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How to Mention a Referral in Your Cover Letter

What Is a Referral Cover Letter?

The benefits of being referred, who to ask for a referral, how to mention a referral, tips for writing a referral cover letter, referral cover letter sample.

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If you know someone at a company or someone with a strong connection to a company, it can be helpful to mention them in your cover letter when you apply for a job. Having a referral can help you stand out from the crowd when you're job searching, and including the referral in your cover letter can help get your application noticed by the hiring manager.

Mentioning that you're referred by someone is like getting an employment reference in advance. Hiring managers and recruiters will likely take a closer look at candidates with whom they share a mutual contact, and for good reason: Studies have shown hiring through employee referrals results in faster, cheaper, more effective hiring than relying on job sites.

Applicants with a referral are four times more likely to be offered a job than candidates without one. Referral hires also tend to get up to speed more quickly, fit in better, and stay with the company longer. Referrals can also give the hiring manager additional context on a candidate and their work background.

Mentioning your referral and shared connection in your cover letter can make the difference in helping your application get noticed by prospective employers.

Here's how to write a referral cover letter, including the best way to mention the contact who is referring you and a sample letter with a template to download.

A referral cover letter mentions a mutual connection when applying for a job. You might be referred by a colleague, friend, employee at the company you’re interested in, client or vendor, or college career office.

Referred candidates are a leading source of new hires, and many employers actively seek referrals when hiring for open positions. Even if a company doesn't have a formal employee referral program , referrals are typically welcomed as a way to expedite the hiring process and secure strong candidates for available jobs.

Having a referral name to mention in your cover letter helps the hiring manager understand the shared connection you have with them or their employer. A referral also helps relate your experience to the open position and, depending on how you know the referring party, can provide some insight into how well you might fit in at the company.

Your cover letter also provides an opportunity to briefly highlight your education, skills, and qualifications for the job. In addition to mentioning your referral, you'll have the chance to add a few specific examples of why you are the best candidate for the position and share other details not included on your resume.

There are many different ways to be referred for a job. A connection at a company may inquire into whether you have an interest in exploring new opportunities. You may find that you're connected with an employee on LinkedIn. Before you apply for a job, take a look to see who you know at the organization.

The referral doesn't have to be a business connection. You can ask anyone you know at the company or who has a contact at the company if they would recommend you for a job.

Be sure to check with the individual in advance and ask if they are willing to give you a referral . Even if you’re certain they’d vouch for you, giving a potential referral the heads-up ensures they’ll be ready and able to offer the best possible recommendation, given the job requirements.

You can send a letter or email asking for a referral , which gives the person the time and opportunity to think through what they can do for you and how to proceed. Asking in writing also gives your connection an out if they aren't comfortable referring you.

• Mention who is referring you. When you use a referral in your cover letter, mention them in the first paragraph. Include the individual by name and describe your connection with them as well.
• Explain how you know the person. Give a brief account of how you know the person, and explain how they came to be familiar with your work qualifications and skills.
• Describe why they are recommending you. If the person recommended that you apply for this particular position, take the opportunity to mention why they are endorsing you. What specific qualities of yours made them think you would be a good fit for the company and the job? What do you have to offer the company?

Here's an example of an introductory paragraph mentioning the candidate has been referred by a colleague:

My colleague Amy Smith recommended that I contact you directly about the sales representative position at ABC, Inc. Amy and I have worked closely in the industry for many years, and she thought the company would be a good fit for my style and experience in sales. She pointed out that as a successful, award-winning salesperson, I would be an excellent addition to the team at ABC, Inc.

Name-dropping does not come easily to some people, especially if you're already wrestling with how to write about your accomplishments and sell yourself to a hiring manager. Even though it might be a challenge, being referred for a job can give you a boost over the competition. At the least, it should help you get considered for an interview. At best, it could give you a foot in the door that might lead to a job offer.

Review examples. If you're not sure what to write, it helps to look at examples of cover letters , although you'll want to tailor your letter to fit your specific personal and professional circumstances.

Mention the referral upfront. Remember to include a brief mention of your referral and recommendation right away in your cover letter. This strategy puts the referral at the front of the reader's mind, giving them context for the information that follows.

Make the best first impression. Expand on your strengths and why you're the best candidate for the job. Your cover letter offers a chance to make a strong first impression since it's likely the first thing a hiring manager sees, possibly even before your resume.

Share your accomplishments. Mention brief examples of your successes in the workplace to prove you are the most qualified person for the job.

Carefully proofread your letter. As with all business correspondence, make sure you proofread your cover letter for correct spelling and grammar, and check that the information matches across all the documents you submit. 

This is an example of a cover letter that mentions a referral. Download the referral cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Referral Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Betty Forbes 999 Main Street Anytown, MA 02222 555-123-4567 bforbes1223@email.com

February 28, 2024

George Smith Marketing Director Acme Communications 1234 Fragrant Way Citytown, MA 02224

Dear Mr. Smith,

It was with great interest that I learned of the opening in your department for a marketing associate. Your marketing manager, Anna Black, was my supervisor at Catz Marketing before taking her current position with Acme Communications. As she can attest, I bring a unique perspective and can integrate the many facets of a media campaign.

With Anna at Catz Marketing, I worked with a local company to build their business and promote their grand opening. We continued to work with them for the first few years, developing a total media plan and implementing it. Their continued success and recommendations brought other businesses to seek our services as well.

My experience with Catz Marketing has prepared me to take on the challenges of working in a national company such as Acme Communications, and I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how I can be an asset to your team.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Betty Forbes

More Cover Letter Examples 

Need more inspiration for writing your cover letters? Review these  cover letter samples and downloadable templates  for many different types of jobs to get started.

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter with a referral can help get your application considered.
• Before naming someone as a referral in your cover letter, ask them for permission to do so.
• Include the referral in the first paragraph of your cover letter.
• Also include specifics on why you're a leading contender for the job.

LinkedIn. " Here is Why Employee Referrals are the Best Way to Hire ."

Zippia. " Facts About Employee Referrals in the US ."

Jobvite. " 4 Reasons to Invest in Employee Referrals ."

CareerOneStop. " Make Your Next Cover Letter a Great One ."

SHRM. " Employee Referrals Remain Top Source for Hires ."

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How To Mention A Referral In Your Cover Letter (With Examples)

• How To Sign A Cover Letter
• Salary Requirements In Cover Letter
• Referral In Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Body
• Use Dear Sir Or Madam?
• Use Mrs. Or Ms.?

Find a Job You Really Want In

Having a referral by someone who is already employed at the company you’re applying to can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door. Mentioning a referral in your cover letter is one of the ways to do this.

To help you write the best referral in your cover letter, we’ll go over how to include a reference in a cover letter, provide some referral cover letter examples, and some benefits to being referred.

Key Takeaways:

Make sure you have a reliable referral that is in good standing with a company, and that they know they are being included before putting down a referral.

Candidates that are referred also tend to feel more of an obligation to the company, their reference, and their team, allowing them to get up to speed more quickly and adapt to the new culture and workplace more efficiently.

Writing a cover letter with referral will allow you to highlight the key skills you can bring to the position and provide specific examples of why you are the best fit for this job.

What is a referral cover letter?

How to mention a referral in your cover letter, referral cover letter examples, who to ask for a referral, the benefits of being referred, referral in your cover letter faq, final thoughts, expert opinion.

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A referral cover letter is an application document for a potential job opportunity that mentions a mutual contact you may share with the hiring manager or someone in the company. This connection can be an old colleague, a friend, or a networking acquaintance who likely works at the company you are applying to.

When done effectively, you can drop their name in your cover letter to emphasize how your skills and abilities align with the job and how you’ve worked with your referral in the past. You can mention specific projects and details that you know this person may be able to vouch for.

Your cover letter is the first thing your employer or hiring manager is likely to see, so use it as your moment to shine. This document will allow you to provide additional details about your education, qualifications, skills, and work ethic. You can point to specific projects and challenges you may have experienced and discuss how you overcame them and how those abilities translate to the job you are applying for.

When mentioning a referral in your cover letter, make sure your referral knows you are including them before, and then mention their name in the letter and explain why they are recommending you. Here is a more detailed list of how to add reference in cover letter:

Make sure your referral knows. Mentioning a referral in your cover letter is appropriate when you have directly contacted the person you’re planning to mention as your referral. This could be someone you contacted or someone that contacted you. It can even be someone who is not your contact on LinkedIn or other networks, but you’ve reached out to them, and they’ve agreed to be a referral.

However, in instances where you have not asked for explicit permission from the person you’re planning to use as your referral or this person is not in good standing with their employer, you should stay clear of mentioning them in your cover letter .

Mention who is referring you. The purpose of the cover letter is to impress from the start . Mention your referral within the first paragraph of your note. To do this effectively, include:

The person’s name

How you know them

How they are familiar with your skills and qualifications

Explain why they are recommending you. You can give the hiring manager a quick summary of why they are recommending you and how your past experience gives you the skills required to do the job well.

Keep it short. Try to keep your referral to one single paragraph in your cover letter. The rest of your letter should expand more on you and your skills, including how the things you have learned in previous work environments are transferable to your new role .

Send a copy of your cover letter to your referral. The last thing you should do is send a copy of your cover letter to your referral so they can read it over. Doing this is a nice gesture and allows them to know what you are saying about them. Be sure to also thank them for their help.

We’ve included some examples of how it may look to include a referral in your cover letter.

Cover letter with referral example

Dear Angela Morris, I am writing to inquire about the Marketing Director position, which came highly recommended to me by Bill Jeffries, Vice President of Marketing at Apple, Inc. Bill and I worked closely together for several years at Nabisco, where we tackled a variety of event coordination and digital lead generation efforts. Bill believes my marketing experience and skill for developing memorable events can have a profound impact on the marketing team and organization as a whole.

Dear Larry Smith, Bill Jeffries suggested I reach out to you regarding the Marketing Director position at Apple, Inc. I met Bill while coordinating a conference at the end of last year. We worked closely together with vendors, contracts, and design. He was able to see my ability to bring booths to life, develop innovative ideas to capture new leads, and drive to continually improve marketing programs, which is why he’s referred me to this role on your team.

Dear John Riley, Tom Johnson suggested I contact you regarding the Customer Representative Position at XYZ Company. I worked with Tom last year when we worked together at ABC Corp. Working closely together allowed him to see my ability to connect with others and drive sales. This is why he referred me to this role and your team.

Getting a referral when you don’t know someone well can sometimes be tricky. But there are a variety of ways to be referred for a job . A connection at the company you’re applying for might inquire whether you’re interested in exploring new job opportunities. You may have an old connection on LinkedIn that you forgot about.

LinkedIn is a great tool to explore whether you know anyone at the company you are applying to. You can easily see if you know an existing connection or if one of your contacts knows someone at the company currently.

Once you choose someone to provide a referral , be sure to reach out to them before applying for the job. Ask if they are willing to give you a referral for the job. Even if you assume this person will build your credibility with the hiring manager, it’s important to check with them first. You don’t want to bombard someone at the last minute, and you certainly don’t want to tell the hiring manager that a person has vouched for you when they actually haven’t.

To do this, you can send them an email or a letter asking them for a referral. Similar to a reference letter , this will give the person you are asking a chance to look over the requirements and think about how they can best help you. This also gives them an opportunity to opt out of a referral in case they don’t feel comfortable.

Being a candidate who is referred by someone respected in the company is a tremendous benefit for you as a job seeker such as an expedited hiring process or the ability to highlight key skills. Here are some more benefits of being referred.

It can quicken the hiring process. Even if a company doesn’t have a formal employee referral program , the human resources (HR) department typically welcomes referrals. They help to expedite the hiring process and ensure that strong candidates fill open spots on teams.

