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!
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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
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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 .
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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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We require three letters of recommendation with your application.
In selecting your recommenders, choose individuals who can provide an overall evaluation of your readiness and potential to succeed as a doctoral student and ultimately as a researcher and professor.
Selecting Your Referees
Our faculty prefers that all recommendation letters be written by academics. They can be your instructors, your advisors, or, in the case of applicants who hold teaching jobs, your colleagues.
In some cases, it may be appropriate to ask nonacademic individuals, as long as they can best speak about your academic abilities.
If you have been out of school for a significant period of time, you may substitute non-academic recommenders of your choice.
Recommendation Requirements
You are responsible for ensuring that all three recommendation letters are submitted online by the application deadline .
Federal law provides, after enrollment, a right of access to letters of reference if retained by the school, and if the right has not been waived; no school may require an applicant to waive this right. You will be asked to read, choose, and sign in regard to your right of access to each recommendation letter.
It is highly inappropriate to draft or write your own letter of reference, even if asked to do so by your referee. If the individual insists on this approach, you should find another referee.
Registering Your Recommenders
You must register your recommender in the online application. Go to the “Recommendation Letters” tab and enter the names and contact information — including a valid email address — for each recommender. You may submit your application after all three recommenders have been registered; you do not need to wait for your recommenders to submit their recommendation letters.
Submitting Letters of Recommendation
Individuals writing letters of recommendation on your behalf are required to submit them through the online application.* Once you register a recommender, he or she will receive an email confirmation with instructions to log in and submit his/her recommendation letter. Once a letter has been submitted, your recommender will receive an email confirming that the submission was successful. Be sure to ask your recommender to use your formal name when writing your recommendation letter.
Check the Status of Your Letters of Recommendation
You can log in to the online application to verify whether all letters of recommendation have been received and to also send your recommenders a reminder if necessary. We cannot guarantee the review of any materials received after the deadline.
*Unless an exception has been made by our office, hard copies of recommendation letters will not be accepted. If your recommender cannot submit his/her letter of recommendation online, contact our office to receive a hard copy of the recommender form.
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Letter Of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Format & How to Write
Updated on 29 january, 2024.
Anupriya Mukherjee
Sr. content writer.
A letter of recommendation 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 objective analysis of applicants. PhD courses usually require two to three recommendations. These provide committees with an overview of the applicant’s core strengths, skills, and accomplishments.
Table of Contents
Lor for phd : guidelines:.
- Academic LOR:
- Professional LOR:
Introduction:
Conclusion:, popular guides to simplify your study abroad journey, sample lor for phd:, important tips to write lor for phd, download country guides (free pdfs).
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 candidature 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 PhD 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 PhD is classified into two categories:
Academic LOR:
Academic letter of recommendation is provided by the professor of your educational institution. Most commonly, you are asked to provide two academic LORs for PhD in an international university. In such LORs, professors need to highlight the applicant’s capabilities and achievements. It should reflect the recommender’s perspective about you and your research ideas.
Professional LOR:
The applicant’s professional letter of recommendation is asked 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 a LOR for PhD?
When your recommender is willing to write your LOR for 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 PhD 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 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 candidature 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 sample 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 aspirant’s particular skill or quality.
- Recommenders should emphasize 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 PhD is one of many ways of writing it.
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 helps him/her obtain admission in the (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).
(Name of Referee)
Designation:
Phone Number:
Following important tips should be considered while writing a LOR for 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 PhD should differ from each other.
- Your LOR should showcase your qualities, capabilities, and strengths.
- Online recommendation forms should be submitted much 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.
In conclusion, 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. It provides the admissions committee with valuable insights from a third-party perspective, often influencing the final decision. 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. A strong Letter of Recommendation, which effectively captures the essence of the candidate's skills and potential, can significantly enhance the application, making it stand out in a competitive academic landscape.
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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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Before applying, confirm that three faculty members or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study have agreed to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf. At least one letter should be from a faculty member at the school where you earned your most recent degree, unless you have been out of school for more than five years.
Your recommenders must submit their letters through the recommender portal by the application deadline: Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept letters submitted via email, mail, or a dossier service.
During the application process, you will be asked whether you wish to waive your right to see these letters. By law, enrolled students have the right to view their letters of recommendation unless they indicate otherwise at the time of application. Learn more about your right to inspect letters of recommendation .
