A character reference letter is a crucial document that vouches for an individual’s integrity, trustworthiness, and overall character. It’s often requested for job applications, college admissions, legal proceedings, and volunteer opportunities. The effectiveness of the letter hinges on providing specific examples and demonstrating a genuine understanding of the person you are recommending. These letters highlight personal qualities, ethical conduct, and positive attributes, distinguishing the individual from other candidates.
Crafting a compelling character reference letter requires careful consideration of the recipient’s needs and the purpose of the recommendation. Avoid generic statements; instead, focus on specific instances where the individual displayed exemplary character traits. Clearly state your relationship to the person you are recommending and the duration of your acquaintance. Providing contact information allows the recipient to seek further clarification if needed, adding credibility to your endorsement. A strong letter can significantly impact the recipient’s decision, making the effort well worthwhile.
Below are 24 sample character reference letters, covering a variety of scenarios. Remember to adapt these templates to accurately reflect your personal experience with the individual you’re recommending. Pay close attention to the tone and level of formality required for the specific situation. Always proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling before submitting your letter. Each sample is a good starting point for your own letter.
Use these samples as a starting point and make sure the letters are unique, based on your personal experience with the person you are recommending. Remember to include specific details and examples to make your letter more compelling and believable. Good luck!
Sample Character Reference Letters
Sample Letter 1: For Job Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a colleague, neighbor, friend].
[Applicant Name] is a highly [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, diligent, motivated] individual with a strong work ethic. During our time working together at [Previous Company/Organization], [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated [Specific Skill or Quality – e.g., excellent problem-solving skills, a positive attitude, a commitment to teamwork]. For example, [Give a specific example to illustrate the skill or quality].
[Applicant Name] is also a person of integrity and high moral character. [He/She/They] is trustworthy, reliable, and always willing to help others. I am confident that [He/She/They] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 2: For College Admission
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Institution]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student Name] for admission to [University Name]. I have had the privilege of knowing [Student Name] as [Your Relationship – e.g., their teacher, mentor, advisor] at [School/Organization] for the past [Number] years.
[Student Name] is an exceptional student with a keen intellect and a genuine thirst for knowledge. [He/She/They] consistently excelled in my [Subject] class, demonstrating [Specific Academic Skill – e.g., critical thinking, strong writing skills, a deep understanding of the material]. [He/She/They] is also a highly motivated and self-directed learner, always seeking opportunities to expand [His/Her/Their] knowledge and skills.
Beyond academics, [Student Name] is a well-rounded individual with a strong sense of community. [He/She/They] is actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities – e.g., student government, volunteer work, sports], demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world around [Him/Her/Them].
I am confident that [Student Name] has the intellectual ability, personal qualities, and dedication to succeed at [University Name]. I highly recommend [Him/Her/Them] for admission.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 3: For Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Organization]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Scholarship Committee
[Scholarship Name]
[Scholarship Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Student Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their teacher, mentor, volunteer coordinator].
[Student Name] is an exceptional individual who has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to [Area of Study/Interest – e.g., academic excellence, community service, leadership]. [He/She/They] has achieved [Specific Accomplishment – e.g., a high GPA, leadership role in a club, significant volunteer contributions] while overcoming [Mention any challenges they have faced, if appropriate].
[Student Name] possesses not only intelligence but also the character traits necessary to succeed and make a positive contribution to society. [He/She/They] is [List 2-3 positive character traits – e.g., hardworking, compassionate, resilient]. For example, [Provide a specific example to illustrate these traits].
I am confident that [Student Name] is a deserving candidate for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship and that [He/She/They] will make the most of this opportunity to further [His/Her/Their] education and achieve [His/Her/Their] goals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 4: For Adoption
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Adoption Agency Name]
[Adoption Agency Address]
Dear [Adoption Agency Representative],
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant Name(s)] for adoption. I have known [Applicant Name(s)] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their neighbor, friend, colleague].