Allows the interviewer to see you in a different light. When you are referred for a job, it might feel like a lot to live up to. However, if you view it as a step up during your interview process , you will be better suited for your interview. Ultimately, having a candidate referred gives the hiring manager an authentic glimpse into the kind of employee you will be and will help them relate your experience to the position.

A better understanding of the company culture. The person who referred you will likely be asked to provide insights into how you will fit into their company culture . However, there is no need to worry because the person who referred you would not have vouched for you if they didn’t think you were the right fit for this job.

Being able to highlight key skills. Putting this referral in your cover letter will allow you to highlight the key skills you can bring to the position and provide specific examples of why you are the best fit for this job. Cover letters give you another area to share additional details that your resume may not include.

Should you mention a referral in a cover letter?

Yes, you should mention a referral in your cover letter. Mentioning a referral in a cover letter helps to emphasize how your skills and abilities align with the job and how you’ve worked with your referral in the past. The best way to do this is to mention specific projects and details how you know the person and how they can vouch for you.

Who should be a referral for a job?

A referral should be someone you know such as an old colleague, former classmate, or someone from your network who works at the company you are applying for. The person who is referring you should be a current employee and someone you trust. They should be able to help highlight your strengths and abilities.

How do you mention a referral in your cover letter?

To mention a referral in your cover letter be sure to mention by name the person who referred you and your relationship to the. This should be a person who is a current employee who can highlight your skills and abilities. Your referral in your cover letter should be kept short and to the point.

If you come into a company with the right type of referral and a person who can actively vouch for your work ethic, you’ll already place yourself ahead of the competition. Even if you have a vast network and land your dream job, continue to network . Ensure that you always depart work environments on good terms with colleagues and managers. You never know who you will cross paths with later in your career journey: the broader your network, the better chance you will have to name-drop in the future.

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How To Mention A Referral In Your Cover Letter

Martha Nicks Career Services Provider

“My colleague XXX recommended that I contact you directly about this position ” is an easy way to name drop your referral in the cover letter. To strengthen the statement, add something about the relationship of the referral to the company.

University of South Florida – Cover Letter Do’s & Don’ts

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to Write a Reference Letter (Template & Examples)

By Ammar Ahmed

Published: January 29, 2024

A reference letter serves as a formal endorsement of an individual’s skills, character, and achievements, typically penned by a former employer, colleague, or academic mentor. 

This guide aims to empower professionals with the tools and knowledge to craft effective reference letters, combining best practices with practical templates to streamline this essential task.

Types of Reference Letters

Understanding the different types of reference letters is crucial for professionals, as each type caters to specific contexts and highlights various aspects of an individual’s profile. Below, we explore three key types: Professional, Academic, and Character Reference Letters.

Professional Reference Letters

Professional reference letters are written by a previous employer, supervisor, or professional colleague. They focus on the applicant’s work experience, skills, and professional achievements. These letters are often required during job applications or for career advancement opportunities. 

These letters should detail the individual’s role, responsibilities, key accomplishments, and work ethic. It’s essential to mention specific instances where the individual demonstrated their skills and contributed to the organization’s success.

Related Article: Who to Use for Professional References 

Academic Reference Letters

Academic reference letters are typically requested for educational pursuits, such as college admissions, scholarships, or academic awards. Written by teachers, professors, or academic advisors, these letters highlight the individual’s academic achievements, intellectual capabilities, and potential for future success in their field of study. 

They should reflect on the individual’s academic performance, participation in class, and any notable projects or research work. This type of letter often emphasizes the individual’s dedication, curiosity, and ability to overcome academic challenges.

Character Reference Letters

Character reference letters focus primarily on the personal attributes of an individual. They are usually written by someone who knows the person well but is not a family member, such as a mentor, family friend, or community leader. 

These letters are particularly important when assessing an individual’s suitability for a role that requires a high degree of trust and integrity. They should provide insights into the individual’s character, values, and behaviors, illustrating how these traits have been beneficial in various situations.

Related Article : How Many References Should You Have? 

Letter of Recommendation Examples

In crafting a letter of recommendation, it’s essential to tailor the content to the specific needs and strengths of the individual. Whether it’s for a professional role, character assessment, or a remote work position, each letter should effectively highlight the candidate’s unique qualities and contributions. 

These examples are designed to provide a clear understanding of how to articulate a candidate’s abilities and achievements in a manner that resonates with the recipient, ensuring the letter is both compelling and relevant to the candidate’s desired opportunity.

Professional Employment Reference Letter

Taylor Robinson Hiring Committee Chair Innovatech Solutions 321 Future St. Techville, TV 32167 April 5, 2024

Dear Mr./Ms. Robinson,

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Laura Smith for the position of Project Manager at Innovatech Solutions. As the Senior Director of Project Management at TechGenius, I had the privilege of observing Laura’s professional growth and remarkable contributions over her four-year tenure as an Assistant Project Manager.

Laura’s standout achievement was her leadership in the “GreenTech Initiative” project in 2020. Under her guidance, the project not only met but exceeded its objectives, achieving a 30% increase in energy efficiency for our client’s products. Her strategic planning, combined with her ability to seamlessly integrate new technology into existing systems, was critical to the project’s success. Laura’s innovative approach and meticulous attention to detail were instrumental in securing a 15% grant for future sustainability projects for TechGenius.

Beyond her technical skills, Laura’s interpersonal abilities truly set her apart. Her team leadership and conflict resolution skills were pivotal during challenging project phases, ensuring team cohesion and maintaining client satisfaction. Her mentorship of junior staff members has left a lasting positive impact on our department.

I am confident that Laura will bring the same level of exceptional performance, dedication, and innovation to the Project Manager role at Innovatech Solutions. Her blend of strategic foresight, technical expertise, and leadership ability makes her an excellent fit for your team. I strongly recommend her for this position and believe she will be a valuable asset to your organization.

Please feel free to contact me for any further information or clarification.

John Doe Senior Director of Project Management, TechGenius [email protected] +1 555 123 4567

Character Reference Letter for a Coworker

Jane Doe Human Resources Manager Green Earth Initiatives 123 Business Rd. Business City, BC 12345 January 1, 2024

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my wholehearted support for Emily Johnson’s application for the Community Outreach Coordinator position at Green Earth Initiatives. As Emily’s coworker at Design & Innovate Corp for over five years, I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional character and dedication to community service.

Emily has always been more than just a proficient graphic designer ; she is a driving force for positive change within our community. One of her most notable contributions was her volunteer work with the local “Food for All” campaign, where she not only designed impactful promotional materials but also played a crucial role in organizing community food drives. Her efforts helped raise awareness and significant donations for the cause, demonstrating her compassion and commitment to helping those in need.

What truly sets Emily apart is her genuine empathy and integrity. She often takes the initiative to support new team members and creates an inclusive and welcoming work environment. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, combined with her strong ethical values, makes her an outstanding role model and team player.

Emily’s passion for community engagement, along with her innate ability to inspire and mobilize people toward a common goal, makes her an ideal candidate for the Community Outreach Coordinator role. I am confident that her exceptional interpersonal skills and dedication to social causes will enable her to excel in this position and make a meaningful impact at Green Earth Initiatives.

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

Warm regards,

David Thompson Senior Graphic Designer, Design & Innovate Corp [email protected] +1 555 678 9101

Remote Work Employment Reference Letter

Alex Martinez Hiring Manager VirtualTech Inc 456 Justice Ave. Law City, LC 45678 March 10, 2024

Dear Attorney Martinez,

I am delighted to recommend Mark Benson for the position of Lead Software Engineer at VirtualTech Inc. As the CTO of NetSolutions, where Mark has been working remotely for the past three years, I have had ample opportunity to observe his exceptional technical abilities and adaptability to the remote working model.

During his tenure with us, Mark was instrumental in developing our flagship product, CloudSync, a complex cloud storage solution. His technical expertise, particularly in cloud computing and cybersecurity, was vital in overcoming the project’s significant challenges. Despite the remote setting, Mark’s consistent communication and collaboration were standout qualities. He regularly led virtual team meetings and coding sessions, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their location, were aligned and engaged.

What impresses me most about Mark is his self-motivation and time management skills, crucial in a remote work environment. He has an innate ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines without compromising on the quality of work. His initiative to conduct weekly virtual training sessions for the team not only enhanced our collective skill set but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among remote employees.

Mark’s blend of technical acumen, excellent communication, and leadership skills, along with his proven ability to thrive in a remote work environment, makes him an ideal candidate for VirtualTech Inc. I am confident that he will be a valuable asset to your team and contribute significantly to your company’s success in the digital realm.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like further information or specific examples of Mark’s work and achievements.

Susan Lee Chief Technology Officer , NetSolutions [email protected] +1 555 234 5678

What to Include in a Reference Letter

When composing a reference letter, it’s essential to include certain key elements to ensure the letter is effective and provides a comprehensive overview of the candidate’s qualifications.

These elements include:

1. Sender’s Information

The sender’s information is a critical component of any reference letter, as it establishes the credibility and authority of the person writing the letter.

This section should be clearly outlined at the top of the letter and include the following details:

• Name: The full name of the individual writing the reference letter.
• Title or Position: The professional title or position of the sender, which adds weight to the reference. This should be the current title or the one held while working with the individual being recommended.
• Company or Organization: The name of the company or organization where the sender is employed or affiliated.
• Contact Information: Including an address, phone number, and email address is crucial. It not only offers a means for the recipient to verify the information or seek further clarification but also demonstrates transparency and openness.

2. Recipient’s Information

• Name: The full name of the recipient. If the recipient’s name is not known, a general title or department can be used, such as “Hiring Manager” or “Admissions Committee.”
• Title or Position: Including the recipient’s professional title or position helps in directing the letter to the appropriate person, especially in large organizations where multiple individuals may be involved in the decision-making process.
• Company or Organization: The name of the company or organization where the recipient works. This acknowledges the professional setting into which the candidate is seeking entry or advancement.
• Address: The full postal address of the company or organization. 

3. Salutation

The salutation in a reference letter is more than just a formality; it sets the tone for the communication and shows respect for the recipient.

Here are key elements to consider:

• A Formal Greeting: Begin with a formal greeting such as “Dear,” which is universally recognized as professional and respectful.
• Addressing the Recipient: If you know the recipient’s name, use it directly after the greeting, e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith,” or “Dear Dr. Jones.” 
• Inclusive and Respectful Language: If the recipient’s name or gender is unknown, use a neutral and inclusive salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager,” “Dear Selection Committee,” or “To Whom It May Concern”. 

4. Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph of a reference letter is pivotal in establishing the context of your relationship with the candidate and setting the stage for the endorsement to follow.

Here are some elements to include in this initial section:

• Introduce Yourself: Start by introducing yourself to give the recipient an understanding of who you are. Mention your name and your professional position or title, as this adds credibility to your recommendation.
• Your Relationship with the Candidate: Clearly state your professional or academic relationship with the person you are recommending. This could be as their supervisor, colleague, professor, or mentor.
• Duration of Relationship: Include how long you have known the individual. This time frame helps the recipient gauge the depth and extent of your experience with the candidate.
• Purpose of the Letter: Briefly mention the purpose of your letter – to recommend the individual for a specific position, program, or opportunity. This sets a clear context for the rest of your letter.

5. Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are the core of the reference letter, where you provide detailed insights into the candidate’s qualifications, skills, achievements, and character.

