Asking for a teacher's recommendation letter isn’t as easy as it sounds. It’s like putting yourself in the spotlight at a talent show, hoping they like your performance enough to say yes.
If you're gearing up to ask a teacher for a letter of recommendation, read this until the end to breeze through the process and feel ready to ask!
Where do I begin?
1. Choose the Right Teacher
Start by picking the right teacher to ask. You want someone who knows you beyond just your grades. Think about teachers who have seen you tackle challenges, engage in class discussions, or show leadership in group projects. Maybe it’s your history teacher who saw you passionately debate about ancient civilizations, or your science teacher who watched you lead a successful experiment.
When choosing the right teacher to ask, prioritize these three things:
A teacher who knows you well: Someone who has seen your growth both academically and personally.
A teacher whose class aligns with your intended major in college: Their insights can be particularly relevant to your application.
A teacher who has guided you through challenges: Their insights can showcase your perseverance and determination.
If the right teacher understands your strengths and has witnessed your journey, you'll get a recommendation that truly reflects your character and achievements. Their letter can highlight specific instances that showcase your dedication, resilience, and passion, making your application stand out.
2. Ask Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for a recommendation. Teachers are busy, and writing a thoughtful letter takes time. You want to ask at least a month before your application deadline or even two to three months in advance!
Some teachers are more popular and likely to receive multiple requests. This not only shows respect for their time but also increases the chances of getting a well-crafted letter.
Here’s an opener you can use when asking:
“Hey Mr. Smith, I’m applying to XYZ University, and their application is due in a month. Would you be able to write me a letter of recommendation?”
3. Make a Formal Request
Ideally, it’s always better to ask face-to-face. However, if scheduling conflicts prevent meeting in person, consider emailing your teacher to arrange a suitable time for a discussion. When asking, be polite and express why you’re asking them specifically.
For example:
“Mrs. Johnson, I’ve really enjoyed your class. I’ve learned a lot from you and feel that you’ve seen my growth as a student. I’m applying to College XYZ next year and it would mean a lot if you could write me a strong letter of recommendation. Would you consider supporting my application in this way?”
Tip: Ask them during their free period. Not during class time! This ensures they can give your request their full attention and a space in case your teacher wants to further discuss your plans.
4. Provide Necessary Information
Help your teacher help you. Provide all the details they need to write a strong letter. This includes the deadline, the name of the college or program, and any specific points you’d like them to mention.
One way to do this is by forwarding them an email with all the specific requirements listed so they won't miss any opportunity to highlight your achievements. You could also give them a copy of your resume or a list of your accomplishments and activities. For instance, if you're applying to a science program, you might ask them to emphasize your achievements in chemistry and your involvement in the science club.
5. Personalize Your Request
Share why you’re excited about the college or program you’re applying to and how you think this teacher’s insights can highlight your strengths. Remember, teachers are committed to helping you achieve your goals! They genuinely appreciate being acknowledged for their efforts. So be sincere in expressing why you're pursuing the program and why you value their support.
Here’s something you can say:
"Mrs. Johnson, I’ve really enjoyed your class. I’ve learned a lot from you and feel that you’ve seen my growth as a student. I’m applying to College XYZ next year, and their environmental science program is my top choice. Your perspective on my work in class and the projects we've tackled together would greatly strengthen my application. Would you consider supporting my application by writing me a strong letter of recommendation?"
6. Follow Up Politely
A week before the deadline, send a gentle reminder to your teacher. This isn’t to rush them but to ensure everything is on track. You can say something like:
“Hi Mr. Anderson, I hope you’re doing well. Just a quick reminder that the deadline for the letter of recommendation is next Friday. Please let me know if you need any more information from me.”
Remember, don’t expect your teacher to keep track of the deadlines. The letter is your responsibility and make sure your teacher has all the necessary support from you to submit the letter on time.
7. Say Thank You
After your teacher has submitted the letter, don’t forget to thank them. A handwritten note or a small token of appreciation can go a long way. It shows your gratitude and recognizes the effort they put into supporting your application.
Another powerful way to show gratitude is by returning the favor. They might need some help in the classroom or during evaluations.
8. Be Prepared for Any Response
Be ready for any response when you ask. Most teachers will be happy to help, but some might be too busy or feel they don’t know you well enough to write a strong letter. If they say no, don’t take it personally. Thank them for their honesty and ask another teacher who might be a better fit.
9. Stay Connected
After you’ve secured your recommendations and submitted your applications, stay connected with the teachers who wrote them. Let them know how your college application process is going and where you end up getting accepted. They’ll appreciate the update and feel good about their contribution to your success.
Asking for a letter of recommendation can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a positive and rewarding experience. At the end of the day, teachers are there to support you and want to see you succeed. Good luck!
Need help acing the college admissions process?
A letter of recc is only one part of the college admissions process. There’s still research, essays, applications, financial aid, scholarships, and so much more. It’s a lot. It might even feel like too much sometimes. That’s why I’m here to help. I’m Robert Powers, a college admissions expert. Apply for a program here to get help with everything college-related.
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