[Applicant Name(s)] are loving, caring, and responsible individuals who possess all the qualities necessary to be wonderful parents. I have witnessed their [Positive Qualities – e.g., patience, compassion, dedication] firsthand and am deeply impressed by their commitment to family. For example, [Give a specific example of their positive qualities related to children or family].
[Applicant Name(s)] have created a warm and supportive home environment. [Describe their home environment briefly – e.g., Their home is welcoming and filled with love. They are active in their community and have a strong support network]. They are eager to provide a child with a loving home, a stable upbringing, and every opportunity to thrive.
I am confident that [Applicant Name(s)] would make exceptional parents, and I highly recommend them for adoption.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 5: For Custody Case
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Court Name]
[Court Address]
RE: Custody Case of [Child’s Name]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for [Parent’s Name] in relation to the custody case of [Child’s Name]. I have known [Parent’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, family member].
I have consistently observed [Parent’s Name] to be a [Positive Adjective – e.g., loving, responsible, dedicated] parent to [Child’s Name]. [He/She/They] consistently prioritizes [Child’s Name]’s well-being and demonstrates a strong commitment to [His/Her/Their] care. For example, [Give a specific example of their positive parenting].
[Parent’s Name] provides a stable and nurturing environment for [Child’s Name]. [Describe briefly – e.g., They ensure [Child’s Name] has access to education, healthcare, and a safe and loving home. They are actively involved in [Child’s Name]’s life]. I believe that [Child’s Name]’s best interests would be served by [Parent’s Name] having [Desired Custody Arrangement – e.g., primary custody, increased visitation].
I am prepared to provide further information if required.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 6: For Immigration
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
[USCIS Address – if known, otherwise omit]
RE: Support Letter for [Applicant’s Name], Application for [Type of Application – e.g., Permanent Residency, Asylum]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference in support of [Applicant’s Name]’s application for [Type of Application]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague].
Throughout my acquaintance with [Applicant’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by [His/Her/Their] [Positive Qualities – e.g., honesty, integrity, resilience, dedication]. [He/She/They] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., hardworking, compassionate, responsible] individual who is committed to [His/Her/Their] family and community. For example, [Give a specific example to illustrate their qualities].
[If applicable, briefly mention their contributions to the community or any hardships they have faced – e.g., [He/She/They] has volunteered countless hours at [Organization]. [He/She/They] has overcome significant challenges with grace and determination]. [He/She/They] is a valuable member of our community, and I believe [His/Her/Their] presence in the United States would be a positive asset.
I urge you to give [Applicant’s Name]’s application your full consideration. I am confident that [He/She/They] will be a responsible and law-abiding resident of the United States.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 7: For Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager/Volunteer Coordinator Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague].
[Applicant Name] is a highly [Positive Adjective – e.g., dedicated, compassionate, reliable] individual with a genuine desire to help others. I have witnessed [His/Her/Their] commitment to [Cause/Area of Interest related to the volunteer position – e.g., community service, environmental protection, animal welfare] firsthand. For example, [Give a specific example to illustrate their commitment].
[Applicant Name] possesses the skills and qualities necessary to be a successful volunteer. [He/She/They] is [List 2-3 relevant skills – e.g., a good communicator, a team player, highly organized]. [He/She/They] is also a quick learner and eager to contribute [His/Her/Their] time and talents to your organization.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team, and I highly recommend [Him/Her/Them] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 8: For Apartment Rental
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord/Property Manager Name]
[Property Address/Management Company Name]
[Property Address]
Dear [Landlord/Property Manager Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Applicant Name] in support of [His/Her/Their] application to rent the apartment at [Apartment Address, if known]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, respectful, quiet] individual who I believe would be an excellent tenant. [He/She/They] is [Describe their habits – e.g., very clean and organized, respectful of others’ property, and conscientious about noise levels]. I have always found [Him/Her/Them] to be trustworthy and reliable.