Here’s how to structure this section effectively:

• Specific Examples and Details: Use concrete examples to illustrate the person’s skills and qualifications. For instance, if you are highlighting their leadership skills, mention a specific project they led and the positive outcomes that resulted from it.
• Highlight Relevant Experiences and Accomplishments: Discuss experiences that directly relate to the position or opportunity the individual is pursuing. For example, if they’re applying for a managerial role focus on instances where they demonstrated effective management skills.
• Unique Qualities or Strengths: Point out any unique strengths or qualities that make the individual stand out. This could include exceptional problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, or a strong commitment to teamwork.
• Personal Anecdotes or Stories: Including a brief story or anecdote can make your letter more engaging and memorable. This could be an instance where the individual overcame a significant challenge or went above and beyond in their role.
• Balanced Perspective: While it’s important to focus on positive attributes, offering a balanced perspective can add authenticity to your letter. If appropriate, you can mention areas where the candidate has shown growth during your relationship.

Remember, the goal of these paragraphs is to provide a vivid picture of the candidate’s abilities and character. Well-chosen examples and stories make your endorsement more convincing and help the recipient understand why the individual is an excellent fit for the opportunity.

6. Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph of a reference letter is where you encapsulate your overall recommendation and express your support for the individual.

Here are some elements to include:

• Summarize Key Points: Briefly restate the most important qualities, achievements, or skills of the candidate that you have highlighted in the letter. This reinforces your endorsement and reminds the reader of the candidate’s suitability for the position or opportunity.
• Express Your Strong Recommendation: Clearly state your confidence in the candidate and your belief in their suitability for the role or opportunity. Use affirmative language like, “I highly recommend,” or “I am confident that,” to leave no doubt about your support.
• Offer to Provide Further Information: Indicate your willingness to provide additional information or clarification if needed. This shows your genuine support and readiness to assist further in the candidate’s application process.
• Contact Information Reminder: Although your contact information is already at the top, a brief reminder here ensures that it is easily accessible for the reader, should they wish to follow up with you.

7. Closing Salutation

Here’s how to conclude your letter appropriately:

• Use a Professional Closing: Opt for a formal and universally accepted closing phrase. Common examples include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Yours truly.” 
• Consistency with the Tone: Ensure that the closing salutation matches the overall tone of your letter. If your letter is highly formal, a closing like “Sincerely” is appropriate. For a slightly less formal tone, “Best regards” can be a good choice.
• Space for Signature: If you are sending a hard copy or a scanned version of the letter, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name. This personal touch adds authenticity to the document.
• Typed Name and Title: Below the signature space, type your full name and title again. 

Related Article: When Do Employers Check References?

Reference Letter Template

This reference letter template is designed for professionals to easily adapt and customize according to the specific needs of the individual being recommended. Simply fill in the blanks and modify the text as necessary to suit your context.

[Your Name] [Your Title or Position] [Your Company or Organization] [Your Contact Information (Address, Phone Number, Email)] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title or Position] [Recipient’s Company or Organization] [Recipient’s Address]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Full Name] for [Position/Opportunity/Program] at [Recipient’s Company/Organization/School]. As [Your Position] at [Your Company/Organization], I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [Duration of Relationship] and have witnessed [his/her/their] significant contributions first-hand.

[In this paragraph, provide specific examples of the candidate’s skills, achievements, and qualities. Mention a particular project or responsibility and the impact of their work. Highlight any unique attributes that set the candidate apart.]

[This paragraph should continue to build on the candidate’s qualifications. Include personal anecdotes or stories that illustrate their capabilities and character. Focus on how their contributions positively affected your team or organization.]

I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will bring [his/her/their] remarkable [skills/qualities, such as leadership, creativity, dedication] to [Recipient’s Company/Organization/School]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [specific skill or contribution] makes [him/her/them] well-suited for [Position/Opportunity/Program]. I strongly endorse [his/her/their] candidacy and believe [he/she/they] will be a valuable addition to your [team/program/organization].

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] if you require any further information or specific examples of [Candidate’s Name]’s work and achievements.

[Your Handwritten Signature (if applicable)]

[Your Typed Name] [Your Position]

Related Article: How to Provide References for a Job

Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation

Crafting effective letters of recommendation requires a delicate balance of showcasing the candidate’s strengths, providing specific examples, and employing persuasive language. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the intricacies of this crucial task.

Quantify Achievements

When writing a letter of recommendation, it’s powerful to quantify the candidate’s achievements. Use specific figures and statistics to illustrate their accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “significantly increased sales,” specify “increased sales by 30% over six months.” This provides concrete evidence of their capabilities and makes their achievements more tangible and credible. Quantifying contributions also helps the recipient gauge the scale and impact of these accomplishments, offering a clearer picture of the candidate’s potential.

Connect to the Position or Opportunity

Tailor the letter to the specific position or opportunity the candidate is applying for. Highlight skills and experiences that are directly relevant to the job requirements or academic program. For instance, if the candidate is applying for a leadership role, emphasize their successful team management experiences. This shows that you understand what the role entails and have thoughtfully considered how the candidate’s skills and experiences make them a good fit, making your recommendation more relevant and persuasive.

Include Keywords

Identify important terms in the job listing or academic program description, such as “project management,” “analytical thinking,” or “creative problem-solving,” and weave them into your letter. This not only tailors the letter to the specific role but also ensures it passes through any automated screenings, increasing the chance that your recommendation will be read by decision-makers.

Leverage Technology for Reference Letter Management

Utilize technology platforms for efficient reference letter management. For example, online reference request platforms simplify the process of requesting, writing, storing, and submitting letters of recommendation. These tools often offer templates, reminders, and the ability to submit letters directly to institutions or employers. 

Leveraging such technology can streamline the process, ensuring timely submission and organization of your reference letters, while also offering a secure way to manage sensitive personal information contained within these documents.

Related Article: Reference Check Questions

About the Author

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How to Write an Employee Write-Up Form (With Template)

How to write a job rejection email (template & examples), how to write a job offer letter (template & examples), how to create an employee schedule (with templates), what is holiday pay everything you need to know, how to conduct a reference check (with questions), what is staff augmentation everything you need to know.

How to Add a Referral in a Cover Letter

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What is a cover letter referral?

How to include a referral in your cover letter, cover letter referral examples.

A referral is someone who recommends you for a particular job. Colleagues, people employed by the hiring company and former teachers can all be appropriate referrals. With their permission, you can mention the name of a referral in your cover letter. When you add a referral to your cover letter, it can make a positive first impression and help move your application ahead in the hiring process.

Add your referral to your cover letter’s introduction. You should catch the hiring manager’s attention, and a referral is a great way to do this. This also creates an instant personal connection between you and the company. 

Follow these steps to include a referral in your cover letter:

1. First, ask for your referral’s approval

You must get approval before adding that individual’s name to your cover letter. By doing so, you are confirming that they are happy to recommend you for the job.

If they tell you about the position, you have an opportunity to ask whether you can use their name as a referral. If you see a job posting first, call them and ask whether they would mind giving you a referral. Discuss the position, the company and why your contact thinks you are a good candidate. Your referral is staking their reputation on you, so be sure to thank them.

2. Next, mention the referral by name

Mention your referral by their full name. This takes away any confusion about who they are. If their name is common, you might also add details about how the hiring manager may know them. Do not use their nickname, even if they are commonly known by this. Double-check the spelling of their first and last name.

3. Then, explain your connection to your referral

Note whether your referral is a former or current colleague or a person connected to you in some other way. Explaining your connection gives the hiring manager some context for the referral.

4. Next, describe why the person referred you

Explain why your referral feels you are suitable for the position. This provides an opportunity to outline your strengths. If you have worked with your referral before, provide a brief explanation of this working relationship. If your referral is a former teacher, you can note the relevant course. Mention any experiences or skills your referral witnessed that might be applicable to the position. If this person works at the hiring company, note any qualities they think you have that would suit the business culture.

5. Last, send a copy of your cover letter to your referral

It is a good idea to send a copy of your cover letter to your referral. When they know exactly what you have written, they will not be surprised by anything the hiring manager says to them about your application or relationship. It will also help your referral prepare for what they might want to say if the hiring manager has any follow-up questions for them.

Every referral is different, as it reflects your personal relationship with that particular contact. However, the following cover letter referral examples can help you write your own:

Dear Ms. Gutherson,

I was excited to hear about the opening in your engineering department from one of your lead engineers, Dale Forrest. Before joining your company, Dale worked with me for five years on the engineering team at Practical Software Solutions. During that time, Dale praised me for my attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills. Dale said he felt those skills would make me an excellent addition to your engineering team.

Dear Mr. Lane,

Your receptionist Kelly Price suggested I contact you about your vacant social worker position. I met Kelly last year when she began volunteering with me at a local soup kitchen, Soul Food. Working closely together allowed her to see my ability to connect with others and my compassion for people with financial hardships and mental health difficulties.

Dear Ms. Nelson,

I was thrilled to hear about the vacant position on your design team from Hayley Saunders. Hayley and I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at the University of Central Oklahoma together in 2003 and have remained close friends. She felt my creativity and 10 years’ experience working as a designer in the media industry would make me a natural fit for the role with you at Parent and Baby Monthly Magazine.

How To Include a Referral in Your Cover Letter?

Including a referral in your cover letter can help get your resume noticed by the hiring manager. It shows that you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills and abilities. A referral from a colleague or past employer can be a great way to get your foot in the door with a new company.

It’s been shown that referral hires are more likely to stick around at their new job, have higher performance ratings, and are often paid higher salaries than non-referral hires.

The benefits of including a referral in your job application are well worth the effort it takes to obtain one. In fact, according to a report from Jobvite, 59% of job seekers say referrals are their preferred way to find jobs online.

But how do you know whom to ask for a referral? And how do you include one in your cover letter? This guide will walk you through how to ask for and include a referral so you can land that interview.

What is a Referral Cover Letter?

A referral cover letter is a letter that you send to a potential employer with your resume. It is a recommendation from someone within the company that can act as a personal endorsement for you and your job application. The letter includes the name of someone who has referred you to the company. This can be a friend, family member, or professional contact. The referral cover letter is a way to get your foot in the door and stand out from the competition.

Why Should You Use A Referral in your Cover letter?

A referral gives you credibility, as it’s basically an insider saying that you are qualified for the position and would be a good fit. People trust recommendations from people they know, so this person essentially vouching for you makes a huge difference.

According to a recent study from the University of Minnesota, including a referral in your cover letter can dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview . The survey found that applicants who included referrals within their letters were interviewed at twice the rate of those who didn’t include referrals.

There are a few other reasons why you might want to include a referral in your cover letter.

• It can help you stand out from the crowd. When you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills, it shows that you’re serious about the job and that you’re willing to go the extra mile.
• It also makes it easier for the hiring manager to trust you since they can see that you have the endorsement of someone they know.
• If a referral is a “known name” in the industry, you’ll stand out from the crowd.
•  It can help you pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) screening software.
• Including a referral in your cover letter can also help you build relationships with the people you’re applying to work with. When you make a good impression on your referral, they might be more likely to refer you to other opportunities in the future.

Is name dropping in a cover letter OK?

Name-dropping does not come easily to everyone, but a referral cover letter is one place where it can work in your favor. Referrals are powerful because they involve an introduction from a known and respected individual. When you can name-drop a referral, it gives the hiring manager an additional reason to trust your qualifications and consider you for the job.

It’s important to be subtle when you’re name-dropping in your cover letter. You don’t want to come across as arrogant or entitled. Instead, focus on how your referral can vouch for your skills and abilities.

How to Ask for a Referral?

You have spent a lot of time perfecting your resume and tweaking your cover letter to match the job description. You have done everything you can think of to make sure that when recruiters read your documents they will be impressed by what they see, but there is one more thing that you need to consider: who are you going to ask for a referral?

1) Choose Professional Contacts over Personal:

When you can, choose someone who is a professional contact, not a personal one. You want to make sure that whoever you ask to be your referral has experience working with you or working with your work, so they can speak about the kind of contributions you make and the results those contributions produce.

