Applying to graduate school is a big deal, and a crucial part of your application is getting letters of recommendation. These letters come from professors, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can vouch for your abilities. Knowing how to write a polite and effective email is key. This guide will walk you through crafting a Sample Email Request For Letter Of Recommendation For Graduate School, ensuring you make a strong impression and increase your chances of acceptance.
Why Your Request Matters
When requesting a letter of recommendation, the way you ask is just as important as the recommendation itself. A well-written email shows respect and consideration for the recommender’s time and effort. It also gives them the information they need to write a compelling letter. Think of it like this: You’re not just asking for a favor; you’re providing all the tools they need to help you succeed. A poorly written email might lead to a weaker letter or even a decline, so taking the time to craft a good one is crucial. This is an important step because letters of recommendation are a critical piece of your application!
Here’s a quick breakdown of why your email is so important:
- Professionalism: It reflects your maturity and attention to detail.
- Clarity: It provides the recommender with all the necessary information.
- Respect: It acknowledges the time and effort required to write a good letter.
To help you create a strong request, consider these steps:
- Identify potential recommenders.
- Gather all the materials you need to provide.
- Write a draft of your email and proofread it carefully.
- Send the email and follow up politely.
Email Example: Initial Request to a Professor
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - Graduate School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I am writing to you today because I am applying to graduate programs in [Your Field of Study] for the [Year] academic year. I greatly enjoyed your class and learned a lot from your lectures and insights.
I am reaching out to you because I believe you are well-placed to speak to my abilities, and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf.
If you are able to write a letter for me, I would be happy to provide you with my resume, transcripts, a personal statement draft, and information about the programs I am applying to, including deadlines. I am applying to the following schools:
- [Graduate School Name 1], Deadline: [Date]
- [Graduate School Name 2], Deadline: [Date]
- [Graduate School Name 3], Deadline: [Date]
Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date - Give them a reasonable timeframe]. If you need any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I greatly appreciate your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (optional)]
Email Example: Providing Application Materials
Subject: Letter of Recommendation - [Your Name] - Application Materials
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
Thank you so much for agreeing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I really appreciate your support!
As requested, I have attached the following materials to help you write the letter:
- My resume
- My transcripts
- A draft of my personal statement
- A list of the programs I am applying to, including deadlines and links to the application portals:
- [Graduate School Name 1], Deadline: [Date], [Link to Application]
- [Graduate School Name 2], Deadline: [Date], [Link to Application]
- [Graduate School Name 3], Deadline: [Date], [Link to Application]
Please let me know if you have any questions or need any further information. I am happy to provide anything else you need.
Thank you again for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Following Up on a Letter of Recommendation
Subject: Following Up: Letter of Recommendation for [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to follow up on the letter of recommendation for my graduate school applications. The deadline for [School Name] is approaching on [Date].
Please let me know if you have already submitted it or if you anticipate any delays. I want to make sure that everything is submitted on time.
Thank you again for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Thank You Note After Submission
Subject: Thank You - Letter of Recommendation for [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I truly appreciate your support and willingness to help me with my graduate school applications. Your insights and assessment of my capabilities are invaluable.
I will be sure to keep you updated on the outcome of my applications. Thank you again for your time, support, and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Asking for a Letter from a Previous Employer
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - Graduate School Application
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to you today because I am applying to graduate programs in [Your Field of Study] for the [Year] academic year. I am looking to further my studies in [briefly mention specific area of interest] and believe that my experience working at [Company Name] has greatly prepared me for this next step in my career.
I am reaching out to you because I believe you are well-placed to speak to my abilities, and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. During my time at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date], I worked as a [Your Job Title]. I am confident that your recommendation would be of great value.
I have attached my resume and a list of programs I am applying to, with deadlines. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me by [Date - Give them a reasonable timeframe].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (optional)]
Email Example: Requesting a Letter for a Specific Program
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Program Name] Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to you today because I am applying to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The program aligns perfectly with my academic and professional goals in [Your Field of Study], and I believe it would be a great opportunity for me.
I am applying to this specific program and would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I believe your insights and knowledge of my abilities would greatly enhance my application.
I have attached my resume, transcripts, and a list of deadlines and program information. The application deadline for [Program Name] is [Date].
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you need anything else.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Applying to graduate school is a challenging but exciting journey. By using the right approach and providing detailed information, you’ll make the process of asking for recommendations easier for your recommenders. Remember to be polite, professional, and show your appreciation. Following these tips will help you submit strong application and get closer to your graduate school dreams!