phd scholarship recommendation letter sample

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Letter of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Examples & PDFs

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

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

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

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

Key Highlights

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

What is a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your PhD recommender should be someone who:

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

2 Types of Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

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

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

1. Academic LOR

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

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

2. Professional LOR

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

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

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Letter of recommendation for phd sample: structure.

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

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

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample: Format

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

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

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample

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

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

Academic Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

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

Dr. [Full Name]

Professor of [Department]

[University Name]

[University Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

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

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

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

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

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

[Full Name]

Professional Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

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

Research Scientist

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Vocabulary for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To Conclude

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

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

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

Also Read: Study PhD Abroad for Indian Students

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Strong Scholarship Recommendation Letter Examples

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A well-crafted scholarship recommendation letter can make a significant difference in the application process, helping students win the awards they need to pursue their education. In this article, we’ll explore ten strong examples of scholarship recommendation letters that effectively highlight a student’s strengths and achievements.

1. Academic Excellence Letter: This letter praises the student’s exceptional academic accomplishments, such as a high GPA, competitive exam scores, or unique research projects. It may also mention the student’s dedication to their studies and their commitment to continually improving their knowledge and skills.

2. Leadership Letter: This type of letter focuses on the student’s leadership qualities such as initiative, effective communication, and ability to inspire others. It should provide specific examples of how the student has demonstrated these traits in various school or community activities, as well as their potential for continued growth in this area.

3. Character Letter: A character reference letter provides insight into a student’s personal qualities, values, and work ethic. This form of recommendation emphasizes the positive impact they’ve made on their peers, teachers, and community through acts of kindness, integrity, or responsibility.

4. Extracurricular Activities Letter: A strong extracurricular activities letter highlights the student’s involvement and dedication to clubs, sports teams, or other non-academic pursuits. The recommender should emphasize the depth of passion, skill level, and achievements within these activities.

5. Volunteer Experience Letter: A volunteer experience letter reflects upon a student’s commitment to giving back to their community or helping those in need. It should detail specific examples of volunteer work they’ve completed and how it has made a meaningful impact on others.

6. Research Skills Letter: This type of recommendation showcases the student’s research abilities by outlining their experience in conducting research projects or participating in scientific competitions. It should speak to the applicant’s problem-solving skills, creativity, attention to detail, and perseverance.

7. Unique Talent Letter: A unique talent letter focuses on a specific skill or ability that sets the student apart from others, such as artistic, musical, or linguistic talents. The recommender should describe the student’s achievements and dedication to cultivating this talent.

8. Internship or Work Experience Letter: This letter details the student’s experiences within internships or employment, highlighting their professionalism, time management skills, and adaptability to new environments. It should emphasize how these experiences have helped prepare the student for higher education.

9. Overcoming Adversity Letter: An overcoming adversity letter showcases a student’s resilience in dealing with personal challenges while maintaining a strong academic record. The recommender should discuss how the student has navigated through difficult circumstances and come out stronger.

10. Multi-faceted Letter: This comprehensive type of recommendation combines several of the above elements to create a well-rounded portrayal of the candidate. It touches on academics, leadership, character, and extracurricular activities to demonstrate the applicant’s diverse range of strengths.

A strong recommendation letter can help prospective scholars stand out from other applicants and secure much-needed scholarship funds. By following these ten examples as a guide, educators and mentors can craft powerful letters that showcase their students’ potential.

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How to Write a Scholarship Letter of Recommendation

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• 01 What Is a Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship?
• 02 Purpose of the Recommendation Letter
• 03 Recommendation Letter Format
• 04 Tips for Writing a Scholarship Recommendation Letter
• 05 Recommendation Letter Example
• 06 Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarship Recommendation Letters

Have you been asked to write a scholarship letter of recommendation? The compliment is a flattering reflection of how you impacted that student's life.

Sometimes, students applying to scholarships are required to submit recommendation letters for their student scholarship application to be processed successfully.

A letter of recommendation should address the academic performance of a student and their character traits , including the qualities that make them a strong candidate for the scholarship program or grant they desire. For instance, if they are applying for an opportunity for students pursuing literary studies, then a good letter will discuss the student's written skills as well as their passion for literature.

To convince a scholarship committee that a student deserves the scholarship they're applying for, you must go beyond stating how great their personal character is and demonstrate what makes them an outstanding applicant. A positive letter of recommendation will be able to validate a student's qualifications to receive a scholarship and help that student stand out.

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What Is a Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship?

College students depend on scholarships to pay for higher education . Both high school and college students experience difficulty when finding scholarships. Scholarship applications have become more competitive, increasing the importance of scholarship recommendation letters. So, what are they?

A scholarship letter of recommendation is a letter created by someone typically in a position of authority, like a professor, that can attest to a student's abilities. The letters follow flexible guidelines demonstrating why students deserve the scholarship they wish to receive.

Most scholarships that have precise requirements and request letters of recommendation want to learn about the student in question to determine if they should receive their scholarship. A student gets scholarships based on several factors, but recommendation letters increase the chances of a student being awarded.

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Purpose of the Recommendation Letter

A college student or high school student in their senior year may ask their instructor, athletic coach, or club advisor to write a letter of recommendation.

Many scholarships want a trusted source to prove why a candidate is deserving , and to speak on the student's qualifications and explain why the student deserves the specific scholarship, you need to know the purpose of the recommendation letter.

Knowing what the scholarship is for will allow you to tailor your recommendation letter and focus on relevant qualities the student has that make them a deserving candidate. Be sure to address the committee and the purpose of the scholarship. Request specific details and information to help you create a letter to endorse the student.

Recommendation Letter Format

Reference letters help deserving students win the scholarships they need to pay for college. Not sure how to write a letter of recommendation? Don't worry! Below are things you'll want to include in your recommendation letters.

Recommenders should include the following information in the upper left corner of their recommendation letter:

• Institution name
• Official address
• City, state, and zip code
• Preferred contact information

Introduction

The introduction incorporates a brief introduction of your student; it specifies the chosen scholarship for which they are applying and comprises details about the student, including the nature and length of your relationship.

The body of the scholarship letter of recommendation will describe the student's strengths and how the candidate fulfills the scholarship requirements. Writing about quantitative examples such as test scores and academic achievements will help the student's application stand out. A student's accomplishments show they're a motivated individual with a great work ethic.

After expressing that the student is suitable for the scholarship, begin writing about concrete examples that support your claims. Mention any extracurricular activities and whether the student is an active participant in school leadership or clubs. You're writing on behalf of the student and want to demonstrate why they're the best candidate for this scholarship.

Include anything relevant to the scholarship the student is applying for, and illustrate why they are the best student for the opportunity.

The concluding paragraph should include a strong statement emphasizing your endorsement of the student and a reiteration of your recommendation.

It is best to finish with a handwritten signature to authenticate the letter of recommendation.

Suppose the scholarship application is processed online; you want to include more than just your electronic signature. Though you included it earlier, reiterate your title and include a form of contact in case the committee has further questions.

Learn more writing tips from Bold's Scholarship Blog :

How to write a scholarship thank you letter

How to write a personal statement for scholarships

How to write a scholarship essay

Tips for Writing a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

A student will begin scholarship applications either because they are in financial need or want to lessen the amount they pay for post-secondary education. In a higher education setting, it is more common than not that a student will ask for a letter of recommendation for a college scholarship. Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a scholarship recommendation letter.

• Be sure you know the student well enough to write on their behalf.
• Open with a formal salutation.
• Tailor your letter.
• Discuss the student's potential, talents, and skills.
• Give specific examples that validate your claims.
• Include a closing that states you're open to further questions.
• Give yourself enough time to write the recommendation letter.
• Review the letter several times
• Know when to say "no" if you're not comfortable providing a letter of recommendation.

Recommendation Letter Example

A sample scholarship recommendation letter will help guide you in the right direction so you can start writing a solid letter of recommendation! Below is a sample recommendation letter to visualize how the above format will look.

August 09, 2022

Anastasia Smith

Literature and English Professor

School of the Arts

123 56th Street

New York, New York, 12345

Dear members of The C.B. Memorial Scholarship Committee,

It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter in support of Jane Doe for the C.B. Memorial Scholarship. I had the pleasure of teaching Jane in her sophomore year of college in an English Literature course at the School of the Arts and have had the pleasure of working with her as my teaching assistant this past year.

As a student, Jane demonstrates academic excellence and a love of learning. As her academic records attest, Jane has maintained a 4.0 GPA during her academic studies here at the School of the Arts and continues to excel in all that she does. Ms. Doe has made the Dean's List every semester and has joined the honors program at our school. She is on the Mentorship Committee for the School of the Arts and volunteers regularly in the community. I am confident that she will continue to display the same unique commitment and diligence in everything she involves herself in. I have great respect for Jane and believe that she is a deserving student of the C.B. Memorial Scholarship, as your scholarship is intended for college students who demonstrate financial need and have excelled academically.

Jane has distinguished herself as an excellent college student with an incredible work ethic. She puts in time and effort to assist students in our class and grades assignments in a timely fashion. Jane volunteers her time to help others and is consistently working to make the community a cleaner place by hosting weekend city clean-ups. Despite Jane's financial difficulties, she has thrived as a student and in the community. She is a respectful person with ambitious leadership and astounding educational and personal goals. I am confident Jane will have a fulfilling future ahead with her motivating persistence. I can not think of anyone more deserving, and I am happy to recommend Jane for this opportunity.

Therefore, I wholeheartedly support Jane for this opportunity, not only for her leadership capabilities but also for her commitment to making an impact in the community. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding this application.

Kind regards,

This sample recommendation letter is one of many ways to approach a scholarship letter of recommendation for students.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarship Recommendation Letters

What does a scholarship committee look for.

A scholarship committee will preside over the solicitation, management, and publication of scholarship awards. Additionally, the committee drafts submission rules, ensures fairness, and evaluates submissions. Someone who exudes confidence and passion for the scholarship is attractive to the scholarship committee.

Scholarship donors typically look for students with high academic achievement, leadership skills, and/or financial need. Additionally, scholarship committees will carefully examine your communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.

Can a friend write a scholarship recommendation letter?

Letters of recommendation for scholarship applications are commonly written by teachers, volunteer work supervisors, mentors, and employers. Even though personalized letters from friends can showcase personal qualities, it is recommended that a scholarship recommendation letter comes from a professional since a personal scholarship letter does not carry the weight needed for a great letter.

Who is the best person to write a letter of recommendation?

An effective scholarship recommendation letter will be written by an established teacher or professor who can speak on the student's primary strengths and academic performance in addition to the student's character.

A teacher can speak on behalf of a student's academic performance and future success, displaying a student's abilities and encouraging the selection committee to consider the specific student over other students for the scholarship program.

How long should a recommendation letter be?

A scholarship recommendation letter should fill an entire page with the proper formatting and be approximately 300-500 words and no more than two pages . When the letter is lengthy and relevant, it will favor the candidate. Note that three-page letters are generally too long, and very short letters leave students at an unfortunate disadvantage.

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About Candace

As the Managing Editor at Bold.org, Candace oversees the creation of valuable, well-crafted content and supports the Writing Team in delivering accurate and relevant information to assist students in navigating their academic and financial paths. She brings years of experience in writing and editing to the platform.

Candace graduated cum laude from Columbia University in the City of New York with a major in Creative Writing and a minor in English, focusing on nonfiction writing and Russian language studies. 

Candace has participated in a variety of writing workshops and seminars, including those focused on nonfiction and fiction writing, novel writing, technical writing, poetry, and editing. She has managed multiple blogs, overseeing their editorial work and SEO optimization, along with content creation, management, writing, and publications. Candace has also written multiple short stories, personal essays, and a children's book.

With a passion for uncovering opportunities and combating student debt, Candace is dedicated to informing students about financial support and resources. She possesses in-depth knowledge of private and federal student loans, institutional scholarships, grants, and fellowships. She leverages this knowledge alongside her editorial expertise and love for storytelling to create engaging and informative content that empowers students. 

Since joining the Bold.org team in 2022, Candace has worked as a Content Writer and has since become a Managing Editor. She leads the Writing Team, guiding them to produce high-quality content that informs and empowers students. 

Her firsthand experience with the challenges of student debt gives her a unique perspective and a strong commitment to helping others navigate similar situations. This background fuels her dedication to identifying funding opportunities and offering valuable resources to students seeking financial aid and college insights.

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“To attune co-creatively with our ever-transforming neighborhood, we must learn to re-learn.”

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Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters

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

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

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

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

24 Templates for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a Scholarship

Watching your high school students get ready to graduate can be an emotional time of year for any teacher, advisor, or family friend. That’s especially true if you’re taking an active role in helping them apply for colleges or scholarships. Getting asked to write letters of recommendation can be equal parts flattering and daunting. Crafting a convincing scholarship application letter requires a unique set of skills as well as insight into a student’s personal character and academic performance. But if you write them well, letters of recommendation can set your student apart from the crowd. To help make your job easier, we compiled this list of 24 templates to help you write reference letters for need-based awards, merit scholarships, and everything in between. 

24 Scholarship recommendation letter templates  

There’s nothing more formidable than a blank page. That’s where templates come in handy. Most of these templates are specifically for recommendation letters for scholarship programs. However, some of them are more general letters of recommendation for admission, for a job, or an internship program that can be made into scholarship letters with a bit of tweaking. Many of these are editable, printable, or downloadable. That means you can get straight to work adding details that will make your reference letter sing. It’s important not to just copy and paste, however, but use these as a jumping off point. Remember, the best letter of recommendation is the one that’s most personalized to the student. To get you started, here are 24 of our favorite templates for scholarship recommendations. 

1. General letter from a teacher

This sample template , which focuses primarily on the student’s academic performance, is a great place to start. It’s useful whenever you need to provide a general letter of recommendation from a teacher, advisor, or other educator. Because this letter also highlights a student’s financial need, it helps build a complete case as to why they deserve a scholarship.

2. General letter with an academic focus

It’s imperative to highlight a student’s academic achievements when writing a letter of recommendation. Many reviewers like to focus on extracurricular activities, leadership skills, or other intangibles. But if your applicant is applying to a top-tier program that prizes academic rigor, this template will be helpful as you set out to write. 

3. General letter with a financial focus

Scholarships are important for all types of students , and particularly those with financial needs. This sample scholarship recommendation letter highlights a student’s achievements in the classroom while also touching upon how much the scholarship would mean for them financially. If your applicant has significant financial needs, take a look at this example for inspiration.

4. Short general letter

As Shakespeare wrote, brevity is the soul of wit. For reviewers looking for a more succinct template for their reference letter, this one is perfect . This letter manages to cover all the key components of a strong letter while still keeping things short and sweet.

5. Short general letter with a focus on extracurricular activities

Designed to be written by a student’s coach or P.E. teacher, this letter touches on a few key points without getting too wordy. In it, you’ll address a student’s extracurricular success, community service projects, and future career goals, in addition to financial need. If your letter has a strict word limit, this template could be a great place to start. 

