Are you a student or recent graduate in need of a letter of recommendation for graduate school, a job application, or a scholarship? If so, you may be wondering how to ask your professor to write one for you. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of asking a professor for a letter of recommendation and provide you with a template to use as a starting point. Whether you’re shy or unsure of what to say, our sample letter will give you an idea of what to include and how to format it. You can edit it as needed and use it as a jumping-off point for your own personalized letter of recommendation. So, let’s get started!
Best Structure for Asking a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation
Asking for a letter of recommendation can be a stressful process, but with the right structure, it can be made easier for both you and your professor. Below are some tips for how to structure your request for a letter of recommendation in a clear and concise manner.
1. Start with a polite greeting
It’s important to begin your request by showing your professor respect and acknowledging their time and effort. Address them by name and use the appropriate title (Dr., Professor, etc.). It’s also a good idea to thank them in advance for taking the time to write the letter of recommendation.
2. Explain why you are asking for a letter of recommendation
Be clear about the purpose of the letter, whether it’s for an academic program, scholarship, or job application. Provide details about why you are interested in this opportunity and why you believe you would be a good fit. It could also be helpful to share any relevant academic or professional experience you have that specifically relates to the opportunity.
3. Provide context for your relationship with the professor
If the professor has taught you in class, remind them of the courses you have taken with them and your performance in those classes. If you have worked with them in a research capacity, remind them of the specific project and your contributions. Providing context will help jog their memory and allow them to write a more personalized letter of recommendation.
4. Make it easy for the professor to say yes
Provide clear guidelines for what the letter needs to include, such as the name and contact information of the person or institution it’s being sent to, and any specific requirements or prompts they need to address. Offer to provide additional materials that may be useful, such as a resume or transcript, and let them know any deadlines for submitting the letter. Lastly, be sure to express gratitude for their time and effort.
By following this structure, you can ensure that your request for a letter of recommendation will be clear, concise, and effective. Remember, professors are busy people, so making their job as easy as possible will increase your chances of obtaining a strong letter of recommendation.
Letter of Recommendation Samples
Graduate School Application
Dear Professor Smith,
I am currently applying to graduate school programs and I was hoping that you might be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. As one of my professors during my undergraduate studies, I feel that you would be able to speak to my academic abilities and potential as a graduate student.
I am specifically applying to programs in economics and I believe that your knowledge in this field would make your letter particularly valuable. If you agree to write a letter for me, I would be happy to provide you with any additional materials or information that you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
John Doe
Job Application
Dear Professor Johnson,
I am applying for a position at a prestigious company and I would be honored if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. As you may remember, I took your advanced calculus course, and your influence has had a significant impact on my understanding of this subject.
I believe that your letter would be particularly valuable to my application because of the skills and knowledge that I gained from you in calculus, which are directly applicable to the role for which I am applying. If you are able to write a letter for me, I would be happy to provide you with my resume and any other materials that you may need. Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Scholarship Application
Dear Professor Williams,
I am writing to request that you consider writing a letter of recommendation for me as I apply for several scholarship opportunities. Your letter would be an important factor in my application, particularly because you have been an excellent mentor to me throughout my undergraduate studies, and I hope to pursue further research in the environmental sciences.
Your mentorship for my undergraduate research project has truly been invaluable for me, and I believe it is an asset that I can bring to graduate studies. If you agree to this recommendation, I would be happy to provide you with additional information on the scholarships I am applying for. I appreciate your consideration and support.
Thank you in advance,
Kristen Perez
Leadership Program Application
Dear Professor Lee,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for the upcoming graduate leadership program at XYZ University that I am applying to. As a graduate of this program yourself, I believe that you understand what it takes to succeed in it and could provide a comprehensive recommendation for my strengths and potential in the program.
I understand that you have a demanding schedule, so I would be happy to discuss more about the program and my interests during office hours or by email. Please let me know if you are able to write me a recommendation letter and I will provide the necessary information to you. Thank you for considering my request.
Best regards,
David Kim
Internship Application
Dear Professor Wang,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would be able to write a letter of recommendation for my upcoming summer internship that would help in my pursuit of a career in analytical chemistry. Your knowledge and experience in this field make you a perfect candidate to provide me with a recommendation that will make my application more appealing to potential employers.
