Ask for a Letter of Recommendation Via Email | 47 Examples

How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation Via Email Sample

Requesting a letter of recommendation can be a daunting task, but it is a crucial step in advancing your academic or professional journey. A strong recommendation can significantly enhance your application, showcasing your skills, character, and accomplishments through the eyes of someone who knows you well. To help you navigate this process with confidence, we’ve compiled a succinct guide with essential tips for securing an impactful letter of recommendation.

Guide to Requesting a Letter of Recommendation

Choose the Right Recommender:
Select someone who knows you well and can provide a meaningful endorsement. If you’re considering a professor, it’s beneficial if you’re currently taking a class with them or if they are familiar with your work and aspirations.

Know the Requirements:
Research the specific requirements for letters of recommendation from the institution or organization you are applying to. This includes the number of letters needed and any specific guidelines they may have.
Craft a Professional Request:
When reaching out via email, adhere to standard business etiquette. Address your recipient appropriately (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Dr.) and use a suitable salutation (e.g., “Dear [Recipient’s Name]”).
Be Clear and Concise:
Clearly state your request, including the purpose of the recommendation and any relevant details about the opportunity you are pursuing.

Express Gratitude:
Thank the recommender for their time and consideration in writing the letter. Acknowledge their effort and support, as this fosters goodwill and encourages a positive response.
Provide Supporting Information:
Offer to share your resume, personal statement, or details about the position or program you’re applying to. This information can help your recommender write a more tailored and compelling letter.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently approach potential recommenders and increase your chances of receiving a strong letter that will bolster your application.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation Via Email

35 Effective Snippets to Include When Requesting a Letter of Recommendation

Here are example snippets for each component of requesting a letter of recommendation. These snippets can help you effectively communicate each component of your request for a letter of recommendation, ensuring clarity and professionalism throughout the process.

1. Choosing the Right Recommender

“I believe that your insights into my work ethic and dedication would provide a strong perspective for my application.”
“Having taken multiple classes with you, I feel you can speak to my academic abilities and passion for the subject.”

“As my supervisor during my internship, you witnessed my growth and contributions firsthand, making you an ideal recommender.”
“I have always appreciated your mentorship and guidance, and I think your recommendation would carry significant weight.”
“Your experience in the field aligns perfectly with the program I’m applying to, which is why I would value your endorsement.”

2. Knowing the Requirements

“I want to confirm that the program requires two letters of recommendation.”
“The application specifies that at least one letter should come from a faculty member.”
“I need to submit my recommendations by [specific date], so I wanted to reach out well in advance.”

“The institution encourages recommenders to provide specific examples of my achievements.”
“I’ve attached the guidelines provided by the school for your reference.”

3. Crafting a Professional Request

“Dear Professor [Last Name], I hope this message finds you well.”

“Dear Dr. [Last Name], I am reaching out to request your support in writing a letter of recommendation.”
“To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally request a letter of recommendation.”
“Hello [First Name], I hope you are doing great! I am applying for [specific opportunity] and would be grateful for your recommendation.”

“Dear [Recipient’s Name], I hope you are having a wonderful day. I am writing to ask for your help with a recommendation letter.”

4. Being Clear and Concise

“I am applying for [specific program/job] and would be honored if you could provide a letter of recommendation.”
“The application process requires a letter that speaks to my skills in [specific area].”

“I am seeking your recommendation for my application to [specific institution or position].”
“I would appreciate your endorsement as I pursue [specific opportunity].”
“Your perspective on my [specific skill or experience] would be invaluable in my application.”

5. Expressing Gratitude

“Thank you for considering my request; I truly appreciate your support.”
“I am grateful for your time and help in this process.”
“Thank you for your willingness to assist me with this important step in my career.”

“I sincerely appreciate your consideration and the effort you put into writing this letter.”
“Your support means a lot to me, and I am thankful for your guidance throughout my journey.”

6. Providing Supporting Information

“I would be happy to send you my resume and a personal statement to assist you in writing the letter.”

“If you would like, I can provide details about the program and why I am excited about this opportunity.”
“Please let me know if you need any specific information or examples to include in your letter.”
“I can share my recent projects and achievements that you may want to highlight.”

“I’ve attached the application details and deadlines for your reference.”

