Recommendation letter for student word

During the college application process, a Recommendation Letter for a Student becomes one of the most important aspects of the application. This letter helps the school/college understand the student as a person. Since the recipient of the letter has not had the opportunity to meet the student in person, the recommendation letter, along with the student’s scores and grades, serves as a basis for the recipient’s assessment of the student. This type of letter gives the recipient a sense of the student’s personal characteristics and intellectual qualities.

A recommendation letter holds great weight in the admission application process. Continue reading to find a recommendation letter format, a how-to guide, and some sample letters to give you an idea of why these letters are so useful.

Recommendation Letter Format for Student

This type of letter explains why the student is suitable for admission to a particular school or college, but that does not mean it should be full of false praise. The letter should be formal, clear and preferably limited to one page. Like any other letter, it has three main parts: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion.

Letter Format:

Dear [Name],

Introduction: In this paragraph, the introduction of the letter writer is most important. This part explains who is writing the letter, their relationship with the student, their qualifications, and their designation. It also states for whom the letter is being written.

Body: The main part of the letter. The body or the second paragraph is where the purpose of the recommendation letter is fulfilled. Here the student’s qualities, intellect, personality, etc. are outlined. It is also necessary to mention why the letter writer thinks the student is the right choice for the school or college, but it should be done in a concise manner and should be based on truth.

Conclusion: The last paragraph smoothly ends the letter. Here, the letter writer’s contact details are mentioned, and it is suggested that if there are any further questions or inquiries about the student, they can be addressed by contacting the letter writer by phone or email.

Yours sincerely,

[Sender]

How to Write a Recommendation Letter for a Student?

Though it is not a difficult letter to write, there are still some points that need to be kept in mind. These points are as follows:

• Emphasize the College

Gather as much information as possible about the school or college to which the letter is being submitted. Ask the student what they know and try to correlate the student’s skills with the principles of the school or college. Even in the case of a general letter, ask the student about the kind of schools they plan to attend.

• Information on the Student

Meet with the student and ask all relevant questions. Ask the student about their goals in life and their plan of action for the future. Understanding the student’s interests helps in mentioning their personality.

• Mention the Relationship

Always make sure to mention how and for how long you have known the student. If you are a teacher, mention which courses the student has taken with you and for how many years. If you are an employer, explain the student’s role in your organization and overall performance.

• Avoid Clichés

Steer clear of age-old clichés such as “diligent” or “hard worker.” Write a statement that feels personal and explains the student’s character in depth.

• Examples

Include specific examples of the student demonstrating the qualities and skills you are writing about. Real examples give the school or college a sense of proof about what is mentioned in the letter.

• Positive Tone

Throughout the letter, keep the tone positive. Do not be overly expressive, but mention how the student is the correct candidate or how suitable they are for the course.

• Contact information

Do not end the letter without including your contact information. Offer a way for the school or college to reach you if they have more questions. You can include your phone number and email address at the end of the letter.

Sample Recommendation Letters for Students

With the above guidelines in mind, refer to these nine letter samples below to understand the format and style of a recommendation letter for a student.

Recommendation Letter for the Student from Teacher/Professor

From:
Liberty Walton
6527 Purus Avenue
Logan, NV 12657
(581) 379-7573
abcxyz@gmail.com

Date: July 9th, 2023

To:
Hu Park
Admissions Director
Reedsport College
1429 Netus Rd.
Reedsport, NY 48247

Subject: Recommendation Letter for [Student Name]

Dear Mr. Park,

I am writing to highly recommend [Student Name] for admission to Reedsport College. I have had the pleasure of teaching [Student Name] for the past [number] years in [subject(s)] and have been consistently impressed by her intelligence, dedication, and commitment to her studies.

Throughout her time in my class, [Student Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional aptitude in [specific skills or areas]. She is a quick learner and actively engages in class discussions, always making insightful and thoughtful contributions. Her writing and verbal skills are particularly strong, and she consistently produces high-quality work.

In addition to her academic achievements, [Student Name] is also highly involved in the school community. She has a strong desire to give back and regularly tutors other students in various subjects. She also actively participates in extracurricular activities, particularly [specific activity] where she has demonstrated strong leadership skills and the ability to effectively multitask and manage her time.

I believe that [Student Name] would be an asset to Reedsport College, and I wholeheartedly recommend her for admission. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

(Signature)
Liberty Walton

Sample Letter of Recommendation for High School Student

From:
Cleo Best
8351 Tincidunt Ave
Sedalia Utah 53700
(252) 204-1434
cbest@example.com
Date: October 5th, 2023

To:
Ina Burt
1685 Ut Street
Tyler, KS 73510

Subject: Recommendation Letter for [Student Name]
Dear Ina Burt,

It is my pleasure to recommend [Student Name], whom I have had the privilege of teaching for the past [Number of Years] in [Subject/s Taught]. In that time, I have seen [Student Name] excel academically and display a dedication and confidence that is rare in a high school student. I am positive that [he/she] would be an asset to your school and would be a great fit for [Name of the school].

When [Student Name] first entered my class, [he/she] came to meet me within a month and expressed that [he/she] was having trouble grasping certain concepts. With my guidance, [he/she] stayed for extra tutorials, sought help from peers and classmates and began asking questions in class to better understand the material. [His/Her] devotion and willingness to learn took me by surprise, as it is uncommon to see a high school student so committed to academics.

Even outside of the classroom, [Student Name] has shown tremendous dedication and confidence. [He/She] is an active member of the school’s [Club/Sports team], and has been [involved in that activity] since [age]. [He/She] is always on time for practices and games, and is often seen analyzing and calculating [performance data]. [He/She] is constantly striving for improvement and excellence in both academics and extracurriculars.

[Student Name] is not only a dedicated student, but also a well-rounded individual. [He/She] is a great leader and team player, with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. [He/She] is also known for being a kind, responsible and respectful person. [He/She] always puts forth the effort to succeed academically and personally.

I strongly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your esteemed institution. [He/She] will be a valuable asset to your school, and [he/she] will thrive in the challenging and stimulating academic environment that you offer. If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address].

Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
Cleo Best

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Graduate Student

From:
Lyle Sutton
985 Taland Lane
Atlanta, GA 59224
555-612-9934
erose@example.com

Date: Janurary 11th, 2022

To:
Palmer Thomas
23746 Lexicon Rd.
New York, NY 14747

Subject: Grad Student Recommendation

Dear Palmer Thomas,

I have had the pleasure of working with [Student name] as their [Subject] teacher, and I am writing to highly recommend them for your university. During their time in my class, [Student Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance, particularly in [Subject Name]. They have maintained a GPA of [Score] while taking a full load of honors classes and seminars.

[Student Name] has also been an active and engaged student outside of the classroom. This year, they earned the top spot in my class in [Subject name] and won an inter-college debate competition held in February. Additionally, they were employed as a teacher in a museum program where they taught fourth graders to ride horses.

[Student name] approaches all tasks with energy, a positive attitude, and great initiative. They have a strong ability to connect with people of all ages and excel at breaking down complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner. They have been a mentor and tutor to their juniors and siblings. This experience has further developed their leadership skills and ability to communicate with others effectively.

