If you are applying to universities in the UK through UCAS, you may be required to submit reference letters. These letters are an important part of your application, as they give admissions officers an idea of your academic abilities, personal qualities and achievements. In this article, we will provide you with examples of UCAS reference letters, as well as tips for writing your own.
Tips for Writing a UCAS Reference Letter
When writing a reference letter for UCAS, it is essential to keep in mind the following tips:
1. Start with a Title
The title of your reference letter should clearly indicate your relationship with the applicant and your position. For example, “Reference Letter for Jane Doe – Former English teacher at XYZ High School.”
2. Explain How You Know the Applicant
In the first paragraph, explain how you know the applicant and for how long you have known them. This will give admissions officers context and help them understand your perspective.
3. Highlight the Applicant’s Strengths
In the second paragraph, highlight the applicant’s strengths and accomplishments. Use specific examples to illustrate your points and show why the applicant is an excellent candidate for the program they are applying to.
4. Provide a Concluding Statement
In the concluding paragraph, provide a summary of the applicant’s strengths and qualities, and express your confidence in their ability to succeed in their chosen field.
5. Edit and Proofread
Before submitting your reference letter, make sure to edit and proofread it for grammar and spelling errors. You want your letter to be professional and error-free.
UCAS Reference Letter Examples
Example 1: Reference Letter for Jane Doe – Former English teacher at XYZ High School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jane Doe for admission to your undergraduate program in English. I had the pleasure of teaching Jane during her senior year at XYZ High School, where she stood out as one of the most talented and dedicated students in my class.
Jane is an exceptional student with a passion for literature and a talent for writing. She consistently produced high-quality essays and demonstrated a deep understanding of complex literary concepts. She also actively participated in class discussions and demonstrated excellent critical thinking skills.
I am confident that Jane will excel in your program and make a valuable contribution to your academic community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Example 2: Reference Letter for John Smith – Former Employer at ABC Company
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend John Smith for admission to your graduate program in Business Administration. John was an employee of ABC Company for two years, during which time he demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a strong work ethic.
John was instrumental in leading several successful projects that resulted in the growth of our company’s revenue. He demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which allowed him to work effectively with colleagues and clients alike. John was also a quick learner and demonstrated a strong understanding of business principles and practices.
I am confident that John will make an excellent addition to your program and contribute positively to your academic community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a UCAS reference letter?
A UCAS reference letter should include your relationship with the applicant, how long you have known them, their strengths and achievements, and a summary statement expressing your confidence in their ability to succeed in their chosen field.
How long should a UCAS reference letter be?
A UCAS reference letter should be around 50 to 80 sentences long, with two to three paragraphs of around 10 to 12 sentences each.
Can I use a reference letter from a family member or friend?
No, you should not use a reference letter from a family member or friend. Admissions officers are looking for objective opinions from professionals who have worked with the applicant.
Can I edit the UCAS reference letter example to fit my needs?
Yes, you can edit the UCAS reference letter example to fit your needs. Use the examples as a starting point and customize them to suit your specific situation.
Should I send the reference letter directly to the university?
It depends on the university’s requirements. Some universities require that the reference letter be sent directly to them, while others ask the applicant to include the reference letter as part of their application.
How many reference letters should I submit?
Check with the university you are applying to for their requirements. Some universities require one reference letter, while others may require two or three.
Conclusion
A UCAS reference letter is an essential part of your application to universities in the UK. By following our tips and examples, you can create a strong reference letter that will showcase your strengths and qualities and help you stand out from other applicants. Remember to be professional, specific, and highlight the applicant’s achievements and qualities that make them an excellent candidate for the program they are applying to.