6 . Letter for a prestigious award 

If your student is applying for a highly-coveted scholarship, this template will help you craft a narrative that will convince even the most discriminating of selection committees. This letter is specifically tailored to a student applying for the Rhodes scholarship, but you can simply swap out “Rhodes” for any other prestigious award. 

7. Letter for a prestigious award that also illustrates financial need

Many prestigious awards are need-blind, but some consider financial need in addition to a student’s merit. If you’re recommending a student for a competitive award but also want to touch on financial considerations, this template is for you . It balances a passionate belief in the student with pragmatic analysis of the economic help the scholarship could provide. 

8. Letter from a mentor

If you’re writing a letter on behalf of a student you’ve mentored, this template could be a great choice. This letter speaks more broadly to a student’s character and achievements over a longer period of time, versus just highlighting their academic performance over the past year of school. 

9. Letter from an employer

Many high school students hold part-time jobs, which can both demonstrate their determination and help them pay for college. If you employ high school students, you might be asked to write reference letters on their behalf. For employers looking to write effective reference letters for their young employees, this is an excellent format to follow. 

10. Short letter from an employer

Some scholarship and college applications require a number of recommendation letters and don’t require them to be any specific length. This template demonstrates an effective, effusive letter of recommendation for an employee — and accomplishes all that in two short paragraphs. 

11. Letter from a TA or Associate Professor

As a graduate student or associate professor, you might be asked to write on behalf of your students, even if you don’t teach them full-time. This sample scholarship recommendation letter is detailed, insightful, and personal, and could help your students continue their education at your institution. 

12. Letter from a personal friend or family member

Some student scholarship programs request letters from personal friends or extended family members who can speak to a student’s character in a more intimate way. For those types of personal recommendations, this is a great template that balances honesty with effusiveness. 

13. Letter from a religious leader

For scholarships with a faith component (like this one from the Christian Connector ), you may need a letter of recommendation from a pastor or other religious figure. This sample document provides a helpful framework for writing about a student’s character and religious life. Though it’s not specifically tailored to a scholarship, it can be easily adjusted to suit your needs. 

14. Letter for a study abroad scholarship

Studying abroad can be a great way to expand one’s horizons and learn through experience, but it often comes with a high price tag. Fortunately, there are many scholarships for students who hope to supplement their higher education with a semester abroad. If you’re writing a reference letter for this type of award, try this template .

15. Letter for a student-athlete

Coaches have unique insight into a student-athlete’s personality and character. This template is designed with ample space to expand upon your applicant’s work ethic and determination. It can be useful for college application letters as well as letters for student-athlete-specific scholarship programs .

16. Letter for a subject-specific scholarship program

This sample scholarship recommendation letter is designed for a student applying to a math scholarship program. However, this template can be customized to fit any subject-specific scholarship program your students might be applying to. Simply sub in whichever subject for math and find key examples to fit your subject.

17. Letter for a needs-based scholarship

Many scholarship programs are tailored to students who demonstrate need and might be seeking to fill a gap in their financial aid. If this sounds like the type of program you’re recommending a student for, check out this template. 

18. Letter to highlight leadership skills

Many scholarship programs seek to award students who have demonstrated an ability to lead their peers. If your applicant is applying for an award like this, this letter should help you speak to a student’s leadership abilities both inside and outside the classroom. 

19. Letter to highlight extracurricular activities

For scholarship programs related to a specific extracurricular activity or community service area , it’s important to have a letter that focuses on a student’s passion for that subject. This sample letter is customized to a student with a passion for the environment, but it can be personalized to fit any number of extracurricular interests. 

20. Letter to highlight an artistic pursuit

Extracurricular activities like visual arts, theater, dance, and music can provide great material for writing about a student. This particular template uses a student’s love of dance to demonstrate her work ethic, care for others, and skill. 

21. Letter to highlight a specific academic strength 

In this sample letter, the teacher speaks with passion and gives specific examples of how this student outperforms their peers in the realm of literature, English, and creative writing. If you’re writing to highlight a single academic achievement or strength, consider this template a great blueprint.

22. Letter for an honor society program

Most honor society-type organizations prioritize academic achievement among their members, and many offer scholarships to help offset the cost of college tuition. For students seeking this type of award, this letter for a program sponsored by a legal honor society provides helpful insight. 

23. Letter for graduate school 

Students don’t just need letters of recommendations in their senior year of high school; there are many scholarships geared towards graduate students as well. If you’re recommending a student for a graduate program, try to speak to their undergraduate track record as well as their leadership skills. Graduate schools are often more selective than undergraduate programs, which means recommendations matter a lot . Fortunately, this template should help take some of the pressure off. 

24. Letter for a position

Sometimes, scholarships come with work-study jobs or other employment opportunities. (This one from Goldman Sachs and this one from RealtyHop both come with potential job offers.) In these circumstances, it might be helpful to have a teacher or past employer speak about an applicant’s work ethic or ability to succeed in a corporate environment. This template is a great example of how to write this style of letter. 

How to write a scholarship letter of recommendation 

A good template isn’t the only thing you need to write a memorable scholarship recommendation letter. Below are some steps that anyone — even the busiest teachers — can follow to make the writing process quick, painless, and effective.

Step 1: Start by gathering all the information you need  

If you’re writing multiple letters of recommendation, create a cheat sheet. This could be a simple spreadsheet or an online form that you can share when a student asks for a reference letter. This form should gather the student’s relevant personal information, educational priorities, and any other answers you might need before you begin writing. (The CommonApp also has created a “ BragSheet ” to help teachers, if you want to use theirs instead of creating your own.) 

If you’re building your own document, make sure it gathers the following information:

• The student’s full name
• The student’s GPA and standardized test scores
• A full list of schools they’re applying to
• Whether the scholarship is needs-based or merit-based
• A list of the scholarship requirements and eligibility criteria 
• Confirmation that the student meets all the requirements  
• A URL to the scholarship website 
• Why the student thinks they’d be a good fit for the scholarship
• A list of the student’s greatest achievements in high school (both inside and outside the classroom)
• A list of extracurricular activities, community service hours, and leadership positions held 
• A copy of their scholarship essay or personal statement 
• A description of the student’s educational aspirations and/or career goals 
• The deadline for submission of your letter of recommendation 
• Instructions for how to submit the letter of recommendation 

Step 2: Use a letterhead and add your personal information

Selection committees look for reference letters that are convincing and professional. They should both give insight into a student’s abilities and demonstrate your authority. So, if your school, company, or organization has a letterhead, be sure to use it when printing (or emailing) your letter. At the top of the page, include your full name, title, and contact information, as well as the date.

Step 3: Use the right greeting

Letters of recommendation are formal, businesslike letters, sort of like cover letters written on someone else’s behalf. It’s proper to start these types of correspondences with the salutation “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam.” It’s also tradition to use a colon after the greeting instead of a comma. 

Step 4: Start with an introduction (1 paragraph)

Your introductory paragraph is the place to acquaint yourself with the selection committee and describe your connection to the student. This is your opportunity to establish your relationship with the student and demonstrate why you’re qualified to speak on their behalf. 

What context do you know the student in? If you’ve taught them in English for the past two years and coached them to a state championship in soccer, this is the place to include those details. Be sure to include how long you’ve known the applicant, particularly if you work with them outside of an academic capacity. 

The introduction is also a great opportunity to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework on the scholarship — you know the award and can speak to how qualified your applicant is to receive it. 

For example, you might write something to demonstrate that you understand how rigorous the selection process is and can assure the selection committee that your student has the academic record they need to be eligible. Additionally, if you have received this award (or a similar scholarship) in your academic career, this could be an excellent place to include that information. 

Step 5: Write the body (3-4 paragraphs) 

Think of your reference letter as a place to advocate for your applicant’s merit and how deserving they are of the award. The body paragraphs are the meat of your argument. Your task in these paragraphs is to expound on the applicant’s achievements and explain why they’re a deserving candidate. If you can, point out distinct traits, unique abilities, or examples of success to help your student stand out amid the sea of other applicants.

If you’re feeling stuck, try brainstorming some specific examples of times when the applicant demonstrated their creativity, resilience, or leadership skills. 

• Did the applicant help other students when they struggled with the material? 
• Did your student persevere in the face of adversity? 
• Is there a circumstance where they took the initiative to start something new at your school, like a club or a recycling program? 

Selection committees want to learn about students who not only have a stellar academic record, but are hard-working and well-rounded, too.

It’s also important to tailor each recommendation letter to the award. As you weigh the scholarship requirements against your recommendation letter, ask yourself: are there any additional comments or insights that might be helpful to include? If the requirements list community service as a defining factor, maybe there are additional comments you could include about your student’s volunteer experience. 

All that said, don’t put too much stress on yourself to make the letter perfect. As long as your recommendation is well-written and heartfelt, it will likely help increase the applicant’s chances of being selected for the scholarship.

Step 6: Sign off with your contact information

The conclusion is the place where you’ll wrap up all your praise and make your final argument. Underline your students’ strengths, personal qualities, and what sets them apart. Restate your reasons for endorsing the applicant to the committee and, most importantly, keep it short and sweet. There’s no need to rehash examples you included in your body paragraph. Think of the conclusion as the bite-sized version of the recommendation that allows the committee to walk away with a snapshot of why they should award your student with this scholarship. 

At the end of your letter, you’ll also want to include your personal contact information so that the scholarship program or admissions committee can contact you if they have any further questions. Providing your mailing and email addresses should be sufficient.

FAQs about scholarship recommendation letters

Scholarship recommendation letters can vary widely depending on the type of award and its specific requirements. That said, these FAQs provide some helpful answers that apply to most scholarship reference letters. 

How long should a scholarship recommendation letter be? 

It depends. Typically, reference letters don’t need to be longer than a single page (usually between 300 and 500 words). Most scholarship selection committees will be reading numerous letters, so keeping your letter succinct is usually the best way to go. 

However, if a strict word count isn’t stipulated, it’s usually acceptable to go slightly longer than a page if you need. Just make sure you’re using the space to share illustrative anecdotes or relevant examples, and not just repeating the same ideas. 

Who can write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?  

The best person to write a scholarship letter is someone who can speak with authority about the student’s performance in some realm, whether that’s academic, athletic, or personal. Some scholarship programs request multiple types of letters, maybe one from a teacher and another from a personal friend. Other programs only accept letters from academic figures — like teachers, administrators, or advisors. For scholarship programs that focus on a particular skill, like athletics or arts, a coach or art teacher might be the best person to write the letter of reference.

What is a scholarship committee looking for in a letter of recommendation ? 

This depends on the scholarship program. However, most selection committees are hoping to hear about the student’s academic achievements, personal qualities, strength of character, willingness to work hard, and overall well-roundedness. If there are additional areas of focus, the scholarship website should list these.

What if I don’t feel qualified to write a reference letter for a student?

Just because a student asks you to write a recommendation letter doesn’t mean you’re required to say yes. Recommendation letters can be powerful tools, but only if they come from the right person. 

If you can’t speak to a student’s performance and character, it might be better to decline. An impersonal or lukewarm reference letter doesn’t do much to help the applicant’s case, and they’d likely be better off finding an adult who can write about them with conviction. Likewise, if a student asks too close to a deadline or after you’ve already agreed to write for a handful of other students, it’s more than okay to say no. 

Should the letter be digital or printed?

It depends. Each scholarship application has different requirements. Some might ask for all scholarship materials to be printed, signed, and mailed directly to the scholarship office, while other programs might require digital submissions. Check the scholarship requirements and decide how to proceed from there. 

Help your students find more scholarships 

Being asked to write a scholarship letter of reference is an honor. It means your student or employee trusts you and values your perspective. That said, writing reference letters can also be a lot of work. Using a good template can take a lot of the pressure off. It can also help to keep in mind that your letter doesn’t have to be absolutely perfect. The most important thing is to write from the heart; that can win over even the most difficult of selection committees.  If you want to help your student or employee find even more scholarships, consider pointing them to a platform like Going Merry. At Going Merry, we curate lists of promising awards specifically tailored to each student. All your student needs to do is sign up, complete a profile, and let us deliver scholarships they’re eligible for. So if you want to help your student find ways to afford the next chapter of their academic career, encourage them to sign up for Going Merry today .

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Ultimate Guide to Writing Scholarship Recommendation Letters

Embarking on the quest for a scholarship is akin to assembling a mosaic of one’s academic journey, and nestled within this assemblage is a gem often underestimated yet pivotal — the letter of recommendation. This document transcends beyond mere formality; it breathes life into the pages of accomplishments and aspirations. In the competitive arena of scholarship applications, where exceptional grades are par for the course, a well-articulated recommendation letter emerges as a beacon, illuminating a student’s persona beyond their academic prowess. This letter, when penned with insight and authenticity, can pivot the scales in a student’s favor, transforming their application from a mere dossier of achievements into a vivid narrative that captures the essence of their potential.

While personal references are invaluable, there are instances where students might not have access to suitable recommenders. In such situations, considering the option to buy a letter of recommendation could be a viable alternative. Professional services that offer such letters are adept at understanding the nuances of what makes a recommendation impactful, ensuring that the letter aligns with the student’s achievements and aspirations.

Understanding Recommendation Letters: Unveiling the Narrative

What exactly encapsulates a recommendation letter for a scholarship? It is a mosaic of trust and belief, crafted by someone who has closely witnessed the student’s academic and personal growth — a teacher, a mentor, or perhaps an employer. This letter is a tapestry woven with threads of the student’s resilience, their leadership, their unwavering commitment, and those sparkling moments that define their journey.

The profound impact of recommendation letters within the scholarship realm is undeniable. Far more than a mere endorsement of a student’s abilities, these letters illuminate the very essence of their character. They highlight a student’s perseverance in the face of challenges, their relentless pursuit of goals, and the depth of their personal qualities that set them apart in a sea of academically excellent peers.

In the landscape of scholarship applications, where outstanding grades and test scores are common, these letters bring into focus the unique attributes of a student. They cast a light on those special qualities that differentiate them, offering a narrative that resonates deeply with scholarship committees. It’s not just about demonstrating a need for financial aid; these letters craft a vivid picture of a student who is not only poised to benefit from the scholarship but is also ready to significantly enrich their own life and the communities around them.

Who Should Write the Letter

When it comes to penning a recommendation letter for a scholarship, the choice of author holds significant weight. The ideal candidate is someone who has had a meaningful and substantial interaction with the student, someone who can provide more than a superficial endorsement. Typically, teachers and counselors are the frontrunners in this endeavor, given their firsthand experience with the student’s academic diligence and intellectual curiosity. They are the witnesses to the student’s journey of growth and academic exploration, often able to provide rich insights into the student’s scholarly pursuits and personal development.

The array of suitable authors for a scholarship recommendation letter isn’t confined to the halls of academia. Employers can provide invaluable insights, shedding light on the student’s professional demeanor, leadership qualities, and collaborative skills in a workplace context. Their perspective is a window into how the student navigates real-world challenges and interactions. Likewise, coaches and mentors from extracurricular realms bring their unique viewpoints, speaking to the student’s ability to work as part of a team, their resilience in the face of obstacles, and their dedication to activities beyond the academic curriculum.

