Now Is the Time: How to Request Letters of Recommendation for College Applications

As a college admissions counselor, I can't stress enough how important letters of recommendation are in the college application process. They offer a unique window into your character, your work ethic, and your potential for success in a way that grades and test scores alone cannot. If you haven't already, now is the time to start thinking about who you'll ask to write these letters. Here's a guide to help you navigate this critical step.

Why Do Admissions Offices Ask for Recommendations?

Letters of recommendation are a vital part of a holistic review process. While your transcripts and standardized test scores reveal your academic abilities and classroom performance, and your extracurricular activities highlight your passions and leadership skills, recommendation letters offer something different. They tell the admissions committee how others see you:

• Who are you as a student in a classroom?

• Who are you as a member of a community?

• How do you compare to your peers with whom these recommenders interact?

  
  

These letters help admissions officers get a three-dimensional sense of who you are, not just as a student but also as an individual. They provide context and insight into your character, work ethic, and the contributions you might make to a college community.

Choosing the Right Recommenders

Selecting the right people to write your letters of recommendation is crucial. Choose teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well and can speak positively about your abilities, character, and accomplishments. Ideally, you should select recommenders from your junior year or those who taught you subjects related to your intended major.

• Counselor Letters: Most colleges require a letter from your school counselor. This letter typically provides context about your academic performance, course rigor compared to your peers, any challenges you’ve overcome (like illness or scheduling conflicts), and your overall standing in your high school class.

• Teacher Letters: Most colleges limit teacher recommendations to two. It's best to choose teachers who know you well and can write about your strengths beyond just your grades and activities. Focus on teachers from your junior year who taught core academic subjects like History, English, Math, Science, or Foreign Language. A good mix might be a STEM teacher and a Humanities/Social Science teacher.

  
  

Ask Early—And I Mean Early

When it comes to requesting letters of recommendation, timing is everything. You should aim to ask at least three weeks before the deadline—though that's really cutting it close. Martin Walsh, former assistant dean of admission at Stanford, recommends giving your recommenders a 90-day heads-up.

Many teachers appreciate it if you ask before you leave school at the end of your junior year. At the very latest, ask right when you begin your senior year. This not only shows respect for their time but also ensures they have ample opportunity to craft a thoughtful and detailed letter.

Request in Person

This might seem like a small detail, but it’s significant: always ask your recommenders in person if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for your college applications. Don’t just add their name to your Common App and hope for the best. Asking in person shows that you value their support and allows for a more personal and respectful conversation.

Pro Tips for Requesting Letters of Recommendation

• Know the Requirements: The University of California and the California State University campuses do not require, nor do they allow letters of recommendation as part of their application process. Always check the specific requirements of the schools you're applying to.

• Follow Your Teacher’s Process: Some teachers and counselors have their own processes for writing recommendation letters, often involving a questionnaire or “Brag Sheet” that you need to complete. Make sure you follow their instructions and timelines to the letter.

• Complete Brag Sheets Over the Summer: Doing this will allow you to thoroughly document your achievements and provide strong examples of your performance in the classroom. This will make it easier for your teachers to write a compelling letter.

• Prepare to Return the Favor: Writing a good letter of recommendation can take a teacher several hours. They do this on top of their regular workload, out of kindness and care. Make sure to show your appreciation by writing thank-you notes. A small gesture of gratitude goes a long way.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Remember, letters of recommendation are your chance to let others vouch for you, adding depth to your college application. By choosing the right recommenders, asking early, and respecting their time and processes, you’ll help ensure that these letters shine a light on your best qualities and make your application truly stand out.