Sample College Recommendation Letter
Guidelines for Writing to Admissions Officers about a Student
Jan 6, 2009
The letter of recommendation is often a vital part of a student's college application file. Here is a sample format, along with some helpful suggestions and a complete sample letter, to assist recommendation writers with the process of putting together an impressive statement endorsing a student's application.
The Introductory Paragraph
Start off with a simple To Whom it May Concern (Bonus points for knowing the name of an Admissions Counselor, as it suggests the student has done research into the school's Admissions Office, but it's not necessary). Dear Admissions Officer or the standard Dear Sir or Madam are also acceptable.
The first line should state who the letter is being written for. Admissions officers should not have to fish for the name of the student; it should be front and center. I am writing this letter on behalf of (name of student) is sufficient. Letter of Recommendation for (Name of Student) as a header (centered, before or even in place of the salutation) is also a clear way to make that statement.
Next, mention in what capacity and for how long you've known the student, for example: I have known Student X for two years, when he was a student in my U.S. History class. During that time, I found him to be (here, insert a few adjectives that best describe the student).
The Heart of the Letter
Examples, examples, examples are key here. Admissions counselors do not want to hear about GPAs, achievements, and extracurricular activities in a letter, as that is information they can get from a transcript or application. They want to learn about students' personal qualities, be it leadership ability, generosity, dedication, or ambition, to name a few common (and effective) adjectives. But with those adjectives have to come specifics, i.e. why a student is so dedicated or ambitious.
Full Sample Letter
Here is a short and sweet sample using the above suggestions:
Dear (name of counselor, if known):
I am writing this letter on behalf of Jane Doe, who has been a student in my history classes for the past two years. During that time, I have found her to be both a strong student academically and a role model and leader for her peers.
Jane is the type of student who always takes the initiative to help out fellow students who may not quite grasp the material, and she does so in a way that is neither condescending nor boisterous. Though she is aware of her own intelligence, as evidenced by her willingness to challenge herself with honors courses and extra credit work, she has an air of modesty about her that makes her approachable and well-liked among her classmates.
In addition to being Jane's teacher, I also had the opportunity to serve as an advisor for the school community service organization she founded. Jane single-handedly organized group meetings to encourage student participation, and contacted local organizations to coordinate volunteer opportunities. Though I was her go-to person for advice, I trusted her completely in managing the group on her own.
Jane would make an excellent addition to (name of university)'s Class of 2013. I recommend her without hesitation. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
(Signature)
Take the above information into account, and the whole process of thoughtful recommendation writing can be much easier. Above all, an effective, high-quality letter will give an admissions officer an idea of who the student is beyond the grades and standardized test scores.
