So, you're looking to get into a great college, land an awesome internship, or even apply for a scholarship? That's fantastic! A big part of making your application stand out is having a strong recommendation letter from a professor. But how do you actually ask for one without feeling awkward? This guide will break down exactly How To Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample so you can get the best letter possible.
Timing is Everything: When to Ask
Asking a professor for a recommendation letter might seem straightforward, but there's a right way and a wrong way to go about it. The most important thing to remember is to give your professor plenty of notice. Think of it like planning a party – you wouldn't ask people to show up tomorrow, right? Professors are busy people with lots of classes, grading, and research. Giving them at least 3-4 weeks' notice is crucial for them to write a thoughtful and detailed letter.
When you do ask, consider the best way to approach them. While an email is usually the most convenient, a brief in-person chat during their office hours can also be a good idea, especially if you know them well. This allows you to gauge their reaction and confirm they feel comfortable writing a strong recommendation. If you can't meet in person, a well-crafted email is perfectly acceptable.
Here’s a quick checklist for when you plan your ask:
- Check the deadline for your application.
- Work backward at least 3-4 weeks for your request.
- Consider their workload: Avoid asking right before major exam weeks or holidays.
What to Include When You Ask
Once you've decided on the timing, the next step is to prepare all the information your professor will need. Think of yourself as a helpful assistant to your recommender. The easier you make it for them, the better the letter will be. You want to give them everything they need to write a compelling letter about you, highlighting your strengths and achievements.
Here’s what you should absolutely include:
- The purpose of the letter: Clearly state what you are applying for (e.g., college, internship, scholarship).
- The deadline: Reiterate the exact date the letter is due.
- Where to send it: Provide clear instructions on how and where the letter should be submitted.
- Your resume or CV: This gives them an overview of your accomplishments.
- Your personal statement or essay (if applicable): This helps them understand your goals and voice.
- A reminder of your work: Briefly mention specific projects, papers, or your performance in their class that you’d like them to highlight.
- Any specific forms: If there's a special form the recommender needs to fill out, include it.
It's also a good idea to include a "cheat sheet" or a summary of your experiences and why you think you're a good fit for what you're applying for. This can be as simple as a short paragraph or a table:
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Performance in [Class Name] | Earned an A, contributed actively in discussions, excelled on the research paper about [Topic]. |
| Extracurricular Activities | Member of the debate club, volunteered at the local shelter. |
| Relevant Skills | Strong research abilities, excellent written communication, team player. |
Follow Up Politely
It’s perfectly normal to wonder if your recommendation letter has been sent. After a reasonable amount of time has passed since the deadline (say, a week or two), a polite follow-up email is appropriate. This shows you are organized and considerate of their time.
Here's how you can do it:
- Be brief and professional.
- Remind them of the letter and the deadline.
- Offer to provide any further information.
- Thank them again for their time and effort.
Remember, your professor is doing you a favor, so politeness and appreciation go a long way.
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: College Application
Subject: Recommendation Letter Request - [Your Name] - [College Name]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation from you in support of my application to [College Name] for the [Major/Program] program. The application deadline is [Date], and the recommendation letter needs to be submitted by [Submission Date].
I truly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly appreciated [mention something specific you liked, e.g., your engaging lectures on historical events, the challenging research project on renewable energy]. My work in your class, especially my paper on [Paper Topic], allowed me to develop my [mention a skill, e.g., analytical skills, writing abilities] which I believe will be invaluable in my college studies.
To assist you, I have attached my resume, my personal essay for the college application, and a brief summary of my achievements in your class. I will also be submitting the application through the online portal at [Link to Portal], and you should receive an email from them with instructions. Please let me know if you require any additional information or materials from my end.
Thank you so much for considering my request. I deeply value your guidance and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: Internship Application
Subject: Recommendation Letter Request - [Your Name] - [Internship Company]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope you're having a good week.
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me as I apply for an internship at [Internship Company]. They are looking for interns in [Department/Area], and the application deadline is [Date]. The recommendation letter should be submitted by [Submission Date].
I learned so much in your [Course Name] class, especially about [mention a relevant topic]. I feel that the skills I developed in your course, such as [mention a skill like problem-solving or critical thinking], are directly applicable to the type of work [Internship Company] does.
I've attached my resume and the internship description for your reference. The company will send you an email with instructions on how to submit the letter. Please let me know if there's anything else I can provide to help you write this letter.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: Scholarship Application
Subject: Scholarship Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. This scholarship focuses on [mention scholarship's focus, e.g., academic merit, community service], and the deadline for submissions is [Date]. The recommendation needs to be submitted by [Submission Date].
Your [Course Name] class was particularly influential for me, as it helped me to [mention a learning outcome related to the scholarship's focus]. I believe my performance in your class and my engagement in [mention relevant activities] demonstrate my commitment to [scholarship's focus].
Attached are my scholarship essay, resume, and the scholarship application details, including submission instructions. Please let me know if you need any further information.
Thank you immensely for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: Graduate School Application
Subject: Graduate School Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [University Name]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health.
I am applying to graduate programs in [Field of Study] at [University Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. The application deadline is [Date], and the letters of recommendation are due by [Submission Date].
I deeply valued my experience in your [Course Name] course, especially your insights into [specific topic]. Your guidance on my research paper about [Paper Topic] significantly shaped my understanding and solidified my interest in pursuing graduate studies in this area. I believe my academic performance and my demonstrated passion for research in your class would make me a strong candidate for your recommendation.
For your convenience, I have attached my CV, my statement of purpose, and the program descriptions. The submission process for your letter will be through the university's online application portal; you should receive an automated email with instructions. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you require any additional materials or have questions.
Thank you for your time, mentorship, and consideration.
With sincere gratitude,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: Program Transfer
Subject: Recommendation Request for Program Transfer - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation as I plan to transfer from [Current Program] to [New Program] at [Institution Name]. The deadline for the transfer application is [Date], and recommendation letters are due by [Submission Date].
Your [Course Name] class provided me with a strong foundation in [relevant subject area]. I particularly appreciated [mention a specific aspect of the class or your learning]. I believe my performance in your course demonstrates my preparedness and enthusiasm for the [New Program] curriculum.
I have attached my updated resume and a brief description of the program I am applying to. The institution will send you an email with instructions for submitting the letter. Please let me know if you need anything else from my side.
Thank you for your support and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Ask A Professor For A Recommendation Letter Sample: Leadership Opportunity
Subject: Recommendation Request - Leadership Role - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope you're having a productive week.
I am applying for the [Leadership Position, e.g., Student Government President] position at [Organization Name], and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. The application deadline is [Date], and the recommendation is due by [Submission Date].
In your [Course Name] class, I believe I demonstrated [mention leadership qualities like initiative, collaboration, or problem-solving skills] through my participation in [mention a specific group project or activity]. I always valued your feedback on [mention feedback received]. I believe the skills I honed in your class, especially [mention a relevant skill], will be instrumental in succeeding in this leadership role.
I have attached my resume and a description of the leadership position. The submission instructions will be sent to you via email by [Organization Name]. Please let me know if there's anything further you need from me.
Thank you for your time and support.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
Asking for a recommendation letter is a really important step in many applications. By being prepared, polite, and giving your professor enough time and information, you'll greatly increase your chances of getting a fantastic letter that truly reflects your abilities and potential. Good luck with your applications!