It would be much appreciated if you could describe some details about our collaboration on data analysis during my undergraduate research project that would highlight my skills and potential as an analytical chemist. Please let me know if you are able to write me a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your time.
Best wishes,
Tom Lee
Study Abroad Application
Dear Professor Chen,
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for my study abroad program application. I have greatly enjoyed being a student in your political science classes, and your expertise in this field would be an invaluable addition to my application.
The study abroad program I am applying for would be an enriching experience for me to learn more about the comparative political systems of different countries and would broaden my perspectives on global issues. If you could describe why my academic achievement and soft skills make me an ideal candidate for this program, I would be very grateful. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Emi Nakamura
Graduate Teaching Assistantship Application
Dear Professor Brown,
I am reaching out to you today to request a letter of recommendation for my graduate teaching assistantship application. As a former professor and mentor of mine, I believe that your letter would speak to my qualifications and strengths as an educator garnered during my undergraduate studies with you.
Your support would be pivotal to my application, and I would be more than happy to provide you with additional details regarding the position and my qualifications upon request. Thank you in advance for your time and support.
Best regards,
Abby Green
Tips for Asking a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation Template
Asking a professor for a letter of recommendation can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips on how to approach your professor and request a letter of recommendation template:
- Ask in person: It’s always best to ask for a template in person, especially if you have an established relationship with the professor. This will allow you to gauge their reaction and discuss any specific requirements they may have for the letter.
- Be polite and professional: Remember, you are asking the professor to take time out of their busy schedule to help you. Be polite and professional in your approach and make sure to thank them for their time and consideration.
- Gather your materials: Before you approach your professor, gather all the necessary materials you will need for the application process. This may include your resume, transcripts, and any other supporting documents.
- Give plenty of notice: Professors are often busy and may need several weeks to write a letter of recommendation. Be sure to give them plenty of notice and follow up if you haven’t received the template by a certain date.
- Provide specific information: When requesting the template, be sure to provide specific information about the program or position you are applying for. This will help the professor tailor the letter to your needs and make it more effective.
- Thank your professor: Once you have received the letter of recommendation template, make sure to thank your professor for their time and effort. You never know when you may need their help again in the future.
Following these tips can help you navigate the process of asking a professor for a letter of recommendation template with confidence and ease. Remember, the key is to be polite, professional, and prepared.
Asking for a Letter of Recommendation Template
What should I include in my email to the professor asking for a letter of recommendation?
Make sure to introduce yourself and explain why you are asking the professor for a letter of recommendation. Include your current academic or professional position and provide any relevant details about the program or job you are applying to.
How should I address the professor in my email?
You should address the professor formally, using their appropriate title (i.e. Dr. Smith, Professor Johnson, etc.).
What if the professor hasn’t responded to my initial email asking for a letter of recommendation template?
If you haven’t heard back from the professor after a week, you can send a polite follow-up email. If you still don’t receive a response, it may be necessary to approach someone else for a letter of recommendation.
How far in advance should I ask for a letter of recommendation template?
It’s important to give the professor plenty of time to write the letter, so you should ask at least 3-4 weeks in advance of the deadline for submitting the letter.
Can I ask for a letter of recommendation template in person?
If you have a good relationship with the professor and they are accessible to you, it may be appropriate to ask in person. However, always follow up with an email to confirm the request and provide any necessary details.
What should I do if the professor declines my request for a letter of recommendation?
Understand that professors are busy and may not have the time or resources to write a letter for every student who asks. If they decline your request, thank them politely and consider approaching someone else for a letter of recommendation.
How should I thank the professor for writing a letter of recommendation?
After the letter has been submitted, it’s appropriate to send a thank-you email or note expressing your appreciation for their time and effort. You might also offer to keep them updated on your progress or let them know how the application process turns out.
Good Luck with your LOR!
I hope these tips and templates help you in your letter of recommendation journey. Remember to always approach your professors with respect and appreciation for their time. With these tools, you’ll be well on your way to receiving an amazing LOR. Thank you for reading and be sure to check back for more helpful articles in the future!