Asking for a Letter of Recommendation Email can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to be strategic about who you ask and how you ask them.
When making your request, be polite and specific about what you’re looking for. You might say something like, “I’m applying for a job that requires a letter of recommendation, and I would be very grateful if you could write one for me.” If the person you’re asking is unable to fulfill your request, they’ll likely let you know right away. Otherwise, they’ll likely be happy to provide you with a positive letter of recommendation.
First, choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths. A professor or former employer would be a good choice. Then, give them plenty of time to write the letter, and be sure to provide them with any relevant information, such as your resume or a list of accomplishments. Finally, express your gratitude for their help and let them know how much you appreciate their time and effort.
Here are some useful templates to use when asking for a Letter of recommendation email from your professor or teacher.
Template 1
Dear [Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would be able to write me a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. I have been a student of yours for the past two years and I have enjoyed your class. I think you know me well enough to speak to my strengths as a student and I would be very grateful if you could write a letter of recommendation for me. If you are unable to write a letter of recommendation, please let me know as soon as possible so I can make other arrangements. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 2
Hello [Name]
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to ask if you would be able to write me a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. I have been a student of yours for the past two years and I have enjoyed your class. I think you would be a great person to speak to about my academic abilities.
If you are unable to write me a letter of recommendation, I understand. Thank you for your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Template 3
Dear Professor [Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a letter of recommendation. I am applying to graduate school and it would be greatly appreciated. I have attached my resume and application materials for your review.
If you are unable to fulfill this request, please let me know at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 4
Dear Professor [Name],
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. I have been a student of yours for the past two years and I have always been impressed by your knowledge and insight.
I would be very grateful if you could provide me with a letter of recommendation that would attest to my character and abilities. If you are unable to provide a letter of recommendation, I understand. Thank you very much for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 5
Dear Professor [Name],
As a recent university student, I am applying to graduate school. As such, I would greatly appreciate a letter of recommendation from you. Attached are my resume and application materials for your review. Please let me know if you can complete this recommendation request.
Thank you in advance,
[Name]
Template 6
I have thoroughly enjoyed your classes over the past year. I have worked very hard on my research and dissertation.
I have now applied for advanced standing and I would greatly appreciate it if you could take the time to write a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. Please let me know if you can provide a letter of recommendation on my behalf by signing the enclosed form and returning it via email as an attachment.
Thank you for your support,
[Name]
Template 7
Dear [name]
I am writing to request your assistance with a university application. I would appreciate it if you would provide a letter of recommendation, enclosed as per the institute’s specifications. If you are unable to write a recommendation, please reply letting me know as soon as possible.
Thank you in advance for your consideration of my request and your continued support.
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