If you are applying to American universities, you may need to submit reference letters as part of your application. A reference letter is a document written by someone who knows you well and can speak to your character, accomplishments, and potential for success. These letters can be an important part of your application, providing insight into your strengths and abilities beyond what can be gleaned from your academic record and test scores.
If you are looking for examples of reference letters for American universities, you can find them online and edit them as needed to fit your specific situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing or requesting a reference letter:
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter for American University
If you have been asked to write a reference letter for an applicant to an American university, here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Academic Reference Letter
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is my pleasure to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]. As [his/her] [teacher/professor/academic advisor], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [him/her] over the past [number of semesters/years].
[Applicant Name] has consistently impressed me with [his/her] [academic skills/enthusiasm for learning/ability to think critically and creatively]. [He/She] has a strong foundation in [relevant subjects/fields], and has demonstrated excellent [writing/research/presentation] skills. I have no doubt that [he/she] has the intellectual curiosity and drive to succeed in [Name of University/College]’s rigorous academic environment.
Outside of the classroom, [Applicant Name] has also [participated in extracurricular activities/volunteered in the community/engaged in research or internships]. [He/She] has shown [leadership/commitment/passion] in these endeavors, and I believe [he/she] will continue to make meaningful contributions to the [Name of University/College] community.
I strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College] without reservation. [He/She] is an exceptional candidate who will thrive academically and personally at your institution.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Professional Reference Letter
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]. As [his/her] [supervisor/mentor/colleague] at [Name of Company/Organization], I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [number of months/years].
[Applicant Name] has consistently demonstrated [professionalism/hard work/excellent communication skills] in [his/her] role at [Name of Company/Organization]. [He/She] has shown [leadership/creativity/problem-solving abilities] in [specific projects/tasks], and [his/her] contributions have been invaluable to our team. I have no doubt that [he/she] would bring the same level of dedication and expertise to [Name of University/College].
Outside of work, [Applicant Name] is [involved in volunteer work/pursuing additional education or training/engaged in hobbies or interests]. [He/She] has a broad range of interests and experiences that make [him/her] a well-rounded candidate for admission to [Name of University/College].
I wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]. [He/She] is a talented and dedicated professional who will excel academically and contribute to the [Name of University/College] community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Personal Reference Letter
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]. As [his/her] [friend/roommate/family member], I have had the opportunity to observe [his/her] [personal qualities/character traits/interpersonal skills] over a period of [time frame].
[Applicant Name] is [kind/caring/intelligent/funny/creative/etc.], and possesses a unique set of [personal strengths/attributes]. [He/She] has a strong sense of [values/morals/ethics], and is committed to [helping others/making a positive impact on the world/pursuing [his/her] passions]. I believe [he/she] will make an excellent addition to the [Name of University/College] community.
Although I cannot speak to [his/her] academic or professional accomplishments, I can attest to [his/her] [dedication/hard work/leadership abilities] in [specific situations/activities]. [Applicant Name] is someone who [inspires others/is always willing to lend a hand/has a unique perspective on the world], and I have no doubt that [he/she] will make a positive impact on [Name of University/College].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Research Experience Letter
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]’s graduate program in [Name of Field]. I had the pleasure of supervising [his/her] research experience in [Name of Project/Lab] for [number of months/years].
[Applicant Name] has demonstrated exceptional [research skills/critical thinking abilities/attention to detail] during [his/her] time in our lab. [He/She] has contributed to [specific projects/peer-reviewed publications], and has shown a deep understanding of [Name of Field]. [His/Her] dedication and enthusiasm have been invaluable to our team, and I am confident that [he/she] will continue to thrive in [Name of University/College]’s graduate program.
