jane immediately stood out from the crowd, even as a first-semester freshman. Just a few months out of high school, Jane demonstrated characteristics commonly held by the best college students. She was attentive in class, prepared, submitted well-written and thoughtful assignments, and participated in meaningful ways, such as by debating other students. Throughout, Jane modeled critical thinking skills. Needless to say, Jane earned one of five A’s awarded in that class of 75 students. Since her first semester in college Jane has enrolled in six of my classes. She demonstrated similar competencies, and her skills grew with each semester. Most striking is her ability to tackle challenging material with enthusiasm and endurance. I teach a required course in Statistics that, as rumor has it, most students dread. Students’ fears of statistics are legendary across institutions, but Jane wasn’t fazed. As usual, she was prepared for class, completed all assignments, and attended help sessions conducted by my teaching assistant . My teaching assistant reported that Jane seemed to learn concepts quickly, learning how to solve problems well before the other students. When placed in group work sessions, Jane easily adopted a leadership role, helping her peers learn how to solve problems on their own. It was these competencies that led me to offer Jane a position as a teaching assistant for my statistics class.

As a teaching assistant, Jane strengthened many of the skills I have articulated. In this position, Jane held review sessions and offered out-of-class assistance to students. She also lectured in class several times during the semester. Her first lecture was a bit shaky. She clearly knew the concepts but had difficulty keeping pace with PowerPoint slides. When she abandoned the slides and worked off the blackboard, she improved. She was able to answer students questions and the two that she couldn’t answer, she admitted to and said she’d get back to them. As a first lecture, she was very good. Most important to a career in academics, is that she improved in subsequent lectures. Leadership, humility, the ability to see areas in need of improvement, and the willingness to do the work needed to improve – these are all characteristics we value in academia.

Most important to a career in academics is research competence. As I have explained, Jane has an excellent grasp of statistics and other skills critical to a successful career in research, such as tenacity and excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills. As mentor of her senior thesis, I witnessed Jane in her first independent research efforts. Similar to other students, Jane struggled with finding an appropriate topic. Unlike other students, she conducted mini literature reviews on potential topics and discussed her ideas with a sophistication that is unusual for undergraduates. After methodical study, she chose a topic that fits her academic goals. Jane’s project examined [X]. Her project earned a department award, university award, and was presented as a paper at a regional psychology association.

In closing, I believe that Jane student has the capacity to excel at X and in a career as a research psychologist. She is one of a small handful of student that I have encountered in my 16 years teaching undergraduates that has this ability. Please do not hesitate to contact me with further questions.

Why This Letter Is Effective

• It is written by a professor who has extensive experience with the applicant .
• The professor describes several aspects of the student's competence.
• It describes how the student has grown and developed her skills.

What does this mean for you as a potential applicant to grad school ? Work to foster close, multidimensional relationships with faculty. Develop good relationships with several faculty because one professor often cannot comment on all of your strengths. Good graduate school letters of recommendation are built over time. Take that time to get to know professors and for them to get to know you.

• Grad School Recommendation Letter by a Professor Sample Template
• Graduate School Recommendation Letter From Professor
• Should You Ask a Teaching Assistant for a Recommendation Letter?
• Should You Get a Recommendation for Grad School from Your Therapist?
• Don'ts for Getting Letters of Recommendation for Grad School
• Thanking a Professor for Writing a Recommendation Letter
• Is Midlife too Late for Graduate School?
• What Is an Assistantship?
• How to Get Recommendation Letters for Grad School
• NonTraditional Applicants to Grad School: 3 Tips for Getting Recommendations
• Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters
• Avoid These Common Mistakes Students Make in Grad School
• Who Should You Ask for a Recommendation Letter?
• Get a Letter of Recommendation From an Online University
• Should You Write Your Own Recommendation Letter for Graduate School?
• Characteristics of Effective Grad School Recommendation Letters

Reference-Letter.com

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Sample Reference Letter

Reference letter for a phd candidate.

A successful application to a PhD program almost always requires letters of recommendation from former university lecturers and professors. They are the main point of reference when it comes to assessing an applicant's qualification for a PhD program. The letter below is a good example for a former MSc student, who now wants to pursue a PhD in the same field. It is already somewhat specifically addressed, as it directly refers to a doctorare degree in Linguistics.

Dear Sir or Madam,

it is my pleasure to acquaint you with one of my most outstanding students, Ravi Egilsson, who is keen to pursue the Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics at your esteemed institution.

I have known Ravi since 2010, when he enrolled into the Master of Science in Speech Analytics here at Oxbridge University. As part of this programme, Ravi took my course on Automated Speech Processing and joined my practical seminar on Pattern Processing. I also supervised him for his thesis project, a smartphone app that can translate a range of simple infant phonetisms into spoken language.

