If you’re a soon-to-be graduate, you’re likely thinking about your next step after university. One of the things that will help you land your dream job is a reference letter from your university. This article will help you understand how to request a reference letter and provide examples of what to say in your request.
Tips for Writing an Application For Reference Letter From University
When writing a request for a reference letter from your university, consider the following:
- Be professional and polite in your request.
- Give your professors or mentors plenty of notice to write your letter.
- Provide your professors or mentors with a detailed list of your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications.
- Follow up with a thank-you note and updates on your career progress.
- You can find examples online and edit them as needed to fit your specific situation.
Examples of Application For Reference Letter From University
Requesting a Reference Letter for Graduate School
Dear Professor Smith,
I wanted to ask if you would be willing to write a reference letter for my graduate school applications. I am applying to several top-tier programs in my field and I believe your letter would carry a lot of weight with admissions committees. I am confident that your letter will highlight my academic achievements and passion for the field. Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
John Doe
Requesting a Reference Letter for Job Applications
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to request a reference letter for my job applications. As I am nearing graduation, I am actively seeking employment in the field of marketing and your letter would be invaluable in showcasing my skills and experience to potential employers. I have truly enjoyed your classes and I believe that your insights into the field will help me stand out to hiring managers. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Scholarship
Dear Professor Lee,
I am reaching out to you to request a reference letter for the scholarship application I am submitting. I am applying for a scholarship to support my research in the field of environmental science and I believe your letter would emphasize my academic achievements and potential as a researcher. I hope that with your letter, I can demonstrate my passion for the field and my commitment to making a positive impact on the environment. Thank you for your time and assistance.
Best regards,
James Lee
Requesting a Reference Letter for an Internship
Dear Dr. Wilson,
I am writing to request a reference letter for an internship I am applying for. As I am interested in pursuing a career in the field of psychology, I believe that this internship would be a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn more about the field. Your letter would help me stand out to the internship coordinators and demonstrate my passion for the field. Thank you for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Emily Wilson
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Study Abroad Program
Dear Professor Chang,
I am writing to request a reference letter for the study abroad program I am applying for. I am interested in studying in Japan to deepen my understanding of the culture and language, and I believe that your letter would emphasize my academic achievements and potential as a cultural ambassador. I hope that with your letter, I can demonstrate my passion for learning and my commitment to cross-cultural understanding. Thank you for your time and guidance.
Best regards,
David Chang
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Research Assistantship
Dear Dr. Martinez,
I am writing to request a reference letter for the research assistantship I am applying for. I am interested in working with your team to conduct research on the effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems, and I believe that your letter would emphasize my academic achievements and potential as a researcher. Your letter would help me stand out to the research coordinators and demonstrate my passion for the field. Thank you for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Samantha Martinez
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Teaching Assistantship
Dear Professor Brown,
I am writing to request a reference letter for the teaching assistantship I am applying for. I am interested in working with you to teach introductory courses in computer science and I believe that your letter would emphasize my academic achievements and potential as a teacher. Your letter would help me stand out to the teaching coordinators and demonstrate my passion for the field. Thank you for your consideration and support.
Best regards,
Michael Brown
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask for a reference letter via email?
Yes, you can request a reference letter via email. However, make sure to follow up with a thank-you note and offer to provide any additional information or materials that may be needed.
How many reference letters should I request?
It depends on the requirements of the program or job you are applying for. Check the application guidelines to see how many reference letters are required and who they should be from.
What should I do if my professor declines my request for a reference letter?
Respect their decision and thank them for their time. It’s important to build positive relationships with your professors, so don’t burn any bridges. You can also ask if they have any suggestions for other people who might be able to write you a letter.
How should I format my reference letter request?
Start with a professional and polite greeting, such as “Dear Professor Smith.” Then, introduce yourself and explain why you are requesting a reference letter. Provide details about the program or job you are applying for and why you believe their letter would be valuable. End with a thank-you and your contact information.
What should I include in my reference letter request?
Be sure to include the deadline for the letter, any specific requirements or guidelines, and a list of your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications. You can also provide any other information that may be relevant to the program or job you are applying for.
When should I request a reference letter?
Give your professors or mentors plenty of notice to write your letter. Aim to request the letter at least 6-8 weeks before the deadline, and follow up a few weeks later to ensure that they have everything they need to write a strong letter on your behalf.
Conclusion
Requesting a reference letter from your university can be nerve-wracking, but with the right approach, you can make it a positive and productive experience. Remember to be professional and polite in your request, provide your professors or mentors with plenty of notice, and follow up with a thank-you note. With these tips and examples, you’ll be well on your way to securing a glowing reference for your future endeavors.