If you are an employer and have been asked to write a reference letter for one of your employees who is applying to a university, it can be a bit overwhelming. However, providing a reference letter is an excellent way to support your employee’s academic pursuits and help them stand out in the admissions process.
A reference letter is a letter written by an employer or a person who can comment on the character and work ethic of the individual seeking admission to a university or college. The purpose of this letter is to serve as a recommendation for the individual who is applying. In most cases, admission committees require reference letters to evaluate the candidate’s character, personality, and work ethic. These letters are an essential part of the admission process, as they help to showcase personal and professional qualities that cannot be reflected in academic transcripts or test scores.
It is essential to note that a reference letter from an employer should be specific and contain detailed information about the candidate’s skills as they relate to the position they held in the organization. The letter should focus on the candidate’s skills, work ethics, personal qualities, and achievements while working for the organization.
To help you write an effective reference letter for your employee, here are some examples that you can use as a guide. You can find examples and edit them as needed.
Tips
Example 1: Reference Letter for Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend [employee name] for admission to [graduate school name]. During [employee name]’s tenure at [company name], they demonstrated exceptional skills in [skill/attribute]. Their work showcased their critical thinking ability and their excellent problem-solving skills. They [achievements at the company].
[Employee name] possesses excellent communication skills, both oral and written. They also have the ability to work independently and as a team player. They are dependable and reliable and can be counted on to complete assigned tasks within the given timeline.
Based on their work ethics, skills, and achievements, I strongly recommend [employee name] for admission to [graduate school name]. They will make an excellent addition to your academic community.
Thank you for considering my recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 2: Reference Letter for MBA Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am honored to write this reference letter for [employee name], who is applying for admission to the [MBA program name] at [university name].
[Employee name] is an exceptionally talented individual. They worked for our organization as [position] for [duration]. During their tenure, they demonstrated outstanding leadership and management skills. They [achievements at the company].
[Employee name] is an excellent communicator with exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities. They have a sharp eye for detail and can effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously. They are an exceptional team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues.
Based on their abilities and achievements, I believe that [employee name] will be an excellent addition to your MBA program. They have the necessary skills, experience, and drive to succeed in the program and make a significant contribution to your academic community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 3: Reference Letter for Law School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend [employee name] for admission to [law school name]. I had the pleasure of working with [employee name] at [company name] for [duration], where they served as our [position].
[Employee name] is an exceptional candidate for law school. They have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills, are highly organized, and are excellent communicators. They [achievements at the company].
During their tenure, they demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to work under pressure. They are a self-starter, capable of working independently and in a team environment. They possess excellent communication skills and have the ability to work with diverse groups of people.
Based on their skills and achievements, I strongly recommend [employee name] for admission to law school. They have the academic ability, motivation, and dedication necessary to excel in your esteemed institution.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 4: Reference Letter for Medical School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend [employee name] for admission to [medical school name]. During [employee name]’s tenure at [company name], they served as our [position] for [duration].
[Employee name] is an exceptionally talented individual with a passion for medicine. They have excellent interpersonal skills, are compassionate, and possess a great work ethic. They [achievements at the company].
[Employee name] has exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills, and is highly organized. They are an excellent communicator, and have the ability to work with diverse groups of people. They have demonstrated an exceptional ability to work independently and as part of a team, and are highly motivated to succeed.
Based on their skills and achievements, I strongly recommend [employee name] for admission to medical school. They have the academic ability, motivation, and dedication necessary to excel in your esteemed institution and become an exceptional physician.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 5: Reference Letter for Engineering Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend [employee name] for admission to [engineering program name]. During [employee name]’s tenure at [company name], they served as our [position] for [duration].
[Employee name] is an exceptionally talented individual with a passion for engineering. They have excellent analytical skills, are highly organized, and possess a great work ethic. They [achievements at the company].
[Employee name] has exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills, and is highly skilled in mathematics and physics. They are an excellent communicator, and have the ability to work with diverse groups of people. They have demonstrated an exceptional ability to work independently and as part of a team, and are highly motivated to succeed.
Based on their skills and achievements, I strongly recommend [employee name] for admission to your engineering program. They have the academic ability, motivation, and dedication necessary to excel in your esteemed institution and become an exceptional engineer.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 6: Reference Letter for Computer Science Program
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend [employee name] for admission to [computer science program name]. I had the pleasure of working with [employee name] at [company name], where they served as our [position] for [duration].
[Employee name] is an exceptionally talented individual with a passion for computer science. They have excellent analytical skills, are highly organized, and possess a great work ethic. They [achievements at the company].
[Employee name] has exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills. They possess excellent programming skills and are proficient in several programming languages. They have the ability to work with diverse groups of people and are an excellent communicator. They have demonstrated an exceptional ability to work independently and as part of a team, and are highly motivated to succeed.
Based on their skills and achievements, I strongly recommend [employee name] for admission to your computer science program. They have the academic ability, motivation, and dedication necessary to excel in your esteemed institution and become an exceptional computer scientist.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reference letter from an employer?
A reference letter from an employer is a letter written by an employer or a person who can comment on the character and work ethic of the individual seeking admission to a university or college. The purpose of this letter is to serve as a recommendation for the individual who is applying.
What should be included in a reference letter from an employer?
A reference letter from an employer should be specific and contain detailed information about the candidate’s skills as they relate to the position they held in the organization. The letter should focus on the candidate’s skills, work ethics, personal qualities, and achievements while working for the organization.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should typically be one to two pages long.
How far in advance should I ask for a reference letter?
You should ask for a reference letter from your employer at least two to three weeks in advance of the application deadline.
Who should I ask to write my reference letter?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills and character, such as your employer, professor, or mentor.
Can I see the reference letter before it is submitted?
You can ask your employer if they are willing to share the reference letter with you before it is submitted. However, keep in mind that some employers may not be willing to share the letter, and it is ultimately up to their discretion.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter from an employer to a university can be a bit challenging, but it is an excellent way to support your employee’s academic pursuits and help them stand out in the admissions process. By following the tips provided, you can create a compelling reference letter that showcases your employee’s skills, work ethics, and achievements while working for your organization. Remember, a strong reference letter can be the difference between acceptance and rejection, so take the time to do it right.