47 Sample Emails to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation Via Email

Part 1 | Ask for a Recommendation by Email

I would like to request a letter of reference from you. My resume and cover letter are attached. Thank you for your time and consideration.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation. I need your help to make my application stand out and I am hoping that you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying to graduate school and need your help to make my application stand out. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. Please see my enclosed resume for more information on the qualities and skills that I bring to your institution. If there are any additional materials you need, please contact me at [insert phone number here], or via email at [insert email address here]. Your prompt response will be greatly appreciated! Thank you for your consideration!
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I have been so grateful for your guidance and support over the last two years, and I feel like my application would benefit from more personal statements and recommendations. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.

I am requesting a letter of recommendation from you. I would greatly appreciate your help and expertise to write the letter which will make my application stand out. Please let me know if you are willing to provide me with this reference material.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. Please let me know if you are willing to write on my behalf and if so, what are the instructions I need to follow.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. It is required for my education at [School]. I would be grateful if you could provide me with a recommendation.

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am currently applying for an opportunity with [company name] with an open position in [field], and can use your high regards as reference when contacting the hiring manager. Thank you for your consideration! Best,
I want to apply for a job and one of the requirements is an official letter of recommendation from a manager at your company. I would really appreciate this opportunity and would be grateful if you could write me a letter as soon as possible.

Part 2 | Ask for a Recommendation by Email

I know that your time is precious, so I hope you will understand when I say that I would be very grateful if you could write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I am currently applying to graduate school and would greatly appreciate any insights you may have into my professional development over the last 2 years.

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you for my MBA application. May I please have your permission and support regarding this matter?
As your former student, I would greatly appreciate if you could write a letter of recommendation for me to help me get into this prestigious medical school.
My name is [name], we worked together 3 years ago, and I was in your marketing research class. I just wanted to reach out and ask if you can write a letter of recommendation for me. I would greatly appreciate it.

Hi Professor, It’s great to see you again. Thanks for making [class] 101 so much fun last semester. I’m applying to med school, and I think you’d be a great reference. As I look back at my time at Penn State, I am particularly grateful for your warm and generous guidance. Thank you.
I am applying for the position of [job title]. Please let me know if you are willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. Thank you.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I have worked as an intern in your company in [year] and had a wonderful experience with the company. I am now pursuing my Master’s degree from University. I would appreciate your help.

I would be grateful if you could write a letter of recommendation for me. I worked as an intern in your company in [year] and had an unforgettable experience with the wonderful group of people I’ve met. When I applied to a Master’s program, the most important thing was your letter, which introduced me as a credible applicant.
I’m currently enrolled at [university] for a Master’s degree. I’ve completed two of three years and want to thank you for your recommendation of me as an intern. I had an incredible experience, and it helped me better prepare for what I’m doing now.
It is a great honor to request a letter of recommendation from you. I believe your recommendation will add significant weight to my application packet. I would greatly appreciate your writing a recommendation for me.

I would be grateful if you could recommend me as a candidate for [insert the name of ] Fellowship. I am applying for a scholarship and need strong recommendations to succeed. Would you be willing to provide me with a letter of recommendation?
I would like to ask for your assistance in writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I am applying to graduate school and want to make sure my application stands out. Please let me know if you are able to provide me with a recommendation.
I am applying to grad school and need your help to make my application stand out. I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying to graduate school and need your help to make my application stand out. This is an important next step in my career, and I thank you for considering this request.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I have taken several of your classes and can confidently state that you have been an influential part of my school career. Your insight and experience would be valuable in helping me get into graduate school. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.
Hello Professor Jackson, I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying to graduate school and need your help to make my application stand out. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation. I was surprised at how much I learned in your class – it really opened my eyes to this new field of study and made me consider what my future could look like if I pursue it. As a freshman, it was hard for me to see where everything fit with my life goals until I took your class. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon regarding my request.

I am applying to graduate school and need your help in making my application stand out. I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying to graduate school, and need your help to make my application stand out among other applicants. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation – the sooner you respond, the better!
I am writing in regards to graduate school applications. I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you, focusing on my academic and professional accomplishments and contributions. Please let me know if you will be able to provide me with a recommendation.