These non-academic recommenders can illuminate aspects of the student’s character that might remain unseen in a classroom setting. Their testimonials can paint a holistic picture, highlighting a well-rounded individual who thrives in various environments and situations.

A member of a scholarship committee once aptly noted, “The most impactful letters come from those who truly know the applicant and can provide specific anecdotes that bring their application to life.” This statement underscores the importance of selecting an author who can delve beyond academic achievements to paint a vivid picture of the student as a multifaceted individual.

Ultimately, the ideal author of a scholarship recommendation letter is someone who can blend personal anecdotes with professional insights to create a narrative that not only highlights the student’s qualifications but also captures their spirit and potential.

Step-by-Step Writing Guide for Crafting an Impactful Recommendation Letter

Crafting a recommendation letter for a scholarship is much like creating a detailed portrait; it demands meticulous attention, a deep comprehension of the student’s character, and a knack for eloquent expression. This guide provides a detailed roadmap to help you weave a letter that is not only engaging and perceptive but also a true reflection of the student’s merits.

Starting with the Basics: Letterhead and Introduction

• Use Professional Letterhead: Begin with a professional letterhead that includes your contact information, if available. This lends a touch of formality and credibility to your letter.
• Craft a Strong Opening: Your opening sentence should grab attention. Introduce yourself and your relationship with the student. Mention how long you’ve known them and in what capacity.

The Art of Personalization: Tailoring Your Content

• Understanding the Student: Reflect on the student’s strengths, achievements, and unique qualities. Personal anecdotes that showcase these attributes can be powerful.
• Aligning with the Scholarship’s Goals: Research the scholarship’s objectives and criteria. Tailor your letter to show how the student’s profile aligns with these goals.

Structuring the Letter: A Clear Framework

• Introduction: Here, include your professional standing, your relationship with the student, and an overview of their suitability for the scholarship.
• Body Paragraphs:
• First Paragraph: Delve into the student’s academic abilities and achievements. Use specific examples to illustrate their intellectual curiosity and dedication to their studies.
• Second Paragraph: Highlight extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal qualities. Emphasize traits like resilience, empathy, and creativity.
• Conclusion: Conclude with a strong endorsement of the student, reiterating their suitability for the scholarship and your belief in their potential.

Style and Tone: The Subtle Nuances

• Maintain a Formal Yet Warm Tone: While the letter should be formal, it should also convey warmth and sincerity. Your genuine belief in the student should shine through.
• Be Concise and Clear: Avoid overly flowery language. Clarity and conciseness are key to a powerful letter.

Polishing Your Letter: The Final Touches

• Proofreading Is Crucial: Check for grammatical errors or typos. A well-polished letter reflects both on you and the student.
• Seek Feedback: If possible, have a colleague review the letter. Fresh eyes can offer valuable insights.

Penning a recommendation letter is not just a task—it’s an honor and a testament to your role in a student’s academic journey. Such a letter is a conduit for their aspirations, a crucial step in their path to success. Following these guidelines, you can compose a letter that not only showcases the student’s accomplishments and personal strengths but also harmonizes with the spirit and objectives of the scholarship committee.

Templates and Examples for a Spectrum of Scholarship Types

Embarking on the task of writing recommendation letters for various scholarship types requires a nuanced approach. To aid in this endeavor, we offer a comprehensive collection of templates, each crafted to highlight the distinct qualities and achievements relevant to different scholarship categories. Explore these tailored templates:

Academic Excellence Scholarships

Ideal for academically stellar students, these templates underscore intellectual achievements, critical thinking abilities, and a profound love for knowledge, spotlighting their scholastic contributions and future academic potential.

Athletic Scholarships

Designed for sports enthusiasts, these templates highlight the candidate’s athletic skills, team spirit, and commitment to sportsmanship, emphasizing their resilience and ability to juggle sports and academics.

Arts and Creativity Scholarships

For creatively gifted students, these templates shed light on artistic talents, original thinking, and dedication to arts and culture, detailing artistic accomplishments and creative endeavors.

Community Service Scholarships

These templates are perfect for students who excel in volunteerism, focusing on their empathy, leadership in community initiatives, and dedication to social causes and community betterment.

Leadership Scholarships

Suited for born leaders, these templates emphasize leadership roles, the capacity to motivate others, and proactive efforts in enacting positive change, showcasing qualities like decision-making, ethical integrity, and visionary thinking.

STEM Scholarships

For students excelling in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, these templates highlight their analytical skills, innovative projects, and contributions to the STEM fields, underscoring their potential for future breakthroughs.

Environmental Advocacy Scholarships

These templates are tailored for environmental champions, emphasizing their commitment to environmental causes, initiatives in sustainability, and efforts to raise awareness about ecological issues.

Entrepreneurial Scholarships

For budding entrepreneurs, these templates focus on business acumen, innovative ideas, and the ability to transform visions into reality, highlighting their entrepreneurial spirit and potential for future business success.

Cultural Heritage Scholarships

Ideal for students who actively engage in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, these templates illuminate their efforts in cultural activities, contributions to cultural preservation, and the impact on their community.

Nursing Scholarships

Tailored for those with a calling in nursing, these templates underscore the compassion, unwavering commitment to healthcare, and scholarly excellence in nursing studies. They shed light on the candidate’s practical nursing skills, their innate empathy, and their steadfast dedication to enhancing patient care. Ideal for illustrating their hands-on healthcare experiences, these templates also delve into the candidate’s resilience and adeptness in navigating the complexities of healthcare settings. This approach highlights their readiness and potential to thrive in the demanding yet rewarding field of nursing.

In sum, each of these templates serves as a foundational guide, enabling you to vividly portray the candidate’s unique attributes and accomplishments in a manner that resonates with the specific criteria of each scholarship type. From academic prowess to artistic flair, from community service to environmental activism, these templates help in crafting recommendation letters that are both impactful and emblematic of the candidates’ respective strengths and passions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Writing Scholarship Recommendation Letters

Writing a recommendation letter for a scholarship is a delicate balance of art and precision. While it’s crucial to encapsulate the essence of the student’s achievements and character, it’s equally important to be aware of common blunders that could diminish the effectiveness of your letter. Here, we outline typical errors often seen in recommendation letters and provide insights on how to skillfully avoid them. This guidance aims to ensure that your letter not only highlights the student’s strengths but also resonates with clarity and authenticity.

Overgeneralization

• The Pitfall: Falling into the trap of writing vague, non-specific letters.
• How to Avoid: Personalize each letter. Include specific anecdotes and examples that vividly showcase the student’s abilities and character.

Excessive Length

• The Pitfall: Crafting overly lengthy letters that lose the reader’s interest.
• How to Avoid: Be concise. Aim for a balance where you provide enough detail to be persuasive without being verbose.

Lack of Focus on the Student

• The Pitfall: Spending too much time discussing your own credentials or experiences.
• How to Avoid: Keep the spotlight on the student. Your role is to support their application, not to highlight your own achievements.

Neglecting the Scholarship Criteria

• The Pitfall: Ignoring the specific criteria or values of the scholarship.
• How to Avoid: Tailor your letter to align with the scholarship’s objectives. Emphasize aspects of the student’s profile that resonate with these criteria.

Skipping Proofreading

• The Pitfall: Submitting a letter with typos or grammatical errors.
• How to Avoid: Always proofread your letter, or better yet, have a colleague review it. A polished letter reflects well on both you and the student.

Overly Generic Tone

• The Pitfall: Using a tone that is too formal or impersonal.
• How to Avoid: Write with warmth and sincerity. A genuine tone can make the letter more engaging and memorable.

By steering clear of these common errors, your recommendation letter will stand as a testament to the student’s worthiness for the scholarship, effectively conveying their unique qualities and potential. Remember, a well-crafted letter not only benefits the student but also reflects positively on your role as their mentor or guide.

FAQ Section: Navigating the Nuances of Recommendation Letters

In the process of crafting and submitting a scholarship recommendation letter, numerous questions often arise. This FAQ section aims to address some of the most common inquiries, offering clear and concise answers to guide you through this important task.

How to Write a Letter for a Recently Known Student?

When writing for a student you’ve recently met, focus on first impressions and potential. Highlight their enthusiasm, initial accomplishments, or immediate impact in your class or organization. Even a short interaction can reveal significant qualities like eagerness to learn or a positive attitude.

Addressing a Student’s Potential Over Academic Record

If a student’s academic record isn’t their strongest suit, emphasize their potential and other strengths. Discuss their work ethic, improvements over time, resilience, or contributions to class discussions. Mention specific instances where they’ve shown growth or a strong commitment to learning.

Describing Personal Growth and Resilience

To illustrate a student’s personal growth or resilience, share a story where they overcame challenges or adapted to new situations. Describe how they handled a particular project under pressure or bounced back from a setback, showing their growth mindset and perseverance.

What if I Don’t Have All the Details About the Scholarship?

If you’re missing specifics about the scholarship, write a more general letter that focuses on the student’s overall strengths and suitability for a range of scholarship opportunities. Highlight their universal qualities like leadership, academic integrity, and community involvement.

Balancing Professionalism with Personal Insights

To strike the right balance, maintain a formal tone but weave in personal anecdotes. Share stories that reveal the student’s character in a professional context. This approach will give the committee a well-rounded view of the student.

Handling Requests from Multiple Students

When juggling multiple requests, it’s crucial to personalize each letter. Avoid using a one-size-fits-all template. Take notes on each student’s unique qualities and achievements to ensure each letter is individualized and reflective of the student’s distinct traits.

Writing for a Student in a Non-Academic Context

If your experience with the student is outside the classroom, focus on skills and qualities they displayed in that context. Talk about their teamwork, leadership, initiative, or any project-specific skills. Relate these qualities to how they could translate to academic success.

As we draw this guide to a close, let’s revisit the essence of what makes a scholarship recommendation letter not just good, but truly impactful. Crafting such a letter is an art form, where the interplay of eloquence, insight, and authenticity takes center stage. Your words have the power to open doors of opportunity for a deserving student, to illuminate their path towards academic and personal growth.

Remember, a great recommendation letter is one that reflects a deep understanding of the student’s character and achievements. It is personalized, detailed, and resonates with the specific criteria of the scholarship. It’s not just about listing accolades but about telling a compelling story that showcases the student’s unique journey and potential.

We encourage you to utilize the templates and examples provided as a starting point, a foundation upon which to build your narrative. Let your genuine knowledge of and belief in the student shine through. Use anecdotes and specific examples to breathe life into your descriptions. Above all, write with sincerity and a sense of purpose.

This guide is designed to be your companion in this significant task. By avoiding common pitfalls and focusing on what truly matters, your letter can be a pivotal factor in a scholarship committee’s decision. So, as you set pen to paper, remember the impact your words can have. You are not just writing a letter; you are helping to shape a student’s future.

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How To Write A Good Recommendation Letter For Scholarship Application (8 Sample Examples PDF)

Published: 02 Sep 2020 Scholarship Application 20,442 views

Hey! Is your niece, mentee, student or friend seeking for your help in writing a recommendation letter for student scholarship but don't know how to start? Worry not. Here we present to you a thorough guide on how to construct a mind - boggling recommendation letter for scholarship award . It may sound herculean but with the appropriate guidance, writing a reference letter for scholarship will be a walk in the park. So these are the following pressing issues to understand pertaining to recommendation letter for scholar:

• What is a Scholarship Recommendation letter?
• Parts of Recommendation letter
• What you should NOT include in a recommendation letter
• Letter formatting for a recommendation letter
• Examples of recommendation letter for scholarship
• Recommendation letter from mentor
• Recommendation letter from teacher
• Recommendation letter for Masters Scholarship
• Recommendation letter from friend
• Recommendation letter for college scholarship
• Recommendation letter from church / pastor

If you are a student and you haven't gotten a scholarship yet, checkout our  list of ongoing scholarships you can apply for.

What is a Scholarship Recommendation Letter?

Simply put, a recommendation letter for scholarship or otherwise called an endorsement letter for scholarship, is a formal statement that provides information as regards the qualifications, experiences, skills and achievements of a scholarship candidate. It could be a recommendation letter for phd scholarship . The letter is written by someone of greater authority. It could be the candidate's teacher, lawyer, mentor, pastor or parent.

The purpose of such a letter is more than a recommendation for scholarship. It is to convince the University board that the candidate is eligible to win the award. It is expected that the author of the recommendation letter is well acquainted with the selection criteria of the University. Specifically, he /she has to ensure that the requirements and the expected qualifications of the university match the werewithals of the student. The letter should sound purposeful and aim at persuading the committee that the student is the awarder they have been looking for.

Parts of a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

So for the recommendation letter to hit success, one has to read the application standards over and over again. This will help in obstructing any form of deviation or unnecessary information.

Specifically, there are five (5) parts of a scholarship recommendation letter.

Introduction

Restatement of scholarship application criteria, supportive examples.

Just like every other ordinary letter, there must be a head section that depicts the date, full name, title (if any), University name, street address, city state and zip code.

This is the paragraph where you introduce the student and the scholarship he / she is applying for. Here you are asked to describe the relationship you have with the candidate and the length at which you know the student's competency. The introduction doesn't have to be long. Two or three sentences would suffice.

As the title implies, you are to briefly restate the requirements of the committee and match them with the strengths and capabilities of the student. This is where you convince the board that the candidate's application is worth considering. You can back up your claim with grades or general academic performance. Four to five sentences would be enough to make up this part.

Based on the third section of the recommendation letter, you are expected to produce examples that confirm the competences and qualifications of the student earlier mentioned. For example if the second paragraph mentions that he/she wishes to study Human resource management, you can present the various recruitment  projects that the candidate has undertaken and taken and awards that were received. Since financial needs are the major reason why students apply for scholarship , this is the part where you buttress the candidate's financial concerns.

Here, you are expected to leave a profound impression that would demonstrate your confidence on the eligibility of the candidate. You are expected to state your endorsement and invite the committee to contact either by email or telephone.

What you should NOT include in a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

Now the sections earlier described are quite legible. But there are some errors one may commit that would not appeal to the taste of the committee. If neglected, they can pose a great threat to the short listing of the candidate in question. Here are five (5) things that you should not do when writing a recommendation letter.

Don't repeat your resume

You are not supposed to reemphasize the resume of the candidate. Especially after completing a scholarship essay and attaching a CV at an earlier stage. A recommendation letter should simply describe the character, values, motivation and future goals of the student.

Dont' generalise the content

A generalized recommendation letter leaves much to be desired. You may be tempted to describe the person with vague adjectives such as tenacious, hardworking and optimistic. But these adjectives would fall on deaf ears if there are not supported by examples.

Don't construct a short letter

A short recommendation letter might leave a bad impression for the committee. It would only show that the efforts of the author weren't much or worse still, that the author doesn't heartily endorse the candidate. Your letter should have the length that shows how knowledgeable you are of the candidate you support.

