How to Ask for a College Recommendation Letter: 5 Tips for Success

Here are five essential tips that will increase your chances of getting a stellar letter that provides insight into your character, work ethic, interests, academic successes and future potential.

1. Start Early—Earlier Than You Think

Since colleges have different policies about recommendation letters, including whether you need them, how many you need and who can write them, it’s best to research what your aspirational colleges require.

Then, once you have the details, don’t wait until the last minute to make your official requests. People lead busy lives, particularly teachers who are likely to have many students asking them for recommendation letters at the same time. The more time you can give them, the more likely you’ll have a meaningful letter that highlights your qualities and strengths.

Ideally, you begin to request recommendations at the end of your junior year if you are applying as an undergraduate. At the latest, reach out during the first few weeks of your senior year—at least a month before the earliest application due date. During this time, your school counselor is a great ally. Not only are they likely on your list as a potential letter writer, but they also may know about internal deadlines that your high school has for letters of recommendation.

2. Be Thoughtful About Who You Ask

It’s not just about the grades. Sure, getting a letter from the teacher whose class you aced isn’t a bad idea. But a teacher who can speak to your personal growth, leadership skills, curiosity or efforts to tackle an academically challenging situation—in addition to grades—provides a fuller picture.

SHU undergraduate admissions counselor Emma Byrne said the best college recommendation letters provide insight that goes beyond a student’s transcript, particularly in situations where circumstances might have impacted the high school experience. “The letters help to paint a bigger picture of the student and who they are.”

“My advice is to find somebody who knows you well, such as a teacher with whom you’ve built up a relationship, and ask them to write a recommendation,” said Trevor O’Brien, an undergraduate admissions counselor at Sacred Heart.

Teachers are a natural choice, and some colleges only want letters of recommendation from teachers. But if application requirements don’t limit you to only asking teachers, think about coaches, mentors and bosses who can offer a unique perspective on your achievements, growth and abilities to manage challenging situations. This wider view can be key for graduate school applicants who might be reaching out to professional colleagues to speak about their education and work experience.

3. Remember: It’s Not a Quick Ask

Whenever possible, seek your recommendation in person. Take the time to explain why you asked them, what you hope to achieve and how their letter will play a key role in your application process. The ask can be simple: just let them know you are applying to colleges and that their perspective on your work and growth would be greatly appreciated.

Not only does this show respect, but it also allows you to ask them for advice about what aspects of your personality or achievements might be more powerful to highlight than others. In turn, the recommender has a chance to ask questions and clarify details.

If they say no, be gracious. Thank them sincerely and move on to someone who is a better fit. It’s important to stay polite, respectful and understanding.

4. Make It Easy—Share Clear Instructions and Deadlines

First off, pitch in on the promotion. Don’t leave your recommender guessing about what to say. Make sure you have a simple resume or brag sheet that provides context and inspiration. On it, list your academic interests and goals; key academic, extracurricular and personal achievements; participation in clubs (particularly leadership roles); and future study aspirations, as well as specific qualities, experiences or projects you’d love for them to highlight. This can help your recommender better introduce you to the admissions team in their words and through their personal observations. It’s also a reminder as to why starting early is the best advice. The person you ask may need additional information to complete the task.

For ease and convenience, send the letter writer a follow-up email that includes a short thank you note, a link to your resume, a list of colleges and deadlines, requirements for each school’s recommendation letter and clear instructions on how and where the letter should be submitted.

5. Stay Connected, Say Thank You (Again!) and Follow Up

Two to three weeks before your earliest deadline, follow up with a gentle reminder—if the letter hasn’t already been submitted. It can be a simple note, something that reminds the letter writer that a deadline is coming up, you are there to help and you appreciate their support.

Once the letters are submitted, thank your letter writers again—preferably with a handwritten note or in person. Even after the application process, stay in touch and update them on your college decisions.

Why Are College Recommendation Letters Important?

If you are wondering if college recommendations letters are worth the effort, they are! When it comes to college applications, recommendation letters are a powerful tool, offering a window into who you are beyond grades. And they can play a crucial role in setting you apart from other applicants.

But getting strong and effective letters doesn’t just happen. By choosing the right people, giving them time and making the process as easy as possible for them, you increase the chances of getting a winning letter that enhances your application.

Explore your options when it comes to applying to Sacred Heart University! Learn more about SHU’s academic offerings by checking out all the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs that are available.

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