If you are applying for postgraduate study, you will likely need to provide references as part of your application. A reference is a letter written by someone who can attest to your academic or professional qualifications and suitability for postgraduate study. In this article, we will provide tips for writing a strong reference for postgraduate study and examples that can be edited as needed.
Tips for Writing a Reference for Postgraduate Study
When writing a reference for postgraduate study, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
1. Start with a Title
Use a clear and concise title that reflects the purpose of the reference. For example, “Reference for Postgraduate Study: John Smith.”
2. Explain Your Relationship to the Applicant
In the opening paragraph, explain how you know the applicant and in what capacity. For example, “I am writing to provide a reference for John Smith, whom I have known for three years in his capacity as a student in my undergraduate course.”
3. Discuss the Applicant’s Qualifications
In the second paragraph, discuss the applicant’s academic and professional qualifications and why they are well-suited for postgraduate study. Provide specific examples to support your claims. For example, “John consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for research and critical thinking, as evidenced by his final project, which received top marks.”
4. Provide a Complimentary Close
In the final paragraph, provide a clear and concise closing statement that summarizes your endorsement of the applicant. For example, “Based on my experience with John, I have no doubt that he will excel in his postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.”
Examples of Reference for Postgraduate Study
Reference for Postgraduate Study: John Smith
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for John Smith, whom I have known for three years in his capacity as a student in my undergraduate course. John consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for research and critical thinking, as evidenced by his final project, which received top marks. He also demonstrated excellent organizational and time-management skills, which allowed him to balance his academic workload with extracurricular activities and part-time employment.
Based on my experience with John, I have no doubt that he will excel in his postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jane Doe
Reference for Postgraduate Study: Sarah Lee
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for Sarah Lee, whom I have known for two years in her capacity as a research assistant in my laboratory. Sarah consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and attention to detail, which allowed her to successfully carry out complex research projects. She also demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills, which made her a valuable team member and mentor to other students.
Based on my experience with Sarah, I have no doubt that she will excel in her postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Best regards,
Dr. John Smith
Reference for Postgraduate Study: Emma Kim
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for Emma Kim, whom I have known for four years in her capacity as a volunteer at a local nonprofit organization. Emma consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to social justice and equality, which motivated her to take on leadership roles within the organization. She also demonstrated excellent communication skills, which allowed her to effectively mobilize volunteers and engage with stakeholders.
Based on my experience with Emma, I have no doubt that she will excel in her postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Best regards,
Jane Smith, Executive Director
Reference for Postgraduate Study: David Lee
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for David Lee, whom I have known for five years in his capacity as a colleague at a consulting firm. David consistently demonstrated a strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which allowed him to effectively analyze complex business problems and provide actionable recommendations to clients. He also demonstrated excellent leadership and teamwork skills, which allowed him to effectively manage teams and collaborate with colleagues.
Based on my experience with David, I have no doubt that he will excel in his postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Best regards,
Jane Doe, Partner
Reference for Postgraduate Study: Olivia Young
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for Olivia Young, whom I have known for three years in her capacity as a volunteer at a local hospital. Olivia consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to patient care and advocacy, which motivated her to take on leadership roles within the volunteer program. She also demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which allowed her to effectively engage with patients and their families.
Based on my experience with Olivia, I have no doubt that she will excel in her postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Smith
Reference for Postgraduate Study: Michael Brown
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for Michael Brown, whom I have known for four years in his capacity as a student in my undergraduate course. Michael consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for critical thinking and problem-solving, as evidenced by his research project, which received top marks. He also demonstrated excellent time-management skills, which allowed him to balance his academic workload with extracurricular activities and employment.
Based on my experience with Michael, I have no doubt that he will excel in his postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Best regards,
Dr. Jane Doe
Reference for Postgraduate Study: Rachel Lee
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a reference for Rachel Lee, whom I have known for three years in her capacity as a volunteer at a local animal shelter. Rachel consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to animal welfare and advocacy, which motivated her to take on leadership roles within the volunteer program. She also demonstrated excellent communication and teamwork skills, which allowed her to effectively engage with fellow volunteers and shelter staff.
Based on my experience with Rachel, I have no doubt that she will excel in her postgraduate studies and make a valuable contribution to the field.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith, Executive Director
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference for postgraduate study?
A reference for postgraduate study should include an explanation of your relationship to the applicant, a discussion of their academic or professional qualifications, and a complimentary close that summarizes your endorsement of the applicant.
Who should I ask to write a reference for postgraduate study?
You should ask someone who is familiar with your academic or professional qualifications and can attest to your suitability for postgraduate study. This may include professors, supervisors, or colleagues.
How many references do I need for postgraduate study?
The number of references required may vary by program, so be sure to check the specific requirements for each program you are applying to. In general, you will need at least two references.
How should I approach someone to ask for a reference for postgraduate study?
When asking someone to write a reference for postgraduate study, be sure to ask politely and provide them with ample time to complete the reference. You may also want to provide them with a copy of your CV or personal statement to help them write a strong reference.
Can I provide my own reference for postgraduate study?
No, you cannot provide your own reference for postgraduate study. The reference must come from someone who is familiar with your academic or professional qualifications and can attest to your suitability for postgraduate study.
What should I do if I am having trouble getting a reference for postgraduate study?
If you are having trouble getting a reference for postgraduate study, you may want to consider reaching out to someone who knows you well and can attest to your character and work ethic. This could include a mentor, coach, or community leader.
Conclusion
Writing a strong reference for postgraduate study can be an important part of the application process. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can create a reference that highlights your academic or professional qualifications and emphasizes your suitability for postgraduate study.