Don't exaggerate

When someone lies in a resume or a letter, a professional reader can detect it. While it feels good to blow your trumpet, focus on human values such as honesty, kindness or hard work. It would make a greater impact on the person you are presenting.

Don't send the letter without proofreading

Proofreading is as important as composing a letter. So don't neglect it. Minor errors can tarnish the impression that the letter is supposed to give. Keep in mind that formatting and avoidance of grammatical blunders are also included.

Recommendation Letter Format for Scholarship

Just like every formal letter, writing a scholarship recommendation letter means that it has to be in a professional format. This format will go a long way in turning your letter into a magnificent, readable piece of art.

Here is what you should do:

A scholarship recommendation letter should:

• Fill an entire page
• Contain 300 - 500 words
• Entail a letterhead, an introduction, two paragraphs and conclusion
• Adopt a font size of 12 - 14
• Employ Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri fonts
• Have Sender's address and dates to the right hand
• Have Receiver's address to the left side
• Begin with a courteous greeting such as Sir/ Madam
• Use "To Whom it may Concern "

Sample Recommendation Letter For Scholarship Application

Here is a scholarship recommendation letter template from Scholarshiptab with the above footprint. Below is a sample endorsement letter for scholarship application:

Mabel Rodrigs,

29, Frontstreet Avenue,

Ottawa, Canada,

30 - August - 2020

Admission Board of Toronto Business School,

University of Toronto,

Toronto, Canada,

Dear Sir / Madam,

I write in full support of Emmanuel  Patrick' s application of scholarship of  Masters in International Industrial Relations. I lectured him in Human Resource Management in his second year of undergraduate studies. My experience with this individual has been joyous. It has propelled me to endorse him as an eligible candidate of the scholarship. I am highly convinced that Emmanuel Patrick would never let you down.

The more I perused the scholarship criteria, the more certain I was that Emmanuel is the student you have been seeking. Emmanuel has been a top student in all his courses - including the one I taught. He displayed team building skills, tenacity, a great sense of critical thinking and hard work. His behavior has unveiled that his deepest values are respect, diligence and self discipline. Emmanuel 's academic performance has always been outstanding.

Once, I gave my students a project assignment to execute in different groups. Emmanuel's group performance on "The Relevance of Industrial Relations in the 21st century" was magnificent. Patrick helped his teammates in making thorough research and backing up the claims with quantitative and qualitative examples.

Another facet of Emmanuel that fascinates me is his passion for whatever is right. I once made an erroneous statement in class. During the break, Emmanuel respectfully sought for my attention to express why he felt I was wrong in class. It turned out that I had made a mistake. I corrected my argument the next day in class and publicly applauded for paying such a detailed attention. His financial status currently affects his ability to pay tuition fees. Nevertheless, this scholarship is the opportunity that meets preparation.

With no regrets, I endorse and recommend Emmanuel Patrick to win the scholarship award. His academic performance will leave you mesmerized. And his fervor for diligence confirms his trustworthiness and accountability. For further information, kindly contact me at [email protected]

Mabel Rodrigs.

It might interest you to know that the above spectacular sample recommendation letter for scholarship is downloadable. Click on scholarship recommendation letter for pdf  to download the sample recommendation letter for student scholarship.

Sample Reference letters for scholarship Application

As earlier mentioned, a recommendation letter for bursary can be written by anyone of authority and character. However, you may be confused as to how to tailor the content of the letter with the relationship you hold with the candidate. If that's the case, don't worry! Here are some sample request for letter of recommendation for scholarship depending on your role in the person's life.

Scholarship Recommendation Letter from Employer

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter from employer (pdf)  

Scholarship Recommendation Letter from Professor

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter from professor (pdf)

Scholarship Recommendation Letter from a mentor

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter from a mentor (pdf)

Scholarship Recommendation Letter from a Teacher  

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter from a teacher (pdf)

Scholarship Recommendation Letter for student masters scholarship

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter for masters (pdf)

Checkout list of ongoing masters scholarships you can apply for

Scholarship Recommendation Letter from a friend

Download sample scholarship recommendation letter from a friend (pdf)

Church recommendation letter for scholarship, download sample scholarship recommendation letter from church (pdf).

If you are the person who is asked to endorse a student, you are in good hands. The above scholarship reference letter examples are an excellent guide to navigate the way you compose your letter. If you are a student in search of who to endorse you or a reference for scholarship, this article will help you to determine who is competent enough to write your personal letter of recommendation for scholarship. For more scholarship tips and updates, visit our blog page .

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10 Strong Scholarship Recommendation Letter Examples

Help make college more affordable for your students.

Paying for college takes a lot of planning. Tuition costs rise every year and graduates are buckling under the weight of debt from loans. For some, the expense of higher education is prohibitive, with many talented students being forced to cut their dreams short. Scholarships can make getting a degree more affordable. Students qualify based on academic performance, special interests, or financial needs. If you’ve been asked to help with the process, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of sample recommendation letters for scholarship applications that best meet your students’ needs.

How To Write Scholarship Recommendation Letters

If you’ve been asked to write a recommendation letter for your student’s scholarship, you might feel overwhelmed. You want to help your student, but you’re worried your letter won’t be good enough. In the end, you can only do your best, so lead with your heart and consider the following suggestions:

• Use letterhead and add your personal information (full name, title, school name, etc.) in the top left corner. 
• Fill the whole page (at least 300 words) with an introduction, two or three paragraphs, and a conclusion. 
• In the first paragraph, introduce your student, specify the scholarship for which they are applying, and share details about the nature and length of your relationship. 
• In the body paragraphs, describe the ways your student is suitable and deserving of the scholarship. 
• In your final section, pull everything together and emphasize your student’s strengths as well as the reasons why you are endorsing them. 

Here’s a quick video on how to craft an effective scholarship recommendation letter:

Don’t feel you can honestly provide a positive recommendation? Gently decline their request for a letter. Avoid putting yourself in a position where you will have to be insincere. You don’t want to write something negative because it could cost the student an opportunity to earn a scholarship. 

Sample Recommendation Letters for Scholarship Applications

1. general scholarship recommendation letter.

This is a great sample scholarship letter if you’re trying to offer a rounded view of a student’s performance in high school. You’ll include information about your experience with them as well as your thoughts on their potential success in a higher-education setting.

2. Sample Rhodes Scholarship letter 

If your student is a candidate for a prestigious award such as the Rhodes Scholarship, this sample scholarship letter will give you an idea of what to share with the selection committee. With these types of recommendation letters, you want to provide as much praise and positive information as possible.

3. Scholarship letter for math students

There are many great scholarship opportunities for strong math students. This sample recommendation letter outlines how to share not only your student’s math talents but the other traits that make them a good candidate as well.

4. Leadership scholarship sample letter

This helpful scholarship recommendation letter offers an example for highlighting leadership skills. Back up your endorsement by sharing specific situations as well as participation in any committees, programs, and events where your student excelled.

5. Scholarship letter for international studies

Does your student plan to go abroad? If so, review this sample for writing a strong letter of recommendation for this specific type of scholarship. Be sure to include evidence as to why you believe your student is well rounded and exceptional. 

6. Environmentalist scholarship letter

Has one of your students decided to pursue a degree in environmental sciences and wildlife? If so, this scholarship recommendation letter is a good example because it concisely highlights their strengths and shares why they would make a good candidate. ADVERTISEMENT

7. Scholarship letter for students who need financial assistance

No one should miss out on a college education because they can’t afford to pay. You can help them overcome this barrier! This excellent sample letter of recommendation shows the details to include for scholarships based on financial need. 

8. Scholarship recommendation letter for STEM students

There are many scholarships for students who plan to pursue a career in STEM fields. If you’ve been asked to write a letter of recommendation for this type of scholarship, this sample will give you a good idea of what to include. 

9. Greek society scholarship letter sample

Fraternities and sororities can be a great source of financial support for college and university students. Review this sample recommendation letter for scholarship applications for Greek society candidates.

10. Personal endorsement for scholarships

This sample recommendation letter for a scholarship application is best when you can’t vouch for the prospective student’s academic performance but want to share information about their personal character and how it relates to the scholarship program. 

Do you have a great sample recommendation letter for scholarship applications? Please share it in the comments below!

Plus, check out  the ultimate guide to college scholarships, want more articles like this be sure to subscribe to our newsletters ..

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Recommendation Letter for Scholarship (10 Best Examples)

Everyone knows the importance of applying for scholarships. In essence, scholarships offer a great way to pay for our student’s education. They represent free money, hence making it easier for the student to study without necessarily applying for loans. Usually, there exist several scholarships available not only for high schoolers but for college and university students. However, due to their competitiveness, a student should do everything possible to win these scholarships.

Among the most crucial things to do is to get a ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ from their teachers, counsels, administration staff, and other important people within the student’s life.

A ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ refers to a letter that provides information about a student’s character, qualities, and achievements so as to meet the criteria needed for a scholarship.

The letter is often written either by the teacher, the counselor any other administrator within the students learning institution. Before writing the ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’, the author should familiarize themselves with the scholarship requirement so as to craft the letter as per the terms. The author should also inquire whether the student is engaged in any extracurricular activities or has received any awards before. No matter what type of scholarship recommendation letter you are writing, it’s always important that you write the best letter possible to help your student attain it. This will make them get a quality education with a reduced financial burden.

Before You Write a Recommendation Letter

When a student requests you to write a scholarship recommendation letters for them, it’s important that you spare some time for it. Writing this kind of letter comes with a big responsibility. You want to make sure the ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ is a winner. At the same time, you don’t want to disappoint your student. So then, what should you do?

Know the purpose of the scholarship

Experts will tell you that you need to know what exactly the scholarship is for. Is it an international or a local scholarship? Is it for minority students who are pursuing a technological program or degree courses? In simple terms, taking some time to discuss with your student is the only way to understand the scholarship’s purpose.

Additionally, since the Recommendation Letter for Scholarship carries a lot of weight, it’s important that you include genuine and factual information. Again, while interviewing the student, make sure you get your facts right. Note that the recipient will solely depend on your words to decide whether or not to issue the scholarship. For any reason, if they detect unrealistic information, they will easily deny the scholarship allocation.

The other thing you can do is to have a look at the scholarship guidelines, demands, and expectations. Once you are aware of the requirements, you can then easily validate your student’s qualifications.

Finally, you can think of the student’s strengths, qualities, and abilities. If you are not familiar with the student, you can request them to share it with you. Having this information at hand-make your work easy and efficient.

What are the Parts of a Recommendation Letter for Scholarship’?

Essentially, all letters of recommendation will come with different requirements. Therefore, you need to fully read the application to see what things they want you to cover. However, the following are some common parts you are will find in a Recommendation Letter for Scholarship.

Following the formal letter format , at the very top left of the Recommendation Letter for Scholarship should be the letterhead. As an author, make sure you mention the following information”.

• The date of writing
• Institution name
• Official address
• City, state, and zip code
• Contact information

Introduction paragraph

Once you are done with the letterhead, it’s now time to write the introduction.  Here, you will introduce yourself and then the student whom you are recommending. Be sure to include their brief description and your relationship with them. Preferably, this paragraph should be brief, concise, and direct to the point.

Body paragraph

In this paragraph, the writer will acknowledge the student and give reasons why they believe the student needs the scholarship. As the author, you can back this reason by mentioning how bright and determined the student is by enlisting a few of his skills. Also, don’t forget to include their grades and other relevant academic performance in chronological order. This will be a turning point towards allocating the student the scholarship.

Moreover, the author should also provide concrete examples to support their assessment of the student. Plus, they should strongly express the financial need of the student.

After the body paragraphs have been thoroughly dealt with, you need to conclude the ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ in a formal manner. But first, you can emphasize the student’s endorsement . Then, you can leave an invitation to contact you either by email or phone call. Then you can conclude the Recommendation Letter for Scholarship by appending your signature.

Related: College Student Cover Letter

Recommendation Letter for Scholarship Sample

1st Sept 20XX

Maria Jones Le Grande High School 20 Oxford Street Any Town, LA, 10300

Dear Sir/Madam,

It is my great pleasure to write this letter in support of John Stewart’s application for the Lincoln Scholarship. I got to know john one year ago as his 11th-grade mathematics teacher. John was also a dedicated member of the math’s club, which gained lots of fo reputation in the entire zone. His focus and dedication to learning always impressed me. John’s ability to tackle some of the most challenging arithmetic was impressive. Besides, he never hesitated to seek help whenever he missed a concept.

Additionally, I was impressed by the way he collaboratively worked with his classmates. John believed in teamwork. And this is something I witnessed during group discussions. Other than that, he is respectful, honest, caring, and gets along with people well. At some point, he was willing to help fellow students who needed assistance.

Currently, John has a vision of joining Oxford University to further his studies in applied mathematics. As his former teacher, I have strong confidence he will succeed with flying colors. John comes from a humble family who has consistently offered him support. However, as he plans to encounter his next learning phase, things can get a bit south. The financial amount associated with his enrollment at the university could put lots of strain on his family. My worry is that this can shutter down his ambitions and dreams.

Over the four years of his high schooling, John has worked as a shop attendant to support his parents’ meager income. But this didn’t prevent him from scoring highly in his academics. Overall, I can say that John is a first-grade student.

His hard work and effort will get him whenever he wants to achieve. Therefore, I can confidently say that he is well-deserving of this scholarship more than ever. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any other questions or concerns.

Sincerely Maria Jones

Free Templates

Following are free ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ samples that are editable and can be customized as per needs:

Given the crucial roles that scholarships play in education and also given their highly competitive nature, no chances ought to be taken while applying for them. That’s why a look and indeed the utilization of such sample ‘recommendation letter for scholarship’ are by all means necessary.

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Recommendation Letter for Scholarships (With Editable Template)

A recommendation letter is a document written by a person (Professor, lecturer, employer, teacher, or supervisor) who knows the applicant professionally or academically to endorse the applicant’s qualifications, professional capabilities, character, and achievements. This letter of recommendation provides insight into the applicant’s potential from a third-party perspective, which is valuable to the entity receiving the application.

Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship Applications (Insight)

Why a recommendation letter is needed for scholarship applications?

For scholarship applications, a recommendation letter serves to authenticate and substantiate the claims made by the applicant in their scholarship application. It offers a credible and detailed account of the applicant’s academic or personal strengths and accomplishments.

Recommendation Letter Provides Validation :

It’s crucial for scholarship applications because it provides an external validation of the student’s capabilities. Scholarships are often competitive, and a well-written recommendation can differentiate an applicant by highlighting unique strengths, work ethic, and potential for success.

Who is eligible to write a Letter of Recommendation?

Typically, this letter is written by a professor, teacher, or academic advisor who is familiar with the student’s academic performance and character. Sometimes, it can also be written by employers or community leaders who have worked closely with the student.

Content of a Professor-Written Recommendation Letter :

1# Introduction : Brief introduction of the professor and their relationship with the student.