Can I submit my application before my recommenders submit their letters?
Yes. Please remember that letters of recommendation must be received by the graduate program’s application deadline.
How many letters of recommendation can be included in my application?
Harvard Griffin GSAS requires three letters of recommendation. You may ask additional recommenders to submit letters if you choose, however, it is not guaranteed that the admissions committee will review additional letters.
What if my recommender is unable to submit a letter in English?
If you have a recommender who is unable to submit a letter in English, they can choose to obtain a certified English translation of their letter. The recommender would need to upload a copy of their original letter in the language it was written, a copy of the English translation of the letter, and verification from the professional translator certifying the translation. Translations must be literal and complete versions of the original record. Harvard Griffin GSAS does not endorse a specific translator or translation service.
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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (With Templates)
Table of Contents
What is a letter of recommendation, tips for writing a letter of recommendation, how to ask for a letter of recommendation, letter of recommendation templates , frequently asked questions.
A letter of recommendation is a snapshot of a person’s strengths, talents, and qualifications for potential employers. Typically requested from past supervisors, managers, and professors, these letters carry significant weight in hiring. The more personalized these letters are, focusing on a job seeker’s abilities, the more effective they become.
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While employing a suitable template is helpful (and encouraged), here are some tips on how to make them effective.
Discuss the Letter With the Candidate
Clarifying the letter’s purpose up front helps shape your approach. If it’s for a character reference, you can emphasize the person’s qualities that showcase their integrity and trustworthiness.
For job applications, focus on achievements related to the role. Sharing a story about project leadership or successful client interactions makes a compelling case, and it will increase the job seeker’s chances of getting an interview.
The person requesting the letter should share supplemental information with you, such as their most recent resume, contact information for the recipient, the job description, and any specific details they want to include. You should also know of any deadlines so the letter can be sent accordingly.
Do Your Own Research
You may need to review your firsthand experiences with the person requesting the letter, mainly if it’s been a while since you shared a professional relationship with them. If you have access to employment or educational records, they can be a valuable source of information and may inspire some helpful talking points.
If you don’t have these documents, reflect on your relationship with the person. Consider any projects or tasks they may have worked on with you. From there, pinpoint a few highlights, such as developing a novel solution to a challenging problem or completing a task before the deadline.
Personal attributes can also strongly impact recommendation letters. Remember to recall the person’s outstanding qualities, such as interpersonal skills.
Format Your Letter for Maximum Impact
There are specific details to include in your letter to make the best impression:
- Start with a welcome
- State the purpose of the recommendation
- Include reasons for your support
- Share how the candidate has made an impact
- Wrap up the letter with an endorsement
- Add your contact information
- Close with a formal sign-off
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There are factors to consider for job seekers deciding who to ask for a letter of recommendation. The person should be well acquainted with you and your professional output and view your contributions favorably. While not mandatory, recommendation letters are more effective when they come from a supervisor or another authority figure.
When requesting a letter of recommendation, politeness matters—mentioning specific qualities you admire in the person, such as solid leadership skills, can strengthen your request.
Also, give the person ample time to research and write the letter. The ideal time to discuss recommendation letters is when you leave a job or graduate from college.
Also, remember that some people may not have the time or feel comfortable writing a letter. In this case, sincerely thank them for their time. Remember, empathy and understanding matter, especially when receiving news you don’t like.
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Below are two recommendation letter templates, each thoughtfully designed to help you articulate the job seeker’s strengths and achievements. These templates provide a solid foundation you can personalize to suit different purposes.
1. Template for Job Seekers
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Company/Organization]
Dear [Recipient Name],
Please accept my enthusiastic recommendation of [Candidate Name] for [Job Title/Position] at [Company/Organization].
My name is [Your Name], and I [worked/collaborated] with [Candidate Name] at [Company] for [length of time]. During that time, I [explain your professional relationship with the candidate] and was genuinely impressed by the contributions [they] made to the workplace.
[Candidate Name] exhibited [one to two qualities] and played an essential role in [work task/project]. Because of [their] contributions, [Employer/Organization] was able to [specific achievement], which might not have been possible without [Candidate Name’s] assistance.
