Requesting Letters of Recommendation From Faculty

Whether you’re applying to graduate school, pursuing a fellowship, or seeking a new career opportunity, a strong letter of recommendation can make a meaningful difference. This resource is designed to help undergraduate students, graduate students, and alumni approach professors with confidence and professionalism.

You’ll find email templates, best practices, common mistakes to avoid, and guidance on how to maintain respectful communication throughout the process.

Choose the Right Recommender

  • Ask someone who knows your work and can speak positively about your skills, character, and growth.

Ask Early

  • Give at least 3–4 weeks’ notice before the deadline.

Make a Clear, Respectful Request

  • Use a professional email.
  • State the purpose, deadline, and why you’re asking them.
  • Offer to provide materials like your resume, transcript, or personal statement.

Provide Supporting Materials

  • Include a resume/CV, transcript, and a summary of your goals.
  • Remind them of your work in their class or project.

Follow Up and Say Thank You

  • Send a polite reminder if needed.
  • Always thank them after the letter is submitted.
  • Update them on your outcome!

Asking Last-Minute

  • Professors need time to write thoughtful letters. Rushed requests may be declined or result in weaker letters.

Being Vague

  • Don’t just say “Can you write me a letter?”—be specific about what it’s for and why you’re asking them.

Not Providing Context

  • Failing to include your resume, goals, or reminders of your work with them makes it harder for them to write a strong letter.

Assuming They’ll Say Yes

  • Always ask politely and give them the option to decline.

Forgetting to Follow Up

  • A gentle reminder and a thank-you note go a long way in maintaining professional relationships.

Using Casual Language

  • Keep your tone professional and respectful, even if you had a friendly relationship with the professor.

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m reaching out to ask if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for [purpose—e.g., a graduate program, internship, scholarship]. I truly valued your [class name] course and the guidance you provided, and I believe you could speak to my strengths and growth during that time.

The deadline is [date], and I’d be happy to provide any materials you need, such as my resume, transcript, or a draft of my personal statement.

Thank you for considering my request!

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Major]
[Your Contact Information]

Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me in support of my application to [program, fellowship, job opportunity]. Your mentorship and insights during my time in [course, research, or project] were incredibly impactful, and I believe your perspective would be valuable to my application.

The deadline is [date], and I can share my CV, statement of purpose, and any other materials you might find helpful.

Thank you very much for your time and support.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Program Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Subject: Request for Recommendation Letter

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m a former student from your [course name] class in [semester/year], and I’m currently applying for [job, graduate program, fellowship, etc.]. I’m reaching out to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf.

I’d be glad to provide a refresher on my work in your class, along with my resume and any other materials you might need. The deadline is [date].

Thank you for considering my request—I truly appreciated your teaching and support during my time at [university name].

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Graduation Year & Major]
[Your Contact Information]