Recommendation Letter Crafting Instruction Guide

A recommendation letter is a formal letter written by a person who knows you well, trusts your abilities, and supports your application for a given opportunity. Typically, a recommendation letter is one of the requirements for applying for a scholarship. This guide will take a deep dive on how to write a competent recommendation letter precisely for the reader to keep reading.

Title: A recommendation letter, also simply known as a Reference Letter, is written to provide comprehensive information about your academic qualifications, professional experience, skills, and achievements, making you suitable for a job or a scholarship position. The letter is usually written by your former employer, professor, or a person who you worked with. However, it is vital to note that every full funded scholarship requires a Letter of Recommendation .

A Guide to Create a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

Almost all scholarships require a pair of recommendation letters; one from an employer and another from Academic Advisors.

Crafting a Recommendation Letter: Guidance for Academic Advisors and Employers

Creating a Letter for Recommendations Academic for Advisors and Employers If you are an academic Advisor or if you are an employer:

1. Contact Details: Get in touch with the academic advisor or employer you want to write your recommendation letter. Clearly present the scholarship, the scope, and detail why you are eligible for the scholarship program.
2. Information Preparation: Be aware that they may ask you several things on what you have done before, what you have achieved so far, and what you dream of attaining. Having the information at your fingertips will make it simple for them to write one for you.
3. Form Completion: Several academic professors and employers must fill out a special form for the letter to be completed. Ensure that they have all the forms and information necessary to accurately fill it out.
4. Automatic Templates: Some universities will send automated letters to the email addresses you designate. Confirm if they are intended to send you those online responses and make sure your contact details are accurate.
5. Early Letters: Identify a professor or employer well in advance and mail the relevant contact information. Discuss your willingness to help them and let them understand the process of sending the letter online.

Format for a Sample Recommendation Letter

The format for the recommendation letter should follow the subsequent guideline:

Word Limit: any cover letter should be brief of below 500 words or 350 words preferably. The cover letter should be free of errors for readability.

1. Letterhead:

• Use a University Letterhead or Company Letterhead for a professional touch.
• Include the following details at the top left-hand corner of the page:
  • Date of Writing
  • Full Name
  • Title
  • University/College Name
  • Address
  • City, State, Zip Code
  • Preferred Contact (optional)
• Alternatively, the author’s information can be placed at the end of the document on the left sidebar.

2. Introduction:

• Initiate the letter with a warm introduction.
• Example: “I am pleased to provide a recommendation for ‘John’ applying for the Chevening Scholarship Program at your university.”
• Proceed to the second paragraph, highlighting the duration of your association, whether through study or work. Emphasize essential information regarding the applicant’s skills, performance, and expertise.

3. Main Body:

• In the third paragraph, express compliments, highlight achievements, and elaborate on why the applicant is well-suited for the intended role or scholarship.
• Include a discussion of the applicant’s soft skills and qualities that make them stand out.

4. Conclusion:

• Conclude the letter with a final paragraph summarizing your conviction in the applicant’s abilities.
• Example: “In conclusion, I strongly recommend her for higher studies at your university and wish her the very best in all future endeavors.”

This format provides a structured and comprehensive layout for an effective recommendation letter.

Academic Advisor Recommendation Letter Template

[University Letterhead]

[Date of Writing]

[Full Name] [Title] [University/College Name] [Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Preferred Contact – Optional]

Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Individual],

I am writing to highly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for [Name of Scholarship/Program] at [University’s Name]. In my capacity as [Your Title – Academic Advisor], I have had the privilege of working closely with [Student’s Last Name] for [Duration of Association – years, months].

In the time I have known [Student’s Last Name], they have demonstrated exceptional [Qualities/Skills] and a deep commitment to [Field/Area of Study]. Their academic achievements, coupled with their [Additional Attributes], set them apart as an outstanding candidate for your esteemed scholarship program.

[Student’s Last Name] has consistently exhibited [Specific Achievements/Contributions] during their tenure at [University’s Name]. Their dedication to [Relevant Initiatives/Projects] showcases their passion for [Field/Area of Study]. Moreover, their ability to [Additional Strengths] has been evident in [Examples or Instances].

I firmly believe that [Student’s Last Name] possesses the qualities and drive necessary to excel in your program. Their [Unique Characteristics] make them an excellent fit, and I am confident that they will contribute significantly to the academic community at [University’s Name].

If you require any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information].

Thank you for considering [Student’s Full Name] for this prestigious opportunity. I am convinced that they will make a valuable contribution to your program.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Title]

[Your Contact Information]

Employer/Boss Recommendation Letter Template

[Company Letterhead]

[Date of Writing]

[Full Name] [Title] [Company Name] [Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Preferred Contact – Optional]

Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Individual],

I am writing this letter to wholeheartedly recommend [Employee’s Full Name] for [Name of Scholarship/Program] at [University’s Name]. In my capacity as [Your Title – Employer/Boss], I have had the privilege of overseeing [Employee’s Last Name] during their tenure at [Company’s Name].

[Employee’s Last Name] has consistently demonstrated outstanding [Qualities/Skills] and a strong work ethic. Their contributions to [Company’s Name] have been invaluable, particularly in the areas of [Specific Achievements/Projects]. I believe that their experience and dedication make them an excellent candidate for your esteemed scholarship program.

During their time at [Company’s Name], [Employee’s Last Name] has exemplified [Specific Traits] and has successfully [Additional Contributions]. Their ability to [Key Strengths] has been evident in [Examples or Instances]. I am confident that [Employee’s Last Name] will bring the same level of commitment and excellence to your program.

If you require any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information].

Thank you for considering [Employee’s Full Name] for this prestigious opportunity. I am convinced that they will thrive in your academic environment.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Title]

[Your Contact Information]