2) Check with your Contact before dropping their name in a Cover letter:

Whoever it is, definitely check in with them before moving forward. At the very least, give them a heads up so they aren’t caught off guard if indeed that company does call them for any reason. Ideally, you will ask them if they would be comfortable giving you a referral and then send them a copy of your resume and cover letter so they can be prepared for what to expect if/when called upon by the company.

3) Search through Networking Platforms:

If you don’t have any connections in the company for the job you are applying for then you can use a mutual contact. A mutual contact is someone that you know and the hiring manager knows. You can do this by searching for them on LinkedIn, search through Facebook, Company Website other Professional Forums the contact may be present.

4) Reach out to them via Email:

The best way to ask for a referral is by email . You should explain why you are contacting them and why you want them to refer you, if possible. For example: “I worked on your team last year and our group won an award.” It’s also important to thank them for their time.

5) Apply via an employee referral program?

If you’re applying to a large company, they may have an employee referral program. This is a program where employees can refer candidates for open positions within the company. If you’re lucky enough to know someone who works for the company, be sure to ask them if they can refer you for a position as it is beneficial for both of you.

How To Include A Referral In Your Cover Letter?

When you’re including a referral in your cover letter, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

1) Include the Referral Information in Your Opening Paragraph

One way to include a referral in your cover letter is to use it as part of your opening paragraph.

2) Explain How they know you

The person who referred you will likely have given the hiring manager some context about how they know you. But if they haven’t, or if your connection is weak (you met them once at an event), it’s important to explain how you know each other.

3) Why are they providing this Recommendation

Include a few sentences about why they are qualified to speak about you. For example, if a former manager is recommending you for a position, mention this fact, as well as what your relationship has been like and how long they have known you.

Here’s an example of an introductory paragraph with a referral :

“I am interested in the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. I was referred to the position by my friend, Sarah, who knows someone at XYZ Company. Sarah has told me great things about the company and she thinks I would be a perfect fit for the position. I have attached my resume and the job listing to this email. I would appreciate if you could keep me in mind for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Asking for a referral can help you get your resume noticed and land the job you want. Just be sure to follow these tips and examples so that you can do it correctly.

Examples of adding a referral to your cover letter:

Referral cover letters are structured similarly to application cover letters, but they usually include an additional paragraph that explains how you were referred to the position by someone in your network. Below, you’ll find examples of referral cover letters that indicates who the applicant was referred by, along with tips for writing a referral cover letter sample.

**Adding a referral in the body of your cover letter:**

“Dear Ms. [last name], [Referral source] recommended I reach out to you about the position of [job title]. I have a great deal of experience [briefly describe your relevant experience] and would love to work with you and your team. I am available for an interview at any time that is convenient for you, and I can be reached by phone at [your phone number], or by email at [your email address].”

In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should mention a mutual connection or referral who suggested that you reach out. Mentioning this person (or people) upfront will give you an instant connection with the hiring manager.

“I’m reaching out because [Name of Mutual Acquaintance] suggested I connect with you. She knew me from my work with [Company Name or Project], and she mentioned that you’re looking for someone to fill your opening for a [Name of Position].- “I am interested in the position of Social Media Manager at GHI company. I was referred to this position by my friend, Tina, who is the Social Media Manager at GHI company.”

Mention the referral in your first paragraph. Use words like “encouraged,” “recommended” or “referred.”

“I was encouraged by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name].”

“I was referred by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name]. They told me that you’re looking for a [skill-set/role-specific knowledge].”

“Dear [Name],

I am writing to apply for the position of [position] at [company]. I was referred to the role by my friend and former colleague, [Name], who is currently working in the [department] at [Company]. I understand you are currently seeking candidates to fill this position.

I have been following company developments for several years, and I believe that my experience as a [job title] would be beneficial to your team.”

Referral Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Dear [Name],

I am reaching out to you in regard to the [job title] position with [Company name]. I believe my experience in [industry] and role as a [role title] is a good match for this position.

[Name of contact, mutual friend, or colleague] recommended that I contact you and submit my resume because they know I am interested in finding a new opportunity with an outstanding company such as yours. I have been working in [industry] for the last [x years/months], and have developed many of the skills necessary for the role of [job title].

I look forward to hearing from you to discuss how my experience fits your needs. Please feel free to reach me at [phone number] or via email at [email address]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your name]

Referral Cover Letter Email

Dear [Recruiter Name]

I’m writing to apply for the [position name] position advertised on LinkedIn. I met [name] at an event last month, and they suggested I reach out to you directly. We discussed my background in [field], and how it would make me a great fit for this role.

If you have any questions about my experience or candidacy, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I’ll follow up with you next week to see if you need any additional information from me, or if we can arrange a time for us to talk.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Email Subject Line for sending a Referral Cover Letter :

• Referral from [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] for Marketing Manager Position.
• [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] referred me to you for the [Marketing Manager] position.

Tips for Writing a Referral Cover Letter

• Including a referral at the top of your cover letter can help you get noticed by hiring managers and make it more likely that you’ll be granted an interview.
• Make sure to mention your referral’s name and how you know them, such as “I worked with [name] at [company].”
• Include a few sentences about why your referral thinks you’d be a good fit for the role and ask if they’d be willing to provide a reference if needed.
• Don’t forget to say “thank you” to your reader and let them know how they can reach out to learn more about you!.

Related Resume & Cover Letter Articles

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation [With Tips & Template]

Every now and then, applying for a position will require that you also submit a letter of recommendation. 

Or, maybe, a coworker will ask you to write a recommendation letter for their new job application.

If you're not certain how to go about it, don't worry - nothing about recommendation letters needs to be complicated. Especially once you learn the nitty-gritty of the topic. 

This is exactly what this article is here to teach you!

What is a Recommendation Letter?

What should a letter of recommendation include.

• How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

3 Types of Recommendation Letters

• How to Ask For a Recommendation Letter
• Recommendation Letter Template

A letter of recommendation is a formal document confirming and recommending a person’s work, skills, or academic performance and potential. 

Typically, a recommendation letter is required for: 

• University admissions
• Fellowships or internship positions
• Job applications
• Volunteering opportunities

You should ideally write a recommendation for someone whose abilities and work ethic you are familiar with - for example, a colleague, student you taught, your employee, or someone you supervised at work.

Similarly, if you’re the one asking for a recommendation letter, you should ask someone who can attest to your professional or academic abilities. 

The types of recommendation letters are:

• Academic recommendation letters.
• Employment recommendation letters.
• Character recommendation letters.

Here’s what each type of recommendation letter is about:

#1. Academic Recommendation Letters

Academic recommendation letters are typically required to be submitted by students during the admission processes of graduate and undergraduate schools. 

Generally, each prospective student is requested to submit up to three references, which can be written by any education professional familiar with the candidate’s academic background. 

Academic reference letters include:

• Recommendation letter for undergraduate/graduate school
• Recommendation letter for a scholarship
• Recommendation letter for a fellowship program

#2. Employment recommendation letters 

This type makes up the most popular type of recommendation letter.

Sometimes, employers can ask you to submit up to 3 recommendation letters as part of your job application.

More often, though, a recruiter might ask you for recommendation letters if they already like your resume and want to learn more about you. 

Employment recommendation letters are written by former - or current - coworkers, employers, or supervisors.

If you can choose, pick someone with more years of experience than you. After all, the more senior they are, the more weight their recommendation carries.

Employment recommendations include: 

• Recommendation letter for a coworker
• Recommendation letter for a (former) employee

#3. Character recommendation letters

Character recommendation letters, also known as personal references, are used to describe an individual’s personality by someone who knows them well, including close friends, coworkers, or employers. 

Personal references serve many purposes, the primary ones being court cases dealing with criminal issues such as drunk driving offenses, or legal situations such as child adoption procedures. 

It is not uncommon, however, to have a potential landlord or even immigration officials ask for a personal reference. 

Personal references include: 

• Recommendation letter for a friend
• Recommendation letter for a tenant
• Recommendation letter for a patient

Recommendation letters follow a particular format and layout that make writing them significantly easier. 

In this section, we’ll cover how to do each the right way, starting with:

Letter of Recommendation Format

A letter of recommendation includes the following sections: 

• The salutation ; if you are addressing someone whose name you know or writing a personal recommendation letter, the salutation can be addressed to “Dear Mr./Mrs./Dr. Smith.” Otherwise, you may use the generic “to whom it may concern.”
• The introduction , which first and foremost includes your statement of recommendation (i.e. “ it is my pleasure to recommend… ”). It is common to also briefly state who you are and what your expertise is.
• The overview, or a description of the applicant’s top skills, attributes, and strengths.
• A personal story describing more of the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
• The closing statement , or the final call for action, is where you encourage the recruiter to contact you if additional information is needed.
• The signature , where you repeat your name and include your full contact information.

Letter of Recommendation Layout 

When it comes to the layout of the recommendation letter, all you need to do is follow some basic formatting rules. Here are the most important ones: 

#1. One page length. This rule applies to resumes too, but it’s even more essential for the recommendation letter. Recruiters go through hundreds of them, so chances are they appreciate concise, to-the-point letters that don’t waste their time. And besides, a good recommendation letter doesn’t have to be an essay to get the recruiter ‘hooked’ - especially if you follow the above format. 

#2. Single-spaced lining, with space between paragraphs . This also keeps your reference letter within the limit by shortening the text. 

#3. Traditional font. Don’t go for something too creative - pick a classic that works. We recommend Times New Roman, Calibri, Arial, Ubuntu, Roboto or Overpass.

#4. 1” margins on all sides . This creates enough white space around the margins and makes the letter easy to read. Additionally, the text should be aligned to the left - although this is a standard alignment for most documents.    

#5. 10-12pt font size . This is the font size range that makes the document easy to read. Adjusting the font size is another good way to keep your recommendation letter within the length limit.

Recommendation letters usually follow similar layout rules as resumes. Learn more about font size and style from our article on the best resume font, size, and format . 

Recommendation Letter Template 

Struggling to write a recommendation letter? 

Just follow our tried-and-tested template! 

To whom it may concern: 

[Recommend the referee for the position they are applying for.]

[Briefly introduce yourself and state your position/ job title , as well as your work experience .]

[Tell how you know the referee and describe their top skills, qualifications, and strengths.]

[Share a personal story with the referee where you highlight their strong points and key achievements .]

[Add a few more of the applicant’s skills and positive traits, preferably fitting the job description.]

[Show your availability to provide additional information for the referee if needed.]

Best Regards

[Your full signature and contact information]

How to Ask for a Recommendation Letter 

Need to ask someone for a recommendation letter? Here’s what you need to know.

The go-to person for your recommendation letter will depend on the type of reference you’ll need. 

For example, if you need an employment recommendation letter , your top choices should involve people who are familiar with your work ethic and professional abilities, but with whom you’ve also had a positive professional relationship. For example:

• Your team lead
• Department head
• CEO of the company
• Direct manager
• A coworker you’ve worked with together on a project

If you are a recent graduate with little work experience, you can ask a mentor or college professor to write you a professional reference. 

In case you need an academic recommendation letter , consider asking a professor with whom you’ve worked closely and can positively attest to your academic potential and achievements.

Your thesis advisor, for example, would make a good choice to ask for an academic reference. If you never wrote a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, any professor who knows you as more than just a face in a sea of students should do the trick. 

