Asking for Letters of Recommendation

In honor of National Teachers Appreciation Week, we thought we would share some thoughts about one of the more daunting tasks associated with highly selective college admission: asking for letters of recommendation. Some college applications require two letters of recommendations from classroom teachers in academic disciplines. Note the boldface type in the previous sentence–colleges place highest value in the perspective of a classroom teacher in a discipline related to the core curriculum of most colleges and universities. 

Why do colleges ask for letters of recommendation?

Grades and scores provide quantitative data about you as a learner. Letters of recommendation provide a qualitative picture of your learning. Letters can show your personality and quality of character in a way not otherwise captured in your application. Especially when a teacher knows you well or has witnessed and taken part in your intellectual growth, that voice can make a meaningful difference in a college application. 

Who should I ask? 

You should ask two of your classroom teachers from academic disciplines (English, Math, Social Sciences, Science, Foreign Language) who have taught you in your junior or senior year. Consider asking teachers in classes where you worked very hard or where you saw significant improvement—do not use grades as a proxy for whom to ask. Ask teachers who know you well AS A LEARNER and who can share anecdotes about your academic progress and strengths. 

Can I ask an arts teacher?

Unless you are applying to a conservatory or a portfolio-based school/program in art and design, your letters should come from teachers in academic disciplines.

Can I ask my advisor or homeroom teacher?

Not unless your advisor or teacher taught you in an academic discipline and can speak to your work in that discipline. Sometimes teachers who know you quite well might miss the mark on describing your work in the classroom. Your school counselor will often speak to elements of your extracurricular life and your role in the community. 

Can I ask teachers from 9th or 10th grade?

It is not advisable to ask teachers from 9th or 10th grade to write letters of support; admissions officers prefer the perspective of teachers in upper level courses where the content better reflects the sort of material you will encounter in college. That said, if a 9th or 10th grade teacher has a remarkable perspective or knows you particularly well, you can consider it. 

Must I ask my English teacher for a letter of recommendation?

No. This was once a stated expectation, but it is no longer current. You should ensure that the two letters come from different disciplines, however, as colleges and universities often like to see diverse academic strengths and interests. 

When should I ask?

While you should always follow the directions laid out for you by your school counselors, it is a great idea to approach recommenders before you head off for summer break. While this might limit your selection to teachers from your junior year, you will also give your teacher ample time to complete the letter. Some teachers prefer to tackle this significant task before the school year begins. Certainly, you will want to ask for a letter of recommendation at least one month before your earliest deadline–and this is at the very latest. It is important to be considerate of your teachers’ time and efforts–a last-minute request is not a good look.  

How should I ask?

While you should always follow any procedures laid out by your school—many of which may still handle this process through paper signature forms—it’s always a good idea to begin by asking for a letter of recommendation in person. While this can be difficult, it also reminds the recommender of the importance of the relationship. It shows your teacher respect and dignity, and, frankly, it’s the behavior of an adult. Assuming your recommender agrees to write, you should thank them in person and then immediately follow up with them in writing. Shooting them a quick email to thank them again and to give them instructions or next steps will be important. Depending on your school’s process, you may need to give your teacher specific instructions. Reach out to your school counselor should you have any questions about securing these letters. 

How many do I need? 

Generally, you will need one or two letters, and you should check the Common Application carefully to ensure that you have a good understanding of recommendation requirements based on the schools to which you are applying. 

Can I have more than two?

No college requires more than two letters of recommendation, though some will consider additional letters if submitted. Students with high proficiency in the arts, athletics, extensive service to the community, experience in academic research, or some other extraordinary credential may choose to solicit a supplemental letter of recommendation. Please discuss supplemental requests with your counselor. At times, asking for too much information can work against a candidate. 

 Wouldn’t extra letters look good?

Extra letters are only helpful when they add a dimension not included elsewhere in your application. Many admissions officers may view supplemental recommendations as burdensome extra work that can potentially create inequity. 

What’s the Counselor Recommendation?

The Counselor Recommendation is an institutional letter of recommendation composed by your school counselor. It is the school’s official letter of support for your application, and it takes a more holistic view of your role in the school community. Your school counselor is responsible for composing this letter. They will often consult your advisor or collaborate with other school staff in this process as well. You should always feel free to ask your school counselor politely how they plan to compose this statement. If your school counselor or teacher asks you to fill out a brag sheet, DO IT! They are literally asking you to provide them with material for their letter, so you are at a great advantage to oblige them. Even if they don’t ask for a brag sheet, send a thank you note that reminds them of specific reasons why you asked them for a reference. Teachers always appreciate free and borrowed material. 

What happens if my teacher does not agree to write me a letter?

Thank them for their time and move on. Any recommender who voices reluctance to write cannot be counted on to provide a supportive reference.  

Can I read my letters of recommendation?

Your letters are confidential between the recommender and the colleges and universities to which you apply. You will be asked when you apply to college to waive your rights under the Federal Educational Right to Privacy Act, which gives you the right to review all of your academic records. Because colleges and universities have an expectation of confidentiality, they explicitly ask you to waive that right when you apply. While you can choose not to waive FERPA, this is highly inadvisable, as that choice will potentially invalidate your references. Trust that your letters of recommendation are positive. 

Should I invite my recommenders on the Common Application?

Usually the answer to this question is “yes,” though you should consult with your school counselor to ensure that you know the appropriate process for including your recommenders with your application. Some high schools choose to submit letters of recommendation outside of the Common Application platform, so make sure you know what practice is in place at your school. 

Like so many elements of this process, asking for letters of recommendation can be complicated and confusing. We are available as you navigate this process with your child or for yourself. Contact info@forshoreed.com to learn more today.