Comprehensive Guide to Requesting and Submitting Letters of Recommendation Online

Getting a letter of recommendation (LOR) is a crucial step in any application process, whether for graduate school, a job, or a scholarship. This guide provides a detailed overview of the entire process, from identifying potential recommenders to submitting the letter online.

The Process of Obtaining a Letter of Recommendation

LORs are essential in many applications. Here’s how to prepare for and obtain a strong letter of recommendation.

1. Identify Potential Recommenders

Choose individuals who know you well and can speak positively about your skills and experiences. This could be professors, employers, or mentors. Look for individuals who can provide detailed insight into your character and abilities.

2. Ask for Permission

Approach your potential recommenders, ideally in person or via a personalized email. Explain why you’re asking them specifically and provide context about what the LOR is for, such as a job, graduate school, or a scholarship. Be clear and concise in your request.

3. Provide Necessary Information

If they agree, provide them with the following:

Your resume or CV: Highlight relevant experiences and skills. Details about the opportunity: Include information about the program or job deadlines, and any specific points they should address. Your goals and aspirations: Help them understand your future objectives and how their recommendation can support your goals.

4. Follow Up

Send a reminder a week or two before the deadline, thanking them again for their help. This shows your commitment and respect for their time.

5. Thank Your Recommender

Once the letter is submitted, send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and effort. This shows your gratitude and maintains a good relationship for future reference.

Online Submission Process of a Letter of Recommendation

Sending a LOR online is a streamlined process but requires following some specific steps. Here’s how it works:

Instructions from the Institution/Organization

When applying for a program or job, check the specific instructions for submitting LORs. This may include a portal or a specific email address.

Recommender Registration

Often, recommenders will need to register on a submission portal, such as those used by universities or job application systems. They may receive an email with a link to create an account or log in. Make sure to forward this email to your recommenders.

Filling Out the Form

After logging in, recommenders will typically fill out a form that may ask for:

Their relationship to you How long they’ve known you Ratings on specific skills or attributes

Make sure they have all the necessary information to provide a detailed and accurate recommendation.

Uploading the Letter

Recommenders will upload their letter directly to the portal. Some systems may allow them to copy and paste the text into a field. Provide them with a clean, well-formatted version of your letter to ensure accuracy.

Submission Confirmation

After submitting, recommenders should receive a confirmation email. They can often check the status of their submission on the portal. Keep an eye on these notifications.

Deadlines Monitoring

Ensure that your recommenders are aware of the deadlines and follow up if you haven’t received confirmation that the letters have been submitted. This extra step can help avoid any delays in the submission process.

Tips for a Smooth Process

Choose Early

Ask for letters well in advance of the deadline to give your recommenders ample time. This shows your respect for their time and allows them to prepare a thoughtful and well-supported letter.

Be Specific

The more specific you can be about what you need, the better the letter will likely be. Provide your recommenders with concrete details about the opportunity and your goals.

Stay Organized

Keep track of who you asked when and the status of each letter. Managing this information can help you stay organized and ensure that all letters are submitted on time.

By following these steps, you can facilitate a smooth process for obtaining and submitting letters of recommendation. Taking proactive measures will help ensure that you receive strong, well-supported letters that can significantly enhance your application.