Asking a Teacher for a Recommendation Letter via Email: A Step-by-Step Guide
Source templatelab.com
Writing an email to ask a teacher if they will be able to write a letter of recommendation can be a nerve-wracking experience. You’ve had this teacher for at least half of the school year, but perhaps you don’t know them that well outside of class. Following a few simple steps, you can make sure your email is not only appropriately professional but will also be persuasive so the teacher will happily write a letter of support for you.
How to Ask a Teacher for a Recommendation Letter
To ensure you receive an effective recommendation letter, follow these guidelines when reaching out to a teacher:
Timing
- Contact the teacher well in advance of the deadline. This gives them ample time to prepare a thoughtful letter.
Subject Line
- Craft a clear and concise subject line, such as "Recommendation Letter Request for [Your Name]".
Opening Paragraph
- Salutation: Start with a formal greeting, such as "Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name]" or "Dear Dr. Smith".
- Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and remind the teacher of your time as their student.
- State your request: Clearly state that you are requesting a recommendation letter for a specific purpose (e.g., graduate school, scholarship).
Specific Details
- Course/s taken: Specify the course/s you took with the teacher, including their titles and dates.
- Qualities: Highlight your relevant skills, achievements, and personal qualities that you want emphasized in the letter.
- Accomplishments: Quantify your accomplishments where possible (e.g., "Received an A+ in your class" or "Led a group project that earned an exceptional grade").
Supporting Materials
- Resume or CV: Attach your resume or CV so the teacher can refresh their memory about your qualifications.
- Draft statement of purpose: If applicable, include a draft of your statement of purpose or personal statement to provide the teacher with context.
Deadline and Instructions
- Deadline: Clearly state the deadline for submitting the letter.
- Submission method: Specify how the teacher should submit the letter (e.g., email, physical mail).
Polite Request
- Express gratitude: Thank the teacher for their time and consideration.
- Follow-up: Mention that you will follow up if you have any additional questions.
Closing Paragraph
- Reiteration: Briefly reiterate your request and the purpose of the letter.
- Closing: End with a formal closing, such as "Best regards" or "Sincerely".
Email Format
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Salutation | Dear Professor Smith, |
| I hope this email finds you well. | |
| My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Academic Year]. | |
| I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [School/Program]. | |
| I believe that you would be able to provide a strong recommendation, highlighting my academic ability, work ethic, and communication skills. | |
| I have attached my resume for your reference, and I would be happy to provide you with a draft of my personal statement if that would be helpful. | |
| The deadline for the letter is [Date]. I would be grateful if you could submit it by email to [Email Address]. | |
| Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. | |
| Best regards, | |
| [Your Name] |
7 Sample Teacher Recommendation Letter Email Requests for Different Reasons
Request for Recommendation Letter for College Application
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my college application to [College Name]. I have been a student in your [Course Name] class for [Number] years and have consistently achieved high grades.
I am applying to [Major] and believe that your insights into my academic abilities, work ethic, and character would be valuable to the admissions committee. I am confident that you can provide a compelling letter that will highlight my strengths and make me a strong candidate for their program.
Request for Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I enjoyed your [Course Name] class and believe that your feedback on my work and potential would be invaluable to the admissions committee.
In your letter, I would appreciate if you could comment on my academic abilities, research skills, and suitability for the program. I have attached my resume and personal statement for your reference.
Request for Recommendation Letter for Job Application
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my job application to [Company Name]. I worked as your [Position] in your [Course Name] class and believe that your insights into my skills and work ethic would be highly valued by the hiring manager.
In your letter, I would be grateful if you could highlight my abilities in [Specific Skills], my dedication to my work, and my potential to excel in a professional setting.
Request for Recommendation Letter for Professional Development Program
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [Organization Name]. I have recently expressed interest in pursuing a career in [Field] and believe that your feedback on my qualifications would be beneficial.
In your letter, I would appreciate if you could comment on my academic background, relevant experiences, and potential to succeed in the program. I have enclosed my resume and a brief cover letter for your perusal.
Request for Recommendation Letter for Award or Scholarship
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Scholarship/Award Name]. I have been a student in your [Course Name] class and have consistently demonstrated strong academic performance and a commitment to [Area of Interest].
In your letter, I would be grateful if you could highlight my academic achievements, involvement in extracurricular activities, and potential for future success.
Request for Recommendation Letter for Personal Statement
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for my personal statement. I am applying to college and am required to submit a personal statement that reflects my interests, goals, and experiences.
I have been a student in your class for [Number] years and have always been impressed by your dedication to teaching and your passion for [Subject]. I believe that you would be able to provide valuable insights into my character, abilities, and potential.
Request for Recommendation Letter for General Purposes
Dear Professor [Teacher’s Name],
I hope you are having a wonderful day. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for general purposes. I am applying for various opportunities, including [List of Opportunities].
In your letter, I would appreciate if you could highlight my academic abilities, work ethic, and character. I believe that your recommendation will be a valuable asset in my applications.
How to Ask a Teacher for a Recommendation Letter via Email?
How should you address a teacher in an email request for a recommendation letter?
Assistant
Begin with a formal salutation.
- Use the teacher’s title (e.g., "Dr.," "Professor") and last name.
- Example: "Dear Professor Smith,"
How should you introduce the purpose of your email?
Assistant
Clearly state that you are requesting a letter of recommendation.
- Use a direct sentence to express your request.
- Example: "I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [program or company]."
How should you remind the teacher of your relationship and qualifications?
Assistant
Briefly mention your time in their class and relevant skills.
- Summarize your performance and any standout qualities.
- Example: "I was a student in your [course name] class during [semester]. I consistently earned high grades and actively participated in class discussions."
Thanks for reading, folks! I hope this article gave you some helpful tips on crafting that email. Remember, the most important thing is to be polite, respectful, and clear in your request. Don’t forget to visit us again for more helpful advice and resources.