I have found [Student Name] to be extremely reliable, intelligent, organized, and friendly. They are able to connect with people on a very basic level and I am confident that they will be a great asset to your institution if accepted. I have highlighted the key qualities that I believe make [Student Name] an exceptional candidate, but please do not hesitate to contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email] if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

(Signature)
Lyle Sutton

Sample of Recommendation Letter for Student Scholarship

From:
Wilma Pace
6532 Odio Rd. Apt #676
Darlington, CO 06963
(926) 709-3295
pacew@example.com

Date: March 22nd, 2023

To:
Vielka Nielsen
7326 Elementum Rd.
Fort Smith, ND 79637

Subject: Recommendation Letter for Student Scholarship

Dear Vielka Nielsen,I have had the pleasure of knowing [student name] since [year] and have had the privilege of watching him grow as a student at [school name] for [years]. [Student name] has great potential and I am confident in recommending him for your scholarship program. He has demonstrated exceptional personal growth, both academically and in extra-curricular activities. His positive trajectory is evidence that you will not find a more deserving candidate for this scholarship.

As per my understanding, this scholarship requires a student who possesses [list of qualities and achievements]. You are searching for a student who is capable of [eligibility criteria]. Throughout the time I have known him, [student name] has consistently exhibited these qualities. For example, [narrate a specific occasion or example]. Additionally, [student name] has always displayed [personality traits] that are not just admirable but also essential for success in higher education.

In his personal life, [student name] is a young person of strong character who is dedicated, intelligent and has set high aspirations for himself. He is willing to work hard to achieve those goals. Despite financial challenges faced by his family, [he/she] has not let that hinder his progress. I was impressed to see how [student name] [positive incident].

I have no reservations in recommending [student name] for this scholarship. I am confident that he will continue to uphold the standards required and make your institution proud. Should you have any further questions regarding his work, character, academics, or even his sports performance, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email].

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Vielka Nielsen

Sample Recommendation Letter for Student Going to College

From:
Remedios Hester
5787 Mollis St.
City of Industry, CA 87973
(555) 514-1269
remhester@example.com

Date: March 1st, 2023

To:
Eleanor Jennings
9631 Semper Ave
Astoria, NJ 66309

Subject: College Recommendation Letter

Dear Eleanor Jennings,

[Student name] is a phenomenal young individual. I have had the pleasure of supervising and teaching him closely at [school name] for the past [years]. During these years he has shown some tremendous examples of his strength and dedication. I understand he is applying for a [program name] in your college. I want to suggest to him for acceptance.

[Student’s name] can outdo any assignment with enthusiasm that is inspiring even for his teachers. I would also like to take the opportunity to make a note of [student name]’s scholarly aptitude. While studying for my subject [name of the subject], many times he has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and performance. I have been surprised more than once while being his teacher all these years.

His commitment to his academics is amazing. His marks will show you that he is a brilliant student. Also, his dozens of certificates and medals will show you how good he is at managing his time and how serious he is about everything he does. Such a trait is uncommon in a student his age.

He has shown reliability many times and will continue to do in the future; that is my belief. He is an unrivaled applicant for your college. If you have any further doubts or questions, feel free to call me on [phone number] or drop an email at [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)

Remedios Hester

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Student Teacher From a Teacher

From,
Ezra Duffy
7348 Dis Rd. Apt #782
Austin, TX 50710
(203) 982-6130
ezra.duffy@sample.com

Date: August 10th, 2023

To,
Haviva Holcomb
P.O. Box 642
3450 In Road
Isle of Palms, NY 03828

Subject: Recommendation for [Student Name] for [Program Name]

Dear Haviva Holcomb,

I am writing to strongly recommend [Student Name] for the [Program Name] at [School/Institution]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Student Name] as a student teacher in my [Subject] class for 12 weeks. During this time, [he/she] has demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and dedication in the field of education.

In my class, [Student Name] was part of a 2-teacher team responsible for teaching 50 students, 9 of whom had a learning disability. [He/She] was in charge of 2 sections of [Subject], 2 sections of [Subject], and 1 section of [Subject] for grade [Standard]. [He/She] demonstrated an excellent understanding of different learning styles and was able to adjust assignments and teaching methods accordingly to better support the needs of each student. [His/Her] lesson plans were well-organized, thoroughly prepared, and effectively implemented.

[Student Name] not only used traditional teaching methods, but also incorporated real-life examples and relatable materials such as cartoons, to engage students and foster an interest in the subject matter. [He/She] has a warm, positive, and welcoming personality, making students feel comfortable and eager to learn. This was also evident in the positive working relationship [he/she] developed with the staff members.

I have no doubt that [Student Name] would be an exceptional candidate for the [Program Name] at [School/Institution]. [He/She] is knowledgeable, confident, and deeply passionate about teaching. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on [phone number] or [email] if you have any further questions or need additional information.

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Ezra Duffy

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Middle School Student

From,
McKenzie Hernandez
674 Mia Street Apt #367
Greensboro, VT 40684
(555) 222-1592
mckenz@example.com
Date: April 10th, 2024

To,
Dale Griffin
Revere Middle School
P.O. Box 854
Revere, SD 43841

Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Middle School Student

Dear Dale Griffin,

It is with the utmost pleasure that I recommend my student, [student name], for your school, [school name]. I have been [his/her] [subject] teacher for three years now and have been immensely impressed with [his/her] ability to learn things quickly. [His/Her] inquisitive nature and passion for learning make [him/her] way more advanced than [his/her] actual grade level.

[Student name] has shown a passion for learning on multiple occasions. [He/She] is always ready to absorb something new. [His/Her] [subject name] project which [he/she] submitted to me this last term shows [his/her] deep understanding of the subject. Not only has [he/she] shown interest in learning [himself/herself], but also shown great interest in teaching too.

As a teacher, I found it extremely fulfilling to watch [him/her] grow before me. Watching a student focus on topics that are beyond [his/her] grade level and being enthusiastic towards learning them is not something a teacher witnesses daily. You can contact me on [phone number] or [email id]. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)

McKenzie Hernandez

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Medical Student

From:
Arthur Garcia
823 Mills Ave
Carter, NV 40684
(555) 143-7333
agarcia@sample.com
Date: February 10th, 2024

To:
Dr. Fatima Hooper
Eastern Hospital
278 2nd St.
Jacobsville, OR 84111

Subject: Medical Student Recommendation Letter

Dr. Fatima Hooper,
It is a true pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for [student name], who has been my student in [subject name] at [school name]. Without question, [student name] is one of the best students I have had in my career as a teacher.

[Student name] is a creative thinker, has an eye for detail, and loves applying logic in every situation. These qualities make her a perfect choice for a science student. Early on in her life, [student name] knew that she would like to become a doctor. Her entire academic energy has been focused on that goal since she was in middle school.

She has been a part of a volunteer group of NGO that treats poor people for free. Her experience has made her an invaluable asset to any medical school. For any further questions, you can call me on [phone number] or email me at [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)
Arthur Garcia

Sample Nursing Student Letter of Recommendation

From:
Blythe Carroll
7709 Justo Ave.
Princeton, TX 77987
(555) 882-1496
carrollbb@example.com
Date: January 12th, 2023

To:
Cara Whitehead
4005 Praesent St.
Torrance, WY 22767

Subject: Nurse Recommendation for [student name]

Dear Cara Whitehead,
I am writing to highly recommend [student name] for the internship program at [hospital name]. As [student name]’s instructor for three of [her/his] main courses in the nursing program at [college name], I have had the pleasure of observing [student name]’s exceptional skills and dedication to the field of nursing.