Part 3 |Ask for a Recommendation by Email

I am applying to graduate school, and I was hoping you could provide me with a letter of recommendation. Please let me know if you will be able to help.
Hello Professor! I hope you are well. I am writing to request your letter of recommendation for a graduate program. Please let me know if you will be able to pen a recommendation for my application. Thank you for your time and consideration, as I would very much appreciate a letter of recommendation from you.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you in support of my application for the position of VP Finance at the [company]. Since I began working for you approximately two years ago, you have been a key mentor in helping me develop both financial analysis skills and leadership abilities. In fact, I have always considered you one of my most valuable resources! As such, I’m sure that your comments will be very helpful in supporting my candidacy with this position. Keeping this in mind, please consider what can be included in the body of the letter:

I would like to request a letter of recommendation for the recruitment process. Thank you for your time and efforts in helping me out.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation to help me better prepare for my career goals. In addition, I am sure that you will be able to provide insight on your evaluation of my skills and characteristics which have been most beneficial throughout my education. In order to help you write an organized and informative letter, I have enclosed a copy of my resume below so that you can get a better feel for my experience. Thank you for taking the time to review this request, and I look forward to hearing from you soon!
I would like to request a letter of recommendation. I have worked directly with you at [company] during the project period as a co-op student. As part of my course assignment, I was required to learn about various software applications that were used in the design phase of this project. Through working with you I have developed skills in using these applications and am confident that they will help me to complete this task successfully. I look forward to writing your recommendation and thank you for your support

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. You taught me physics when I was a high school student and I’ve always remembered your love for teaching and passion in your work. When reviewing my resume and the recommendation request form below, please keep in mind that your letter will be used in support of my application with [University].
Thank you for considering my request. I would be grateful if you could write a letter of recommendation for me.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I have been advised by many employers that such a letter can be very helpful in an application for a new job or grad school. If you are willing, I would appreciate receiving it in writing as soon as possible so that I can submit it along with my application materials. Thank you!

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying for a position at [company] and was wondering if you could write me a letter of recommendation. My resume is attached as well as relevant references if you require them. Thank you so much!
To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for [name]. I want to apply to [program] and I feel that the qualities of honest, hardworking, and resourceful that Dr. [name] has witnessed in his/her courses will be helpful in demonstrating my qualifications as a candidate. I am enclosing a resume and transcript of classes taken with their grades.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation for the [name] scholarship award program at [university]. I have been accepted for enrollment in the next term of school and need a letter of recommendation from a faculty member after reviewing my application and transcripts since my transcripts are from foreign institutions, so I am not sure it will be realiable in your eyes

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from your institution. I am applying for admission in your Master’s degree program at [university] in the fall semester. Please find enclosed my résumé for your reference.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you. I am applying to the program of [name]. It would be my honor if you can support me with your endorsement.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation for admission to pursue the Master’s degree in Computer Science, for my application at the University of [insert details about the university here].

I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you as I am applying for an admission at university. I understand that this may be an inconvenience for you, however please know that your recommendation means everything to me!
I would like to request a letter of recommendation on behalf of my son. I am planning to send him abroad for undergrad and wish to suggest the schools/programs.
I would like to request a letter of recommendation from you for the graduate program of Computer Science in University of California Berkeley. As you know, this is an international program and requires evaluation from foreign professors as well. The deadline for promise letters is on [date]. As we discussed during our class last semester, the reason I chose your course was because you are a great instructor who interacts with students well and helps them learn better. Your teaching style is very interactive and in line with my learning style. I felt that going through your course would help me prepare for an English speaking environment better than anything else could have done. So please find attached my personal statement essay and transcript as well as some information about the application process. Please write me back if there is any question regarding anything mentioned above.

I would like to request a letter of recommendation for [school]. I have known you for the past two years, during which time you have served as my manager at [job], and am impressed by your leadership skills and management capabilities. During my time with your team, you provided me with timely feedback, encouraged me to grow professionally, and supported my career goals through personal development planning. Also over the past year, I have helped manage several initiatives across your team in order to support our departments’ growth; this experience has given me valuable insights into your working style as we collaborated on projects across a variety of disciplines. In conclusion, I would appreciate it if you could write a letter stating why I was a good employee and will be an asset to the college community.

When your recommender responds dont’ forget to thank them- and here are some templates to help you draft that email. If you enjoyed How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation check out Asking for a Letter of Recommendation Email: 7 Email Templates