Ravi presented outstanding commitment to his studies, and finished his degree within the top 10% of his class. He was a quite remarkable student with a strong research interest. Among his peers, he stood out by always being up-to-date with currently topical discussions even within niches of linguistical research. The quality of his research work on his thesis project was compelling, and he managed to find beautifully simple solutions to very challenging problems.

With his multicultural background and fluent proficiency of English, Swedish and Hindi he was able to approach many scientific questions from different angles. During the courses, he always made many valuable contributions to group discussions. Finally, it should not be left unmentioned that Ravi is a very pleasant person to work with.

I respect Ravi's decision to further pursue his specific research interests at your university, and I am confident that he will be a highly valuable addition to your PhD program, where he could develop and apply his extraordinary talents. Furthermore, I am certain that he would qualify for any means of financial aid that you could offer him, and I also strongly recommend him for a position as a teaching or research assistant. Should you have any questions with regards to Ravi Egilsson, I will be pleased to answer them.

Klemens Rapper

Professor Oxbridge University

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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.

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PhD applicants: Everything you need to know about letters of recommendation

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In this blog post, Chris Blattman gives advice on what the purpose of recommendation letters is, who you should ask, and how to manage the process.

Excerpt: Will a professor write you a letter of recommendation? My answer: Writing student recommendations comes with the faculty job, and I usually write if asked. But since this academic territory is often so unfamiliar to grad and undergrad students, let me give some general guidelines and advice.

Read the full article here.

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• CAREER COLUMN
• 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

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.

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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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The Art of Applying®

MBA Admissions Consulting | MPP & MPA Admissions Consulting | Harvard Application Advice

PhD Series: Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School

posted on August 11, 2021

Recommendation letters are becoming an increasingly important component of graduate school applications. Applicants often have stellar GPAs, test scores, and extracurricular activities, making it difficult for admissions committees to differentiate between them. Letters of recommendation offer a unique opportunity for outstanding applicants to shine, by providing additional insight into their character and capabilities from experienced and trusted professionals.

When deliberating on who to ask for a letter of recommendation, consider professors or supervisors who can speak to your strengths (academic background, knowledge, skills, or character traits). Did you regularly attend office hours for a particular class or work in an undergraduate research laboratory? Even if you did not work directly with a research mentor, it’s worth asking them for a letter. Research professors (or “Principal Investigators”) will often ask their post-doctoral trainees and graduate students for additional feedback regarding your performance, making their letters both specific and personal.

How and When to Ask

While asking for letters of recommendation can be uncomfortable for applicants, writing them is a common responsibility for professors and supervisors. That is to say, don’t worry about it! Be direct, professional, and courteous in your email. The most common and biggest mistake applicants make with letters of recommendation is asking for them too late. This can be perceived as unprofessional, and may suggest that the applicant is irresponsible and disorganized. Instead, ask for letters 2-3 months prior to the deadline (the earlier the better). This allows recommenders plenty of time and flexibility to write the best possible letter.

Important Information to Include

After a recommender agrees to write a letter on your behalf, respond with the following pieces of information in an organized package: CV , Transcript , Personal Statement and/or Statement of Purpose , and Deadlines (click on the hyperlinks for advice regarding these pieces of your application). Do not forget to include detailed instructions on how to submit the letter, which varies based on program and institution. You may suggest your willingness to meet (now virtually due to the pandemic), but communicate that it is not necessary, as you recognize the time-commitment involved with writing a thorough letter. Ask if there is any additional information that would be helpful for them and then thank them again for their time. The key is to anticipate their needs and simplify this process as much as possible for them.Still feeling stressed about your letters of recommendation? The Art of Applying is here to help. Our experienced team of consultants have trained at the top academic institutions in the world and more importantly, are dedicated to your success. To learn more about how we can help, click here to schedule your free 15-minute Quick Call with one of our consultants.

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Requesting Letters of Recommendation

What admissions committees look for in a recommendation letter.

After the writing sample, one of the most important parts of an application to a doctoral program is your recommendation letters. Together, these letters help to paint a picture of the kind of student you have been and the kind of student and colleague you are likely to be in the future. The purpose of this page is to offer more detail about letters of reference.