Additionally, [Candidate Name] exhibits [specific quality] and proved to be a significant asset to [Employer/Organization]. I can easily say that [Candidate Name] is among the most [specific qualities] of all the [employees/collaborators] with whom I’ve been professionally acquainted.
Based on my experience, I’m confident that [Candidate Name] would make an outstanding addition to your [Company/Organization]. Please feel comfortable contacting me at [phone number] or [email] if you’d like to learn more about [Candidate name] and [their] impressive achievements.
[Your Name and Title]
2. Template for Students
Recipient Name]
Please accept my enthusiastic recommendation of [Student Name] for [Job Title/Position/Opening] at [Company/Organization].
My name is [Your Name], and I am [Title] at [Academic Institution]. [Student Name] was my [description of academic relationship] for [length of time]. During that time, I was genuinely impressed by the contributions [Student Name] made to [Academic Program/Project].
[Student Name] consistently exhibited [one to three qualities] in my class. While working on [Academic Program/Project], [they] was responsible for [specific achievement] that set the bar relatively high for other students working on [Academic Program/Project].
Additionally, [Student Name] stood out among my pupils thanks to [their] [specific quality/qualities] and remained a bright point of my academic career. I would be overjoyed to collaborate with [Student Name] in the future, and I know they’d make an outstanding addition to your team.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me via [phone number] or [email] if you have further questions or want more information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
A well-crafted letter of recommendation provides concrete evidence that an applicant has made noteworthy achievements in professional or academic settings. It also illustrates that the person has forged lasting connections, which speaks to their character. These letters and a strong resume can boost a job seeker’s chances of snagging an interview.
It’s essential to consider the source when obtaining recommendation letters for a job application. While letters from co-workers can undoubtedly speak to your teamwork abilities, it’s best to seek out letters from managers or individuals in positions of authority whenever possible. These sources are better suited to provide a comprehensive assessment of your skills and job performance, which can be invaluable for hiring.
It’s perfectly acceptable to submit a letter of recommendation via email. In this case, double-check the email address to ensure the letter goes to the correct person. Perform the same due diligence if sending the letter in the mail, and make sure you have the correct suite or office number for the recipient.
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No evidence foreign students are abusing UK graduate visas, review finds
Migration Advisory Committee says the risks are low, despite Tory claims the route is being exploited
There is no evidence of widespread abuse of the UK’s graduate visa route, the government’s immigration advisers have concluded, despite repeated claims from senior Conservatives that it is being exploited to enter the jobs market.
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) said the graduate visa entitlement – allowing international students to work for two or three years after graduating – should remain in place. Members said the risks of abuse were relatively low and were “not undermining” the integrity and quality of the higher education system.
The report’s release has stoked an internal Conservative party row over net migration, with senior rightwing MPs describing it as a “whitewash”.
Robert Jenrick, a former immigration minister, wrote that the committee’s inquiries were tightly controlled by the commission from James Cleverly , the home secretary.
“The MAC’s conclusions have clearly been constrained by the narrow terms of reference deliberately set by the government. If you order white paint, you get a whitewash,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
Neil O’Brien, a Tory MP who is an ally of Jenrick, described the report as a “whitewash” on Substack: “We are pursuing an arbitrary target, and the expansion of universities for their own sake.”
Another Conservative MP said backbenchers were “piling pressure” on Rishi Sunak to ignore the committee’s conclusions.
The government has so far declined to say whether it will accept the MAC recommendations. A source close to the home secretary said he would read the review thoroughly and listen to Prof Brian Bell, the committee’s chair, carefully before he makes any decision. They were due to meet on Tuesday afternoon.
The committee’s decision was greeted with relief by university vice-chancellors, who have warned that abolishing the graduate visa would spell financial turmoil for the sector. But higher education leaders said they still feared No 10 could cherrypick elements of the report to justify a further crackdown.
University leaders had been told to expect the government’s response in the middle of next week, alongside the publication of the ONS’s net migration figures. But the MAC report in favour of retaining graduate visas may have scuppered plans by ministers to use it as the centrepiece of a fresh crackdown.
Cleverly commissioned the review amid a growing clamour in Tory circles that graduate visas were being abused to gain access to employment.
