Graduate School Recommendation Letters

A good reference writer:

  • knows you well enough to comment fully on your ability to perform at the graduate level
  • firmly believes in your desire to continue your studies
  • is familiar with your chosen field of study
  • writes well

Make a list of potential reference writers – faculty, staff, supervisors, employers - and narrow it as you narrow your search.  Try to match each reference writer to the individual programs.

Let your reference writers know way ahead of deadlines that you will be applying to graduate school and ask them if they would be willing to write a letter in support of your application.  Be aware that your reference writers may not always be reachable whenever you need them (sabbatical, academic seminars, vacations, etc.).

Supply your reference writer with all the information they need to write a strong recommendation:

  • your deadline dates.  This does not necessarily mean that the completion date you give your reference writer is the date the application is due.  Give yourself some time to pull your application together, and some extra time in case your reference writer just doesn’t get to it as promised
  • a description of the program(s)
  • the application materials – recommendation forms, envelopes, stamps for mailing if the recommendation is not to be included with the rest of your application
  • your resumé
  • classes taken with that faculty member, grades received, major projects/papers/presentations, a copy of your personal statement
  • arrange a meeting to discuss why you want to continue your education, and why you have chosen this particular field
  • a list of qualities you have that you think would help your application stand out; what you think is important to mention
  • how to contact you should they have any questions

The majority of graduate programs will ask for confidential references.  This means that you have waived your right to review the letter of recommendation.  Make sure you are comfortable with the people you choose to write your letters and this will not be a problem.  If you are hesitant about what someone will write about you, perhaps you should choose another person.

Send the requested number of references to each graduate program.  Don’t send too few recommendations.  Make sure the letters are on the forms provided by the school.  Don’t substitute other information in lieu of a letter of recommendation without checking with the admissions committee.