The general guidelines: you should prepare for at least three letters of recommendation, and

• Ask for your letters well in advance of your deadlines
• Send your recommenders any additional application materials that might help them write a strong letter for you.
• Make sure you let your recommenders know specific things that you’d like them to speak about in their letters (e.g., your research or your teaching abilities)

Because these letters are so important, you’ll need to consider carefully whom to ask to write a letter for you. In most cases, these will be from professors in whose classes you’ve done well, or with whom you have a particular connection (e.g., you did an independent study with them, or they’ve mentored you). But it’s not necessarily the case that any professor will do. As you think about whom to ask to write a reference letter, consider the points below.

• Rank and connection to the university: It’s impossible to know what a particular admissions committee looks for in terms of seniority, tenure status, etc. However, a general guideline is that you’d ideally like at least one person with a long and deep familiarity with higher education, admissions processes, and the general profile of graduate students applying to PhDs. This experience can often give a recommender a particularly broad perspective that committees appreciate.
• Area of specialization: This is one of the most important aspects of selecting recommenders. A committee will want to know whether someone with extensive research and publications in the student’s interest area judges their potential to be excellent. So, a less-senior faculty member in your area of interest may be a far better recommender than someone who works in a different area but has been around longer.
• Setting aside the important issues of interest areas and personal characteristics, talents, or skill sets outside of the discipline, what admissions committees are usually looking for in a candidate is someone who already has a significant understanding of the literature in which they intend to specialize; has a general understanding of professional norms in the field; has been very successful in coursework (where “successful” means A-level work); has original, important ideas and perspectives; and is ready or close to being ready to write articles suitable for publication. So, the strongest reference letter would give evidence for each of those claims, and you should choose references who can write strongly in these areas.
• Finally, in particular cases you may want to ask an unusual recommender candidate to write you a letter addressing a particular skill. For example, if you are expert in an instrument, a language, a form of community engagement, etc., that person can make the case for you that this is a serious area of commitment in which you are already prepared to do work – not just something you’re using to puff up your application.

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Every applicant must meet the minimum requirements given below. However, merely satisfying these requirements does not guarantee admission.

• The application window for Spring 2024 will be from August 1, 2023 to August 31, 2023.
• The application window for Fall 2024 will be from October 1, 2023 to February 1, 2024.

Admission to Classified Standing (Domestic):

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering from an ABET accredited engineering program in the USA.
• A minimum grade point average of 2.85 (based on 4.0 scale) in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units of technical course work.

Admission to Classified Standing (International):

International applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation or Computer Engineering from a recognized engineering program.
• An equivalent grade point average of 3.0 (based on 4.0 scale) or higher in all technical course work.
• A minimum TOEFL score of 85 or minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Please note that the minimum TOEFL score required by the program is higher than the minimum required score of the university.
• International applicants may submit an evaluation report from IERF, WES, or ECE for faster processing.

For international students with admission questions, please contact the International Admissions Office at [email protected] or go to their website https://admissions.sdsu.edu/international/graduate .

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GRE scores are not required.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

TOEFL or equivalent scores for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 admission cycles will be required .

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The Electrical Engineering program does not require a Statement of Purpose (SOP) as it is not taken into consideration with making admission decisions. Please do not send an SOP.

Unofficial Transcripts and Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

Unofficial transcripts and one mandatory LOR are required for both the MSEE and MSCompE degree applicants. Applicants should upload their unofficial transcripts and LOR to Interfolio:

• Computer Engineering (Spring 2024): https://apply.interfolio.com/128692
• Electrical Engineering (Spring 2024): https://apply.interfolio.com/128924
• Computer Engineering (Fall 2024): https://apply.interfolio.com/131275
• Electrical Engineering (Fall 2024): https://apply.interfolio.com/131958

Please ensure that the LOR is submitted on an official letterhead of the organization that the referee is professionally affiliated with. The LOR should also have the referee’s official designation/rank in his/her organization. The referee should specify the capacity and duration for which he/she has known the applicant. The applicant’s first and last name along with the Red ID or EMPL ID (if possible) should be included in the letter. The letter can be uploaded in the form of a pdf file.

If you have questions regarding the submission of your unofficial transcripts and LORs, please contact Dr. Santosh Nagaraj at [email protected] . Please note your "official" transcripts will need to be sent to the Admissions Office (see the next paragraph regarding official documents) .

Submission of Official Documents

Submission of official documents, such as TOEFL score and official transcripts, need to be sent to the SDSU Graduate Admissions office. Documents sent to the department via email or regular mail/delivery services will not be accepted and will be discarded.

You must complete the Cal State Apply application and provide your official test scores and transcripts to the SDSU Graduate Admissions office (follow the instructions on Graduate Steps to Apply ).

For more information on how to apply please visit the Office of Admissions - SDSU Main Campus Master's Degrees page.

Important Note:

Please DO NOT send official documents to the department. All official documents should be sent to the SDSU Graduate Admissions office.