Finally, keep the following in mind when the time comes to ask for a recommendation letter: 

• Whoever you end up asking, talk to them about it in advance . Then, follow up with a formal email that should contain all reference-related information, such as the submission details and deadline. The email can also include a description of what you’re currently doing (professionally, academically, or independently), what qualifies you for the position, and some relevant skills, achievements, or noteworthy facts.
• If you’re asking for a professional recommendation letter, make sure to also include your resume and the job description in the follow-up email. This way, the person writing the letter will know more about you and your new position and will be able to write a more relevant recommendation by tailoring your skills to the job, or by mentioning some of your (relevant) achievements.
• Notify the contacts you’ll be asking - considering that in most cases recruiters ask for up to three recommendation letters - at least two weeks in advance. This will give them enough time to prepare and write a good recommendation letter. This is especially important for academic references because professors are usually writing several recommendation letters simultaneously.
• Consider attaching a recommendation letter template such as the one provided in this article to your email. The template will considerably ease or guide them through the process of writing the letter.
• Follow up by sending thank you notes to everyone who writes you a recommendation letter. Sending a letter of appreciation is a courtesy act that will let them know you are grateful for the time and effort they took to recommend you positively.

If you’re also looking to update your resume or create one, head over to our guide on how to write a resume in 2024 !

5 Tips on How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

There’s more to writing a recommendation letter than just following the layout instructions or sticking to the format.

We’re referring to content quality, which happens to be the trickiest part of the process. 

In this section, we’ll teach you how to write a recommendation letter that will impress the recruiter and help your referee!

Tip #1. Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction  

First things first - the introduction.

This is where you need to grab the reader’s attention and get them interested in reading the recommendation letter. 

How to go about it? Before formally (and briefly) introducing yourself, aim to write an attention-grabbing recommendation statement, instead of a generic one the recruiter probably knows by heart already. 

Let’s explain this more practically: 

Dear Mr. Smith, 

I am pleased to recommend Sarah McKay for the Communications Assistant position.

Nothing wrong with this introduction at first glance, right? It’s a standard way of opening a recommendation letter after all. 

Well that’s exactly what’s wrong with it - it’s way too common. No, this probably won’t get your application disqualified, but it won’t impress the recruiter either.

Want yours to strike the right note? Try something like this instead:

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am sincerely glad to be the one recommending Sarah McKay for the Communications Assistant position.

This recommendation statement is not significantly different from the previous one, except for one thing: it gives the reference letter a head start by implying that recommending Sarah is an honor. And that’s more likely to get the recruiter’s attention - or, at least, curiosity. 

In case you’re struggling to come up with an attention-grabbing introduction, simply mention one of the following points, and you’re good to go: 

• A little-known fact about the candidate. 
• Your general consideration of the candidate’s qualities.
• A remarkable achievement or award the candidate might have won.  

Tip #2. Establish a Meaningful Relationship With the Candidate 

All recommendation letters explain what the relationship with the referee is before listing their skills and qualifications. 

To make the recommendation more meaningful, you should show the recruiter you are just the right person to attest to the candidate’s abilities. And that’s not something you can convey by simply stating how you know them. Take the following example:   

I have taught Jake Political Science for four years. 

Does this example tell the recruiter how you know the applicant? Sure, it does. 

But it does so in a boring way and without establishing a convincing relationship with them. For all the recruiter knows, Jake is just one out of a thousand students you’ve taught over the years.

It has been a pleasure for me to teach Jake for four years and guide him through his remarkable Bachelor’s thesis in Conflict Resolution.

Notice the difference? This example specifies the writer is Jake’s thesis advisor, which makes the recommendation all the more meaningful. 

Tip #3. Tailor Your Recommendation to the Application 

Want to put in the extra effort and make sure your referee truly stands out?

Tailor the recommendation letter to the job / university program they’re applying for.

Tailoring your letter to the candidate’s application is easiest when you’re recommending someone for employment (you can just check the job requirements), but it works for any type of recommendation (incl. academic). All you need to do is match the referee’s skills and strengths to whatever they’re applying for. 

Let’s assume, for example, that you’re recommending a co-worker for a marketing manager position.

Some of the job requirements are: 

• +5 years of professional experience in marketing
• Experience developing marketing campaigns 
• Excellent communication skills 
• Project-management and multi-tasking skills 

To tailor your recommendation to the job requirements, all you need to do is mention them as your referee’s best qualities. For example: 

Even after seven years working together, Ema’s skillful way of effectively communicating with clients and co-workers alike doesn’t cease to amaze me. It only comes second to her multi-tasking abilities, which I’ve witnessed throughout the many marketing campaigns we have developed and managed. 

As you can see, there’s not much to it. 

All you need to do is check the job requirements, pick several skills and qualifications, and make them part of your referee’s top skills, strengths, or personality traits.  

Tip #4. List the Candidate’s Achievements 

Mentioning some of the candidate’s achievements is another great way to help your referee really stand out.

After all, skills, strengths, and character traits are awesome, but they can also come across as meaningless if you can’t back them up with facts. 

What do we mean by this?

Let us explain:

Here’s how a typical personal story in a recommendation letter looks like:

I came to truly appreciate Eric’s work ethic, passion, and attention to detail the first time I assigned him to do a report on child trafficking. Eric was respectful of journalistic ethics but also willing to chase the story relentlessly, believing in its value and importance. 

Sure, this is a perfectly acceptable personal story. 

However, it doesn’t do much more than just list the referee’s skills, traits, and work experience through a subjective lens. 

What we’re saying is, it doesn’t really sell the candidate.

Now, let’s compare it to the following:

Eric’s ability to chase after difficult stories first became apparent when I assigned him a report about child trafficking. Despite the challenging topic, Eric not only pulled through but achieved more than expected by a) identifying a trafficking ring that put more than 50 minors into forced begging, b) interviewing 10 of the older minors and managing to bring that trafficking network down once the reportage went public and c) increasing the TV Channel’s ratings by 40% in 3 weeks. 

By mentioning those achievements, your account of the candidate’s experiences is a lot more “factual,” as well as impressive for the recruiter.

Not sure which achievements to include? Check out these 101+ achievements to list on your resum e !

Tip #5. Polish Up Your Recommendation Letter

Finally, here’s 5 more simple tips to get your recommendation letter ready:

• Maintain positive rhetoric . At no point throughout your reference letter should the recruiter sense a hint of doubt regarding the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
• Don’t overdo the positivity. Extremes are never good - which means being overly positive might also come across as a bit suspicious or weird (even if everything you're saying is true). 
• Follow the submission instructions . A bunch of employers, but also educational institutions, will provide instructions on how to submit the recommendation letter. We recommend you ask the candidate to double-check them and give you a heads up, because if you submit the recommendation letter wrong, the candidate might lose their chance.
• Use a business tone . Even when you’re being creative, your writing tone should maintain a business tone - polite, and as formal as possible.
• Mind your grammar and spelling . This is another tip that goes for all things application-related. You won’t compromise the referee’s chances with a typo, but your recommendation won’t matter much either if it’s filled with simple grammar/spelling mistakes. Run your letter through a grammar and spell-check app once you’re finished with it, just to be on the safe side of things.

Recommendation Letter FAQ

Still have some questions on how to write a letter of recommendation?

Find your answers below!

1. What is a professional letter of recommendation?

A professional letter of recommendation - also called an employment recommendation letter - refers to an official document that is typically required when you apply for a job and which describes the applicant’s professional skills, experiences, and qualifications. 

Professional letters of recommendation are typically written by current or previous employers or supervisors. A coworker can also write you a professional letter of recommendation, but it’s not as optimal as a coworker is not really an authority figure (and might just be a friend doing you a favor instead of being honest).

2. What should be written in a letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation generally follow the following format: 

• A formal salutation
• An introduction (which includes a recommendation statement and your professional title)
• An overview of some of the applicant’s skills, strengths, or qualifications, which you can tailor to the application
• A personal story where you can mention some of the applicant’s achievements
• A closing statement and call for action
• A signature , with your contact information

3. Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

If you’re asking for an academic letter of recommendation, you can ask:

• Current or former professors
• Academic mentors
• Thesis advisors

If you’re asking for a professional recommendation letter, though, you can ask:

• Current or former employers
• A supervisor or professional mentor
• Former professors
• Experienced coworkers

4. How do you start a recommendation paragraph?

To keep the recruiter reading your recommendation letter interested, you should start with an attention-grabbing introduction - specifically, an interesting recommendation statement. 

This statement is the opening sentence of the letter and it should optimally express your conviction to recommend the applicant in a non-generic way. 

If you’re struggling with coming up with something creative, just start with one of the following:

• A little-known or impressive fact about the candidate
• Your general consideration of the candidate’s qualities
• A remarkable achievement, or an award the candidate might have won

5. How do you end a letter of recommendation?

A letter of recommendation concludes with a call to action or a request towards the recruiter   showing your availability and willingness to provide additional information if needed. After mentioning that you remain available to discuss the candidate’s qualifications, you may finalize the letter with your signature - your name, title, and company.

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! We hope this article will make the process of writing a recommendation letter easier for you. 

Let’s go over some of the main points we covered: 

• A letter of recommendation is a formal letter confirming and recommending a person’s work, skills, or academic performance and potential.
• Recommendation letters follow a particular format and layout. The format typically consists of 1) the letterhead and full contact information, 2) a salutation, 3) an introduction, 4) an overview, 5) a personal story, 6) a closing sentence and 7) your signature.
• The three types of recommendation letters are employment, academic, and character recommendation letters.
• Who to ask for a recommendation letter depends on the type of reference you need. As a rule of thumb, pick someone who knows your skills and strengths well and whom you’ve had a positive experience (professional or academic) with.

Related Articles

• How to List References on a Resume [w/ Examples]
• How to Address a Cover Letter in 2023
• Motivation Letter Writing Guide + Examples for 2023

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How to Write a Referral Letter With Template

Category: Guides , Handwrytten Help

Has an employee, friend or  colleague  asked you to write a referral letter for them? Are you unclear what that means and what form of words to use?  Handwrytten  is here to help!

Find out what a referral letter is and the key content that should be in one. We’ve also provided some  useful examples , which you may use as a reference when writing your referral letter.

Keep reading for how to write a referral letter with examples.

• What is a Referral Letter?

Background Information

Your experience with the individual, anecdotes to back your claims, demonstrate how the individual fulfills a job specification, outline of a recommendation letter, important context to keep in mind when writing a letter of recommendation, reference letter example, software developer referral letter, lawyer example recommendation letter, financial manager letter of recommendation, market research analyst referral letter, letter of recommendation for a high school teacher, write a formal letter of recommendation that stands out, what is a referral letter.

A referral letter is known by many names:

• A letter of recommendation
• A recommendation letter
• A reference letter

It is a letter you write about someone, regarding your personal experience of them. Usually, a recommendation letter is written in the context of employment. Someone applying for a new job may ask you to write a referral letter for them, in order to strengthen their application.

Note that a referral letter is different from a reference, in that you are positively recommending someone for a position. It is something job candidates will use as part of their application process to help them stand out from the rest. In contrast, a reference is something that new employers will request from a previous (or current) employer. References are usually neutral in nature, including details of attendance, punctuality, sick leave, promotions, and similar quantifiable information.

If you are asked to write a letter of recommendation, it’s important that you feel able to comment honestly and positively on the person‘s work performance and your experience of them. If you don’t feel able to do this, it’s best not to write a recommendation letter. You may wish to provide a neutral reference instead.

It’s important to avoid saying anything overtly negative about an individual, particularly when they’re a former employee applying for a new job. Not only is it not helpful, but there is also a precedent for other employees, who have been given a negative reference or referral letter to sue!

Sections of a Referral Letter

Take a look at the recommendation letter headings you should include as part of your communication. Note that these are just a guide – there’s no reason why you can’t add additional information and/or examples of reference letters if you wish.

This may include how long you’ve known the individual and in what context. You may also list the individual’s skills and qualifications.