2# Academic Performance : Detailed insights into the student’s academic achievements, course work, grades, and any research or projects undertaken.

3# Personal Qualities : Description of the student’s personal qualities like dedication, leadership, teamwork, integrity, and how they have demonstrated these in academic or extracurricular activities.

4# Specific Examples : Real-life instances or anecdotes where the student displayed exceptional skills or achievements.

5# Potential for Future Success : The professor’s assessment of the student’s potential for future academic and professional success.

6# Endorsement : A strong, positive statement of recommendation for the scholarship.

7# Contact Information : Providing a way for the scholarship committee to follow up if needed.

In essence, a recommendation letter written for a scholarship application  is a powerful document in a student’s application, offering a third-party perspective on their capabilities and potential, and significantly influencing the decision-making process of the scholarship committee.

Editable Template of Recommendation Letter for Scholarships

Following is a complete editable template of letter of recommendation which you can use for your scholarship applications in 2024:

Dear [Recipient’s Name or Scholarship Committee],

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for the [Name of the Scholarship] at [Institution/Organization]. As [Your Position, e.g., Professor of Chemistry] at [Your Institution], I have had the pleasure of knowing [Student’s Name] for [number of years or semesters] as [his/her/their] [instructor/advisor] in [number of courses, projects, etc.].

Beyond [his/her/their] academic prowess, [Student’s Name] is also a [describe personal qualities, such as a leader among peers, a compassionate community member, etc.]. [He/She/They] has been actively involved in [describe extracurricular activities, community service, or leadership roles], where [he/she/they] [give examples of contributions and impacts made].

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or specific examples of [Student’s Name]’s work and achievements. I am eager to provide any additional insight that might aid in your decision-making process.

Thank you for considering [Student’s Name] for this prestigious scholarship. I am confident that [he/she/they] will prove to be a valuable addition to your program and an exemplary ambassador for your institution.

Yousaf Saeed

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Recommendation / 40 Amazing Scholarship Recommendation Letter Samples

40 Amazing Scholarship Recommendation Letter Samples

“When I was in college, I worked and paid my way through school myself!” You’ve probably heard this saying before. Twenty years ago, this was the thing to do.  But nowadays, with the minimum wage unable to sustain the cost of living, students are looking for ways to pay for school that don’t leave them in hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt. With the ever-rising cost of education, scholarships have become the only viable option for many students to get a quality education without paying a gruesome price for it.

But what is a scholarship? What do you need to get one? And what is this dreaded letter of recommendation?

What is a Scholarship?

This is a question that most students don’t understand going into the application process and that’s ok! A scholarship is an award of financial aid given to students to further their education. Scholarships range from the serious, such as for students who have a large financial need, to the ridiculous, such as financial awards for students who own specific pets.

They are a wonderful way for students to reduce their financial responsibility and debt upon graduating college, often being referred to as “Free Money” by students because some scholarships are easy to get. Scholarships can finance years of education or even study abroad opportunities. No matter what kind of scholarship you are applying for, attaining one allows you to rest easy, knowing that you have lessened your financial burden.

Applications for scholarships can be found on a variety of websites and, often, your school can direct you to local opportunities to earn scholarships. Some schools even have counselors who will be more than happy to help walk you through the application process for scholarships. Some universities even use your college application to determine your eligibility for scholarships directly from the university! The opportunities for scholarships are endless! You just have to look!

A Scholarship Recommendation Letter

All scholarships have different requirements for the application process. For the majority of scholarships, you will need a letter of recommendation . These letters are usually written by a teacher or other adult mentor who can give a good overall picture of you as a student and your character as a person. These are essential to attach, even when not asked for, to provide the committee deciding on scholarship recipients with a basis to set you apart from the rest of the crowd.

When asked for a letter of recommendation, a lot of students get intimidated. But, letters of recommendation allow a scholarship committee to look into the depth of your qualifications for specific scholarships and get a better picture of why you are truly deserving of their money. For this committee, a scholarship is an investment and they want to make sure that you have a good return on that investment.

All letters of recommendation have different requirements, so make sure that you read your application fully to see if they want you to make sure specific things are covered. Sometimes, a recommendation can even be in the form of a questionnaire that they ask you to have someone fill out. Other times, they truly want your teacher to write a letter of recommendation from scratch. Teachers do this all the time for their students, especially those in secondary grades and they are familiar with being asked to do so. Don’t be shy about asking them!

Scholarship Recommendation Letter Templates

The Essentials of Scholarship Recommendation Letter

Now that you know you need a letter of recommendation, you’re probably asking, “What do I need to make sure is in a good letter?” This can be tricky, especially if you’re the one asking for the letter and not the one writing the letter. If you’re the one asking for the letter, here are a few important things to consider before you even have the letter in your hands.

If you’re the one asking for the letter, make sure you are asking yourself these questions:

• Am I asking the most appropriate person to write this letter?
• Am I giving them enough time to finish this letter?
• Does this person have enough information to write the letter? (Make sure they have your grades, your major, what scholarship it is, a copy of the application, and even a letter from you persuading them that you are the correct candidate.)
• Should I write the letter for this person and ask them to sign it? (If you go this route, make sure that you talk to the person in advance and that you write a realistic letter if they agree. Scholarship committees will sometimes call a recommender if they need more information, so this route is good but not advisable.

If you’re the one writing the letter, here are the basic things you need to make sure your letter includes:

• Formal Letterhead (if you are a teacher, put it on your school’s letterhead)
• Professional formatting (we will cover this later)
• Formal address to the reader (this is one of the few places “To Whom It May Concern” can be used!)
• A brief restatement of the scholarship requirements
• How the candidate you are recommending meet those requirements
• The student’s grades or accomplishments
• A few positive points of interest for the scholarship committee
• Your signature

If your letter includes all of the above points, you have a rather strong letter of recommendation that will cause the committee to take a good look at you as a candidate.

Template Scholarship Recommendation Letter

[Your Name]

[Your Position/Title]

[Your Institution/Organization]

[Institution/Organization Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Scholarship Committee Name or Title]

[Institution/Organization Offering the Scholarship]

[Address of the Institution/Organization]

Dear [Scholarship Committee Name or “Members of the Scholarship Committee”],

I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant’s Full Name] for the [Name of the Scholarship] offered by [Institution or Organization’s Name]. As [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., “their teacher,” “mentor,” or “employer”], I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Length of Time] and have been impressed by their dedication, intellect, and achievements in [Relevant Field/Area of Study or Activity].

[Applicant’s Name] has demonstrated exceptional [Academic Performance/Leadership Skills/Community Involvement] throughout [his/her/their] time at [Institution/Organization/School]. Notably, [he/she/they] achieved [Mention any significant academic honors, awards, or distinctions], which speaks volumes about [his/her/their] commitment to [his/her/their] studies and [his/her/their] ability to excel in challenging environments.

In addition to academic excellence, [Applicant’s Name] has shown remarkable leadership and initiative in [Describe specific extracurricular activities, projects, or community service]. For example, [he/she/they] [Describe a specific achievement or project], demonstrating [skills/qualities, e.g., “creativity,” “teamwork,” “dedication to community service”]. These experiences have not only contributed to [his/her/their] personal growth but also positively impacted those around [him/her/them].

[Applicant’s Name]’s personal qualities further distinguish [him/her/them] as a deserving recipient of this scholarship. [His/Her/Their] resilience, empathy, and integrity, evidenced by [Provide a specific example or anecdote], make [him/her/them] a role model for [his/her/their] peers. [He/She/They] approaches challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, characteristics that are essential for success in [his/her/their] future academic and professional endeavors.

I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will utilize the opportunities provided by the [Name of the Scholarship] to further [his/her/their] education and continue to make significant contributions to [his/her/their] field of study and community. [His/Her/Their] passion, combined with [his/her/their] proven track record of excellence and leadership, makes [him/her/them] an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award.

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require any additional information or insights regarding [Applicant’s Name]’s application. I am eager to provide any support that will assist in your selection process.

Thank you for considering [Applicant’s Name] for the [Name of the Scholarship]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will exceed your expectations and represent your organization with distinction.

Sample Scholarship Recommendation Letters

Sample letter 1.

Dear Scholarship Selection Committee,

I am writing to express my strongest recommendation for Emily Carter for the Bright Future Scholarship Foundation award at Riverdale University. As Emily’s professor and academic advisor for the past three years, I have witnessed her remarkable growth, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.

Emily has consistently demonstrated her intellectual curiosity and dedication to her studies in Environmental Science. She has maintained a 3.98 GPA, showcasing her ability to grasp complex concepts and her passion for learning. Notably, her research project on sustainable water resource management received top honors at our university’s annual research symposium, highlighting her innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Beyond her academic achievements, Emily has proven herself as a leader and an active member of our university community. As President of the Environmental Club, she led several initiatives, including a campus-wide recycling program and a monthly environmental awareness campaign, significantly increasing student participation and promoting sustainability practices among her peers.

Emily’s resilience, compassion, and leadership extend beyond academic settings. She has volunteered over 200 hours at the local community garden, teaching children about the importance of conservation and sustainable living. These experiences reflect her genuine desire to make a positive impact on the environment and her community.

I am confident that Emily Carter is an exemplary candidate for the Bright Future Scholarship Foundation award. Her academic prowess, leadership, and dedication to environmental conservation make her stand out as a student who will not only benefit from this opportunity but will also contribute to Riverdale University’s mission of fostering sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Emily is poised to achieve great things in her academic and future professional career, and the support from the Bright Future Scholarship Foundation will be instrumental in helping her realize her potential. I wholeheartedly support her application and am excited about the prospects of her future contributions to the field of Environmental Science.

Please feel free to contact me if you need further information or specific examples of Emily’s work and achievements. I am more than happy to provide additional details to support her application.

Thank you for considering Emily Carter for this prestigious scholarship. I am confident that she will make the most of this opportunity and continue to inspire those around her with her dedication and passion for making a difference.

Dr. Alice Johnson

Associate Professor of Environmental Science

Riverdale University

Sample Letter 2

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am honored to recommend Sophia Rodriguez for the Pen & Paper Literary Scholarship offered by your esteemed foundation. As Sophia’s advisor and professor in several advanced literature courses at Grandview University, I have had the privilege of witnessing her profound dedication to literary studies, her exceptional analytical abilities, and her genuine passion for creative writing over the past four years.

Sophia’s academic record is a testament to her dedication and talent in the field of literature. She has excelled in her coursework, maintaining a 4.0 GPA in her major, and her essays and analyses often provide unique insights into literary works, combining depth of understanding with original thought. Her paper on the evolution of narrative voice in 20th-century literature was published in our university’s academic journal, showcasing her ability to contribute meaningful scholarship to the field of literary studies.

Beyond her academic accomplishments, Sophia has actively contributed to the literary community on and off campus. She serves as the editor-in-chief of our university’s literary magazine, “The Grandview Gazette,” where she has worked tirelessly to spotlight student writers and poets. Her leadership has not only elevated the magazine’s quality but also fostered a supportive community for budding authors.

Sophia’s commitment to literature extends into her community involvement as well. She has organized and led several reading groups at local high schools, aiming to inspire a love for reading and writing among younger students. Her efforts have significantly increased student engagement in literary activities in the surrounding schools, demonstrating her passion for spreading the joy and importance of literature.

The Pen & Paper Literary Scholarship aligns perfectly with Sophia’s aspirations and achievements. Her dedication to literary studies and creative writing, combined with her academic excellence and community involvement, make her an ideal candidate for this award. I am confident that with the support of your scholarship, Sophia will continue to excel academically and make significant contributions to the literary world.

Sophia Rodriguez embodies the qualities that the Pen & Paper Literary Scholarship seeks to nurture: intellectual curiosity, creative excellence, and a commitment to literary community engagement. I wholeheartedly endorse her application and am excited about the potential for her continued growth and success in literary studies.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or insights into Sophia’s achievements and character. I am eager to provide any assistance that can support her application for this prestigious scholarship.

Thank you for considering Sophia Rodriguez for the Pen & Paper Literary Scholarship. I am confident that she will honor and exceed the expectations associated with this award.

Professor Marcus Bennett

Department of Literature and Languages

Grandview University

In both recommendation letters, the professors provide strong endorsements for their respective students’ scholarship applications, highlighting their academic achievements, leadership qualities, and dedication to their fields of study.

The first letter focuses on a student in Environmental Science, emphasizing their outstanding academic performance, leadership roles in environmental initiatives, and community engagement. The professor highlights the student’s high GPA, research accolades, and their role in leading environmental projects, showcasing their leadership and commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the student’s volunteer work at the local community garden underscores their dedication to making a positive impact beyond academia.

In contrast, the second letter recommends a student in literature, emphasizing their academic excellence, scholarly contributions, and leadership in literary endeavors. The student’s perfect GPA, publication in the university’s academic journal, and editorship of a literary magazine demonstrate their commitment to literary studies and their ability to elevate the literary community. Moreover, their involvement in organizing reading groups for high school students reflects their passion for spreading literary appreciation beyond the university campus.

Both letters effectively advocate for the candidates’ suitability for the scholarships they are applying for. They provide specific examples of their achievements and contributions, demonstrating their potential to excel in their respective fields. Additionally, the professors express confidence in the students’ abilities to make significant contributions to their academic disciplines and broader communities.

Overall, these recommendation letters serve as compelling endorsements of the students’ scholarship applications, showcasing their academic excellence, leadership, and passion for their chosen fields of study.

How to Write a Scholarship Recommendation Letter?

This question is always a tricky one for the authors of letters . The simple answer is “yes.”. If you are writing a recommendation for a student and you have nothing nice to say, you probably shouldn’t be the person writing the letter! Only include positive things about your student:

• Avoid talking about discipline problems, especially. These can keep students from getting a scholarship.
• Do not divulge private information about the student, unless you need to for the sake of the scholarship. You don’t need to overshare. If your student overcame the challenge of losing a parent, for instance, do your best not to bring this up in your letter unless it is pertinent to the scholarship or you have the permission of the student. The scholarship committee isn’t looking to buy a story: they want to know all of the wonderful things about your student!
• Struggles of the student: Do not include things that your student struggles with in your letter. These can be seen as negative and can cost a student the scholarship. Make sure that you do not accidentally include things that you might view as opportunities or weaknesses for the student.

If you avoid using these three non-negotiables and stick to the parameters of the scholarship, you should be on the right track to helping your student earn a scholarship!

Writing letters of recommendation is never an easy task. As long as you follow the guidelines set in this article, you are well on your way to writing a perfect letter of recommendation.

Free Downloads

What Do Scholarship Administrators Look for in Your Letter? 

It is important to note here that every scholarship is different and, thus, has slightly different criteria that they are looking for. Most scholarships tend to look for the same basic things and then move to the specifics.

