Asking a professor for a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but it’s a crucial step for graduate school applications, scholarships, and job opportunities. Professors are busy, so it’s important to approach them professionally and respectfully. A well-crafted request increases your chances of receiving a strong and positive recommendation. Remember to give your professor ample time – ideally, at least a month – to write the letter. Provide them with all the necessary information, including your resume, a personal statement (if applicable), and details about the program or position you’re applying for.
The key to a successful request lies in making it easy for your professor. Clearly state why you’re asking them specifically – highlight relevant courses you took with them and mention any projects or interactions where you excelled. Refresh their memory about your capabilities and potential. A personalized approach shows that you value their time and expertise. Don’t forget to express your gratitude for their consideration, regardless of their decision. Always follow up politely to confirm if they need any further information.
24 Sample Requests for Letter of Recommendation
Sample 1: Formal Email Request
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a draft of my personal statement for your review. I especially valued your insights on [Specific topic from the course], and I believe my experience in your class has prepared me well for this program.
Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me. I would be happy to provide any further information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Sample 2: Request After Office Hours
Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
Thank you again for meeting with me during office hours today. As we discussed, I am applying to [Job Title] positions, and I would be incredibly grateful if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me.
Your insights on [Specific Project or Skill] were particularly helpful during [Course Name], and I believe you have a good understanding of my abilities in this area. I’ve attached my resume and a description of the positions I’m applying for.
Please let me know if this is something you would be able to do. The application deadline is [Date].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Emphasizing Academic Performance
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. I’m [Your Name], a former student from your [Course Name] course last [Semester/Year]. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation as I’m applying to [Program Name] at [University Name].
During your course, I consistently achieved high grades, particularly in the [Specific assignment] where I explored [Specific Topic]. Your guidance was instrumental in shaping my interest in [Field of study], and I believe my academic record in your class reflects my potential for success in [Program Name].
The application deadline is [Date]. I’ve attached my CV, personal statement, and the requirements of the recommendation letter. Would you be available to write me a letter? I’m happy to provide any further details.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Requesting for a Scholarship
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I trust this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] session. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, which could significantly aid my pursuit of [Degree Type] in [Field of Study].
Your course greatly influenced my understanding of [Specific concept], and I believe that my engagement in class discussions and final project, centered on [Project Topic], showcases my passion for [Field of Study].
The deadline for submitting the scholarship application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a summary of the scholarship requirements, and a draft of my scholarship essay for your convenience. Please let me know if you are able to assist me with a letter of recommendation. I am available to provide any additional details that may be helpful.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample 5: Requesting for PhD Program
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – PhD Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course in [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the PhD program in [Field of Study] at [University Name].
I am particularly interested in [Specific Area of Research], which aligns with some of the topics we discussed in your class. Your lectures on [Specific Topic] were especially influential in shaping my research interests.
The deadline for the recommendation letter is [Date]. I have attached my CV, a statement of purpose, and information about the PhD program. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Requesting for Master’s Program
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Master’s Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the Master’s program in [Field of Study] at [University Name].
I found your class to be particularly insightful, especially the discussions on [Specific Topic]. My performance in [Specific Assignment or Project] demonstrated my ability to apply these concepts effectively.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and the program details for your review. Would you be willing to provide a letter of recommendation?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Requesting for Internship
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Internship Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for an internship at [Company Name] in the [Department] department.
The internship requires skills in [Specific Skill], which I developed further through my work in your class. I believe your insights on [Specific Topic] will be valuable in this role.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume, the internship description, and any other relevant information. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Requesting for Job
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Job Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
I believe that my skills in [Specific Skill], which I honed during your class, align well with the requirements of this position. Your feedback on [Specific Project] was particularly helpful in developing these skills.
The deadline for the recommendation letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume, the job description, and any other relevant information. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Requesting a Letter of Recommendation Via Email
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I am applying to [Program Name/Job Title] and would be grateful if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf.
Your course was particularly impactful for me because [Specific Reason]. I feel your insights into my skills and abilities would make you an ideal recommender.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume and a brief description of the [Program/Job]. Let me know if you are able to write a recommendation for me.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: A Polite Request After Taking Multiple Classes
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I had the pleasure of being a student in your [Course 1 Name] and [Course 2 Name] classes. I am now in the process of applying for [Program Name] and would be honored if you could write me a letter of recommendation.
Having taken multiple courses with you, I believe you have a strong understanding of my work ethic and academic capabilities, particularly in [Specific Area]. I have attached my resume and a personal statement for your review.
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. Please let me know if you are able to assist me with this request. I am happy to provide any additional information.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Emphasizing Specific Skills Learned in Class
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] term. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program/Job], which has a deadline of [Date].
I believe the skills I developed in your class, specifically [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2], have been instrumental in preparing me for this next step. I particularly remember your lectures on [Specific Topic], which inspired me to [Action Taken].
I’ve attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Highlighting a Strong Project
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course in [Semester/Year]. I’m reaching out to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for [Opportunity].
I particularly enjoyed your guidance on the [Project Name] project, where I [Specific achievement/skill]. I believe my work on this project demonstrates my potential for success in [Area of study/work].