[Student name] has an innate ability to connect with patients and provide care with genuine compassion and love. [She/He] is an extremely hardworking and eager student, consistently going above and beyond in [her/his] coursework and clinical experiences. In addition, [student name] has a strong attention to detail and is highly organized, which is evident in [her/his] file maintenance and reliability.

[Student name] has also demonstrated a deep commitment to the nursing profession through active participation in weekly seminars and attending the annual conference last year. I have no doubt that [she/he] will excel in the internship program at [hospital name] and become a valuable asset to your team. If you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)
Blythe Carroll

Conclusion

These templates and samples are designed to assist you in crafting a compelling letter of recommendation for your student. As a key point of reference for an unfamiliar person, a letter of recommendation is a vital tool for highlighting the strengths and qualifications of a deserving candidate.

A well-written letter can make all the difference in a student’s academic and professional journey. These samples will guide you in effectively communicating the positive attributes of your student and supporting their application process.

Updated June 27, 2022

The student recommendation letter is a reference, usually by a former teacher, of a student’s work ethic, personality, and how they interact with other people. A recommendation should be provided by the teacher for any individual applying to college, graduate school, an MBA, or any position where a former teacher’s acknowledgment would be helpful. The letter is to be written by the former teacher and sent directly to the party that is requesting the reference.

Types of Student Letters

College (High School Student) Recommendation Letter – For high school students applying to college.

Fraternity Recommendation Letter – For college students pledging to be in an organized group of men.

Graduate School Recommendation Letter – For those with a bachelor’s degree-seeking additional studies or a master’s program.

MBA Recommendation Letter – Also known as a ‘Masters of Business Administration is a graduate school although usually cannot be started until the applicant has had some real-world experience.

Scholarship Recommendation Letter – For a student seeking a grant to pay for education.

Sorority Recommendation Letter – For college students pledging to be in an organized group of women.

Table of Contents

Who to Select? How to Write (Format) Introduction Body Paragraph(s) Conclusion College Recommendation Letter (High School) – Sample 1 Fraternity Recommendation Letter – Sample 2 Graduate School Recommendation Letter – Sample 3 MBA Recommendation Letter – Sample 4 Scholarship Recommendation Letter – Sample 5 Sorority Recommendation Letter – Sample 6

Who to Select?

A student that is looking to have someone else write a recommendation for them should ask themselves, “who have I been closer to than any other teacher, coach, or faculty member at my school?”. What schools are looking for in the recommendation letter is to get a glimpse of the student’s personality when making the judgment of whether or not to allow the applicant into their school. Therefore, it is best to select someone who can write the most personal of recommendations about the student.

How to Write (Format)

The letter should fit on one page, preferably with a letterhead. It must contain a short introduction, one to two body paragraphs, and a conclusion that reiterates your recommendation of the student.

Introduction

In the first paragraph, you must establish why you are writing this letter: Who are you writing on behalf of? Who is the letter addressing? Introduce yourself and the context of your relationship with the student: What is your title? How long have you known the student, and in what capacity? It can also be helpful to include a general summary of your impression of the student.

Example 

Dear Admissions Board,

I am thrilled to be writing this letter to recommend Elijah Smith for admissions to Vanderbilt University. Elijah was a student of mine for three years at Troy High School, where I’ve been teaching English and creative writing for almost 15 years. I have watched Elijah blossom as a young man and writer, and I have no doubt that he would thrive in your undergraduate Creative Writing program.

Body Paragraph(s)

The body of the letter dives into the student’s positive attributes and characteristics, providing concrete examples and anecdotes that demonstrate these qualities.

Example

Some of my favorite qualities about Elijah can be described in the following words: extremely hardworking, inspired, and diligent. Despite having a night job as a pizza delivery courier to support his single mother and little brother, he never missed a single homework assignment in any of my classes during the three years I had the pleasure of teaching him. In addition, the papers he turned in never lacked depth: His voracious curiosity about literature and the infinite possibilities of storytelling never fails to come through his writing. Even during class discussions, he was always one of the most engaged participants, challenging his fellow peers to dig deeper.

Conclusion

The conclusion wraps up your letter in a few sentences, reiterating the points of your recommendation and providing a method of contact for the review board in case anyone wants to follow up.

Example

In my 15 years working as a high school teacher, Elijah is one of the most special students I’ve come across. I have no doubt that his undeniable work ethic and passion for creative writing will take him far in his life, whatever path he follows. I’d be happy to provide any further information about my recommendation. You can contact me at [email protected]

Sincerely,

Betsy White
English, Creative Writing Teacher
Troy High School

Sample 1 – College

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is my pleasure to be recommending Kermit Kim for your university’s acclaimed College of Journalism. As Kermit’s school newspaper advisor at Sunny Ridge High School for the past four years, I’ve closely watched her grow into a promising young reporter and editor. In addition to her incredible knack for journalism, Kermit has shown a constant initiative in bringing the team together and exploring new ideas. Her leadership skills and vision as the Arts and Culture Editor of our student newspaper The Falcon have been proven time and again, especially with a first-place recognition last month from the National Student Journalism Association in page design and feature stories.

Beyond Kermit’s accomplishments with the student newspaper, her academic prowess has landed her in the top five ranking of her high school class for the last four years. Her unrelenting work ethic and time management skills allows her to perform highly in her classes while maintaining involvement in a number of extracurricular activities. In addition to devoting her time and energy to The Falcon, she is also an active member of the Sunny Ridge Marching Band, which went on to place 3rd place at the regional competition this past spring.

Without a doubt, Kermit has so much to offer and is one of the best students I have had the pleasure of teacher in my 30 years at this high school. It is my hope that Kermit develops her passion for journalism into a career; I have no doubt in my mind that she will thrive at your university’s College of Journalism. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with regard to my whole-hearted recommendation of Kermit Jones.

Sincerely,

Tammy Lee

Newspaper Advisor, English Teacher

Sunny Ridge High School

Sample 2 – Fraternity

Jack White
Alpha Mappa Kambda House
321 Frat Row St.
Los Angeles, CA 90021

June 15, 2022

Brogan Smith
Alpha Mappa Kambda Recruitment
College University

Dear Brogan,

It is my utmost pleasure to recommend my brother Mack White to join the brotherhood of Alpha Mappa Kambda at College University. Mack is currently a freshman studying marine biology and is enthusiastic about finding a family during his time in school. I can vouch for Mack’s reliability, adventurous spirit, and loyalty as someone who has known him for 18 years. As someone who has been with this fraternity for the past four years, I think that he will be a great fit for our brotherhood.

In high school, Mack was the star quarterback of the football team, which went on to win the regional championships last year. In addition, he was involved in a number of clubs, including French Club and the Key Club. He held leadership positions in both, as vice president and treasurer respectively. His field of interests has proven to be diverse, and with his effective time management, he pursues his interests passionately. In addition, his enthusiasm and outgoing personality is infectious, which led his class to elect him as the homecoming king in his senior year.

