Template For A Graduate School Letter Of Recommendation

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for graduate school is a crucial component of your application. It provides a third-party perspective on your academic abilities, character, and potential for success. A well-crafted LOR can significantly enhance your chances of admission.

Structure and Content

While the specific content of an LOR will vary depending on the writer’s relationship with the applicant, there are generally three main sections:

Introduction

Writer’s Credentials: Begin by clearly stating the writer’s name, title, and affiliation. This establishes their credibility and authority to write the letter.

Relationship to Applicant: Describe the nature and duration of the writer’s relationship with the applicant. This could be a professor, employer, supervisor, or mentor.

Context: Briefly mention the context in which the writer knows the applicant, such as a classroom, research project, or workplace.

Body

Academic Abilities: Highlight the applicant’s academic achievements, such as their GPA, coursework, and research experience. Use specific examples to illustrate their abilities.

Character and Personal Qualities: Discuss the applicant’s personal qualities, such as their work ethic, motivation, integrity, and communication skills. Provide anecdotes or observations to support your claims.

Potential for Success: Express your belief in the applicant’s potential for success in graduate school. Explain why you think they are a good fit for the program and how they will contribute to the academic community.

Conclusion

Reiterate Support: Restate your strong support for the applicant’s admission.

Contact Information: Provide your contact information in case the admissions committee has any questions.

Design Elements

To convey professionalism and trust, consider the following design elements:

Letterhead: Use a professional letterhead with the writer’s name, title, affiliation, and contact information.

Font: Choose a clear and legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.

Formatting: Use consistent formatting throughout the letter, including margins, line spacing, and indentation.

Paper Quality: Print the letter on high-quality paper.

Signature: Sign the letter in blue ink.

Example

[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Affiliation]
[Your Contact Information]

[Date]

[Admission Committee]
[Graduate Program]
[University Name]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to your [Graduate Program] at [University Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Relationship, e.g., professor, supervisor, mentor].

[Applicant’s Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic abilities throughout their time at [Institution Name]. They have excelled in [Course Name] and [Course Name], earning [GPA] and [GPA], respectively. Their [Research Project] was particularly impressive, showcasing their ability to [Skills].

Beyond their academic achievements, [Applicant’s Name] possesses a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for [Field of Study]. They are a highly motivated and independent learner who is always eager to take on new challenges.

I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will be a valuable asset to your graduate program. Their intelligence, dedication, and enthusiasm make them an ideal candidate for [Specific area of study]. I wholeheartedly recommend them for admission.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require further information.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Signature]

Note: This is just a sample template. The specific content of your LOR should be tailored to the applicant’s individual qualifications and your relationship with them.