A guide for requesting
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Most scholarship applications request multiple letters of recommendation from those who can speak to your goals, education, acomplishments, your participation within your community, and your life experiences. There are a few things to consider in requesting a letter of recommendation. Please see our guide below.
Who to ask?
Pick someone who knows you well! The more detailed and personalized a letter is the more likely it is to make a strong impression.
• Teachers/Instructors
• Employers (current & previous)
• Counselors
• Mentors
• Religious Leaders
• Organizational / Community Leaders
When to ask?
Keep in mind that those you may be asking are especially busy. You are likely one of many asking for a letter of recommendation.
You want to ask as early as possible! This way the person will have enough time to write a good letter that truly speaks to you. Ideally you want to provide this person at least 5 - 6 weeks prior to the submission deadline.
What to include when asking?
When asking for a letter of recommendation, you want to provide this person with a few guidelines to assist them as they write. *Donʻt forget to include the deadline date.*
Instructions for completing the letter of recommendation:
• Who / What organization / scholarship?
• Where do they send their letter?
• How do they submit the letter?
• What length should the letter be? Word count?
• Any other instructions specified by the scholarship?
• Request that their letter be on a letterhead
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Details about you and the letter of recommendation:
• Your full name & contact information
• How do you know the writer? Remind them!
• Why do you need a letter of recommendation?
• What is the focus of the scholarship & letter?
• Share an overview of your achievements, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, etc.
• Provide the writer with your resume