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, a description of the opportunity, and a summary of my work on the [Project Name] project. Please let me know if you’re able to write me a letter. I’m happy to provide any further information you may need.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Requesting a Recommendation after Graduation
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. I graduated in [Month/Year] and am now applying for [Program Name/Job Title].
I found your course to be incredibly valuable, particularly your lectures on [Specific Topic]. I believe my performance in your class, particularly [Specific Assignment or Project], reflects my readiness for this next step.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity. Would you be willing to provide a letter of recommendation?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Requesting a Letter of Recommendation in Person
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to follow up on our conversation from [Date of Conversation] regarding a letter of recommendation. As we discussed, I am applying to [Program Name/Job Title] and would be grateful if you would consider writing a letter on my behalf.
To reiterate, I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year], and I believe my contributions during [Specific Project or Discussion] demonstrate my skills in [Relevant Skill].
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume, personal statement, and a description of the opportunity. Please let me know if you require any further information.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Emphasizing Growth and Development
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program/Job], deadline [Date].
Your class was instrumental in helping me develop my [Specific Skill] abilities. I remember struggling with [Challenge], but with your guidance, I was able to [Achievement]. I believe this growth is a strong indicator of my potential.
I’ve attached my resume and a brief overview of the [Program/Job]. Please let me know if you’re willing to write a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Following Up on a Previous Conversation
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I’m writing to follow up on our conversation from [Date] regarding a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program/Job]. I’m applying because [Brief Reason].
As we discussed, I was a student in your [Course Name] class and greatly appreciated your feedback on my [Specific Project/Assignment]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
I’ve attached my resume and a more detailed description of the [Program/Job]. Please let me know if you’re able to write me a letter. I’m happy to provide any further information you may need.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Requesting a Recommendation for a Unique Opportunity
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for a [Type of Opportunity, e.g., research grant, fellowship, volunteer position] at [Organization Name].
This opportunity is unique because [Explain why it’s special and how it aligns with your goals]. I believe the knowledge and skills I gained in your class, particularly in [Specific Topic], will be crucial for success in this role.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a detailed description of the opportunity, and any specific requirements for the recommendation letter. Would you be willing to consider my request?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Requesting a Letter That Highlights Specific Qualities
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program Name/Job Title].
The application emphasizes the importance of [Specific Quality 1] and [Specific Quality 2]. I believe you witnessed these qualities firsthand during my participation in [Specific Class Activity/Project].
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, a description of the opportunity, and a list of the qualities they are seeking. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation that highlights these attributes.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 19: Requesting a Recommendation with Limited Interaction
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was in your [Large Lecture Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester. I understand you have many students, but I’m hoping you might recall my [Specific Action, e.g., consistent attendance, asking insightful questions, strong performance on exams].
I am applying for [Program/Job] and would greatly appreciate a letter of recommendation. I believe your perspective on my [Specific Skill/Quality, e.g., analytical skills, work ethic] would be valuable.
The deadline is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume, a personal statement, and relevant information about the [Program/Job]. Please let me know if you’re able to assist me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 20: Offering to Meet to Discuss the Recommendation
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Program/Job].
I learned so much from your lectures on [Specific Topic], and I believe the skills I developed in your class are directly relevant to this opportunity. I’d be happy to meet with you to discuss my goals and how my experiences in your class align with them.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume and a description of the [Program/Job]. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me and if you’d be available for a brief meeting.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 21: Expressing Gratitude for Past Guidance
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Program Name/Job Title].
I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and support you provided me during your course, particularly regarding [Specific topic or project]. I believe the insights I gained from your class have been crucial in shaping my career aspirations.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a brief description of the opportunity, and any relevant materials. Would you be willing to consider writing a letter of recommendation for me?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 22: Requesting a Recommendation for a Competitive Program
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Program Name] program, which is highly competitive.
I believe your insights into my academic abilities and potential would greatly strengthen my application. I particularly excelled in [Specific Assignment or Project] during your class, demonstrating my skills in [Specific Skill].
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and information about the program’s requirements. Would you be willing to provide a letter of recommendation that highlights my strengths and qualifications for this program?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 23: Requesting a Recommendation After a Challenging Class
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. Although I found the course challenging, I learned a great deal and improved my [Specific skill]. I am now applying for [Program/Job] and would appreciate it if you would write a letter of recommendation for me.
I particularly remember your feedback on [Specific Assignment], which helped me to [Specific outcome]. I believe your insights into my resilience and ability to learn from challenges would make you an ideal recommender.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I’ve attached my resume and a description of the [Program/Job]. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 24: Requesting for Gap Year Experience
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. I’m [Your Name], a former student from your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation as I seek to further my experiences through a gap year before applying to graduate programs.
During this gap year, I’m planning to [Specific Activity 1] and [Specific Activity 2]. Your course was particularly influential in shaping my interest in [Area of Interest], which I hope to explore further.
The deadline for the application is [Date]. I’ve attached my CV, a statement of purpose, and the details of the gap year program. Would you be available to write me a letter?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Key Takeaways for Requesting a Recommendation
Successfully requesting a letter of recommendation involves several key elements. Start early, providing at least a month’s notice. Personalize your request, reminding the professor of your contributions and why you value their perspective. Provide all necessary materials, like your resume, personal statement, and details about the opportunity. Be polite, professional, and express your gratitude. Following these guidelines will significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and supportive recommendation.