Without a doubt, I believe that Mack will be a great fit for our brotherhood. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions regarding my recommendation for Mack.

Sincerely,

Jack White

Sample 3 – Graduate School

June 16, 2022

Dr. May Lee
Professor of Psychology
Stanford University
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
[email protected]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing this letter to give my whole-hearted recommendation for Eunice Park, a remarkable pupil I’ve had the pleasure of teaching during her undergrad at Stanford University. I truly believe that she has what it takes to thrive in Harvard University’s Master of Psychology program and bring great contributions to the school.

In her freshman year, Eunice left a strong impression on me in the lecture hall. Her inquisitive mind and assertiveness were quickly made evident by her thoughtful questions and active participation in the class. Between her sophomore and senior year, I had the pleasure of teaching Eunice in a number of my advanced psychology courses. She shined in this intimate setting as well; her high level of comprehension and willingness to go above and beyond what was required made her stand out among her peers. In class discussions, Eunice was typically the most reliable source of thought-proving points, challenging other students to dig deeper into the psychological concepts I presented them with.

Eunice’s admiration of psychology is undeniable, but what sets her apart is her unending commitment to deepen her understanding of the field outside of the classroom. Her comprehension of the history of cognitive psychology and its effects on modern psychology is far beyond the undergrad level; the countless hours she spends doing research and reading journals are made evident in her ability to connect dots and communicate them succinctly, whether in a class discussion or in her papers.

I am so excited to watch Eunice’s career bloom as a leader in modern psychology academia, and I have no doubt that she will be successful in this journey. Harvard University’s Master of Psychology program would be very lucky to have her. Please feel free to contact me for any more information. I would be happy to speak more about Eunice’s admirable strengths as both a student and an individual.

Sincerely,

Dr. May Lee

Sample 4 – MBA

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is my utmost pleasure to recommend Jane Doe for Tulane University’s MBA program. I first met Jane as her supervisor at Geocode Productions, a startup I founded in 2015. Jane came on as our accountant in 2016 and was quickly promoted to the position of senior financial manager. Her superior judgment, critical thinking skills, and unmatched expertise in finance made her an integral part of our small but growing team.

When Jane joined the company, she quickly laid out a financial plan with clear objectives and helped set up all of our business accounts. Her extraordinary interpersonal skills allowed her to guide our team with ease when it came to managing our expenses. Even though she was one of the youngest members of our team, her confidence and know-how in the business world allowed her to establish herself as a natural leader.

The growth and success that our company has seen over the last few years is in no small part thanks to Jane, whose expertise as an accountant and leadership as a senior finance manager went beyond every CEO’s wildest dreams. She is extremely qualified to pursue an MBA and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for her next. You can reach me anytime via email ([email protected]) if you need any more information regarding my recommendation.

All the best,

Robert Smith

Sample 5 – Scholarship

June 17, 2022

Helena B. Carter
English Teacher
Troy High School
2200 Dorothy Ln. Fullerton, CA 92831

To the Betty White Scholarship Committee,

I am very pleased to be recommending June Carter, one of my favorite students I’ve had the pleasure of teaching in my 40-year secondary teaching career. June was a student in my honors English class in her sophomore year, a star student in my beginner, intermediate, and advanced creative writing classes through her junior and senior year. June is a natural-born storyteller whose passion for literature grows with each passing day. If selected for the Betty White Literature Scholarship, I have no doubt in my mind that she will carry on Betty White’s legacy of being a trailblazing female artist and creator.

June left an impression on me from the first day she set foot in my class. Her boldness and ability to articulate nuanced ideas as a sophomore made her stand out among her peers, but it was her unbreakable passion for reading and writing that turned her into a favorite of mine. Her contributions in class discussions about various stories we’d read were always rooted in cultural sensitivity and historical knowledge. In the same way, her papers reflected a maturity and level of comprehension not often seen at the secondary school level.

As the advisor of our school’s literary magazine, I’ve watched June as she used her critical judgment to curate a bimonthly magazine for the campus. As the head editor, June led the student team with ease and treated everyone with respect. Her passion for providing a platform for marginalized voices made her into an impressive and thoughtful editor and writer.

I have no doubt in my mind that June will thrive in her budding career with the assistance of the Betty White Literature Scholarship. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding my recommendation: [email protected]

Sincerely,

Helena B. Carter

Sample 6 – Sorority

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this recommendation on behalf of Jennifer Aniston, who I have had the pleasure of knowing for the last 18 years of her life. As her older sister, I’ve watched Jennifer blossom into an ambitious and gregarious individual with many accomplishments under her belt. As a longtime member of Kappa Delta, I can say with confidence that Jennifer would be a great fit for Ohio University’s Kappa Delta chapter.

In high school, Jennifer was the captain of the cheerleading squad and demonstrated impressive leadership skills that would lead the squad to regional championships. The squad earned a first place honor in three different categories, and it was under Jennifer’s unifying leadership that the team was able to achieve that. In addition, she has maintained a rigorous academic schedule, maintaining a 3.8 GPA with AP and honors classes. She is very interested in doing her best in whatever she does, and that’s the most impressive quality about her. Whether it’s academics, her involvement with school clubs, or with cheerleading, she always comes out on top. She is a winner through and through.

Jennifer is an absolute pleasure to be around, and I find myself always laughing when I am with her. Her winning personality and her passion to be the best version of herself are qualities that I think would make her a great fit for the sisterhood of Kappa Delta. You can reach me at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Judy Aniston

Every college student craves the moment when they will graduate and enter the workforce. At this point, they need a good recommendation letter to open the door to the right job and kick off an exciting career.

School students need a recommendation letter when applying for graduate school, university, or scholarship. They also need it when applying for a job that requires a reference or when enhancing their application.

Additionally, it’s a great privilege and honor to be asked to write such a letter for a student.

In this article, I’ll show you some examples of recommendation letters; however, before moving on to that, let us first understand what a recommendation letter is.

A recommendation letter is a document that highlights peoples’ character traits and work ethic. It is a document in which you attest a student’s experience, qualifications, and dedication to help them secure their desired position.

Now that we know what a recommendation letter is, let’s get straight to the samples.

1. Sample Recommendation Letter From a Teacher

Image: furkanfdemir

Att. Katie Houghton

Re: Emma Johnson

Dear Ms. Houghton,

I am writing this recommendation at the request of Emma Johnson, applying for the Student Volunteer Program at St. Jude Hospital this summer.

I have known Emma for three years as I worked in the capacity of a teacher at Smoothville Middle School.

I took Emma through English and French classes, where she excelled with superior grades. I’d rate her performance as outstanding based on her grades, class participation, and attendance.

Emma has desirable strengths that I believe will be valuable to your organization. She is always interested in supporting others.

For instance, early this year, when our class conducted a community service project, Emma helped me collect and organize food for the food pantry. She was also at the forefront of ensuring that the elderly had their food before anybody else.

I highly recommend Emma Johnson because I believe that she will be a valuable asset to your organization. If you need any additional information, feel free to contact me at 555-5555 or email at email@email.com anytime.