Last week, Jenrick published a report with the Centre for Policy Studies thinktank that called for the graduate visa to be abolished, claiming it “allowed people to come and work in the gig economy and on very low wages”.
In a forthright response, Bell said: “Our review recommends the graduate route should remain as it is, and is not undermining the quality and integrity of the UK’s higher education system.
“The graduate route is a key part of the offer that we make to international students to come and study in the UK. The fees that these students pay helps universities to cover the losses they make in teaching British students and doing research. Without those students, many universities would need to shrink and less research would be done.”
The committee said:
There is no evidence of widespread abuse specifically for the graduate route. The risks of abuse are relatively low due to the limited number of conditions the route imposes.
There is concern about potential exploitation of both student and graduate visa holders due to poor practices by certain agents who recruit students on to courses and may be mis-selling UK higher education, but this is a separate issue from abuse of the rules of the graduate route.
114,000 graduate route visas were granted for main applicants in 2023 with a further 30,000 granted for dependants.
The use of the graduate route is concentrated among four nationalities: the top four – India, Nigeria, China and Pakistan – account for 70% of all graduate visas with India accounting for more than 40%.
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Most of those on the graduate route completed postgraduate taught courses.
Graduate visa holders are initially “overrepresented in lower-paid work” but their outcomes improve over time, the report said.
The MAC review was unable to assess the risk of overstaying due to a lack of Home Office data.
Alex Proudfoot, the chief executive of the representative body Independent Higher Education , said: “We urge the government to swiftly confirm they will follow their experts’ recommendation that the graduate visa be retained in its current form, and commit afresh to working with the education sector to maximise the benefits that international students bring.”
Tim Bradshaw, the chief executive of the Russell Group of leading research universities, said: “The overall message from the MAC is that the graduate route is achieving its objectives as set out by the government. We would therefore urge ministers to end the uncertainty and confirm as soon as possible that the route will continue in its entirety.”
In February, Universities UK (UUK) said it would review international student admissions processes after the allegations of “bad practice” by agents recruiting overseas students.
The MAC has recommended the government should establish a mandatory registration system for international recruitment agents, and universities should be required to publish data on their use of agents to “help protect the integrity” of the UK higher education system.
The review was launched in March after Cleverly instructed the committee, which gives independent advice to the government, to investigate “any evidence of abuse” of the graduate route, “including the route not being fit for purpose”, and to look at which universities were producing graduates who used the route.
Vivienne Stern, the chief executive of UUK, said: “The MAC’s recommendation that the graduate route should remain on its current terms is extremely important and welcome.
“The uncertainty caused by the decision to review the visa has been toxic,” she said. “We hope and expect that government now listens to the advice they have been given and provides categorical reassurance that the graduate visa is here to stay.”
A government spokesperson said: “We are committed to attracting the best and brightest to study at our world-class universities, whilst preventing abuse of our immigration system, which is why the home secretary commissioned an independent review of the graduate route.
“We have already taken decisive action to address unsustainable levels of migration and our plans are working, with a 24% drop in visa applications across key routes in the first three months of this year, compared with the same period last year.
“We are considering the review’s findings very closely and we will respond fully in due course.”
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Legal Templates
Home Business Letter of Recommendation Teacher
Letter of Recommendation for Teacher Template
Create a teacher letter of recommendation to showcase a teacher’s accomplishments and emphasize their qualifications for a new teaching position.
Updated May 13, 2024 Written by Raina Chou | Reviewed by Brooke Davis
A Letter of Recommendation for Teacher is a vital document that showcases a teacher’s professional abilities and personal qualities. It helps decision-makers in educational institutions understand why a candidate is the perfect fit for a specific teaching position.
Key Takeaways
- The letter writer should be someone of educational authority, such as a principal, department head, or another teaching colleague.
- Highlight the teacher’s unique skills and experiences that match the role they are applying for.
- Explain how the teacher’s values align with the prespective school’s culture.
- Use examples like improved test scores, leadership initiatives, or innovative projects to showcase the teacher’s impact.
Who Should Write
Keys for an effective teacher recommendation letter, how to write a letter of recommendation for teacher, sample letter of recommendation for teacher.
A teacher letter of recommendation should be written by someone who has closely observed the teacher’s professional conduct. This could be a principal, department head, another teaching colleague, or someone in a supervisory educational role .