Include information such as contact details, the tasks and special projects they’ve completed, and the added value they bring to these tasks. Detail the attributes this individual possesses which make them such a great employee/co-worker/boss.

Rather than simply stipulating someone’s good points, it’s helpful to use anecdotes to illustrate them. For example, “John Smith is an exceptionally hard worker. During a busy period last year, when we were short-staffed, he regularly took on additional work and completed it to the same high standard as everything else he does”.

If the individual candidate is applying for a particular job, you may wish to link their talents and positive qualities to the job specification. This includes the applicant’s strengths and personal attributes that are listed as essential or desirable for the new role.

A letter of recommendation should be organized in the following format:

At the top of the page, include both your address (on the top left of the page), and that of the person to whom the letter is addressed (not the person you are writing about), if you have it. Typically that would be a representative from the organization to whom the person is applying for employment – ensure to include the recipient’s title.

Address your letter to the company or organization’s representative (Dear Mr. Smith, for example), or, if it is a general recommendation letter, simply write a brief introduction such as, “To whom it may concern.”

Follow this with an introductory paragraph.

The subsequent paragraph or paragraphs should go into detail about the individual applicant’s qualities, achievements, and why they’re the best fit for the job. Remember to include anecdotes to back up your statements.

Your final paragraph should provide a summary of what you’ve written in previous paragraphs.

The letter closing should be a formal one, details of which are provided  here . If you are unfamiliar with writing formal letters,  this  covers the basics.

Ensure that the letter of recommendation’s recipient is taken into account; if it is meant to be a more formal referral, a closing like “with love” is not suitable.

When you are writing, or are asking someone to write recommendation letters, you must keep in mind that hiring managers care more about who you are as a person than just your qualifications.

In any high-level job, there are going to be dozens of candidates who share the same enthusiasm and a similar skillset, meaning the core thing that sets you apart is your personality. A strong letter will focus on this point, and will point out how you stand out in the workplace.

Emphasizing that previous employers  consistently saw the positive impact you had in the workplace is key to writing an effective letter. This means focusing on things like your work ethic, how co-workers felt about working with you, and if you might be a good fit are important to note.

This is an example of the wording that would typically be used when writing a referral letter. Remember to keep the content relevant and concise. Ideally, a recommendation letter should be a single side of the paper, and certainly no more than two sides. Aim to keep your content minimal, while communicating important information.

Dear [Organization Representative],

I am delighted to recommend [Individual’s Name] for the position of [position].

[Individual’s Name] worked as [job title] for [period of time]. [Name of individual] has a wealth of skills and knowledge, including [provide specific examples of relevant qualifications and key achievements]. As their [your position or relationship to the individual], I was very impressed by the [key qualities] [Name of individual] displayed.

A very valuable asset to any team, [Name] offers [a number of “hard” skills, such as extensive knowledge of a particular subject area, specific technical skills]. In addition, they are [list some soft skills here, such as a team player, friendly, empathetic, a good listener, innovative or similar].

[Name] demonstrates a formidable knowledge of [subject]. They were [now provide an example of where they used this knowledge]. An example might be: John demonstrates a formidable breadth of copywriting experience. Whilst with our team he wrote several e-books, numerous press releases, web content, and a series of marketing emails that boosted response rates for one of our clients by more than 97%.

Repeat this formula (state the person‘s skill or attribute then provide an example to illustrate this) for as many paragraphs as required.

In summary, I have no hesitation in recommending [Name] for the position of [position]. They are an accomplished [job title] as well as a fantastic [personal or soft quality].

Please get in touch if you have any further questions or insights. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Extra Sample Referral Letters

Here are a few generic sample referral letters you can use for specific situations. In between brackets are where you should be editing and putting specific, relevant terms to you and your situation.

Dear [Hiring Manager],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [John Doe] for the position of Senior Developer at your company. [John] was an integral member of my team at [XYZ Corporation] for the past five years, during which time he consistently and effectively exceeded all expectations.

[John]’s technical skills and knowledge are vast and his attention to detail is impeccable. He has a wealth of experience in software development, including web applications, mobile apps, and databases, as well as a deep understanding of coding languages such as [C++, Java, and Python]. He quickly gets up to speed on new technologies and never hesitates to take on challenges. On top of this, he brings creativity and innovative solutions to complex problems while still adhering to tight deadlines.

[John] is also a great team player and always extremely hard working. His eagerness to learn, coupled with his strong work ethic, makes him a valuable asset to any organization. I am confident that [John] would be an excellent addition to your development team and will be a great resource for many years to come.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information about [John]’s qualifications or skillset – I’ve included my contact information below.

[Your Name  (Former Hiring Manager)  XYZ Corporation]

Dear Ms [Recipient],

I am writing to you to recommend one of my former colleagues, [John Doe]. I have known [John] for [four] years and worked with him as a lawyer at [ABC law firm].

[John] is an outstanding professional and his qualifications are excellent. He graduated from [XYZ Law School] with honors and has been practicing law for [seven] years, specializing in [corporate law]. His knowledge of [contract law] is exceptional; he was the go-to person when [complicated legal issues] arose in our office. Additionally, he is very organized and detail-oriented which allows him to complete tasks efficiently and competently.

[John] also possesses great [interpersonal] skills; [he’s incredibly friendly and always willing to help others]. He interacts well with clients, colleagues, and other legal professionals. He is able to explain complex concepts in an understandable way and is always willing to answer any questions that arise.

In short, I cannot recommend [John] enough for the position of a corporate lawyer at your firm. His skill set and qualifications make him an ideal candidate and a great asset to any team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need more information.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) ABC Law Firm]

I am writing to you to recommend my former associate, [Individual’s Name]. I have known [Individual’s Name] for two years and worked with him in the financial department at [XYZ Corporation].

[Individual’s Name] has excellent educational qualifications; he graduated from [ABC Business School] at the top of his class and then went on to obtain a [Master’s degree in Finance] from [XYZ University]. He also has [seven] years of experience working as a [financial manager] in various industries. His expertise lies specifically in [budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis and project management].

[Individual’s Name] is highly organized and meticulous when it comes to managing finances. He pays close attention to detail and always seeks out potential areas for improvement or cost savings within the business. He is also highly efficient and adept at working with tight deadlines. On top of this, he has strong [communication] skills and can effectively collaborate with other members of the finance team.

On a personal level, [Individual’s Name] is an extremely reliable and dependable colleague. His enthusiasm for learning new skills and taking on challenging tasks makes him a great asset in any organization. I am confident that he would be an excellent addition to your team as a financial manager and will be a valuable resource for many years to come.

If you need any more information about [Individual’s Name]’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to reach out to me. My contact information is included below.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) XYZ Corporation]

I am writing to you to recommend my former colleague, [John Doe]. I have known [John] for [three] years and worked with him as a [market research analyst] at [ABC Corporation].

[John] is an incredibly talented professional; he graduated from [XYZ University] with honors and has several years of experience in the field. He has extensive knowledge of various marketing tools such as [Google Analytics, Facebook Insights, and Adobe Marketing Cloud].

[John] simultaneously exhibits excellent [analytical] skills which allow him to quickly assess challenges and provide accurate solutions. He is very organized and detail-oriented; his ability to break down large amounts of data into meaningful insights helps inform key decisions. On top of this, he is a creative and innovative thinker which aids him in developing effective strategies.

On a personal level, [John] has always been an enthusiastic team player; his positive attitude and willingness to help others make him an asset in any work environment. He is also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to new situations or processes with ease.

I am confident that [John] would be an excellent addition to your team as a market research analyst and will be a valuable resource for many years to come. If you need any more information about [John]’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to contact me.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) ABC Corporation]

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am writing to you to recommend my former colleague, Mrs. Jane Smith. I have known Mrs. Smith for four years and worked with her as a high school math teacher at XYZ High School.

Mrs. Smith is an incredibly talented professional; she graduated from ABC University with honors and has several years of teaching experience in the field. She has extensive knowledge of mathematics and is well-versed in curriculum development, classroom management and assessment strategies.

Mrs. Smith simultaneously exhibits a deep understanding of the subject matter as well as an ability to make complex problems more easily understandable for her students. She is also very organized with an eye for detail which helps her create engaging and effective lesson plans. On top of this, she is patient and encouraging with students, motivating them to work hard and reach their full potential.

On a personal level, Mrs. Smith has always been an enthusiastic team player; her positive attitude and willingness to help others make her an asset in any educational environment. She is also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to new situations or processes with ease.

I am confident that Mrs. Smith would be an excellent addition to your team as a high school math teacher and will be a valuable resource for many years to come. If you need any more information about Mrs. Smith’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Your Name (Former Colleague) XYZ High School

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5 Examples of Referral Letters: Crafting the Perfect Recommendation

By Status.net Editorial Team on March 6, 2024 — 9 minutes to read

Referral letters are important tools in many professional and personal scenarios. These letters can help you secure a job or gain admission to academic programs. Writing a referral letter means crafting a personalized endorsement of someone’s skills, character, or professional achievements. The purpose is to provide someone with a positive recommendation to support their application or candidacy for a position, program, or service.

Components of an Effective Referral Letter

An effective referral letter typically contains several key components:

• Introduction : Your relationship to the person being referred and a brief introduction of the person you’re addressing the letter to.
• Reason for Referral : A clear explanation of why you’re making the referral. In a job scenario, this might include specific skills or qualifications the referred individual possesses that align with the job role.
• Background Information : Relevant information about the person being referred. This could be medical history in the case of healthcare or job experience and skills for employment.
• Expectation : A summary of what you hope to achieve with the referral. Are you looking for a consultation, treatment, a job opportunity, or something else?
• Contact Information : Make sure you include how and when you can be contacted to answer further questions or provide additional information.

Professional Referrals

When you need to endorse a colleague or connect businesses, crafting a clear and supportive referral letter can make a significant difference.

Job Candidate Referral Letter Example

Your referral for a job candidate can greatly influence their chances of employment. When writing this type of referral, start with your relationship to the candidate and a summary of their qualifications. Focus on specific skills and achievements that relate to the job they’re applying for.

Subject: Referral for [Candidate Name] – [Job Title]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [duration] at [Company Name] as [Your Position]. Through our time working together on [Project/Task], [Candidate Name] consistently demonstrated valuable skills such as [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3].

[Specific example of an achievement or contribution by the candidate]. This example illustrates [Candidate’s Name]’s capability in [relevant skill or field] and gives a glimpse of the potential contributions they can bring to your team at [Target Company Name].

I’m confident that [Candidate Name] would be an excellent fit for your team and the position of [Job Title]. [Candidate Name]’s [relevant characteristic or skill] and dedication to [relevant field or type of work] make them a standout candidate.

Thank you for considering my recommendation.

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information]

Referral for Jane Morris – Marketing Manager

Dear Mr. Smith,

I have had the pleasure of working with Jane Morris for three years at (…) Corp as her direct supervisor. Through our time working together on the rebranding campaign for our flagship product, Jane consistently demonstrated valuable skills such as strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective team leadership.

One particular instance that stands out was when Jane led a cross-departmental team to develop a new marketing strategy that increased our market share by 15% within six months. This example illustrates Jane’s capability in strategic marketing management and gives a glimpse of the potential contributions she can bring to your team at (…) Inc.

I’m confident that Jane Morris would be an excellent fit for your team and the position of Marketing Manager. Jane’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to driving brand growth make her a standout candidate.

John Smith Director of Marketing (…) Corp

Business-to-Business Referral Letter Example

A referral between businesses helps build networks and opens up new opportunities. In your referral letter, highlight how the referred business has successfully worked with your company and why you think they would be a valuable partner for the recipient.

