Who should write my recommendation letters, and what should they say?
Choose people who know your work well, not the most senior name you can reach: a teacher who taught or guided you, or a manager who saw your work. A good letter gives specific examples of what you did and how you compare with others, and it matches what your CV and statement of purpose say.
"My professors barely know me."
Most students feel this. Pick the one who knows you best and help them remember: a short note about your work makes a much stronger letter.
- 1ChooseSomeone who saw your work closely
- 2Ask early4–6 weeks before the deadline
- 3Brief themCV, goals and 2–3 specific moments
- 4Follow upGentle reminder, then a thank-you
What to send your recommender
- Your CV and SOP draft.
- The list of universities, with deadlines and how they submit.
- Two or three specific things you did in their class or team.
- What you hope to study and why.
Recommendation checklist
Common mistakes
- Writing the letter yourself and asking someone to sign it. Many universities ask recommenders to submit directly, and it can be treated as dishonest.
- Choosing a famous name who cannot give examples.
- Letters that contradict your CV or SOP.
Questions families ask
Academic or professional recommenders?
Follow what each programme asks for. Recent graduates usually use academic recommenders; people with work experience often include a manager.
How many letters do I need?
Usually two or three; the exact number is on each programme’s application page.
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