How to Ask for a Graduate School Recommendation Letter Email
Source prepory.com
Sending email requests for recommendation letters is an essential step in applying to graduate school. A well-crafted email can help you receive strong letters of support from your recommenders. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to write an email requesting a recommendation letter for graduate school, including tips on:
Crafting the Perfect Request Email for a Graduate School Recommendation Letter
Getting a strong recommendation letter is crucial for your graduate school application. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you request one via email:
Subject Line:
* Keep it brief and clear: “Request for Graduate School Recommendation Letter”
Introduction:
* Start with a formal greeting: “Dear [Recommender’s Name],”
* Briefly introduce yourself and your relationship to the recommender.
* State your intention to apply to graduate school and the specific program you’re interested in.
Body:
* Relevance and Qualifications: Explain why you’re requesting their letter and highlight how your academic or professional experiences align with their expertise.
* Specific Examples: Provide concrete examples of your skills, knowledge, or contributions that the recommender can attest to.
* Deadline and Format: Clearly state the application deadline and any specific format requirements.
* Preferred Medium: Indicate whether you prefer the letter to be emailed or sent by mail.
* Thank You: Express your gratitude for their time and consideration.
Closing:
* Restate your request and highlight your appreciation.
* Use a polite closing: “Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
* Include your contact information for future follow-ups.
Optional Sections:
* Reminder: If your recommender is particularly busy, you can include a gentle reminder of the deadline closer to the submission date.
* CV or Transcript: Offer to provide your CV or transcript for their reference, if appropriate.
Email Structure:
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Subject Line | Brief and clear |
| Introduction | Formal greeting, self-introduction, and purpose |
| Body | Relevance, specific examples, deadline, format, preferred medium |
| Closing | Restatement of request, gratitude, contact information |
| Optional Sections | Reminder, CV/transcript |
How to Ask for a Graduate School Recommendation Letter
For Academic Programs
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
As a former student in your [Course Name] class, I was consistently impressed by your knowledge, passion, and ability to inspire your students.
During my time in your class, I demonstrated my academic abilities, critical thinking skills, and research capabilities. I am confident that I would be a valuable addition to your graduate program and would greatly appreciate your support in my application.
For Professional Programs
Dear Mr./Ms. [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you are having a successful day. I am writing to ask for a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
As my manager at [Company Name], you have had the opportunity to observe my work ethic, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills.
In particular, I am seeking your endorsement based on my contributions to [Project or Initiative]. This experience has honed my [Specific Skills or Competencies], which are essential for success in the program I am applying to.
For Research Opportunities
Dear Dr. [Recommender’s Name],
Greetings from [Your Name]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the Research Fellowship Program at [Research Institution].
As my research advisor at [University Name], you have guided me through my undergraduate research project on [Project Title]. Your mentorship has been invaluable in developing my scientific thinking, experimental design, and data analysis abilities.
I am particularly interested in [Research Focus] and believe that my skills and experience align well with this research area.
For Personal Reasons
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this message finds you in good spirits. I am writing to ask for a personal letter of recommendation for my application to [Graduate Program or Position].
Although we have not worked together professionally or academically, you have known me well for [Number] years and can attest to my character, work ethic, and interpersonal skills.
- You could mention specific qualities or experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the program or position.
- You could also explain why you value their perspective and how it can strengthen your application.
I would be grateful if you could write a letter that highlights my strengths and potential for success in this new endeavor.
For Scholarships
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Scholarship Name] at [University Name].
As my advisor at [Organization Name], you have witnessed my academic achievements, research progress, and leadership involvement.
I am particularly seeking your endorsement based on my contributions to [Project or Initiative]. This experience has demonstrated my [Specific Skills or Competencies], which are aligned with the scholarship’s criteria.
For International Students
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an international student from [Country]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
I understand the importance of letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your academic abilities and personal qualities. As my former professor at [University Name], you have had the opportunity to observe my work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and determination.
In particular, I am seeking your endorsement based on my performance in your [Course Name] class. This experience has honed my [Specific Skills or Competencies], which are essential for success in the graduate program I am applying to.
For Career Change
Dear Mr./Ms. [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
Although you have not known me in an academic capacity, you have been my supervisor at [Company Name] for [Number] years. During this time, you have had the opportunity to observe my problem-solving skills, analytical abilities, and communication skills.
I am seeking a career change to the [New Field] industry, and I believe that my experience and skills would be valuable in this field. I am particularly interested in [Specific Area of Interest].
I would be grateful if you could write a letter that highlights my strengths and potential for success in this new endeavor.
How to Ask for a Graduate School Recommendation Letter Email
Question: How should I approach a professor or employer to ask for a recommendation letter for graduate school?
Answer:
1. Start with a formal salutation.
- "Dear [Professor/Employer’s Name],"
2. State your purpose clearly.
- "I am writing to request a recommendation letter for my application to [Graduate Program Name] at [University Name]."
3. Briefly explain your qualifications and why you are applying to the program.
- "I am a recent graduate of [Your University] with a GPA of [Your GPA]. I have been accepted to the [Graduate Program Name] and believe my skills and experience make me a strong candidate."
4. Explain why you are asking the person specifically.
- "I am asking you for a recommendation because you have been my professor/supervisor for [Course Name/Project Name] and are familiar with my academic/professional abilities."
5. Provide specific details about the recommendation.
- "I am requesting a letter that addresses my [Academic/Professional Attributes]. If possible, I would appreciate it if you could highlight my [Specific Strengths]."
6. State the deadline for the recommendation.
- "The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]."
7. Express your appreciation.
- "Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. I appreciate your support."
8. End with a professional closing.
- "Sincerely,"
- "[Your Name]"
And that’s it! I hope this guide has helped you craft an email that will get you the recommendation letter you need. Remember to be polite, professional, and specific. And don’t forget to give your professor plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter. Thanks for reading! Come back again soon for more graduate school application tips.