Sincerely,

Brian Smith

Teacher, Smoothville Middle School

2. Sample Recommendation Letter for College Student Peer Advisor

Image: Andrea Piacquadio

Recommendation for Emma Johnson

I have worked with Emma Johnson for three years as she served as a peer advisor in the academic achievement office at Brightstar College. Emma exhibited exemplary skills while building a record of outstanding performance in this role.

She mastered the often involving task of learning a vast collection of electronic and print resources and her diligence is commendable.

Ms. Johnson was unique in her emphasis on establishing rapport and reaching out to a range of customers from different backgrounds.

She attracted a good following of clients who purposefully sought her out since she was helpful to them (much like an excellent professional counselor does).

In my 20 years of professional experience, I’d say Emma stands out as one of the most resilient peer advisors who can cultivate client relationships. Emma is a good listener and conveys information clearly and effectively to individuals and groups.

You can tell that I hold Emma in very high regard. Therefore, I recommend her for graduate study to help tap the skills above. I’m confident that she has empathy, a caring nature, listening skills, and the intellectual capacity to become a fine professional counselor.

Feel free to contact me if further information may be needed regarding this outstanding young woman.

Sincerely,

Erick Perkins

Tutor, Career Office

513-500-0000

Erick@Brighstarcollege222.edu

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3. Sample Character Recommendation Letter

Image: Mikhail Nilov

To Whom It May Concern:

I have had the pleasure of knowing Emma Johnson for five years. I have known her in many capacities as she has been helpful to many of my neighbors and me.

Since I had trouble getting around, Emma always came to my house to offer help in running errands. She would ask if I needed help mowing my lawn and her cheerful and friendly character made me appreciate her even more.

Emma has also helped me carry out various tasks at my retail business. She worked on inventories, our newsletter, mailing list, and our customer interface.

Emma never complains about work. For the various times we talked about her education, it was evident that she did well and garnered a high grade point average. She is intelligent, creative, and a good person who’ll do well in her chosen career.

I am happy and confident to provide this reference, and in case you have any questions or wish to know more about my experience with Emma, please feel free to call or email me.

Sincerely,

Chloe Hailey

Hailey211114@myemail.com

523-000-1111

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4. Sample Recommendation Letter for Undergraduate Students

Image: Karolina Grabowska

Attn: Dave Brown

I feel honored to recommend Ms. Emma Johnson to your school. As her law professor in her pre-law undergraduate degree, I have seen her demonstrate diligence and an impressive work ethic.

Emma is an extraordinary young woman who maintained excellent grades and graduated at the top of her class. I want to recommend her as her qualities are not only in written examinations but also because she’s equipped with organizational skills.

She also possesses the ability to complete multiple tasks and deliver favorable results regardless of deadline pressure.

In her semester project, Emma developed an innovative and collaborative novel with her classmates, which is now being considered for publication.

Her competence in public speaking propelled her to become the vice president of the student council in her college. As a lawyer, I believe these qualities are essential for career success.

I know that Ms. Johnson will gain the needed knowledge and skills to become an excellent lawyer by being a student in your esteemed institution. I would like to restate my strong recommendation for Emma Johnson and sincerely hope she will be accepted.

If you have questions regarding Ms. Johnson’s skills and abilities, please do not hesitate to use the contact information on the letterhead to reach out.

Respectfully,

Prof. Morris Fletcher

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5. Sample Recommendation Letter to the Review Committee

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Attn: Review Committee

I am pleased to recommend Emma Johnson, an honors undergraduate student in our program. I have known Emma for over three years, and she’s always stood out as a dedicated and resilient student.

I interacted with Emma more as a student in my Economic Geography course. During the summer, I hired her to work on an NSF-sponsored research project on Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change, where she delivered exemplary results.

From discussions with my colleagues and various graduate students in my department, we all believe that Emma is an exceptional student and that she will be a dedicated student and a competent professional. I highly recommend her without reservation.

Sincerely,

Christie Lewis

Professor of Geography

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6. Sample Recommendation Letter for Graduate School for PhD

Image: Anete Lusina

Dear Madam,

I recommend Ms. Emma Johnson for your institution’s Ph.D. position in Research Studies. I have taught Emma for the past two years in the area of Economics, and it gives me much joy to see her excel in this field.

Emma completed a research project on Sustainable Economy under my supervision, cleared the entrance examination for your institution’s researchers, and was at the top of her class last year.

Emma is very interested in her studies and keen to join the St. Gregory Economic Service to serve the nation. I have witnessed her work efficiency, curiosity, and critical thinking ability, and I am sure she will realize her dreams soon with her hard work.

I will be delighted if my recommendation helps her obtain admission to the Research Study program at your institution.

If you have any queries regarding academics, research, and other areas of Emma’s candidature, don’t hesitate to contact me by phone or email, as shared below. I am usually available on the phone Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm.

Sincerely,

Dr. Sam Moore

Brightstar College

555 6111 200

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7. Sample Recommendation Letter for Admission Committee

Image: Michael Burrows

Dear Admissions Committee:

I am writing this letter to support Emma’s application to the online master’s program in education offered at Princeton Ivy College. Emma has been a student in online courses and enrolled in the Introduction to Education (ED 100) online course in the summer of 2019.

As you are aware, online courses require high motivation and concentration, mainly because of the lack of face-to-face interaction.

The study was structured so that for each unit, students were required to read their textbook and lectures that I had written, hold discussion forums where they converse with other students about issues raised through the readings, and complete one or two essays.

During the fall of the same year, Emma enrolled in the Early Childhood Education (ED 211) online course, where she continued with her above-average performance, earning a final score of 87 points.

Throughout the courses, she consistently submitted her work on time and actively participated in discussions with other students.

I might not have met Emma face-to-face, but from our online interactions, I can attest to her ability to complete the academic requirements of Princeton Ivy College’s online master’s program in education.

Sincerely,

Prof. Tom Cage

8. Sample Recommendation Letter for Scholarship 

Image: Ketut Subiyanto

To the Harrison Scholarship Selection Committee:

I am writing this letter on behalf of Ms. Emma Johnson, an international studies student at Princeton Ivy College applying for the Harrison Scholarship. Emma, without a doubt, is one of the most vital undergraduate students I have had the pleasure to work with at Princeton Ivy College.

I am Emma’s co-advisor for her honors thesis, and she has enrolled in several of my classes. Recently, Emma was the sole undergraduate student in a graduate seminar I taught called Qualitative Methods. Her performance was exemplary.

I enjoyed watching her push her way through some complex readings in the area of social theory. Additionally, she was a discussion leader where she grounded complex theories that helped alleviate initial nervousness among students in her class.

From her discussions, I noted that she is one of the rare students who can operate at an advanced theoretical level while firmly rooted in an empirical realm.

Having reviewed Emma’s performance, I can affirm that her work is top-notch and is on par with the graduate students in the geography department. Finally, Emma has a strong understanding of political theory and a solid intellectual facility.

She is a prowess writer, a rare and gifted scholar with my most vital support. She is one in a million.

Sincerely,

Christine Thomson

Assistant Professor of Geography and Women’s Studies

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9. Sample Postgraduate Recommendation Letter

Image: Nicola Barts

Dear Mr. Michael Jenkins,

I am writing this letter to recommend Ms. Emma Johnson for the post-graduate law course at your law school.