Most scholarship officers look for these basic things:

• Professionalism: Was your letter delivered on time? Is the writing professional? Does it cover the requirements for the scholarship?
• Who wrote your letter?: Was your letter written by someone who could speak to your specific requirements for the scholarship? Or did you choose someone who doesn’t quite meet the criteria for the committee? A teacher, coach, scout leader, or other adult figure of authority will generally pass this test.
• Letterhead: What kind of paper was your letter written on? A lot of scholarship committees like the letter to be written on official, professional letterhead. If you ask a teacher, most schools have letterhead that their employees use to write letters of recommendation. If it is a scout leader, ask them if they have letterhead from the organization they work with. While letterhead isn’t required, it does make your letter appear more impressive.
• Your accomplishments: Did your letter include impressive accomplishments from your time in school? Bragging about yourself is never easy, but, in this case, it is worth it. Make sure to tell the person writing the letter some of your accomplishments. It’s never too early to begin drafting your resume to list these, either!
• Length: Follow the “Keep It Simple” method with letters of recommendation. It is rare that a letter of recommendation ever goes over a page. And, if it does, do your best to shorten it to one-page length. Scholarship committees have a lot of applicants to get through and you want to make sure they have time to devote to your entire letter.

Your application has a higher chance of being prioritized by scholarship administrators if it contains these five elements.

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

Updated on 19 july, 2024.

Urvi Agrawal

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

• Academic LOR:
• Professional LOR:

Introduction:

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

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

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

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

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

One who has a good rapport.

Who understands your personality, achievements, and capabilities.

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

Who is aware of your current research ideas

Who supports your research ideas.

Types of LOR for PhD

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

Academic LOR: 

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

Professional LOR: 

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

How to write LOR for PhD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your LORs for a PhD should differ from each other.

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

Online recommendation forms should be submitted well before the deadline.

The letter should be realistic and unbiased.

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

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

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

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How long is a letter of recommendation for a PhD?

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

Who should write my PhD letter of recommendation?

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

Can I get a recommendation letter from a PhD student?

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

How many LORs are required for a PhD?

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

Is there any format for LOR?

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

How important is a recommendation letter in a PhD application?

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

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How to Write a Good Scholarship Letter of Recommendation (3 Sample Letters)

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If you look at our list of Chegg scholarships for college students, most sponsors ask applicants to submit a scholarship letter of recommendation. In fact, why does this document matter? And, how do you come up with a good one?

In fact, a scholarship letter of recommendation helps round out your students’ profiles. Furthermore, it provides insight into what they are like as a student and person from the perspective of someone who has worked closely with them during their high school career.

Besides, the letter speaks to their academic strengths and interests, their personal qualities, their role in their school community, and their potential direction in the future. Whether you talk about it explicitly or not, a positive letter also suggests their ability to get along with their teachers and others in your school.

Below, you’ll find some of the industry’s best tricks on how you should craft a good scholarship letter of recommendation.

How to Write a Good Scholarship Letter of Recommendation

If you need to write a letter of recommendation for a student, follow this guide to understand what to include and how to structure the letter:

1. Ask the Student for Academic Information

First, request a list of your student’s academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and GPA. Also, inquire about the scholarship program to which they are applying. This information will assist you in customizing the letter to the program they are applying for.

Keep in mind that you aim to be an advocate for your student and to encourage and celebrate their achievements.

Also, you can talk with the student and learn more about why he/she is applying, what he/she wants to accomplish, and what he/she hopes to benefit from the experience. In your scholarship letter of recommendation, you may express your thoughts on this detail.

2. Address Your Letter Accordingly

In fact, correctly addressing the letter ensures that it reaches the intended recipient and also makes the advice seem more tailored to the reader. Hence, you may want to inquire with the student about the person to whom the letter should be sent. Also, make sure to ask about their position in the application process as well.

On the other hand, if your student does not have a particular person to whom you can deliver the message, you may also send your suggestion to the human resources department of a sponsor.

Keep the letter generic if your student is applying for several scholarships. Still, aim to highlight their relevant qualities. You may use this information to highlight the student’s accomplishments in a specific area. Next, provide an example of one of the student’s outstanding projects or awards.

3. Introduce Yourself and Your Qualifications

Your authority as the student’s teacher provides the sponsor with valuable insight into the applicant. As a result, you must state who you are and how you are eligible to speak on behalf of the student at the start of your letter.

Furthermore, you must include your job title, as well as the subject or course you taught the student. Alternatively, you may specify your position as the organizer of a club or extracurricular activity in which the student participated, particularly if you’ve never had them in class before.

4. Include Details about Your Academic Relationship with the Student

Next, continue your introduction by describing how long and in what capacity you’ve known the student. This item may be a direct extension of your job title, indicating your role in the academic career of the student.

Besides, you can talk about your first observations of the student and how you’ve seen him/her develop into the well-rounded student he/she is now. For this purpose, consider expressing your impressions of the student in terms of how they amazed or pleased you in class, on assignments, and in other academic settings.

5. Highlight the Student’s Qualifications with Examples

Many organizations are on the lookout for people who can help them develop and change. As a result, think about who will be reading your letter of recommendation. Then, provide examples and details of how the student will support the business or organization.

Additionally, demonstrate their future success by mentioning their contributions to your school. You can draw your examples from their resume or academic information, including items such as:

• Academic excellence, such as improved or maintained grades
• Competitions, awards, and recognitions
• Individual or group projects
• Leadership roles, such as captain of a team or president of a club
• Presentations and public speaking opportunities
• Volunteering

6. Conclude Your Letter

Finally, end your letter by restating your support for the student’s credentials. In addition, you can also offer to stay available if the reader has any further questions about your recommendation or experience with the student.

Also, have a few ways for them to contact you, such as a phone number where you can be reached and your email address. In fact, this final move will demonstrate to the sponsor that you are confident in the student’s abilities. Additionally, it shows that you support him/her for the scholarship program, which will affect their decision to choose him/her.

A Structure of Good Letter of Recommendation

Each scholarship letter of recommendation you write will be personalized to the specific student you’re writing about, but many of these letters follow a similar template. Here’s everything that you should include in your scholarship letter of recommendation:

1. Introduction

As with recommendations for college, you should begin by stating who you’re recommending, how you know him/her and in what contexts, and what makes you qualified to give your assessment.

If you’ve known the student in different contexts, like as both his/her teacher and club advisor or coach, then you should say so. Further, this shows that you know him/her well and have seen how he/she interacts and performs in different roles and environments.

2. Body of the Letter: Why the Student Deserves the Scholarship

Once your introduction incorporates these elements – a strong statement of support and an explanation of who you are and how you know the student – then you can move into your assessment. Hence, you should highlight the student’s primary strengths, again, making sure to tailor your evaluation to the specific scholarship.

If the scholarship is focusing on academic achievement, then a statement of high ranking from an established teacher could go a long way. For starters, stating that the student is one of the top three you’ve taught in twenty years or the best student in his/her class suggests that he/she is an outstanding applicant who will likely continue to excel in college.

Ultimately, you want to make the student stand out as a motivated individual. Therefore, the scholarship donors would want to invest in. For instance, you may emphasize his/her:

• Unique commitment,

Next, show them how his/her contributions in high school predict his/her continued pursuits in college.

Finally, show them that the student deserves the scholarship and that you have no doubt he/she will put it to good use.

3. Your Contact Information and Signature

At the end of your letter, you can give your contact information and invite the scholarship committee to get in touch with any further questions. Ultimately, if you’ve provided a complete, glowing picture of the student, then they should have all the information they need. On the other hand, you can get inspiration from the following three samples of recommendation letters. This works effectively if you’re running out of fresh ideas.

3 Examples of Scholarship Letter of Recommendation

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14 Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship Samples With Tips

The college journey starts way before stepping foot on campus — mainly due to the staggering tuition rates.

Due to this, many students are turning to scholarships to fund their higher education and avoid diving headfirst into academic debt.

In addition to financial status and educational achievements, students are often advised to submit a scholarship recommendation letter that vouches for their eligibility. 

Obviously, a well-written recommendation letter matters and can make all the difference. So, if one of your students or someone you know has asked you to craft a recommendation letter for a scholarship, you’ve come to the right place. 

We’ll provide samples covering various circumstances that will kickstart your inspiration and give you some splendid ideas. 

Now, without further delay — let’s jump in. 

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Letter of recommendation for scholarship samples

A scholarship recommendation letter can go a long way in helping a student achieve their educational goals.

But, how do you go about writing one?

Of course, you should be honest and highlight the student’s positive qualities. However, before anything else, you should consider the type of scholarship they’re applying for . 

After all, a letter of recommendation for a student applying to study Biology will be different from the one you’d write for a student looking to get into the Applied Arts program. 

To give you a solid starting point and clear up any confusion, we’ll analyze 14 samples you can customize to suit your needs. These are:

• A general scholarship recommendation letter,
• A recommendation letter by a family member or friend,
• A Rhodes Scholarship recommendation letter,
• A Marshall Scholarship recommendation letter,
• A scholarship sample letter highlighting artistic capabilities,
• A leadership letter of recommendation,
• A recommendation letter sample by a school principal,
• A law school scholarship letter,
• A scholarship letter for studying abroad,
• A scholarship letter for financial aid,
• A recommendation letter for STEM students,
• A scholarship recommendation from a teacher,
• A scholarship recommendation from an employer, and
• An athletic scholarship letter from a coach.

Remember to tailor the templates so that they align with the scholarship applicant’s unique situation and capabilities. 

#1 General scholarship recommendation letter

This type of letter focuses primarily on a person’s academic performance . The below sample may benefit teachers, mentors, advisors, and educators looking for a place to start. 

“ Dear Mr. John Walters, I’m writing this letter to recommend Anna Jones for the Crown Lake scholarship.  I was her English teacher during the 11th grade and can vouch for her drive and commitment.  During her time in my classes, Anna showed an impressive thirst for knowledge, which — I have no doubt — will help her achieve academic excellence at a college level. As an educator, it is always an honor to teach such motivated students and aid them in discovering their full potential. I am proud to have been one of Anna’s teachers and believe that she would make an exemplary representative of Crown Lake University . Anna’s receptiveness to feedback has allowed her to continuously surpass expectations, which is reflected in her grade point average.  Besides witnessing Anna’s academic achievements, I’m also impressed by her long-term educational goals and I believe this scholarship would greatly alleviate the financial strain she may face in their pursuit. Thus, I wholeheartedly urge you to consider Miss Anna Jones for the scholarship, as I have met few students who would make more deserving candidates.  Feel free to reach out should you have any questions about Miss Jones or require additional information. Best regards, Tim Edwards [Address] [Phone Number] [Email] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the General scholarship recommendation letter template

#2 Recommendation letter by a family member or friend

Family members and close friends can submit recommendation letters to give more insight into someone’s character.

However, personal recommendation letters can often veer into biased territory. So, take a look at our template to see how to balance enthusiasm and honesty. 

“ Dear Mrs. Jemima Lawson, I am writing to formally recommend Naomi Sloan as a deserving candidate for the Lift & Inspire scholarship at Quinton University. During the 15 years I’ve known Miss Sloan, I’ve been continuously impressed by her commitment to learning and desire to improve her community. Thus, I can think of no one else who could better represent your university as a recipient of this scholarship.  As her classmate and friend, I’ve had the privilege of watching Miss Sloan grow into an individual who values education and strives to uplift others so that everyone can become the best version of themselves.  The values behind this scholarship program are the ones I recognize in Miss Sloan, and I am sure she will prove herself to be a worthy scholarship recipient.   If you have any other questions or wish to gain more information, don’t hesitate to contact me. You can reach me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address]. Kind regards, Timothy Grant ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Recommendation letter by a family member or friend template

#3 Rhodes Scholarship recommendation letter

The Rhodes Scholarship allows students from the US to pursue graduate studies at the University of Oxford. 

Compelling recommendations for a Rhodes Scholarship underscore:

• Leadership potential ,
• Concrete examples that indicate how the candidate will progress in their studies and future career , and
• Favorable characteristics without succumbing to implicit bias . 

Here’s an example demonstrating how such a recommendation can look in practice. 

“ Dear Mr. Hugh Warrant, I am happy to recommend Jennifer Song for the Rhodes Scholarship. Although I’ve only had the pleasure of teaching her on 3 of my undergraduate courses, I’ve worked with her on several research projects directly tied to my department.  Most notably, I’ve witnessed the time and effort Miss Song has invested as the Vice President of the Student Council to optimize the college’s community work and impact. Moreover, she has gone to great lengths to involve more high schoolers in the annual Science Fair held on campus. As a result, more students have started inquiring about upcoming events, curious how they can help — all thanks to Miss Song’s extraordinary contributions. With a grade point average of 4.0, Miss Song has demonstrated impressive dedication to her studies, but I am most in awe of her time management skills. Alongside respecting all coursework and tight deadlines, she has managed to publish 2 research papers in the college’s scientific journal and excelled at her part-time job.  Miss Song’s extracurricular activities [volunteering at relief shelters, organizing fundraisers, etc.] and interest in using her research to find optimal solutions to real-life problems are qualities that will undoubtedly make her an exemplary Rhodes scholar.  I could not be more enthusiastic about this recommendation and implore you to contact me regarding any additional information. Best wishes, Dr. Andrea Jefferson ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Rhodes Scholarship recommendation letter template

#4 Marshall Scholarship recommendation letter

The Marshall Scholarship, another program that supports American students applying for a graduate degree in the UK, boasts strict eligibility criteria. Thus, your recommendation letter should focus on the candidate’s:

• Academic results and flexibility ,
• Leadership capabilities , and
• Ability to represent both the US and the UK in the best possible light . 

Given these requirements, a sample like the one below could help sway the minds of the selection committee.

“ To the Marshall Scholarship Committee: I am thrilled to recommend Mr. Tom Anderson, a senior in the Political Science program at Jordan Springs University for the prestigious Marshall Scholarship.  The PolSci program at our college encompasses various courses notorious for their workload, and many students choose to extend their time here by 1-2 years to meet all the requirements. However, that isn’t the case with Mr. Anderson. Besides staying on top of their studies, he has taken additional courses each semester, often exceeding the regular credit limit — a testament to his motivation and excellence.  His multidisciplinary strategy has produced several detailed research papers on the use of language in public spaces, focusing extensively on the impact rhetoric can have on marginalized communities. Mr. Anderson’s calm and friendly demeanor has solidified his reputation as a reliable team player. Moreover, he’s always ready to use available resources to fund community-centered initiatives.  For instance, Mr. Anderson was the one who crafted the proposal letter for establishing the Alliance of International Students, a student-governed body seeking to amplify the voices of international scholars at our institution.  In conclusion, I’m happy to recommend Mr. Tom Anderson for the Marshall Scholarship. His academic excellence and leadership qualities make him an ideal candidate.  Sincerely, Lorna Cox ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Marshall Scholarship recommendation letter template

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#5 Scholarship sample letter highlighting artistic capabilities

Artistic pursuits can provide an excellent avenue to describe a person’s:

• Character, 
• Passion, and 
• Work ethic. 