Can a parent write a letter of recommendation for a teacher?
While parents can provide valuable perspectives, they are often not ideal for writing a teacher’s recommendation letter due to potential bias and lack of direct supervision. Letters from colleagues or educational supervisors carry more weight, as they can objectively assess teaching skills, classroom management, and contributions to the school’s educational goals.
Reference the Position
Tailor the recommendation to the specific teaching position. Highlight how the teacher’s skills and experiences make them particularly suited for the role.
Here are ways to effectively align the recommendation with the job requirements:
- Large Classroom Management : Highlight their proven ability to manage multiple students effectively . For example, mention a time when the teacher successfully implemented group projects and cooperative learning strategies that engaged a diverse group of students in a large classroom setting.
- Subject Specialization : Focus on the teacher’s depth of knowledge and passion for the subject. Discuss instances where the teacher went beyond the curriculum to enrich students’ understanding and interest, perhaps through innovative experiments, historical reenactments, or by integrating technology to create immersive learning experiences.
- Contributions to Private Institutions : Emphasize attributes that align with the institution’s specific philosophy and values . Mention the teacher’s ability to tailor lessons to individual learning styles, their involvement in extracurricular activities that support the school’s mission, or their contribution to community service initiatives that reflect the institution’s values.
Discuss the Candidate’s Values
Emphasize the teacher’s educational values and how they manifest in their teaching style and classroom management. Link these values to the school’s culture and mission to show alignment and potential contributions.
Examples can include:
- Commitment to Inclusivity : Explain how the teacher adapts lessons to accommodate different learning needs, encourages respectful discussions among students from diverse backgrounds, or creates a safe space where students are comfortable sharing their thoughts.
- Fostering Collaboration : Many schools prioritize a collaborative culture among students and staff. If the teacher excels in fostering teamwork, describe how they engage students in group activities, facilitate peer learning, or contribute to collaborative curriculum development.
- Dedication to Character Building : Some schools prioritize character development alongside academics. If the teacher emphasizes this value in their classroom, highlight examples where they encouraged kindness, perseverance, or responsibility among students.
Include Desirable Qualities
Highlight key attributes that distinguish great educators. Based on insights from both academic research and educational professionals , consider emphasizing the following qualities:
- Strong Listening and Communication Skills : Teachers must effectively convey concepts while listening to students’ needs, adapting lessons to ensure comprehension and engagement.
- Collaboration and Adaptability : Successful teachers work well within educational ecosystems, adapting teaching strategies to suit varying classroom dynamics and learning styles.
- Engagement and Empathy : Engaging teachers connect learning with real-world applications and approach each student with empathy and a positive attitude. They build deep student-teacher relationships and are able to recognize unique backgrounds and learning hurdles.
- Patience and Real-World Learning : Patience is vital in managing diverse classroom environments. Teachers who integrate real-world learning enhance engagement and understanding.
- Lifelong Learning and Best Practice Sharing : Effective teachers are committed to continual learning and willingly share knowledge and best practices, enriching the school community.
Provide Concrete Examples
Use specific examples to illustrate the teacher’s achievements and effectiveness. Detail instances where they have gone above and beyond. Quantify the examples’ positive results (e.g., student outcomes, student achievement) if possible.
Concrete examples to demonstrate a teacher’s achievements may include:
- Language development activities (X% improvement in early literacy scores)
- Sensory learning stations (X% increase in children’s engagement levels)
- Games initiative (X% increase in standardized test scores)
- Environmental awareness project (reducing monthly waste by X%)
- Technology integration (boosted assessment scores by X%)
- Student leadership program (reduced absenteeism by X%)
- Advanced Placement (AP) or SAT success (increased pass rate by X%; improved average scores by X points)
- Career and technical education (CTE) (X% employment rate in technical fields after graduation)
Step 1: Introduction
Address the purpose of the letter. Establish your authority by mentioning:
- Your role in the current institution;
- Your professional relationship with the teacher;
- How long and in what capacity you have known the teacher.
Remember to use business letter format when crafting the letter. If sending via email, title the message as “Letter of Recommendation for [Teacher’s Name].”
Introduction Sample
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Jennifer Smith for the English Teacher position at Meadowbrook High School. As Jennifer’s department head during her tenure at Riverside Middle School, where she has been a valued educator for five years, my extensive secondary education background allows me to attest to her teaching skills and dedication confidently.