[If applicable, mention anything relevant to being a good tenant – e.g., They are employed at [Company Name] and have a stable income. They are responsible pet owners]. I am confident that [Applicant Name] would take good care of the property and be a respectful neighbor.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 9: For Loan Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Lender Name]
[Lender Address]
RE: Character Reference for [Applicant Name], Loan Application
Dear [Loan Officer Name/To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Applicant Name] in support of [His/Her/Their] loan application. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, colleague, family member].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, trustworthy, financially prudent] individual with a strong work ethic and a history of [Positive Financial Behavior – e.g., managing their finances responsibly, paying bills on time]. For example, [Give a specific example to support this – e.g., They have always been diligent about saving money. They are very careful about managing their budget].
[If applicable, mention their employment history and stability – e.g., They have been employed at [Company Name] for [Number] years and have a stable income. They are committed to their career]. I am confident that [Applicant Name] is a reliable and responsible individual who will honor [His/Her/Their] financial obligations.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for this loan.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 10: For Court – Traffic Violation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Court Name]
[Court Address]
RE: Case of [Defendant’s Name], Traffic Violation
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name] in relation to the traffic violation case. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague, family member].
While I am aware of the seriousness of the traffic violation, I can attest to [Defendant’s Name]’s overall character and driving habits. [He/She/They] is generally a [Positive Adjective – e.g., careful, responsible, law-abiding] driver. I have observed [Him/Her/Them] to be [Describe their driving habits – e.g., attentive and cautious behind the wheel, always mindful of traffic laws].
[Optional: If applicable, mention any mitigating circumstances or remorse they have expressed – e.g., [Defendant’s Name] has expressed sincere remorse for the incident. [He/She/They] has learned a valuable lesson and is committed to being a more responsible driver in the future]. I believe this incident is an isolated occurrence and not indicative of [His/Her/Their] typical behavior.
I respectfully request that you take this character reference into consideration when making your decision in this case.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 11: For Expungement
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Court Name]
[Court Address]
RE: Expungement Request for [Defendant’s Name], Case Number [Case Number, if known]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference in support of [Defendant’s Name]’s request for expungement. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague, family member].
I am aware of [Defendant’s Name]’s past legal issue. Since then, I have witnessed significant positive changes in [His/Her/Their] life. [He/She/They] has [Describe positive changes – e.g., completed all terms of probation, maintained a stable job, volunteered in the community, pursued further education].
[Defendant’s Name] is now a [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, productive, contributing] member of society. [Give a specific example – e.g., They are a dedicated employee at [Company Name]. They volunteer regularly at [Organization]. They are a positive influence on their family and friends]. Expunging this record would allow [Him/Her/Them] to move forward with [His/Her/Their] life and pursue opportunities that are currently limited by this past mistake.
I highly recommend that you grant [Defendant’s Name]’s request for expungement.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 12: For Parole Hearing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Parole Board Name]
[Parole Board Address]
RE: Parole Hearing for [Inmate’s Name], Inmate Number [Inmate Number, if known]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference in support of [Inmate’s Name]’s application for parole. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, family member, colleague – before their incarceration].
I understand the seriousness of the crime [Inmate’s Name] committed. However, I believe that [He/She/They] has demonstrated significant remorse and has made a genuine effort to rehabilitate [Himself/Herself/Themselves] during [His/Her/Their] incarceration. [Provide specific examples, if you know them – e.g., They have participated in educational programs. They have completed therapy. They have taken responsibility for their actions].
[If applicable, describe the support system they will have upon release – e.g., I am prepared to offer [Him/Her/Them] housing and employment upon release. [His/Her/Their] family is committed to providing a supportive and stable environment]. I believe that [Inmate’s Name] is ready to re-enter society as a productive and law-abiding citizen. Granting parole would give [Him/Her/Them] the opportunity to prove that [He/She/They] has learned from [His/Her/Their] mistakes and is committed to a positive future.
I urge you to give [Inmate’s Name]’s application for parole your serious consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 13: For Gun Permit
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Issuing Authority – e.g., Local Police Department, County Sheriff’s Office]
[Address of Issuing Authority]
RE: Character Reference for [Applicant’s Name], Application for [Type of Gun Permit – e.g., Concealed Carry Permit]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference in support of [Applicant’s Name]’s application for a [Type of Gun Permit]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, colleague].
