Understanding Letters of Recommendation

The application requirements for most colleges in the US include a letter of recommendation from the student's high school guidance counselor and often one or two of their classroom teachers. These letters provide colleges with insight into who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Typically, there are two main types of recommendations you'll need:

Types of Recommendation Letters

Teacher Recommendations

Colleges often ask for letters from teachers who have taught you in core subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, or a world language, preferably during your junior or senior year. The teacher you ask should be someone who knows your academic strengths well and can speak about your potential for success in college courses.

Counselor Recommendations

A letter from your school counselor gives colleges a sense of your role within the school community. Many counselors are busy and may not know every student personally, and colleges understand this. However, some colleges require letters of recommendation from the counselor as they value the counselor's perspective on your academic journey and personal character.

Tips for Requesting Recommendation Letters

Teachers are busy professionals, and writing a recommendation is a favor they're doing for you. Here's how you can make their job easier:

Know the Requirements

High schools, colleges, and individual teachers may have specific guidelines for recommendations. Before asking for a letter, make sure you're clear on the requirements and deadlines for both your school and each college.

Choose the Right Teachers

Pick teachers who can write a personal and thoughtful recommendation. A teacher who knows you well and can speak to your work ethic and character will provide a strong letter.

Ask Early

Request recommendations well in advance—ideally, at the beginning of your senior year or even before the end of junior year. Waiting until fall can be risky, as teachers and counselors will be overwhelmed with requests by then, and they may not have enough time to write a letter for you.

Give Plenty of Notice

Provide your recommenders with at least a month's notice before the application deadline. Writing a great recommendation letter takes time, and the earlier you ask, the better.

Ask Politely

Never demand a letter. Instead, politely ask, "Would you be willing to write a positive letter of recommendation for me?" If someone declines, don't take it personally. Thank them and move on to another teacher.

Provide Supporting Information

Many schools ask students to complete a questionnaire or "brag sheet" to help recommenders write a more detailed letter. Be thorough and turn it in early, giving your writers plenty of time to review your achievements.

Show Gratitude

Lastly, once your letters are complete, take the time to thank your recommenders. Also, keep them updated on your college admissions results. They'll appreciate hearing about the outcome of your applications!

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Garrett Educational Consulting provides comprehensive counseling for college and boarding school admissions as well as academic advisement. Click HERE to learn about our services.

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