Scholarships and Financial Support

A limited number of resident tuition waiver scholarships are available for new students. These scholarships are highly competitive. Students who want to be considered for these scholarships must submit their applications as soon as possible. Applications received after JANUARY 15th will not be considered for scholarships.

Other means of financial support are also available for our graduate students, including Teaching Assistantship and Grader positions. Most of our faculty are carrying out cutting-edge research; they hire students as Research Assistants (or provide Tuition Assistance) to work on their sponsored research projects.

For more information on financial aid and scholarships please visit the Financial Aid and Scholarships site at https://sacd.sdsu.edu/financial-aid .

Professional Career Opportunities

San Diego is home to many hi-tech companies in wireless communication and networks, VLSI, signal processing, RF/microwave and bio-technology. Many of our graduates are employed by these companies.

Graduate students have many opportunities to work as interns in these companies. The ECE Department allows graduate students in good academic standing to work as interns through the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program.

How to Apply

You may apply to the M.S.E.E program by using the information on the Office of Admissions - SDSU Main Campus Master's Degrees page. For additional information on San Diego State University's College of Graduate Studies please see the College of Graduate Studies website.

Admission for Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families

For information on admission for veterans, service members, and military families, please click on the Joan and Art Barron Veterans Center .

For Veterans Who Are Undergraduate or Graduate Students

The Troops to Engineers program provides specialized career assistance for student veterans seeking to improve their professional development skills, obtain paid internships and secure engineering specific employment upon graduation.

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Home Business Verification Forms Employment (Income)

Employment (Income) Verification Letter

Use our employment verification letter to prove an individual’s salary and employment status.

Updated May 28, 2024 Written by Ioana Gagiuc | Reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.

An employment verification letter confirms an individual’s current or past employment status and details. It validates income or employment history for loan applications, lease agreements, immigration purposes, and other use cases.

Employment Verification vs. Salary Verification

The main objective of an employment verification letter is to verify employment status rather than providing specific salary information, whereas a salary verification letter specifically confirms an individual’s income or salary with a company.

What Is an Employment Verification Letter?

How to verify employment, how to request an employment verification letter, how to write an employment verification letter, employment verification letter sample, frequently asked questions.

An employment verification letter (or proof of income letter) verifies a previous or current employee’s salary, employment history, and job responsibilities.

A verification letter is also a common third-party prerequisite to confirm that an individual has the income to make monthly payments for a significant expenditure — whether for a lease, mortgage, or loan.

Verifying parties typically submit this document in business letter format with their name, job title and contact information, current date, and the employee’s income or job status. It does not only verify employment but also may include additional details such as eligibility for rehire or the reason for termination in cases where applicable.

Who Needs an Employment Verification Letter?

The following people, businesses, and organizations may ask for employment verification letters to learn more about an individual’s work experience and salary details:

• Purpose of the Letter: To confirm an individual will be responsible and make timely rent payments.
• Purpose of the Letter: To assess applicants’ income stability and ability to repay the loan when they apply for loans, mortgages, or other financial products.
• Purpose of the Letter: To confirm the employment details the candidate provides. They may reference the information provided on the employee’s I-9 Form to confirm their employment eligibility and status.
• Purpose of the Letter: To determine their eligibility when they apply for specific positions.

An employment letter may also be necessary for immigration, work permits, or visa processes to assess an individual’s employment status and income.

Information to Avoid

• Employers must exercise honesty and discretion when providing information about former employees. They should stick to factual, employment-related details like dates and job titles, avoiding delving into termination reasons.
• Compliance with federal, state, and local laws regarding disclosure is essential, especially considering sensitive issues like child custody cases, where the letter’s content could be used as evidence.

Step 1 – Receive the Individual’s Employment Verification Letter

If you haven’t yet received an individual’s income verification letter, you can request that they send it to you. Examine the document for potential issues, such as discrepancies in basic information or inconsistencies with the individual’s provided details.

Step 2 – Look Up the Organization

Check the status of the business entity to confirm it’s real. Every state has a searchable business directory tool that you can use to conduct your research. Ensure the author of the individual’s letter matches the information on the Secretary of State’s website.

Step 3 – Contact the Employer

Get in touch with the employer via email or phone to confirm they composed and signed the letter. If you’re contacting them by phone, do so during traditional business hours for the best chance of a response. If the person you want to speak with isn’t available, ask their secretary or assistant to set up a virtual meeting time.