Subject: Referral for [Referred Company Name]

I am writing to connect you with [Referred Company Name], whom we’ve had the pleasure of working with for [time period]. Our collaboration on projects such as [Project Name] has led to [measurable outcomes or improvements], showcasing the company’s strengths in [specific areas of expertise].

[Referred Company Name] has been instrumental in [specific achievement or contribution], and their team’s skill in [Skill 1], dedication to [Skill 2], and exceptional [Skill 3] made a significant impact on our business objectives.

Considering your company’s recent initiatives in [relevant field or market trend], I believe that [Referred Company Name] can deliver the results you’re looking to achieve [specific goal or project].

Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional insights into our experience working with [Referred Company Name].

Warm regards,

Academic Referrals

When requesting an academic referral, you’re asking a professional to vouch for your academic performance and character. These letters are vital for opportunities like scholarships and graduate programs, because they provide a personal insight into your capabilities and achievements.

Student Scholarship Referral Letter Example

To obtain a scholarship referral letter, you need to choose a referee who is familiar with your academic record, strengths, and extracurricular involvement.

Dear [Referee’s Last Name],

I am writing to request a letter of referral for the [Scholarship Name], awarded by [Scholarship Provider]. Having been an active participant in [mention any relevant course or extracurricular activity], I believe your insight into my dedication and competencies would greatly support my application.

The scholarship focuses on students who have demonstrated [mention scholarship-relevant characteristics like leadership, community service, academic excellence, etc.]. I feel that our interaction during [specific event, project, or class] has given you a perspective on how I embody these qualities. I would be honored if you could provide specific examples, such as [give an example where you exemplified these traits], to illustrate your recommendation.

Please let me know if there is any additional information or documentation I can provide. The deadline for submitting the referral letter is [date], and it can be sent directly to [submission details].

Thank you for considering my request.

[Your Full Name]

Graduate Program Referral Letter Example

Dear Professor [Referee’s Last Name],

I am reaching out to kindly request your support in my application for [Name of Graduate Program] at [Target University/College]. Your guidance during [specific course or project] has been instrumental in my decision to pursue further education in [your field of study].

The [Name of Graduate Program] emphasizes [highlight key aspects of the program such as research-intensive curriculum, interdisciplinary approach, etc.]. I believe your assessment of my [mention a particular research project, thesis, or academic achievement] will provide the admissions committee a comprehensive view of my potential for success in the program. It would be particularly helpful if you could touch upon [specific skills or attributes, like analytical thinking, creativity, or dedication to the field].

The deadline for the referral letter submission is [date], and it should be sent to [submission instructions]. Should you need more information or documentation, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

Personal and Character Referrals

When you’re asked to vouch for a friend’s character, you’re giving a testament to their ethics, reliability, and overall personality. It’s important to convey honest and positive aspects of their character.

Example of a Personal Character Reference for a Friend

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

I’m writing to you regarding my dear friend [Friend’s Name], whom I’ve known for [Number of Years]. I can share with certainty that [he/she/they] is a person of exemplary character and integrity. The fact that I willing to provide this reference is a testament to my complete trust in [him/her/them].

[Friend’s Name] is a beacon of [discuss virtue or virtues — e.g., honesty, integrity, kindness], a quality that has always stood out in the time I’ve known [him/her/them]. For instance, when we were in a situation where [describe a situation that shows your friend’s character], [he/she/they] showed immense [describe the quality – e.g., courage, loyalty, compassion] by [describe what your friend did in the situation].

Moreover, you will find that [he/she/they] is incredibly [additional positive traits – e.g., reliable, dependable, hard-working], which is evident from [provide examples]. Whether it’s showing up on time for events or going out of the way to support friends, [Friend’s Name] is someone you can count on.

I have every confidence in [his/her/their] abilities to [mention the purpose of the referral — e.g., volunteer, contribute to a community, work in a team] and strongly recommend [him/her/them] for [mention the reason for the referral — e.g., a specific role, opportunity, or position]. Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Contact Information].

I’m writing to you regarding my dear friend John Morris, whom I’ve known for over 10 years. I can share with certainty that he is a person of exemplary character and integrity. The fact that I am willing to provide this reference is a testament to my complete trust in him.

John is a beacon of honesty and kindness, qualities that have always stood out in the time I’ve known him. For instance, when we were involved in a community fundraiser that faced some unexpected challenges, John showed immense leadership and compassion by stepping up to coordinate the efforts and ensuring that the event was a success.

Moreover, you will find that he is incredibly reliable and hard-working, which is evident from his dedication to his job and his volunteer work. Whether it’s showing up on time for events or going out of the way to support friends, John is someone you can count on.

I have every confidence in his abilities to contribute positively to any team and strongly recommend him for any position that requires a trustworthy and proactive individual. Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (…).

Frequently Asked Questions

How can one draft a referral letter for a job application.

To draft a referral letter for a job application, start with a greeting to the hiring manager and proceed to introduce yourself and your relationship with the candidate. Explain why you’re a credible source to endorse the applicant, and then highlight the applicant’s key skills that match the job requirements. For example, if your colleague has remarkable project management skills and the job is in project coordination, make sure to emphasize those skills and provide specific instances where they excelled.

Could you suggest a structure for a student referral letter?

A student referral letter typically starts with your name, title, and relationship to the student. Then, mention how long you’ve known the student and in what capacity. Next, provide specific examples of the student’s academic achievements, work ethic, and personality traits that make them a strong candidate for the academic program or scholarship. Be sure to include instances that reflect their potential for growth and any unique contributions they might bring to the institution’s community.

• A Perfect Letter of Introduction [Examples]
• Perfect Ways to Say "Thank You for the Opportunity" (Examples)
• How to Refer Someone for a Job (2 Referral Letter Examples)
• How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation [Examples]
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• 46 Examples of a Resume Opening Statement (Perfect Introduction)

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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. 

Stacie Adams is a seasoned writer with a passion for topics affecting modern workplaces, especially topics relevant to the restaurant and food industry. She’s written extensively on legal issues affecting businesses, including discrimination, contractual disputes, and safety code violations.

Stacie Adams

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How to Get a Great Letter of Recommendation

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Some colleges will ask for two or three letters of recommendation during the application process. These letters should be written by someone who can describe your skills, accomplishments, and personality.

Why do colleges ask for recommendations? Colleges value recommendations because they:

• Show your talents beyond test scores and grades.
• Describe real-life examples of your personality and character .
• Discuss your relationships in the academic community.

A recommendation letter can help your application stand out, especially when it highlights your skills, accomplishments, and positive attitude toward education.

When Should I Ask for a Recommendation Letter?

Teachers need as much time as possible to complete a recommendation letter. They often have many recommendation letters to write, along with lesson planning and grading.

You should try to get your request to them as soon as possible, but give your references at least a month to complete and submit your letters. The start of your senior year is a good time to begin asking teachers for recommendation letters, especially if you’re applying for early decision. Remember, the more time your teacher has, the more likely they'll write you a thoughtful, detailed letter.

Who Should I Ask to Write a Letter of Recommendation?

It's up to you to find people to write academic letters of recommendation. These tips can help you through the process:

• Read each of your college applications carefully. Schools often ask for letters of rec from a specific person, such as a core subject teacher, specific subject teacher, or school counselor.
• Get advice from teachers, counselors, and family members on who would be best to write your recommendation letters.
• Be sure to select a current teacher or one from your junior year, preferably one who knows you well. Don't choose teachers you had several years ago, since colleges want to know who you are and what you are like now.
• Teachers who know you outside of the classroom are a good choice. Consider a teacher who led a club you were in.
• If requested by the college, you can also think about other adults who know you well. A coach, employer, or club adviser can say a lot about your skills and character. Ask your admissions officer if it okay to submit recommendations beyond what is required by the college.
• Above all else, choose someone who will be enthusiastic about writing your letter.
• If you’re unsure about asking someone in particular, politely ask if he or she feels comfortable recommending you. That’s a good way to avoid letters that sound weak or forced.

How to Be Sure You Get a Glowing Letter of Recommendation

Some teachers write many recommendation letters each year. While teachers don't intend to, their letters can start to seem generic after a while. Make it easy for them to give positive, detailed information about your achievements and your potential by refreshing their memory so that they can share specific details about your school career.

It can also be helpful to provide your teacher with a resume or “brag sheet.” Something you might want to include on your brag sheet or in your discussion with your teacher include:

• Your class participation
• Some of your best work/projects
• What you learned in their class
• Anything they need to discuss for specific work examples

If you need to get a college letter of recommendation from a counselor, be sure to do the following:

• Make an appointment to meet with your counselor if that’s an option, or follow your school’s specific process for receiving a counselor recommendation.
• Discuss your skills, accomplishments, and hobbies. Also, talk about what you want to do in college and beyond.
• If you have low grades or any other issues on your transcript, talk to your counselor about what happened and what you've done to improve.

It's also a good idea to follow up with your teacher or counselor to see if they have any questions on what is listed on the brag sheet or need more information. And don’t forget to say, “Thank you!”

Final Recommendation Tips

Before asking for a letter of recommendation, remember these tips:

• Waive your right to view recommendation letters on your application forms. Admission officers will trust them more if you haven’t seen them.
• Requests for recommendations are often sent via email. Make sure that they have the correct email address of the recommender.
• Let teachers know the deadline for each college and ask them about their preferred turnaround time.
• You can keep track of your letter of recommendation submissions in your application portal. You can politely follow up with your teacher if the deadline is approaching but you see your letter has not been submitted yet.
• Once your letters are complete, write a thank-you note to your references. Once you decide which college to attend, you can also tell your references where you’re going and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Below are some of students' most-asked questions about how to ask for a college letter of recommendation.

How do I address a recommendation letter?

Be sure to give your teacher or counselor the instructions for how the recommendation will be submitted, but most recommendations are sent through an application portal. Instructions are usually provided to the recommender in the electronic request they receive from the portal.

How do I ask teachers for letters of recommendation?

It can seem daunting to ask a teacher for a recommendation, but remember that your teachers are among your biggest supporters and they want you to succeed.

The best way to ask is to simply ask. Find a time when your teacher isn't busy and ask them directly. Don't go with friends, and try to avoid emailing. Be sure you have any information your teacher may need to write the recommendation and give them plenty of time to complete it.

How should I ask for a letter of recommendation by email?

Try to avoid asking by email if at all possible. However, if you're in an unavoidable situation—for example, you or your teacher changed schools—then emailing is fine. Start by reminding them of who you are, and tell them something specific you liked about their class.

Be sure to include any links they may need. In most cases, once you have asked your teacher or counselor if they are willing to write a letter of recommendation, you will then submit the recommendation request via your application platform, like Common App. Your teacher or counselor will receive the request directly from the portal. You should confirm specific instructions for each institution or scholarship that you need a recommendation for. If the letter has to be sent through the mail, get their mailing address so that you can send them the information plus an addressed and stamped envelope.

How do I politely ask for a letter of recommendation for college?

Some teachers get so many requests for college recommendation letters that they simply can't accept them all. You can often make yourself stand out just by being polite.

Ask your teacher at an appropriate time during the day, and be sure to ask as far in advance as possible. Provide your teacher with anything they may need, like an email address or letter template, work samples, resume, and anything else that can be helpful. When you make it easy on your teacher, they'll be more likely to say yes.

How do I request a letter of recommendation from a principal?

Stop by the school office or send an email requesting a meeting with your principal. Be direct, and ask politely. As your principal probably won't have as much knowledge of your academics, you should prepare a summary and a resume. Don't forget to ask your principal as far in advance of the letter's due date as possible.

How do I ask for a letter of recommendation from someone I don't know well?

While you should always try to choose teachers who know you well for your recommendation letters, sometimes, you have no option. You should only use this option if the school you are applying to requires a letter of recommendation and you have not established a relationship with any teachers or counselors. Otherwise, you should always ask someone who knows you well. When asking someone you don't know well, the best option can often be asking them in person and then telling them more about who you are.