Step 2: Body Paragraphs
Use the next 2-3 paragraphs to discuss the teacher’s specific qualities that make them a successful teacher. Mention:
- Relevant anecdotes and skills that illustrate the teacher’s qualities;
- How these qualities match the job description.
Body Paragraphs Sample #1: High school math teacher
Michael’s expertise in mathematics education and outstanding adaptability align perfectly with the demands of the Math Department Head role at Crestwood High School. A memorable example includes when he revamped the school’s Algebra curriculum to focus on real-world problem-solving, leading to a 20% improvement in students’ standardized test scores in just one year.
Throughout his tenure, Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. One notable achievement was his implementation of a peer tutoring program, which resulted in a 10% reduction in students struggling with foundational math concepts.
Additionally, Michael’s innovative approach to collaborative learning is a testament to his suitability for this role, particularly in a large educational institution like Crestwood High School. He effectively integrates group projects and technology into his lessons, enhancing student engagement and confidence. Thanks to Michael’s dedication, Crestwood’s math team secured the top spot in the regional math competition for the first time in five years.
Body Paragraphs Sample #2: Special education teacher
Maria demonstrates a deep understanding of special education strategies and unwavering commitment to her students’ well-being and academic growth. A memorable example includes when Maria developed a personalized learning plan for a student with autism, which significantly improved the student’s communication skills and social interactions.
Throughout her tenure, Maria has consistently demonstrated empathy, patience, and innovation. One notable achievement was her implementation of an inclusive classroom model that integrates special education students with their peers, resulting in a 35% increase in overall student engagement and collaboration, as measured by our yearly student assessments.
Moreover, Maria’s approach to individualized instruction and her ability to adapt lessons to meet diverse learning needs make her exceptionally well-suited for the role at Riverside Learning Center, an institution that prioritizes personalized and inclusive education. Thanks to her effective methods, students improved academically and showed remarkable progress in social and emotional development.
Body Paragraphs Sample #3: Elementary teacher
Sarah has a profound understanding of child development and exceptional empathy in action. A memorable example includes when Sarah initiated a reading buddy system pairing older and younger students, which led to a measurable improvement in reading fluency across grades by 30%.
Throughout her tenure, Sarah has consistently demonstrated dedication and creativity. One notable achievement was her development of an integrated science and art curriculum, which, according to our yearly evaluations, resulted in a 20% increase in student engagement.
Moreover, Sarah’s approach to inclusive education is a testament to her suitability for this role, especially in an institution like Sunnydale Academy, which values diverse educational strategies. Thanks to her effective methods, students improved academically and exhibited significant enhancements in social skills and empathy.
Step 3: Closing
Reiterate your endorsement of the candidate’s abilities and your confidence in their suitability for the position. Provide your contact information for follow-up questions.
Closing Sample
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Emily Parker, as she is the ideal candidate for the role of English Department Coordinator at Ridgeway Middle School. Her exceptional teaching methods, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication to student success assure me she will be a valuable addition to your team.
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] .
Yours Sincerely,
[Signature]
Copy the free sample below or download our customizable teacher recommendation letter sample in both PDF and word formats.
___________________ [Referrer’s Name] ___________________ [Referrer’s Company] ______________________________________[Referrer’s Address] ___________________[Referrer’s Phone Number or Email Address]
_______________, 20_____
___________________ [Recipient’s Name] ___________________ [Recipient’s Company] ______________________________________ [Recipient’s Address] ___________________ [Recipient’s Phone Number or Email Address]
Dear ________________________ [Recipient’s name],
I am writing to recommend ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for ___________________ [Position applied for] at ___________________ [Name of entity]. As ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s ___________________ [Relation to applicant] for the past ___ years at ___________________ [Name of entity where the referrer and applicant worked], I have had the pleasure of witnessing ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s professional growth firsthand. With ___ years of experience in ___________________ [Referrer’s professional field], I believe I am well-positioned to provide an accurate assessment of ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s contributions and skills.
During their tenure, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] has consistently demonstrated ___________________ [Personal trait]. One notable achievement was their involvement in __________________________________________________________ [Applicant’s accomplishment], showcasing their ability to _______________________________ [Key quality relevant to the applied position] — key qualities for the role at your company. As a result, ________________________________________________________ [Result of accomplishment].