Step 4 – Request Pay Stubs

Ask for two of their most recent pay stubs. If they can’t provide this information, you may instead ask for proof of income like:

• Bank statements
• Tax returns ( Form 1040 )
• Wage and tax statements ( W-2 Form )
• Social Security proof of income/benefits verification
• Proof of workers’ compensation

Step 5 – Obtain the Previous Two Years’ Tax Returns

In many cases, self-employed individuals receive payments in cash. In such situations, it is advisable to obtain at least the tax returns from the past two years. Every individual in the U.S. must fulfill their tax responsibilities to the federal government, so if they earn any form of income, they will have filed a tax return.

• For Individuals: Request IRS Form W-2.
• For Self-Employed Individuals: Request IRS Form 1040. Additionally, ask for IRS Form 4506-T , which allows the federal government to authenticate the self-employed individual’s income from the previous year. Processing is free and typically takes around one business day.

Step 6 – Run a Credit Report

Use a background check authorization form to collect the person’s information. Then, run a credit report through one of the three major credit reporting agencies: Transunion, Experian, and Equifax.

Here’s how to ask for an employment verification letter depending on whether you’re a former employee or an external party:

If You’re the Employee

• Consult your supervisor or manager. This is often the most straightforward method for requesting the letter. However, ensure to offer complete details and context for clarity.
• Contact the human resources department. Certain organizations have established formal procedures requiring engagement with the HR department.
• Complete a request form. Fill out the request form your HR department provides you. Supply specific information you’d like them to include in the letter, such as your employment dates and status (full-time versus part-time).
• Note the recipient. Indicate if you want them to send the letter to the requestor or give it to you so you can supply it to the appropriate party.
• Follow up. If you haven’t received word that they’ve written and delivered your letter within a reasonable timeframe, check on the status of your letter.

Employment Verification Request Example

Hi [Insert name],

I am applying for a lease, and the landlord has requested proof of my employment. They’ve asked that you verify my dates of employment, job title, and salary.

Their address is: [Insert address]

They also accept verification via fax at [insert number]. Please let me know if there’s anything else you need.

[Position and Company]

If You’re an External Party

• Seek authorization from the individual. You must obtain explicit permission from the employee before you pursue the process of getting an income verification letter.
• Contact the employer. Find the designated contact for employment verification requests at the individual’s company.
• Specify the information you want. Be specific about the information you want, such as their income and employment length.
• Indicate the delivery method. Clarify how you’d like to receive the letter, whether via certified mail, fax, or in person.

Here are the steps to follow when writing an employment verification form:

Step 1 – Provide the Employer’s Details

Write down the employer’s details. Include the name (or company) of the current or past employer verifying the employment and the address.

Step 2 – Enter the Requesting Party’s Details

Provide the name and address of the party requesting the employment verification, such as a bank or a landlord. If the requester is unknown, leave this blank.

Write the name of the contact person for the party requesting verification. If the requester is unknown, use “To Whom It May Concern” to address the letter.

Step 3 – Fill in Verification Details

Enter the name of the verified person. Also, provide their employment details, like their employer’s name, job title, employment start date, and company’s address.

Include supporting documents within this letter to verify the employee’s salary and bonus, if any. Remember that there are state and local laws regarding salary disclosure, and some require employee authorization.

Step 4 – Provide the Employer’s Contact Information

Write the employer’s contact details, including their phone number and email address. Before sending, ensure to carefully edit and proofread the letter.

Step 5 – Get Notary Acknowledgement (Optional)

While this letter doesn’t require notarization, it can add to its legitimacy. If you’d like, have a notary witness the employer’s signature for authenticity.

Download an employment verification letter template in PDF or Word format below:

How much proof of income do I need to provide?

It depends. Some lenders may want to see you earn a specific amount to ensure you meet your monthly payments. They may also want to see income verification for a specific period, such as the last two months.

Can I use a bank statement alone as proof of income?

You can use bank statements as supplementary documents, but landlords and lending financial institutions may often request pay stubs as primary proof of income.

What if I don’t have any traditional proof of income?

If you’re applying for a loan, you can have a cosigner sign for you. This person pledges to pay back the loan if you default, so you won’t necessarily need to provide proof of income.

Suppose you’re applying to rent an apartment or home. In this case, you may need to present nontraditional proof of income, such as bank statements, a letter from your current employer, an invoice/contract of the work you’ve completed recently, or a profit/loss statement.

How long should I keep copies of my proof of income documents?

It depends on the exact document. According to the IRS , you should keep tax returns and related documents for two years from when you paid your obligations or three years from when you filed the original return (whichever is later).

Retain your paystubs until you receive your W-2 for that year. Retain bank statements for at least one year unless you need them for important matters (like home purchases or taxes). In this case, keep them for at least three years.

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