As the head of the law department at Princeton Ivy College, I understand that your law school is one of the top-rated ones in the United States, and I believe that Emma deserves a place in it.

I have known Emma for four years as I was not only the department head at Princeton Ivy College but also taught her two significant subjects during the graduation program.

Ms. Johnson comes out as a strong-headed, intelligent, dedicated, and hardworking student with a natural knack for the field of law and puts her best at whatever she does. Her passion for law and zest for becoming a corporate lawyer makes her a perfect choice for this course.

I believe she can be an asset to the university if given a chance.

Sincerely,

Patricia Morgan

570 935 0011

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10. Sample Academic Recommendation Letter

Image: Ivan Samkov

Dear Admissions Committee Members:

With great pleasure and enthusiasm, I write to you to support the candidacy of Emma Johnson for admission to the English Department’s Graduate Program at Princeton Ivy College.

I first met Emma when she enrolled in my sophomore-level course in Victorian Literature at Townbridge University. Here, she demonstrated writing analysis talents beyond most of her peers.

Her enthusiasm for critical analysis led her to complete other advanced Victorian studies classes with me, and it was an honor to serve as an advisor for her honors project.

Emma’s focused mind allows her to grasp the basics of our curriculum and formulate original, persuasive, and interpretative arguments.

She demonstrates excellent organizational and leadership skills and is one of our most highly esteemed undergraduate teaching assistants in our English 101 courses.

She is also an engaging speaker and has presented two well-received papers at the annual Victorian Studies conference at the University of TX.

I am thus convinced that Emma will prove herself to be a valuable contributor to your English Department, both as a graduate student and as a Teaching or Research Assistant.

Emma deserves any financial assistance you may offer to help her complete her Master’s and Doctoral degrees.

Kindly let me know if there is a need for additional information I can provide to support the decision-making process.

Sincerely,

Dr. Richard Craig

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11. Sample Skills Recommendation Letter Supporting Admission Application for the Entry Class

Image: Andrea Piacquadio

Dear Admission Committee:

With great pleasure, I write to recommend Emma Johnson as a beautiful and promising person. I taught Emma Math through her high school years, and she was a student full of drive with a winning attitude. Emma is kind, attentive, and always engaged with the class.

Ms. Johnson was a top performer in her final high school year and was among the top five students in two previous years. Emma can understand complex problems and solves them faster than an average student.

Emma manages her time well and is always willing to give a helping hand to her fellow students. She possesses the qualities of a leader but remains humble in her interactions.

While math is her main focus, she also performs well in music. She plays saxophone in our jazz band and knows how to balance math and music. With the attributes that Emma possesses, I am confident that any college would be happy to enroll her.

I will be glad to answer any other questions you may have concerning Emma’s skills and abilities.

Sincerely,

Teacher Gregory

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12. Sample Recommendation Letter for a Former High School Student

Image: Andrea Piacquadio

To whom it may concern,

I have known Emma Johnson for the past three years. Having served as her teacher of English and Arts at Bakehand High School, I believe that Emma will be an excellent addition to your institution.

Emma is a bright young lady who demonstrates her intelligence and capability as a student with great potential. She has always been at the top of her class, and I am confident she will thrive in any academic program she chooses to pursue.

Emma greatly enriched our high school life by engaging in extracurricular activities. She initiated a Bridge Club where students met to teach each other the ins and outs of the card game. I am convinced that Emma Johnson will make a valuable contribution to your university.

If you have further questions regarding Emma, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,

Annabel Johns

Bakehand High School

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13. Sample Recommendation Letter for Engineering Students

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Dear Admissions team,

I am Scott Brown, the Branch Manager-BKV Chemicals. I recommend Emma Johnson, one of our employees, for a place in the M.Eng Chemical Engineering Course offered by Princeton Ivy College.

Emma completed her B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from Brightstar College, where she excelled with first-class honors.

She later joined BKV-Chemicals in 2019 as a trainee chemist, completed her training successfully, and has since grown into a full-fledged chemical production supervisor.

Emma is honest, hardworking, and aspires to complete a post-graduate course in chemical engineering to boost her competence.

For the period I have worked with her, she has been instrumental in helping our company exceed the turnover targets for two years in a row. She possesses excellent communication skills and is a proven team leader who motivates her team to excel.

She dreams of pursuing her post-graduate course in the United States, and Princeton Ivy College is her best choice.

I recommend Emma for the M.Eng Chemical Engineering Course and wish her the best in her studies.

Sincerely,

Scott Brown

Branch Manager

BKV-Chemicals

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14. Sample Recommendation Letter Student Council

Image: Yaroslav Shuraev

To whom it may concern,

It gives me great pleasure to write to you to recommend Emma Johnson to be named as a certified student leader through the student leadership program.

In addition to meeting the required criteria, Emma has demonstrated to be an outstanding leader committed to the student council.

I have had the pleasure of working with and observing Ms. Johnson. For the past two years, I have witnessed her outstanding leadership in action.

One incident that illustrates her strong leadership skills is when she assisted in the local blood drive, where she rallied over 300 students to volunteer for the campaign and recruited others to be part of the drive.

For these and other compelling reasons, I recommend Emma Johnson for the honor of being recognized as a distinguished student.

Sincerely,

David Scott

Principal

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15. Sample Recommendation Letter for Internship

Image: RODNAE Productions

Dear station manager,

I feel compelled to write this letter to recommend Emma Johnson for your communication internship. I believe that Emma’s passion for communication, recording, and broadcasting makes her the ideal candidate for the position.

Emma started as a news writer at our school radio station and quickly became the station’s student manager. She has attended several broadcast seminars and represented the school well.

The feedback I often get about her is that her dedication to broadcasting and sense of responsibility makes her a solid asset to any team.

Emma is a responsible young lady who hardly misses her time at the station. In my Broadcast communication class, she is the top student among all her peers. I urge you to accept her for your internship and watch her work for your benefit.

If you need any information regarding her character and qualifications, please don’t hesitate to contact me by email at walterkingston555100@princetonivycollege.edu.

Sincerely,

Walter Kingston

Broadcast Communication Tutor

Princeton Ivy College

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Final Thoughts

While the above samples are about different aspects of recommendation with different interests and values, they all share fundamental features. They communicate enthusiasm; they have back-to-back examples and outline students’ personal and academic strengths.

As you recommend, ensure that you include these features and work closely with the students you recommend to give a holistic view of their strengths.

How important are recommendation letters in a college application? According to William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, they are «extremely important.»

If you’re a student, examples of great letters of recommendation can help you understand how to get strong letters yourself from your teachers. If you’re a teacher, the examples in this guide will inspire you to support your students strongly as they apply to college. Keep reading for four excellent letters from teachers that will get anyone into college, along with expert analysis on why they’re so strong.

Important Note: Are you looking for job recommendation letters? If so, check out my great post here!

First, let’s understand the role of recommendation letters in your application.

Why are Recommendation Letters Important?

The majority of admissions officers at four-year colleges, especially private schools, emphasize that their process is holistic. They seek to gain a sense of the student as a «whole person,» rather than focusing on pieces of who she is based solely on grades and test scores. Since they rarely meet the student in person, the recommendation letters, along with the student’s own personal essay, play a huge role in illuminating her intellectual and personal qualities.

