How to Ask for Letters of Recommendation for Your College Application

A step-by-step guide to securing strong letters of recommendation for your college application process.

Securing strong letters of recommendation (LORs) is a key part of your college application process.

These letters provide insight into your abilities, personality, and accomplishments, helping admissions officers understand who you are beyond grades and test scores. Asking for LORs can feel intimidating, but with the right approach, you can ensure you get recommendations that shine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Choose the Right Teachers

Your first step is to select teachers who know you well and can speak positively about your academic strengths and personal qualities. Ideally, these should be teachers from your junior or senior year who have seen your growth and achievements firsthand. When choosing, consider:

• Your performance in their class: Select teachers from subjects where you excelled and demonstrated active participation.
• The subject matter: Choose teachers from core subjects like English, math, science, or history, as they often carry more weight with admissions committees.
• Your relationship with the teacher: Pick teachers who know you beyond the classroom—those with whom you’ve built rapport and who understand your character and work ethic.

2. Approach Teachers Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for letters of recommendation. Teachers are often swamped with requests as college deadlines approach, so asking early shows consideration and gives them plenty of time to write thoughtful, personalized letters. Ideally, approach your teachers at the end of your junior year or the very beginning of your senior year.

3. Prepare a Brag Sheet or Resume

Help your teachers write the best possible letter by giving them a detailed brag sheet or resume. This document should outline your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and future goals. Include:

• The classes you took with the teacher and your performance
• Notable projects or assignments where you excelled
• A list of your extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or work experience
• Your career goals or what you hope to achieve in college

By providing this information, you make it easier for your teacher to craft a letter that highlights your strengths and achievements.

4. Ask Politely and Personally

When you’re ready to ask, do it in person if possible. Politely explain why you’re applying to college and why you’ve chosen them to write your recommendation. Let them know how much you value their support in this important step of your academic journey.

After getting their agreement, follow up with a formal written request via email. In your email, include:

• Information about the colleges you’re applying to
• The deadline for each letter
• Submission instructions (online or by mail)
• A copy of your brag sheet or resume

5. Provide Ample Time and Follow Up

Teachers are busy, so give them plenty of time to write the letter. A good rule of thumb is to ask at least one month before your earliest application deadline. Closer to the deadline, send a polite reminder to ensure everything is on track.

6. Say Thank You

After your teacher submits the letter, show your gratitude with a thank-you note. Whether it’s a handwritten card or an email, express your appreciation for their time and effort. And don’t forget to update them with the exciting news once you’re accepted!