[Applicant’s Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, law-abiding, level-headed] individual who I believe would handle firearms safely and responsibly. I have always known [Him/Her/Them] to be [Describe their character traits related to responsibility – e.g., respectful of the law, cautious and thoughtful in their actions, and committed to safety].
[If applicable, mention any relevant experience they have with firearms, or their reason for wanting the permit – e.g., They have completed a firearms safety course. They have a legitimate need for self-defense]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] would adhere to all applicable laws and regulations regarding firearms ownership and use.
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] is a suitable candidate for a [Type of Gun Permit].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 14: For Babysitting Job
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Parents’ Name]
[Parents’ Address]
Dear [Parents’ Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the babysitting position for your child(ren). I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their friend, neighbor, teacher, family member].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., responsible, caring, patient] individual who I believe would provide excellent care for your child(ren). [He/She/They] is [Describe their experience with children – e.g., experienced in caring for children of all ages, excellent at engaging children in activities, and attentive to their needs].
I have observed [Applicant Name] interacting with children on many occasions and have always been impressed by [His/Her/Their] [Positive qualities when interacting with children – e.g., patience, kindness, and ability to keep children entertained and safe]. I am confident that [Applicant Name] would provide a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for your child(ren).
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for this babysitting position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 15: For Board Membership
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position, if applicable]
[Organization, if applicable]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Nominating Committee/Board of Directors]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Nominating Committee/Board of Directors],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for membership on the Board of Directors of [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their colleague, community partner, volunteer coordinator].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., dedicated, insightful, strategic] individual with a strong commitment to [Organization Name]’s mission. [He/She/They] has demonstrated [His/Her/Their] passion for [Area relevant to the organization’s mission] through [Specific Actions – e.g., volunteer work, professional experience, advocacy efforts].
[Applicant Name] possesses the skills and experience necessary to be a valuable member of the Board. [He/She/They] is [List 2-3 relevant skills – e.g., a strong communicator, a skilled problem-solver, experienced in fundraising]. [He/She/They] also has a proven track record of [Specific Achievements – e.g., leading successful projects, building strong relationships, and contributing to the success of organizations]. I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s expertise and dedication would be a significant asset to the Board.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for membership on the Board of Directors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 16: For Sports Team
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Coach’s Name]
[Team Name]
[Team Address/School Address]
Dear [Coach’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Player’s Name] for your [Sport] team. I have known [Player’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their parent, coach, teacher, family friend].
[Player’s Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., dedicated, hardworking, talented] athlete with a passion for [Sport]. [He/She/They] has demonstrated [His/Her/Their] commitment to the sport through [Specific Actions – e.g., consistent practice, participation in tournaments, dedication to training].
[Player’s Name] possesses the skills and qualities necessary to be a valuable member of your team. [He/She/They] is [List 2-3 relevant skills – e.g., a skilled [Sport]-player, a strong team player, coachable]. [He/She/They] is also a [Positive character trait – e.g., respectful, disciplined, determined] athlete who is always willing to learn and improve. I am confident that [Player’s Name] would be a positive addition to your team both on and off the field.
I highly recommend [Player’s Name] for your [Sport] team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 17: For Music Program
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position, if applicable]
[Organization, if applicable]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Music Program Director/Admissions Committee]
[Music Program Name]
[Music Program Address]
Dear [Music Program Director/Admissions Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Name] for your music program. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., their music teacher, band director, mentor].
[Student’s Name] is a highly [Positive Adjective – e.g., talented, dedicated, passionate] musician with a strong aptitude for [Instrument/Vocal]. [He/She/They] has demonstrated exceptional progress in [Music Area – e.g., technique, musicianship, performance] and consistently strives for excellence.
[Student’s Name] possesses the discipline and work ethic necessary to succeed in your demanding program. [He/She/They] is [Describe their dedication to music – e.g., dedicated to practicing, eager to learn new skills, and committed to improving]. I am confident that [Student’s Name]’s talent, dedication, and passion for music would make [Him/Her/Them] a valuable addition to your program.
I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for your music program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]