In addition, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] exhibits strong ___________________ [Personal trait]. This was evident in ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s commitment to __________________________________________________________ [Applicant’s accomplishment].
Thanks to ___________________ [Applicant’s name], _____________________________________________ [Result of accomplishment]. ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s skills in _______________________________________ [Professional skills relevant to the position applied for] also align seamlessly with the requirements of the position. With their expertise and impeccable work ethics, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] is sure to be an invaluable asset to your team.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for this position. I am confident that they will exceed your expectations and contribute positively to your team. Should you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
___________________ [Referrer’s Signature]
___________________ [Referrer’s Print Name]
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Recommendation letter template. Here's a template you can use when writing a recommendation letter for a student hoping to be accepted into a Ph.D. program: [Recipient's name] I am pleased to recommend [applicant name] for the [Ph.D. program] at the [university name]. I am [your name], a [work position]. I have [number] years of experience ...
When to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school? You should ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school between six weeks and two months before the application deadline. This gives your recommender plenty of time to draft, write, and revise your letter of recommendation—increasing the final quality and level of impact.
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 ...
Sample letter of recommendation. It is my pleasure to recommend Jane Doe for admission to [name of program] at [name of university]. I am a fifth-year Ph.D. student at the University of California, Berkeley. I came to know Jane when I was her Graduate Student Instructor for Philosophy 111: Ethical Relativism, taught by Professor John Smith.
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 ...
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.
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.
A PhD reference letter should: Provide a personal and expert opinion on your suitability to undertake postgraduate study. Evidence and confirm your qualifications, skills and abilities. Show who you are as a researcher: what your interests are, where your strengths lie, and what your goals are. Offer knowledgeable and experienced insight into ...
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.
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 ...
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.
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 ...
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.
a letter of recommendation on behalf of a student, a postdoc, or even a colleague. Your job as letter writer will be to describe the candidate's strengths and weak-nesses as they relate to the position or program in a way that is both thoughtful and personal.
Registering Your Recommenders. You must register your recommender in the online application. Go to the "Recommendation Letters" tab and enter the names and contact information — including a valid email address — for each recommender. You may submit your application after all three recommenders have been registered; you do not need to ...
If you need a LOR for Ph.D., here is everything that you need to know including guidelines and a useful sample. 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. It provides the admissions committee with valuable insights from a third-party perspective, often ...
This is a sample recommendation for a graduate school applicant was written by the applicant's college dean, who was familiar with the applicant's academic achievements. The letter is short but does an ample job of emphasizing things that would be important to a graduate school admissions committee, such as GPA, work ethic, and leadership ability.
In general, a letter or recommendation can be broken down into the following sections: Date. Recipient Name. Recipient Title. Recipient Address. Greeting: Address the recipient by name if possible (Dear Ms/Mr). Personal introduction: Begin the body of your letter by introducing who you are and your relationship to the applicant.
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,
Your recommenders must submit their letters through the recommender portal by the application deadline: Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept letters submitted via email, mail, or a dossier service. During the application process, you will be asked whether you wish to waive your right to see these letters. By law, enrolled students have the ...
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.
When requesting a letter of recommendation, politeness matters—mentioning specific qualities you admire in the person, such as solid leadership skills, can strengthen your request. Also, give the person ample time to research and write the letter. The ideal time to discuss recommendation letters is when you leave a job or graduate from college.
Alex Proudfoot, the chief executive of the representative body Independent Higher Education, said: "We urge the government to swiftly confirm they will follow their experts' recommendation ...
How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for Teacher Step 1: Introduction. Address the purpose of the letter. Establish your authority by mentioning: Your role in the current institution; Your professional relationship with the teacher; How long and in what capacity you have known the teacher. Remember to use business letter format when crafting ...
Graduate assistant cover letter example To help you understand how to write a good cover letter, below is an example cover letter for a graduate assistant: Richard Smith Birmingham, B1 1BL 44 (0)1632 960513 [email protected] 9 April 2024 Mr Dan Brown Wavewords University Dear Mr Brown, As a master's student at Wavewords University, I am pleased to apply for the graduate assistant position at ...