That’s why recommendation letters from teachers, especially those who know their students well, carry a great deal of weight in applications. A letter that expresses a strong vote of support, as well as highlights a student’s impressive academic and personal strengths, can have a powerful effect on that student’s chances of admission.

Let’s look at some samples of strong recommendation letters, one from an English teacher, another from a physics teacher, the third from a history teacher, and the final one from a math teacher. Then we’ll break down exactly why these letters of recommendation are effective.

The first example recommends Sara, a senior who loves to write and read poetry.

Sample Letter #1: Sara the Poet

Dear Admissions Committee,

I had the pleasure of teaching Sara in her 11th grade honors English class at Mark Twain High School. From the first day of class, Sara impressed me with her ability to be articulate about difficult concepts and texts, her sensitivity to the nuances within literature, and her passion for reading, writing, and creative expression- both in and out of the classroom. Sara is a talented literary critic and poet, and she has my highest recommendation as a student and writer.

Sara is talented at considering the subtleties within literature and the purpose behind authors’ works. She produced an extraordinary year-long thesis paper on creative identity development, in which she compared works from three different time periods and synthesized cultural and historical perspectives to inform her analysis. When called upon to give her thesis defense in front of her peers, Sara spoke clearly and eloquently about her conclusions and responded to questions in a thoughtful way. Outside of the classroom, Sara is dedicated to her literary pursuits, especially to poetry. She publishes her poetry in our school’s literary magazine, as well as in online magazines. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art, writing, and a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Throughout the year Sara was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others’ opinions even when they differ from her own. When we held a class debate about gun laws, Sara opted to speak for the side opposite her own views. She explained her choice as motivated by a desire to put herself in other people’s shoes, view the issues from a new perspective, and gain a clearer sense of the issue from all angles. Throughout the year, Sara demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings, and perspectives of others, along with shrewd powers of observation, all qualities that makes her outstanding as a student of literature and burgeoning writer.

I am certain that Sara is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future. I highly recommend her for admission to your undergraduate program. She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Sara consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve her writing skills, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Sara is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone she meets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at callmeclemens@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Ms. Scribe
English Teacher
Mark Twain High School

This is a thorough, glowing recommendation for a student that Ms. Scribe clearly knows well. What other features make it stand out as a strong letter of rec?

The Breakdown

Ms. Scribe has a high opinion of Sara and her skills at writing and literary analysis. One way that she expresses this is by using powerful and specific language. She doesn’t merely say Sara is a good writer. She says she’s articulate about difficult concepts and sensitive to the nuances within literature. She calls her insightful and self-aware with shrewd powers of observation.

These descriptors don’t happen by accident. Ms. Scribe took the time to choose her words carefully, and that effort paid off with a strong letter that captures Sara’s special qualities.

Ms. Scribe also supports her characterization of Sara with examples. She describes her thesis paper and how she responded to questions thoughtfully under the pressured situation of her thesis defense. She gives the example of the debate on gun laws to illustrate Sara’s openness to many different points of view.

In addition to illuminating her intellectual and personal strengths and supporting them with specific examples, Ms. Scribe speaks to Sara’s goals for the future. She points out that she is talented at writing, poetry specifically, and that she is committed to continuing to improve as a writer in her future.

This letter, by virtue of its wording, length, and specificity, shows that Ms. Scribe took the time and effort to recommend Sara thoughtfully and with conviction. The fact that she knows Sara well and is committed to helping her application succeed with a thoughtful letter further adds weight to her assessment.

This letter would be a boon to Sara’s application, especially if she’s applying to study writing or English. She clearly impressed her English teacher and, in return, got a memorable, complimentary letter of recommendation for her college application.

This next example is similarly enthusiastic and detailed. It’s for a student applying to an engineering program.

Sample Letter #2: Stacy the Engineer

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is a great pleasure to recommend Stacy for admission to your engineering program. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. I taught Stacy in my 11th grade honors physics class and advised her in Robotics Club. I am not surprised to find out she is now ranked at the top of an extraordinarily capable class of seniors. She has a keen interest in and talent for physics, math, and scientific inquiry. Her advanced skills and passion for the subject make her an ideal fit for your rigorous engineering program.

Stacy is a perceptive, sharp, quick individual with a high aptitude for math and science. She is driven to understand how things work, whether they be the old computer hard drives in the school library or the forces that hold our universe together. Her final project in class was especially impressive, an investigation of frequency-dependent sound absorption, an idea that she said was sparked by not wanting to bother her parents with her hours of guitar practice at home. She’s been a strong leader in Robotics Club, eager to share her knowledge with others and learn new skills. I have the students in the club prepare lessons and take turns leading our after-school meetings. When it was Stacy’s turn, she showed up prepared with a fascinating lecture on lunar nautics and fun activities that got everyone moving and talking. She was our only student teacher to be met with much deserved applause at the end of her lesson.

Stacy’s personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She’s an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Stacy’s the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she’s always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond. Stacy is just the kind of driven, engaging, and curious student that helped make our classroom a lively environment and safe place to take intellectual risks.

Stacy has my highest recommendation for admission to your engineering program. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it’s designing an experiment, collaborating with others, or teaching herself to play classical and electrical guitar. Stacy’s endless curiosity, combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at milevamaricfanclub@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Ms. Randall
Physics Teacher
Marie Curie High School

Ms. Randall is clearly as much of a fan of Stacy as she is of Mileva Marić. How does she communicate her recommendation?

The Breakdown

Ms. Randall plugs for Stacy right off the bat with a statement of outstanding ranking: Stacy is one of the most exceptional students she’s had in 15 years of teaching. A statement like this is pretty extraordinary and will make an impact in the mind of its readers. Stacy sounds like a special student, and she chose her recommender well.

Like in the last example, this letter uses strong, specific language, calling Stacy a perceptive and sharp person who has the confidence and good humor to take intellectual risks. Through its accurate and expressive language, this letter helps Stacy come to life in the mind of the reader.

Beyond the evaluation, Ms. Randall gives specific examples of Stacy’s academic and personal strengths. She talks about her successful teaching in Robotics Club, her leadership in group projects, and her dedicated practice to teaching herself to play the guitar.

Rather than spreading the letter too thin, Ms. Randall highlights a few core themes. She connects Stacy’s love of music with her passion for physics by talking about the frequency-dependent sound absorption project. All the threads tie together in a nice, memorable bow.

This letter is a strong vote of support for Stacy’s application to an engineering program. Her physics teacher admires Stacy’s skills and goals, and she made it clear that Stacy had her highest recommendation in this letter.

This next example also comes from a teacher who’s extremely impressed with his student. It focuses on the student’s performance in class and his volunteer work outside the classroom.

Sample Letter #3: William the History Buff and Social Organizer

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is hard to overstate the meaningful contributions that William has made to our school and surrounding community. As both his 10th and 11th grade History teacher, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing William make profound contributions both in and out of the classroom. His school and community service is motivated by a strong sense of social justice, which he informs through a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of historical trends and events. I can say with confidence that William is one of the most caring and driven students I’ve ever taught in my fifteen years at the school.