Our scholarship recommendation letter sample will show you how to highlight skills you think are transferable to the candidate’s future career. 

” Dear Mr. Jacob White,  I am Jason Green, the lead dance teacher and founder of Green Dance Academy, and I am writing this letter of recommendation in support of one of our most talented dancers, Michael Wu. When Michael first entered my studio, he showed great promise. However, his determination and technical abilities have surpassed all of my expectations. Building on his natural talent, Michael came to each new class with renewed motivation and discipline, quickly mastering even the most demanding routines.  After dancing competitively for 7 years and securing high placement in several national-level championships, Michael became a dancing instructor at the studio. I’ve seen firsthand how selfless his teaching approach is. No matter how long it takes a student to master a routine, Michael will patiently go through the steps with them, encouraging them not to give up.  Despite his achievements, Michael is humble and takes any opportunity he can to learn from his peers.  He has made it his priority to give back as much as possible to the community, and his kindness and maturity make him a wonderful team player. I am grateful to have had the privilege of following along on Michael Wu’s journey and believe this scholarship will help him further hone his craft and pursue his dreams.  Respectfully, Jason Green Dance Teacher Green Dance Studio [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Scholarship sample letter highlighting artistic capabilities template

#6 Leadership letter of recommendation

As you may have noticed, one of the main aspects a letter of recommendation for scholarships revolves around is leadership potential . 

Consequently, many programs reward students who can inspire peers and advocate for relevant causes. 

To see how to center your recommendation around leadership ability, you can check out the following template. 

“ Dear Selection Committee,  I am thrilled to recommend Brenda Hollis for the Grey Rock Scholarship.  As a Math teacher at Blue River High School, I’ve had the opportunity to work together with Miss Hollis on several programs and have been astonished by her diligence every time.  When I think of the word “leadership,” one of the first people who come to mind is Miss Hollis. For instance, she showed exemplary leadership potential when the school ran into trouble this past semester while organizing the Young Entrepreneurs Fair due to a lack of personnel.  Miss Hollis stepped up and recruited more students to ensure we could organize the event on time. Also, she reached out to a local community college, which agreed to collaborate with us in supporting young people with business aspirations.  Thanks to this agreement, the college will continue to form a committee of undergraduates every year who will assist our seniors in crafting compelling business plans. Without Miss Holliss, we couldn’t have hoped for such a fruitful outcome.  As Miss Hollis embodies a maturity and reliability rare in students of that age, I reiterate my recommendation for this scholarship. She has contributed immensely to our high school community and will undoubtedly continue to exceed expectations, regardless of the university she chooses to attend.  Sincerely, Jennie Anthony Blue River High School [Email] [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Leadership letter of recommendation template

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#7 Recommendation letter sample by a school principal 

Given their influential positions, school principals are ideal candidates to craft a letter of recommendation for a scholarship. 

Their recommendations hold a lot of weight since principals can provide insight into a candidate’s various capabilities. As a result, the following recommendation template emphasizes:

• Academic excellence ,
• Leadership qualities , and
• Future goals .

“ To Mrs. Greta Flower, I am Jamie Lee, the principal of Dover City public school in Dover City. It is with great pleasure that I’m writing to recommend Miss Josephina Laine, one of our finest students, for the Rise Above Scholarship program at Dover University. I have known Miss Laine for the past 7 years, ever since she enrolled in our school. Since her first day, she has consistently ranked in the top 1% of her class and sought ways to improve her academic performance.  Alongside her studies, Miss Laine has participated in numerous extracurricular events, with a pronounced interest in organizing charity and humanitarian events. In addition to her academic efforts, Miss Laine took part in several county-level sports competitions, where she represented the school with respect, pride, and dignity.  Given her spotless track record, I can confidently state that Josephina Laine will thrive at Dover University as a recipient of the Rise Above scholarship. Should you have any other questions, I am available Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jamie Lee Principal Dover City Public School  [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Recommendation letter sample by a school principal template

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#8 Law school scholarship letter

For anyone planning on heading into law school, it’s a good idea to have a professor or supervisor write a reference letter for a scholarship. 

Besides mentioning leadership skills , the letter should also discuss attributes that exemplify the candidate’s entrepreneurial mindset . 

“ Dear Mrs. Lara Dean, My name is Oscar Reid, and I have worked alongside Emma Cohen at the Archival Department of Clear Mount Community College while she completed her internship. I’m writing to recommend Miss Cohen for the Legal Path Scholarship, as few people I’ve met have exhibited this level of integrity, dedication, and maturity. Miss Cohen’s eagerness to learn and motivation often led me to believe I was working with someone well out of college. What’s more, her attention to detail was extraordinary — whether it was a minor correction or an intricate topic, Miss Cohen carefully inspected the issue to make sure she had a clear idea of each detail.  Besides these qualities, Miss Cohen possesses other skills that are essential for success in the field of law. She knows how to manage their time and workload effectively and has a systematic work approach necessary for such a demanding profession. Additionally, she is very articulate and has excellent editing and proofreading skills.  Not only is Miss Cohen a responsible and highly educated person, but she also has every quality necessary to thrive in law school.  Emma Cohen has proven she is a hard worker and critical thinker adept at tackling numerous problems. I am sure that this scholarship will help her reach greatness in her legal career. If you have any other inquiries, you can contact me, and I’ll gladly provide more information about Miss Cohen. Best regards, Oscar Reid Head of Archival Department Clear Mount Community College ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Law school scholarship letter template

#9 Scholarship letter for studying abroad

When writing a recommendation for a student wishing to study abroad, it’s essential to mention the qualities that will help them adapt to their new environment . 

Take a look at the following sample recommendation letter to see which information to include. 

“ To the Aspire Scholarship Selection Committee: I am writing this recommendation letter on behalf of Juan Soto, an International Relations student here at Anders University. He is among the most exceptional undergraduate students I’ve had the pleasure of working with, and I fully support his application for this scholarship.  As Mr. Soto’s supervisor for his final thesis, I’ve seen firsthand the time, effort, and dedication he pours into their work.  This past semester, Mr. Soto was among the handful of students who attended the Politics in Literature seminar. Although I assigned some complex reading material, he rose to the occasion and always came in with insightful questions, which sparked deep discussions in the group.  Moreover, he gladly volunteered to lead the conversations in a productive manner, which helped other students who were unsure how to approach the readings. What I’ve taken away from these meetings is that Mr. Soto has a firm grasp of his studies and has no problem breaking up complex theoretical frameworks into digestible units.   At this institution, he has demonstrated a keen interest in international studies. His published research papers delve deep into international relations and discourse and reflect his empathetic and analytical approach. The staff members at my department praise his calm demeanor and resilient nature, which have undoubtedly significantly contributed to his success at this school.  As one of our top students with an interest in political theory and international relations, Mr. Soto has my complete support in applying for this scholarship.  For any further questions, you can reach out to me via phone or email, and I’ll gladly provide more information.  Best wishes, Linus Thompson Political Theory Professor Anders University [Email] [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Scholarship letter for studying abroad template

#10 Scholarship letter for financial aid

Financial needs can be a determining factor for a student’s eligibility for college, especially given the rising cost of higher education . 

You can go over our sample recommendation letter to find out what details to mention regarding students hoping to secure financial aid. 

“ To the Wood College Scholarship Committee: As Macey Grey’s 10th-grade English teacher, I wholeheartedly recommend her for the Wood college scholarship. Despite a challenging start, Miss Grey is the first in her family to pursue college — an extraordinary achievement. This scholarship will significantly contribute to her educational aspirations. In early classes, Miss Grey was initially reserved, which was a stark difference to the profound understanding demonstrated in written exams. Over time, she began participating, impressing peers with mature observations.  When faced with challenges, she stayed in the library, resolving issues and turning obstacles into growth opportunities — a quality admired by the teaching staff at Lincoln High School. Apart from stellar academics, Miss Grey thrived in track and field at the national level, displaying resilience she also transferred to her studies. In conclusion, Macey Grey is a remarkable student, consistently excelling inside and outside the classroom. I am confident she will exhibit the same level of intelligence and determination in her college journey. Feel free to contact me for further inquiries. Sincerely, Lauren Kane [Email] [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Scholarship letter for financial aid template

#11 Recommendation letter for STEM students

Students who want to pursue a career in STEM can apply to many programs to support their aspirations.

Given the competitiveness during the scholarship selection process, a recommendation letter from a science teacher can push the odds in their student’s favor. 

Our scholarship recommendation letter example focuses on describing achievements in the 4 relevant fields:

• Technology ,
• Engineering , and
• Mathematics . 

“ Dear Mr. George Thomas, I am Alexis Barrett, and I’m writing to you to recommend Rowan Bray, one of my most accomplished students, for the Emerson College STEM scholarship. I am confident that Mr. Bray— if given a chance to attend Emerson College — would make the university proud.  I’ve been a Physics teacher at Rovina High School for 12 years. During this time, I’ve encountered many promising students, and Mr. Bray is definitely one of them.  He has a deep-rooted respect for and an impressive understanding of Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry. His goal has always been to continue his education in one of these fields and positively contribute to science.  Moreover, Mr. Bray has achieved admirable results at the Rovina Math Championship, which, I believe, makes him an ideal candidate for this prestigious scholarship.  This scholarship would allow Mr. Bray to continue developing as a young scientist — a dream I hope he will achieve at Emerson College. If you have any other questions, do reach out, and I’ll do my best to provide additional information. Sincerely, Alexis Barret Math Teacher Rovina High School [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Recommendation letter for STEM students template

#12 Scholarship recommendation from a teacher

From checking homework to after-class tutoring, teachers spend a lot of time with their students. 

So, they can provide an in-depth look into a student’s:

• Personality ,
• Extracurricular activities , and
• Involvement with the community .

You can read our sample recommendation letter to see how you can package this information. 

“ To Mr. Joshua Hill, I, Isabelle Gill, a Biology teacher at Cooper Hill High School, am writing this letter to recommend one of my top-performing students for the reputable Flint University scholarship. Laura Lynch has my full support, and her academic achievements align perfectly with the aim of this prestigious scholarship program.  During my 15-year career as a Biology teacher, I have crossed paths with many bright students who have gone on to accomplish amazing things. Miss Lynch is — without a doubt — one of the most dedicated and ambitious students I’ve taught.  Not only has her grade point average consistently ranked in the top percentile of our school, but she has gone out of her way to broaden her knowledge by enrolling in various tutoring programs. Thus, receiving this scholarship would greatly help Miss Lynch widen her understanding of Bilogy and Chemistry, and allow her to improve even further. I hope you will consider Lauren Lynch for the award. I can think of few students who match her intelligence, responsibility, and maturity. For any other inquiries, please contact me via email or phone. Kind regards,  Isabelle Gill Biology Teacher Cooper Hill High School [Phone Number] [Email Address ]”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Scholarship recommendation from a teacher template

#13 Scholarship recommendation from an employer

Besides teachers and supervisors, employers and managers can also write compelling scholarship recommendation letters. 

To strike the right tone, it’s important to highlight the candidates’:

• Work ethic ,
• Plans for the future , and
• Leadership traits . 

Our recommendation sample touches on these points.

“ Dear Mr. Brandon Leigh, My name is Landon Harlowe, and I am a senior manager at Accounting Solutions. I am writing to recommend Lawrence Saunders, who was part of my team during his internship and subsequent employment at Accounting Solutions, for the Take Initiative Scholarship program. During his time at Accounting Solutions, Mr. Saunders was a quick learner and very proactive. His suggestions led to the implementation of several practices that, to this day, optimize our day-to-day processes and procedures. Moreover, his contributions helped the team tackle many challenges while maintaining the desired standard of work.  Mr. Saunders used his time at the company to expand his knowledge, and I am sure he will continue in the same direction should he receive this scholarship.  If you want to learn more about Lawrence Saunders and why he’d be an excellent fit for this program, feel free to reach out. Best regards, Landon Harlowe Senior Manager Accounting Solutions [Phone Number] [Email Address] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Scholarship recommendation from an employer template

In addition to a student asking you to write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship, a coworker might implore you to craft a job recommendation for them. To make sure the recommendation lands how you want it, check out this comprehensive blog post:

• How to Write a Job Recommendation Letter: Steps, Examples, and a Template

#14 Athletic scholarship letter from a coach

Getting an athletic scholarship can sometimes be competitive, so having a recommendation letter from a coach can help level the playing field. 

Like the following recommendation letter template, your letter should underscore the candidate’s sportsmanship and perseverance .

“ Dear Mr. Matt Schofield, As Brad Klein’s American football coach, I am delighted at the opportunity to craft this scholarship recommendation letter.  When Mr. Klein first joined the team, I was not sure how his athletic performance would progress. However, his unrelenting hard work and drive quickly proved to be unmatched.  After making the junior varsity roster, Mr. Klein zeroed in on making the starting team. This seemed unlikely to happen at the time — we already had a solid starting team. But, it wasn’t long until all of the coaches warmed up to Mr. Klein. After all, it’s not every day that you get a player who is so open to receiving constructive criticism and puts the team’s interest above all else.  What stands out about Mr. Klein is his honesty and discipline. He has achieved astonishing results both on and off the field, and his grade point average has never faltered, even during periods when we would increase the frequency of our training sessions.  Brad Klein is an admirable student looking forward to furthering his education. His work ethic and integrity will bring honor to any higher education institution he attends.  For more information about Mr. Klein, feel free to contact me.  Sincerely, Charles Proud PE Teacher & Coach Baxter High School [Phone Number] ”

⬇️ Click here to download and customize the Athletic scholarship letter from a coach template

How to write a scholarship recommendation letter

When writing a scholarship recommendation letter, remember to :

• Address the eligibility criteria and describe how the applicant meets them ,
• Highlight the applicant’s positive qualities ,
• Mention specific anecdotes to flesh out the applicant’s milestones , and
• Follow the program’s guidelines about the length and format of the letter . 

But, even when you’re aware of the above pointers, you might still scratch your head when wondering how to write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship. 

For this reason, our contributors have agreed to share their expertise and provide you with additional tips.  

Tip #1: Avoid criticism but highlight growth

Getting accepted or rejected from college can have a long-term impact on a student’s future, so the recommendation letter shouldn’t focus on their weaknesses. 

It’s much better to use the opportunity to highlight growth rather than shortcomings , advises Lynne Fuller , a college counselor and founder of College Flight Path:

“ Share how someone has grown throughout a project, year, event, or experience. It is wise to mention how that development supported your efforts but also how incredible it was to witness the way it transformed the candidate. Remember to use action words that aptly describe the candidate’s efforts, like curiosity, dedication, foresight, and introspection. ”

Broaching the candidate’s weaknesses is also a no-go for Josef Durand , an admissions counselor at Quad Education Group:

” The recommendee trusts you with their future, so why would you want to say anything negative about them?

Even a lukewarm recommendation letter can cost a student their dream school or program! ”

Tip #2: Research what the program is looking for

Another thing you should do is tailor your letter so that its contents hit all the points the scholarship committee is looking for . 

