Writing a Recommendation Letter for Graduate School (with Sample)
Use this sample recommendation letter for graduate school as a template for your formal recommendation letter.
Anyone who is applying for graduate school knows what a nerve-wracking experience this can be. There are many steps to the application process, but perhaps the worst part of this process is getting the recommendation letters.
It is unethical to write letters for oneself, so the letters must be received from those who personally know the individual. Most professors are more than willing to write a recommendation letter, if the student is worthy of one. This is just a way for the professor to dote on a good student a bit, and usually they are more than happy to do so.
It is unethical to write letters for oneself, so the letters must be received from those who personally know the individual. Most professors are more than willing to write a recommendation letter, if the student is worthy of one. This is just a way for the professor to dote on a good student a bit, and usually they are more than happy to do so.
Most application packets at colleges and universities require three letters. These letters are just as important as the application to the graduate program itself. It is written proof that the things that a person states on their resume and helps back up their character and academic stance as a student.
When going through application, the last thing a university wants is someone who is not ready for the challenges of a higher program. They will pay attention to these letters when it comes to the final phases of selection. To get the appropriate letter from a professor, it helps to have a good relationship with them. When it comes to a graduate school application, these letters may be the key that helps a student get into a graduate program.
During the final selection process, the schools will us the GPA (Grade Point Average) and the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) to make cuts in their applicant pool. After students have made the initial parts of the process, then the recommendation letters come into play. The deadline for applications is usually around November or December for most schools.
Unfortunately, this is a busy time for professors, as it is the end of a semester and don’t forget the start of the busiest time of the year, the holidays. This may be a difficult time to get a recommendation letter.
The best way to make sure the application is turned in on time is to start getting these letters months in advance. Starting early will ensure that this part of the application process is taken care of. To allow ample time, start asking for letters in September, and give the professors about three weeks to get the letter completed.
Professors are busy, so to get these letters may take some encouragement on the student’s part. A gentle reminder that the letter is due is not out of character. Make sure to use good follow through until the letter is in the mail.
Here is a sample Recommendation Letter for Graduate School.
Recommendation Letter For Graduate School
Name of Recommender
Name of Company if Applicable
Position in Company if Applicable
Address of Company or Recommender
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Name of Head of Admissions
Name of Graduate School
Address of Graduate School
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Name of Head of Admissions:
As the Dean of [Name of University], for the past four years, I have personally got to know [Name of Candidate]. To say that she has been a tremendous addition to this university would be an understatement. Based on her tenacious work ethic and her desire to achieve, I would like to recommend her for the graduate program at your school.
I am confident in my recommendation to your program, as I am sure she is a student that will succeed in her studies. [Name of Candidate] is not only a dedicated student, but her GPA is among the higher here at the university. During class time, she has proven to be a real leader and a take-charge kind of person. She is able to help develop plans and successfully implement them. Other students often go to her for help, and she always seems eager to oblige.
We were also fortunate to have [Name of Candidate] assist us at the admissions office. Her leadership qualities were successfully demonstrated by helping to counselor both new and prospective students. Students were always eager to hear her advice and she was never too busy to take time and explain things thoroughly.
Because of her drive to succeed and her willingness to be a key player at the university, I can recommend her for the graduate program without hesitation. You will find that the drive and abilities that she has will be an asset to your establishment. Please don’t hesitate to call me with any questions regarding this recommendation.
Sincerely,
Signature of Recommender
Printed Name of Recommender
By Andre Bradley
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