If the first conversation goes well, you can send a follow up email more information and consider requesting another meeting. Since they don't know you well, be sure to have a resume and a summary of your time and accomplishments in their class.

Who should I not ask for a letter of recommendation?

You may be tempted to ask a well-known teacher, but if that teacher doesn't know you well, the letter won't mean a lot. You should also avoid teachers that you had several years ago.

Don't ask a family member or a friend for a recommendation as a college may not take them seriously. You should always follow the guidelines from the colleges you are applying to when choosing who to write your letter of recommendation. Finally, if you have a teacher that doesn't have the best opinion of you, avoid asking them for a recommendation letter.

What should a college letter of recommendation include?

A recommendation letter should feel personal to the school: The teacher should state why you'd be a good fit for that particular college, and should include information that will not be found elsewhere on your application. For example, your letter of recommendation shouldn’t repeat the list of student activities already on your college application. It should include any relevant projects or work you've done. Experiences that relate to your character and academic potential are helpful, too. The teacher should include specific details about their experiences with you. Letters of recommendations can be brief and bullet points are fine! Remember that admissions officers are reading thousands of these letters, so sometimes less is more.

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4 Tips to Complete College Applications on Time

W ith multiple components and deadlines, the college application process can be daunting for some students. Since prospective students are often juggling college applications alongside high school classes and activities, experts say it's easy to fall behind or procrastinate.

"Procrastination is a stress response, and it makes sense that some students who are anxious about the college process will avoid working on their applications in a timely fashion," Angela Warfield, principal consultant and founder of admissions consulting firm Compass Academics, wrote in an email.

"This can become a real problem if students wait too long to request transcripts, test score reports or letters of recommendation. Since the students need to rely on other people to submit these materials, they need to make sure to give those people as much time as possible to get those materials in before deadlines."

There are some exceptions where applications are accepted later, and schools that offer rolling admissions may be good last-minute options for students. But May 1 has traditionally been the decision deadline across higher education, even earning the name "College Decision Day," so students typically need to follow that timeline. If a student is applying for early decision or early action , there will be even earlier deadlines to submit application materials.

A well-thought-out plan, anchored by a few organizational tips, can keep students on track with college applications. Here are four tips that experts say students can follow to complete their college applications on time.

• Start planning early.
• Create a detailed checklist.
• Ask for recommendation letters early.
• Budget time for application essays.

Start Planning Early

Because there are multiple steps involved in applying to college, many of which require help from other people, experts say the most foolproof method to alleviate anxiety is to start early.

The Common App , which is used by more than 1,000 schools, opens Aug. 1 each year, meaning students can't officially submit applications through the platform until then. But those looking to get a head start can create an account during their junior year and get familiar with the platform, says Denard Jones, lead college counselor at Empowerly, a college admissions consulting company.

And though it may not be as fun as relaxing by the pool or hanging out with friends, students would be wise to use the the summer months ahead of senior year – when they have no academic obligations – to begin or complete college application tasks, such as completing any write-ups for the extracurricular or activities section , experts say.

Otherwise, "it makes the fall of your senior year that much more hard,” Jones says. “Because you still have to do academic work, you still have to go through the semester, and now you’re trying to pull all this information together."

Create a Detailed Checklist

Keeping track of the various application requirements and deadlines can be streamlined with a checklist. School counselors and independent college counselors can typically provide students with a checklist, and the College Board also provides a list for students and parents to use.

Universities also typically have an application checklist on their website, which may include directions or items specific to them.

If applying to multiple colleges, students and parents may also want to create a master spreadsheet or other document to keep track of deadlines and when parts of the application are complete. Setting up reminders on a digital calendar for important dates can also help, experts say.

"Dates to consider include: application deadlines, testing date/score submissions deadlines, dates for recommenders to submit letters of support and important scholarship deadlines," Warfield says.

Ask for Recommendation Letters Early

Letters of recommendation from teachers, school counselors and other sources are important to providing college admissions officers deeper context and colorful details about applicants. Like personal essays, they can help humanize applicants and give schools an idea of whether a student would succeed academically or fit in socially within their campus culture.

A strong recommendation can tip the scales in a student's favor, especially in situations where there are academic blemishes. A weak or vague letter may reflect poorly and cause an application to stand out for the wrong reasons, experts say.

Students should choose the right people to write letters, such as teachers or counselors who know them best. It's equally important to give recommendation writers enough notice so they aren't asked to craft a hastily written letter.

Richard Tench, a school counselor at St. Albans High School in West Virginia, suggests giving recommenders at least two weeks to complete the letter, but in some cases it may be wise to ask even earlier.

“That will provide them the time to say yes or no," he says, "but that also provides them the time to think about it and write a comprehensive letter."

Some teachers are pressed for time and commit to writing a limited number of recommendation letters each year. Once those spots are booked, students shouldn't be surprised if their request is denied. This could force students to pivot to a recommender who doesn't know them as well.

“The more time you give a recommender to write, the better," Jones says. "That way, hopefully it won’t be this template that’s just cut and paste and doesn’t really help the admissions offices much."

Budget Time for Application Essays

Personal statements are often the most time-consuming and stressful part of the application process, Warfield says. But this is another area where students can get a head start during their junior year or the summer before their senior year.

The Common App typically announces essay questions for the upcoming application cycle in January or February, giving students ample time to prepare for or begin writing the essays. Warfield recommends students begin working on essays in early June, ahead of their senior year, which allows more time to edit and perfect their essays with peers or trusted mentors.

Schools that require supplemental essays vary on when those prompts are announced, but Warfield says students should start on them as early as possible and "work smarter, not harder" when completing them.

"Look for similar themes and questions where your answers aren’t likely to change," such as what you want to major in or what community means to you, she says. "You can revise these essays to be school-specific, but not completely rewrite them. Don’t duplicate your efforts."

Starting on essays early can be particularly helpful for students who struggle or need additional assistance with writing the essay, she says, adding that students who procrastinate may be tempted to rely on another person or an artificial intelligence tool such as ChatGPT to write their essay. While some colleges are using AI in admissions, colleges expect the personal statement to be a student's authentic writing.

"As someone who’s evaluated student writing for 30 years, it is not that hard to spot an AI-generated college essay," Warfield says. "If students try to use AI as a shortcut, colleges use AI detectors and seasoned admissions readers to detect derivative material."

This could be anything created by AI technology, and use of such language in essays could harm an applicant's admissions chances, experts say.

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• What Fellows Do
• Fellows' Stories
• Applying to Mentor a Fellow

Prepare & Submit Fellowship Application

• The CDC E-learning Institute (ELI) is a six-month e-learning fellowship open to public health professionals who develop training products at state, local, territorial, or tribal health departments in the U.S.
• Applicants should gather contact and education information, training and skills, and work or volunteer experience before starting the application process.

Before applying

Before beginning their ELI application, interested applicants should gather the following information:

• Contact information
• Education information
• Post-graduate training and skills
• Work and volunteer experience

Additionally, applicants should prepare:

• A personal statement
• A sample of the content they want to develop
• A letter of recommendation from a supervisor

Personal statement

Write a personal statement by answering the following recommended questions in essay form:

• Why are you interested in this fellowship?
• What makes you a good candidate?
• How do you anticipate using the concepts and skills learned in this fellowship?
• What are the two most important skills you want to develop or improve?
• What do you believe are facilitators at your organization for developing e-learning?
• What are barriers at your organization for developing e-learning?
• What is your proficiency using e-learning software?

Note that there is a 300-word limit for each question.

Sample content

Applicants should create a sample of the content they hope to work on for the fellowship. The sample should be a .doc or .pdf file that can be uploaded. The sample can also be a web link.

The applicant's organization should own and approve of the content for development into an e-learning product.

Letter of recommendation

The applicant's supervisor should complete a standardized letter of recommendation. This can be done online.

• The letter should be written by an immediate supervisor familiar with the applicant's achievements, aspirations, and professional attributes.
• Recommendations must be written in English.

E-learning Institute Fellowship

CDC’s E-learning Institute (ELI) is a 6-month online fellowship with access to CDC-developed materials and subject matter experts, plus learning from peers.

Application & Requirements

Apply Now Request More Information

Your application to BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development can be completed online . Be sure to fill out all the required information as incomplete applications will not be reviewed. We recommend not using an institutional or work-related email to create your profile. Emails sent to institutional addresses may be blocked or sent to junk mail.

Required Application Materials

Statement of qualifications & objectives, equity & inclusion statement, transcripts.

• An official copy that has been opened and scanned
• A degree progress report
• An electronic transcript screenshot

If your transcript includes transfer or study abroad credits, we will require transcripts from those institutions as well if grades do not appear for those credits. All institutions attended should be reported on the application.

International Transcripts

All transcripts submitted to BU Wheelock need to be in English. If your school does not provide English copies, then a certified translation will be required.  Applicants who have studied outside of the United States and Canada are required to upload unofficial international transcript(s) and certified translation(s) for all institutions attended. Please combine your transcript, certified translation, etc. for each institution into one document and then upload it.

Letters of Recommendation

Standardized test scores, english proficiency.

• Whose first language is not English and,
• Who have not previously received a degree from an institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.

Duolingo English Test

For spring/fall 2023 applicants, Boston University will evaluate scores from the   Duolingo English Test , an online English proficiency test that students can take on demand. Select Boston University Graduate & Professional programs as a score recipient, and email   www.ets.org/toefl/

• Recommended minimum Duolingo score: 130 

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

It is your responsibility to ensure that the testing agency can send us your official score report.

• Recommended minimum IELTS score for all programs: 7.0 overall.

Submit all IELTS scores to us electronically. To send us your scores, email   www.ielts.org

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Our institution code for the TOEFL is   3087 ; we do not use a departmental code. It’s your responsibility to ensure that ETS can send us an official score report. Note: ETS will report scores up to two years after the test date. BU Wheelock accepts TOEFL MyBest scores. Please submit these scores directly into the application system. BU Wheelock is unlikely to admit applicants with TOEFL scores below the minimum.

• Recommended minimum overall TOEFL score or MyBest score for all programs: 100 on the iBT.

Analytical Essay

Optional essay, application fee, application fee waiver.

To obtain an application fee waiver, fill out the Application Fee Waiver form .

Prerequisite Requirements by Degree and Program

To submit your strongest application, view the prerequisite requirements for BU Wheelock degree programs.

Doctoral Applicants

Master's applicants.

MAT Applicants If you apply to any of the BU Wheelock Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree programs, you should have an academic background in the subject area you plan to pursue. If you don’t have a degree in your subject of choice, you will be asked to complete prerequisite coursework before applying to the MAT. For more information about the qualifying undergraduate degrees and coursework that would fulfill this requirement, visit your program’s web page.

MS in Child Life & Family-Centered Care Applicants to this program must complete at least 100 volunteer or practicum hours under a certified Child Life Specialist in a pediatric healthcare child life program. At least 50 of these hours should be completed by the time you apply. Applicants should submit a verification letter with their graduate application. This letter should include a signature from your supervising practitioner and the number of volunteer hours you’ve completed. We strongly recommend that you successfully complete a child development course.

EdM in Deaf Education Applicants to the Master of Education in Deaf Education are required to take the following coursework either before admission to BU or while enrolled in the degree program. Contact the program office by emailing [email protected] to discuss summer course scheduling for the following prerequisites:

• WED LS 565 Introduction to Language and Linguistics
• WED LS 566 Language Acquisition
• WED DE 581 American Sign Language I
• WED DE 582 American Sign Language II

EdM/MSW Dual Degree Applicants

Cags applicants.