As a child of immigrant parents, William is especially drawn to understand the immigrant experience. He produced an extraordinary semester-long research paper on the treatment of Japanese-Americans in the U.S. during WWII, in which he went beyond all expectations to conduct Skype interviews with relatives of his featured subjects to incorporate into his paper. William has a great capacity to draw connections between past and present and to ground his understanding of current issues in the context of historical events. He never retreats to a simple answer or explanation, but is comfortable dealing with ambiguity. William’s fascination with U.S. and World History and skill for deep analysis have him an exemplary scholar, as a well as a motivated activist driven to promote civil rights and work towards social equity.

In sophomore year, William noticed that the college planning seminars students attended included little information for first generation or immigrant students. Always thinking about how institutions can better serve people, William spoke with counselors and ESL teachers about his ideas to better support all students. He helped collect resources and design a college planning curriculum for immigrant and undocumented students to enhance their college access. He further helped organize a group that connected ESL students with native English speakers, stating his mission to be helping ELLs improve their English and increasing multicultural awareness and social cohesion at the school as a whole. William identified a need and worked with students and faculty alike to meet it in an extremely effective and beneficial way. Ever the history scholar, he did plenty of research to back up his ideas.

William believes passionately in social progress and working for the common good. His own personal experiences, along with his profound grasp on social history, drive his advocacy work. He is a talented, intelligent student with the charisma, confidence, strong values, and respect for others to make a huge difference in the world around him. I’m looking forward to seeing all the good that William continues to do for his fellow humanity in college and beyond, as well as the excellent work that he will produce at the college level. William has my highest recommendation. If you have any questions, please contact me at thethingstheycarried@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Mr. Jackson
History Teacher
Martin Luther King, Jr. High School

Mr. Jackson’s letter makes William sound like a pretty amazing student and person. How does he go about expressing his admiration for William in this rec letter?

The Breakdown

Like Ms. Randall did in her letter, Mr. Jackson provides a statement of outstanding ranking for William, calling him one of the most caring and driven students he’s ever taught. Considering his long teaching career of 15 years, this says a lot about William as a student and a person.

Also like in the last example, Mr. Jackson focuses on a few core aspects of William’s character. He talks about his love of history and how it informs his social activism. He comments on his exceptional historical scholarship, as well as his personal qualities of caring for those around him and working for the social good.

Mr. Jackson also gives insight into William’s personal life, explaining how he has a personal connection to his projects and volunteer work as the child of immigrant parents. This letter reveals that William is a thoughtful, motivated individual who connects his own experiences with his learning and desire to contribute to his community.

The letter also showcases William’s exceptional accomplishments by giving specific examples of William’s research paper and his work supporting the academic and personal needs of ELL students. Mr. Jackson expresses his enthusiastic recommendation while illuminating William’s love of learning and strength of character. This letter would be both impressive and memorable to admissions officers considering William for admission to their school.

This next example comes from a math teacher. Let’s see what Mr. Wiles has to say about Joe.

Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker

Dear Admissions Committee,

It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class. He has that combination of a positive attitude and the belief that he can always improve that’s rare in a high school student, but so essential to the learning process. I am confident that he will continue to display the same commitment and diligence in everything he does. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your school.

Joe would not describe himself as a math person. He’s told me on several occasions that all the numbers and variables make his mind go fuzzy. Joe did, in fact, struggle to comprehend the material at the beginning of the year, but his response to this is what really struck me. Where so many others have given up, Joe took on this class as a welcome challenge. He stayed after school for extra help, got extra tutoring at the nearby college, and asked questions in and out of class. Due to all his hard work, Joe not only raised his grades, but he also inspired some of his classmates to stay after for extra help, as well. Joe truly demonstrated a growth mindset, and he inspired his peers to adopt that valuable perspective, too. Joe helped contribute to our classroom environment as one where all students can feel supported and able to ask questions.

Joe’s strong belief in his ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice was likely shaped by his years as a baseball player. He’s played all through high school and is one of the team’s most valuable players. In his final for our class, Joe designed an impressive project calculating and analyzing batting averages. While he initially described himself as not a math person, Joe reaped the benefits of his tremendous effort and found a way to make the subject come alive for him in a way that he was personally invested in. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of academic and personal progress.

Joe is a trustworthy, reliable, good-humored student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. He was a pleasure to have in class, and his positive attitude and belief in himself, even in the face of difficulty, is an immensely admirable asset. I’m confident that he will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance, and optimism that he showed myself and his peers. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your undergraduate program. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at fortheloveofalgebra@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Mr. Wiles
Math Teacher
Euclid High School

While the students featured in the first three examples were top of their class or demonstrated leadership in the school, Joe isn’t a top achiever in the traditional sense. However, this recommendation is still a strong one, even if it says he struggled in the teacher’s class. What does Mr. Wiles focus on to recommend Joe?

The Breakdown

Mr. Wiles writes a strong letter for Joe, with the same kind of enthusiasm and specific examples as the other three letters. Even though Joe may not have gotten the strongest grades in his math class, he found an enthusiastic recommender in his math teacher. Mr. Wiles was extremely impressed with Joe’s attitude, effort, and growth mindset, which he demonstrated throughout the year and inspired in his fellow classmates.

Mr. Wiles focuses on Joe’s substantial personal strengths, ones that would likely be impressive to his future educators. Even in a subject that may not come naturally to him, Joe is diligent and committed. He’s not self-conscious about asking questions or seeking extra help, and he retains a strong belief in himself that he can continuously learn, improve, and acquire new skills.

This letter, like the others, is effective because it is focused, supportive, and backed up with examples. As you can tell from these examples, recommendations can communicate a great deal about a student. Because of this, they can have a powerful impact on a student’s chances of admission. So what can teachers and students do to make sure they are sending a strong recommendation letter that will help their chances?

Enthusiasm is key.

How to Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

While these letters are about different students with different interests, they share certain fundamental features. One, they sound excited and enthusiastic. The teachers clearly communicate that they are impressed by these students and eager to help them get into college.

At the same time, the letters don’t go overboard because they have examples to back up their assessments. Specific examples and stories are key for backing up the assessment. Plus, they make a letter more interesting and memorable. Rather than just another engineering applicant, Stacy is the student who researched sound-absorption to spare her parents from hours of guitar scales.

Finally, the teachers all discuss their students’ personal strengths, along with their academic strengths. They present the holistic view that admissions officers are looking for, along with their strong vote of confidence in the students’ future success.

Teachers should incorporate all these features into their letters, and students should help provide them with the raw material to write about. While students should choose a teacher who knows them well and has stories and observations to share, they should also give their teachers a detailed «brag sheet» and let them know what would go into their ideal letter. That way it can be even more personalized and complement the story the student is telling in the rest of her application.

While recommenders may or may not share their letters with students, there should still be open, two-way communication when the student makes her request. That way students and teachers can work together to produce an insightful, enthusiastic, and specific letter of recommendation to send to colleges.

What’s Next?

Are you a teacher writing recommendations for your students? Read all about how to write an outstanding recommendation letter for your students, along with what not to include.

Are you or a student you work with applying to a selective school, like Harvard? Learn about what kind of letter she should get for the Ivy League.

Now that you’ve read these examples of strong teacher recommendation letters, check out these examples of bad ones. Warning: rec letters may appear better than they actually are.

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