In addition to [his/her] research accomplishments, [Applicant Name] is also [involved in extracurricular activities/volunteering in the community/pursuing other academic interests]. [He/She] is a well-rounded candidate who will make meaningful contributions to the [Name of University/College] community.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [Name of University/College]’s graduate program in [Name of Field]. [He/She] is an exceptional candidate who will excel academically and contribute to the field of [Name of Field].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5. Study Abroad Recommendation Letter
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for [Name of Program] at [Name of University/College]. As [his/her] [professor/academic advisor], I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] in [Name of Course(s)].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional student who has demonstrated [academic excellence/cultural sensitivity/language proficiency] during [his/her] time at [Name of University/College]. [He/She] has shown a deep interest in [Name of Field/Culture], and has actively sought out opportunities to learn and engage with [people/events/experiences] related to [Name of Field/Culture]. I have no doubt that [he/she] will make the most of [Name of Program] at [Name of University/College].
As a [nationality/culture] student, [Applicant Name] will bring a unique perspective to [Name of Program]. [He/She] has shown [admirable qualities/strengths] during [his/her] time at [Name of University/College], and I believe [he/she] will continue to thrive academically and personally in [Name of Program].
I strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for [Name of Program] at [Name of University/College]. [He/She] is an outstanding candidate who will be an asset to the program and broader [Name of University/College] community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for [Name of Scholarship]. As [his/her] [teacher/professor/academic advisor], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [him/her] over the past [number of semesters/years].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional student who has demonstrated [academic excellence/leadership abilities/community involvement] during [his/her] time at [Name of University/College]. [He/She] has a strong foundation in [relevant subjects/fields], and has demonstrated excellent [writing/research/presentation] skills. [He/She] has also [participated in extracurricular activities/volunteered in the community/engaged in research or internships], and has shown [leadership/commitment/passion] in these endeavors.
As a [description of Applicant’s disadvantage], [Applicant Name] has faced [specific challenges/hardships] during [his/her] academic career. Despite these obstacles, [he/she] has persevered and excelled, and has shown a deep commitment to [Name of Field/Community/Cause]. [He/She] is a deserving candidate for [Name of Scholarship], and I believe [he/she] will use this opportunity to make a meaningful impact on [name of Field/Community/Cause].
I strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for [Name of Scholarship]. [He/She] is a talented and dedicated student who will make a positive contribution to [Name of Field/Community/Cause].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right person to write my reference letter?
It is important to choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and potential as a student. Ideally, this will be someone who has worked with you in an academic or professional context and can provide specific examples of your accomplishments and abilities. Before asking someone to write a letter on your behalf, make sure you have spoken with them about your goals and aspirations, and that they are willing and able to provide a strong recommendation.
What should I provide to the person writing my reference letter?
It is a good idea to provide your recommender with a copy of your resume or CV, transcripts, and any other relevant materials that will help them write a strong letter. You should also provide them with information about the programs or schools you are applying to, and any specific requirements or guidelines for the letter.
Is it important to include specific examples of my accomplishments in the reference letter?
Yes, specific examples can help to illustrate your strengths and potential as a student. You should provide your recommender with a list of accomplishments or experiences that you would like them to highlight in the letter, and encourage them to provide concrete examples of your work whenever possible.
What should I do if my recommender is unable to write a strong letter on my behalf?
If your recommender is unable to provide a strong letter, it is better to find someone else who can. You may also want to speak with your recommender about your concerns and ask if there is anything you can do to help them write a stronger letter.
How many reference letters should I submit with my application?
This will vary depending on the requirements of the school or program you are applying to. In general, it is a good idea to submit at least two or three letters that provide a well-rounded view of your strengths and potential as a student. Be sure to follow any guidelines or requirements provided by the school or program.
Is it appropriate to follow up with my recommender after they have submitted the letter?
Yes, it is appropriate to follow up with your recommender after they have submitted the letter to thank them for their help and to let them know the outcome of your application. This can also be a good opportunity to ask for feedback on your application or to stay in touch for future reference letters or networking opportunities.
Conclusion
Reference letters can be an important part of your application to American universities. Whether you are applying for undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs, it is important to choose your recommenders carefully and provide them with the information and materials they need to write a strong letter. By following these tips and guidelines, you can help ensure that your reference letters showcase your strengths and potential as a student and contribute to your success in the application process.