A strong recommendation letter is a crucial element in a successful university application. It provides admissions committees with valuable insights into your character, skills, and potential, going beyond grades and test scores. These letters, written by teachers, mentors, or employers, highlight your unique abilities and how you would contribute to the university community. A well-crafted recommendation can significantly strengthen your candidacy and make you stand out from the crowd.
This article provides 18 diverse sample recommendation letters for university admission. Each example showcases different strengths and perspectives, offering a variety of styles and approaches. Use these samples as inspiration to guide your recommenders in crafting compelling letters that accurately reflect your capabilities and aspirations. Remember to provide your recommenders with ample information about yourself, your academic goals, and the specific programs you are applying to, so they can tailor their letters to your individual needs.
Sample Recommendation Letters
Sample Letter 1: From a Science Teacher
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your esteemed university. I have had the privilege of teaching [Student’s Name] in my AP Biology class for the past two years, and I have been consistently impressed by their intellectual curiosity and dedication to learning. [Student’s Name] possesses a strong analytical mind and a genuine passion for science.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 2: From a Math Professor
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your mathematics program. As their Calculus II professor, I witnessed firsthand their exceptional mathematical abilities and problem-solving skills. [Student’s Name] consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex concepts and a willingness to tackle challenging problems.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 3: From an English Teacher
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your university. As their English teacher, I have been impressed by their exceptional writing skills and critical thinking abilities. [Student’s Name] possesses a remarkable command of the English language and a keen eye for detail.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 4: From a History Teacher
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your history program. Having had the opportunity to teach [Student’s Name] in both World History and AP US History, I have witnessed firsthand their intellectual curiosity and analytical prowess. [Student’s Name] consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of historical events and their significance.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 5: From a Debate Coach
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your university. As the debate coach, I have seen the ability of [Student’s Name] to construct a compelling argument and provide clear details. [Student’s Name] is an extremely valuable asset to the academic community.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 6: From a Volunteer Coordinator
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I would like to offer my support to [Student’s Name] who has volunteered under me for many years. During this time, [Student’s Name] has demonstrated a high degree of compassion and maturity. They truly care for others and strive to make the world a better place.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 7: From a Sports Coach
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] to your university. [Student’s Name] has trained diligently as a [sport] under me. More than that, they serve as a team player and know the value of hard work. I have full confidence they can succeed in their academic pursuits.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 8: From a Band Teacher
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I strongly recommend [Student’s Name] for acceptance. During our time together in the band, [Student’s Name] has showed great musical talent. They listen to advice and always have a great attitude when it comes to improving.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 9: From a Tutor
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to attest to [Student’s Name]’s success. Since [Student’s Name] has been under my tutelage, they have demonstrated a strong thirst for knowledge. They also go out of their way to encourage other students. They would make a great student at any university.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 10: From an Employer
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
As the manager, I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name]. During their time working here, [Student’s Name] has always strived to improve. They follow directions well, arrive on time, and work as a team. [Student’s Name] should be a great student as well.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 11: From a Project Lead
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I recommend [Student’s Name] for acceptance into your university. As a project lead, [Student’s Name] has always demonstrated a strong work ethic. They always go out of their way to improve our project and are a great asset.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 12: From a School Advisor
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I have been the school advisor for [Student’s Name] for a long time. They are a great student, excel in the classroom, and are an extremely upstanding member of our school. [Student’s Name] makes a great addition to any school.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 13: From a School Principal
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I fully support [Student’s Name] in their pursuit of higher education. During their time at our school, [Student’s Name] has always pushed themself to be the best. They also have good friends and are well respected by their peers.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 14: From a Club President
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Student’s Name] for university admittance. [Student’s Name] has excelled as a member of our club, and I see great leadership ability in them. They are very valuable and help make our club as good as it is.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 15: From a Mentor
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I have acted as [Student’s Name]’s mentor for several years. In this time, I have always been impressed by the drive and wisdom [Student’s Name] possesses. They have a bright future and will make great contributions to your university.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 16: From a Clergyman
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
As a leader in the church, I can attest that [Student’s Name] is a noble and good person. They hold themselves to the highest standards and have a pure heart. I hope [Student’s Name] will be allowed the opportunity to grow in your school.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 17: From a Family Friend
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Having known [Student’s Name] since they were a small child, I can confidently say that they are one of the finest young people I have ever met. They demonstrate the virtues of intelligence, kindness, and diligence. This is why I feel confident recommending them.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Sample Letter 18: From a Community Member
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Recommender’s Institution]
[Recommender’s Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I have watched [Student’s Name] grow up over the years. I see the potential that [Student’s Name] has, and their thirst for knowledge is quite visible. I believe [Student’s Name] should get accepted to the university.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
Conclusion
These sample recommendation letters provide a strong foundation for guiding your recommenders. Remember to tailor the information to your specific situation and highlight your unique qualities and achievements. By providing your recommenders with clear and concise information, you can ensure that they write compelling letters that will strengthen your university application and increase your chances of acceptance.