Career Services Office
Reference Letters
Securing effective third-party endorsements of your academic potential
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Reference letters (also called letters of recommendation or recommendation letters) are a core part of your graduate study application. They provide admissions committees with third-party perspectives on your academic potential, research capability, and overall suitability for the program you're applying to.
Most universities require 2–3 academic references for graduate school. For professional programs or fellowships, a mix of academic and professional referees may be appropriate.
What Makes a Strong Letter?
A strong reference letter is:
- Specific to the program and field
- Detailed, with examples of your work, character, and strengths
- Credible, written by someone qualified to speak to your potential
- Supportive, but not overly generic or vague
Who Should You Ask?
Choose referees who:
- Have taught you in advanced, writing- or research-intensive courses
- Supervised your thesis, final year project, or significant research
- Know your academic abilities and work ethic
- Can compare you to peers ("top 5% of students I've taught")
- Have the professional stature or title that aligns with your goals
Avoid:
- Referees who barely know your work
- Generic or character-based references (e.g., "They are a great person")
- Asking people based on prestige alone (e.g., a dean who doesn't know you well)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Asking too late
Leads to rushed or weak letters
Not sharing enough info
Referees struggle to customize the letter
Choosing prestige over relevance
Choosing prestige over relevance
Not checking portal requirements
Some schools have specific formats or links
Tips for Managing Multiple Applications
- Ask referees early if they're willing to submit multiple versions
- Share a clear, one-pager with deadlines and submission methods
- Keep them updated if your plans or deadlines change
- Always have backup referees in case someone can't deliver
Letter of Recommendation (LOR) Preparation Checklist
Step I: Plan Ahead
At least 1–2 years before deadline
- Find out if LORs are needed, how many, and what kind
- Identify who ideal recommenders are based on program expectations
- Build meaningful relationships with potential recommenders
- If graduating soon but applying later, ask for a generic LOR before leaving
Step II: Understand Program Requirements
At least 3 months before deadline
- Finalize your list of programs and review their LOR requirements
- Determine how many LORs and what type of referees
- Choose someone who knows you well and can provide detailed view
- Prioritize quality and familiarity over seniority
Step III: Ask for the Recommendation
2–3 months before deadline
- Ask politely and early—respect their time
- Ask: "Can you write me a strong letter of recommendation?"
- Explain your goals, programs, and reasons for applying
- Ensure they can provide depth and examples of your qualities
Step IV: Provide Supporting Materials
After recommender agrees
- Share all materials in one folder (CV, personal statement, etc.)
- Ask permission before sending materials
- Keep the recommender updated on deadlines and submission process
🤖 AI Tip: Drafting a Reference Letter (If Referee Asks You To)
Some referees may ask you to draft a letter for them to edit. This is common. You can use AI tools like ChatGPT to draft a starting version, but be sure it's:
- Factually accurate
- Professional and appropriately formal
- Focused on specific achievements, skills, and experiences
- Written in a voice your referee would plausibly use
📌 Sample AI Prompt:
"Write a draft academic reference letter for a student who completed a thesis on public finance under my supervision. The student consistently ranked among the top 5% of their cohort, has strong analytical skills, and is applying for a Master's in Economics."
Always have your referee review and personalize the draft. Never submit an AI-written letter as is.