According to Eric Eng , a private college admissions consultant and founder of AdmissionSight, the recommendation should be a sincere endorsement that doesn’t go off-topic:

“ Understand the student’s qualities, accomplishments, and aspirations that align with the scholarship. Tailor the letter to the specific scholarship, highlighting how the student can contribute to, and benefit from, the scholarship. ”

Moreover, Dr. Natalie Morse , a PhD consultant and founder of For the Love of Grad , emphasizes that customizing the letter of recommendation has a significant impact on the selection committee’s final decision:

“ If the writer can tailor the letter of recommendation to the specific scholarship and use keywords or attributes that that scholarship is looking for, that helps the committee know that they have found the right person. ”

Most scholarship programs have a dedicated webpage outlining their requirements. So, you can research the criteria and see which examples to mention in your scholarship recommendation letter. 

Tip #3: Be specific

To avoid sounding generic when praising a scholarship applicant, you should be specific about their impact and performance , shares Morse:

“ If you want to write a really good letter of recommendation, you need to be effusive and quantify their impact. 

For example: ‘This person was easily within the top 1% of students I have had in the last 20 years and went above and beyond to complete assignments and seek new knowledge. ‘ The committees need to know that this person is outstanding and really worth investing in . ”

In Eng’s opinion, being genuine and specific is crucial.

“ Present concrete examples of the student’s accomplishments — it helps portray a vivid, credible picture of their capabilities.  

Also, use a story or an incident to highlight the student’s character and achievements. 

However, you should avoid clichés and generic praises — they could dilute the impact of your recommendation. Never exaggerate the student’s abilities or accomplishments, as it may come across as insincere or untrustworthy. ”

Tip #4: Proofread the recommendation letter

Spelling mistakes can drastically downgrade an otherwise exceptional scholarship recommendation. 

Although mishaps happen, a few errors that slip through the cracks can leave a negative impression on the selection committee. 

Eng reiterates this sentiment, stressing the importance of accuracy in scholarship recommendation letters:

“ Misspelling the student’s name or getting their details wrong is an absolute no-no — double-check everything for accuracy. ”

To ensure all the details are in order, you could ask a colleague to take a look at the letter and provide feedback . 

Beyond templates — keep all your documents and communication in one place with Pumble

When a current or past student asks a teacher for a scholarship recommendation letter, the task involves far more than simply putting pen to paper. 

The teacher often has to email other colleagues and sift through paperwork to track student records and test scores. 

But, what if you’ve misplaced the files and your coworker has no idea what you’re looking for?

With Pumble — a team communication and collaboration platform — this is a non-issue. 

Pumble can significantly enhance the education process , and teachers can set up dedicated channels for students’:

• Discussion groups, 
• Virtual office hours, or 
• Group projects. 

As an excellent email alternative , Pumble is perfect for sharing documents, so you don’t have to worry about losing reports in your overflowing inbox. 

Not only is the platform easy to use and highly customizable, but you can take advantage of voice and video calls to make sure you’re always on top of your workload. 

Are you curious to see how you can improve communication and collaboration with a Pumble workspace?

References:

• (2023) Why college is getting more expensive | CNN business . Available at: https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/16/investing/curious-consumer-college-cost/index.html 
• Brownstein, M. (2019) Implicit bias , Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy . Available at: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/implicit-bias/ 
• Hahn, A. (2023) 2023 student loan debt statistics: Average student loan debt , Forbes . Available at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/average-student-loan-debt-statistics/

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How to Write a Strong Recommendation Letter for Your Student's Scholarship

Letters of Recommendation

There are numerous scholarships out there for students entering college, and each has its own special set of guidelines. A recommendation letter for scholarship from teachers, counselors, and other important people in a student's life can serve as powerful testaments to a student's past and future achievements.

As an English teacher and college counselor, I put a lot of time into crafting personalized letters of recommendation for students applying to scholarships. In this article, I discuss what exactly should go into an effective scholarship recommendation letter, along with the importance of tailoring your letter to the scholarship at hand. 

So how exactly should recommenders frame their letters to best help their students win a scholarship? And what purpose do reference letters serve as scholarship committees sift through applications?

Purpose of Recommendation Letters in Scholarship Applications

A letter of recommendation for scholarship can accomplish a number of things within a student's scholarship application. First, they can act as strong endorsements of a student, praising her academic and personal qualities and expressing confidence in her future success. The best letters allow a student to transcend her resume and come alive, so to speak, as a multi-dimensional person to a scholarship committee. They also show that she has people in her life motivated to speak on her behalf.

While illuminating a student's impressive qualities (her compassion, energy, or leadership skills, for instance), a recommendation letter provides further evidence that the student is qualified to receive the scholarship . Most scholarships are awarded for students with specific commitments or goals . They might be awarded to students pursuing engineering, math, science, computer science, or literary studies.

Recommendations should be customized to each scholarship. They can attest that a student is both eligible for and deserves the scholarship based on her merit and/or need. For those scholarships geared toward students that have financial need, a recommendation letter may discuss a student's ability to succeed despite limited resources.

A recommendation letter for scholarship can complement and add to the story a student tells in her application about who she is and why she deserves it . In order to do this successfully and accurately, you, as the recommender, should first gather essential information and brainstorm ideas before beginning to write.

Even before the chicken and the egg came the brainstorming stage.

Before Writing Your Scholarship Recommendation Letter...

Since letters of recommendation carry such weight, first you should ask yourself if you can write a genuine and meaningful letter of support for the student. If you feel you don't know her well or have little to share on her behalf, then your letter could come off as lukewarm or uninformed, both of which would add little, or could even hurt, her chances.

Assuming you're motivated to recommend the student, you should make sure to find out exactly what the scholarship is for. Is it looking to award students who have overcome significant challenges? Is it helping girls who want to study computer science? Minority students entering technology fields? High academic achievers that contribute to their communities?

By being aware of the guidelines and expectations of the scholarship, you can make sure to validate your student's qualifications to receive it. If it's a scholarship for future engineers, talk about your student's fascination with physics. If it has to do with community involvement, talk about her volunteer work at the Boys and Girls Club. 

Your recommendee should provide you with information about the scholarship, along with her resume, "brag sheet," and any other relevant information. If you still have unanswered questions, it could help your letter writing to sit down with the student and talk about her high school experiences and post-secondary goals.

Once you have a clear sense of the scholarship and themes within the student's application, you can think about the story you want to tell in your recommendation letter for scholarship. Think about the student's outstanding strengths, along with significant experiences that have shaped her or obstacles she's overcome.

 Finally, consider what anecdotes or observations you can share to demonstrate those strengths. If she's applying to a computer science scholarship, you can highlight her year-long project designing an app to track water use and promote conservation. If she's applying for a literary scholarship, talk about her publications in the town's local magazine.

All of these components are important to include in the scholarship recommendation letter. Read on to learn more about key content in recommendation letters for scholarships. 

Include meaningful stories to support your recommendation.

What Are the Main Parts of a Recommendation Letter?

Each recommendation letter you write will be personalized to the specific student you're writing about, but many of these letters follow a similar template. Here's everything that you should include in your recommendation letter:

• A salutation
• An introduction that explains your relationship to the student
• The body of the letter where you explain the reason(s) for why you believe the student deserves the scholarship
• A summary where you reiterate your main points
• Your contact information and signature

What to Include in Your Recommendation Letter

Once you've brainstormed a list of the student's strengths, meaningful anecdotes, and qualifications to win the scholarship, you can start to draft your letter.

Introduction

As with recommendations for college, you should begin by stating who you're recommending, how you know her and in what contexts , and what makes you qualified to give your assessment.

If you've known the student in different contexts, like as both her teacher and club advisor or coach, then you should say so. This further shows that you know her well and have seen how she interacts and performs in different roles and environments.  

It's my great pleasure to recommend Janet for the X Scholarship , who I got to know as her 11th grade AP Calculus teacher. Throughout the three years I've known Brian as his baseball coach and 11th grade English teacher, he's impressed me with his intense focus and commitment.

 Body of the Letter: Why the Student Deserves the Scholarship

Once your introduction incorporates these elements - a strong statement of support and an explanation of who you are and how you know the student - then you can move into your assessment. You should highlight the student's primary strengths, again, making sure to tailor your evaluation to the specific scholarship.

If the scholarship is focusing on academic achievement, then a statement of high ranking from an established teacher could go a long way. Stating that the student is one of the top three you've taught in twenty years or the best student in her class suggests that she's an outstanding applicant who will likely continue to excel in college.

Since most scholarships are awarded for students going into certain fields, you should speak about your vision of the student at college. If the scholarship is awarded to someone going into mechanical engineering, then you can corroborate the student's academic and professional goals and paint a picture of what you see her accomplishing in the field. Talk about her aptitude for the subject, involvement in Robotics Club, and excitement to study with renowned engineer Professor Smith at college.

Ultimately, you want to make the student stand out as a motivated individual that the scholarship donors would want to invest in . You may emphasize her unique commitment, talent, drive, and passion, and show them how her contributions in high school predict her continued pursuits in college. Show them that she deserves the scholarship and that you have no doubt she will put it to good use.

Your Contact Information

In the end of your letter, you can give your contact information and invite the scholarship committee to get in touch with any further questions. If you've provided a complete, glowing picture of the student, then they should have all the information they need. On the other hand, your letter may fall short if it includes some of the following elements.

Neither your coffee nor your recommendation letter should be lukewarm.

What Not to Include in Your Scholarship Recommendation Letter

It's unlikely that any recommendation letter will be explicitly bad. If you didn't get along with a student for some reason, then presumably she wouldn't ask you to recommend her. Even if she mysteriously did, you'd most likely decline or suggest someone who would be a better choice for recommender. However, recommendation letters can still end up being mediocre and not very helpful compared to others that rave about a student.

Lukewarm Praise

Letters that come off as lukewarm stand in stark contrast to enthusiastic ones. To avoid this, make sure to be intentional with your word choice and to avoid cliches. Talking about how a student is hard-working and a good student might not stack up well beside descriptors like diligent, insightful, intellectually curious , or compassionate , to name a few. Try not to use vague or overused adjectives that sound generic and lack impact. 

Additionally, a mediocre ranking like "above average" doesn't do much to help a student, especially if the scholarship is looking for exceptional academic merit. You also want to avoid covering every grade, club, or activity associated with the student, as this lacks focus. It wouldn't zero in on the specific qualifications the scholarship committee is looking for, and thus wouldn't help prove that the student deserves their time and money. 

Non-Descriptive Reasons Why the Student Deserves the Scholarship

You also want to avoid simply listing adjectives in your recommendation without having the stories to back them up. Just as a picture is worth a thousand words, a story about your student is more memorable and telling than using an adjective with no example. In addition to calling Roger a caring, sensitive, and proactive leader, talk about how he developed a week of programming at school to raise awareness of mental health issues. Simply put, avoid abstract language if you can't support it with real examples.

Generic Writing

Finally, to reiterate the point, the least effective recommendation letter is one not tailored to the scholarship itself . While you may use the same letter of recommendation for more than one college a student is applying to, you should make sure to customize your letter for scholarships. They tend to be both competitive and specific. Therefore a student needs a strong, customized letter that talks about why she's the perfect person to win that money.

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship

Now that you know all the parts your letter should include, here's an sample scholarship recommendation letter so you can see how it looks all tied together. Notice how, in this letter, the writer clearly explains how he knows the student, gives specific examples of why the student is exceptional,  discusses how the scholarship would benefit the student, and overall presents a strong and passionate case as to why this student deserves the scholarship.

Dear Scholarship Selection Committee, I'm thrilled to recommend Nathan Daniels for the Aspiring Entrepreneur  Scholarship. I taught Nathan's Introductory Economics and AP Macroeconomics classes, and I also am the advisor for the high school Business Club, which Nathan is Vice President of. I've known Nathan for three years, and I've seen him use intelligence, business savvy, hard work, and people skills to accomplish more than almost any high school student I know. I highly recommend him for this scholarship. I first met Nathan when he was a sophomore in my Introductory Economics class. Right away he stood out by being able to quickly grasp economic concepts and engage in thoughtful discussion. He's very skilled at being able to apply even abstract business and economics concepts to real world examples and understand how they impact everyday life. In both classes I have taught him in, Nathan has been an active participant and one of the highest-scoring students in the class, but he always takes time to help his classmates. By the time he was in my AP Economics class, I could put him in a group with students struggling to understand certain concepts and trust him to competently answer any questions they had while I was working with other groups. Despite being an excellent student and considerate peer, Nathan's most impressive achievement is the business he started on his own and continues to run. At the end of his sophomore year, Nathan came to me with a business plan he had for a tutoring business he wanted to run. It was extremely detailed, well thought-out, and based on solid business principles, so I recommended giving it a shot. I've seen numerous students come up with great ideas but not follow through, so I didn't expect much of it. However, Nathan not only got his business up and running, he has managed to keep it going and even expand it so that he now has three tutors working under him. He has shown incredible drive and business skills, and I truly believe this is only the beginning for him.  Nathan has discussed with me how he would use this scholarship to help expand his current tutoring business as well as begin a new business to help college students resell their textbooks. I've looked over the plan for this new business, and it appears as well planned as his first. I have no doubt Nathan has both the motivation and the business sense to continue growing as an entrepreneur. I believe Nathan would be an extremely deserving recipient of this award and that you can be certain he'd make the most of it, the way he has made the most of all opportunities he has had.   Sincerely,   Terrance Ives Social Science and Business Teacher

Key Takeaways: Recommendation Letter for Scholarship

To review, let's go over the key points to remember when writing your letters of recommendation for scholarships. When writing a letter of recommendation for scholarship, remember to

• Tailor your letter to the specific scholarship and its guidelines and expectations.
• Customize your letter to each individual student.
• Speak enthusiastically about a student's merit and why the scholarship committee should invest in her academic and professional future. In other words, emphasize your confidence in her future success.
• Highlight the student's primary strengths , particularly as they relate to the scholarship. Don't feel like you have to cover everything on a student's resume.
• Give stories, examples , and observations to back up your praise. In a phrase, " show, don't tell ."
• Be intentional with your phrasing and flow of ideas. Choose words that are powerful and have impact , while avoiding generic language and cliches.

Whether your student is applying to a scholarship for academic achievement, financial need, or a specific field of study, her application can receive a serious boost from a strong, thoughtful, and supportive recommendation letter. While her mission is to win the scholarship, yours can be to present the scholarship committee with an exceptional letter of recommendation about a student they won't soon forget.

What's Next?

Are you also writing letters of recommendation for colleges? Check out our full guide for teachers on how to write reference letters and help your students get accepted.

Along with understanding the key content that should go into a recommendation letter, it's helpful to read these examples of great and bad references.   Here you can read 4 great teacher recommendation letters , plus 3 examples of bad teacher recs . 

Are you a counselor writing a letter of recommendation?  Check out our guide that includes three excellent examples of counselor letters of rec  to give you some ideas.

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Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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