Being Thankful: Requesting Letters of Recommendation
From now until the end of year, it’s a busy season for everyone. That’s why we recommend your student begin asking teachers, advisors, club leaders, coaches, tutors, etc. for letters of recommendation as they prepare their private school applications over the next few months.
Most private schools require math and English teacher recommendations, and we also encourage students to submit a non-school recommendation letter that speaks to a student’s strength of character. More is often not better, so help your student choose wisely as they consider additional letters of recommendation beyond the required academic recommendations.
Who should my student ask?
Think about who truly knows your student. Your student’s “additional” letters of recommendation should come from someone your student has spent a lot of time with during the past few years of their school experience. It could be a teacher, coach, or any leader your student looks up to. We know that some of the best additional letters of recommendations might come from people your student has known for many years.
From the list of potential “recommenders” consider who knows your student best. The better relationship your student has with this person, the better they will be able to provide your student with a recommendation that truly captures who they are. Remember that the academic teacher recommendations are focused on a student's academic skill and character and the additional letters (sometimes called outside recommendations) often focus on non-academic areas of a student.
When should my student ask for these letters?
November is the best time to ask for these letters to help your student stay on track with the application timeline. And the more notice a teacher or additional recommender has, the more appreciative they will be and likely the more interested in supporting your student’s application efforts.
Here are some of our top tips to help your student feel confident asking for letters of recommendation from their trusted advisors and teachers:
As nerve wracking as it is, asking for these letters in-person is always best if possible. If your student is nervous about this, remind them that if they feel confident in their relationship with their recommender, they won’t say no!
Express why they would be a good fit for a letter of recommendation.
Have your student explain why they would be a good fit for a letter of recommendation.
Include explanations for where your student is applying to and share a detail or two about why they’re excited about the school.
Outline the requirements of the letter and any important due dates.
Ensure they know how to submit the letter as it should be sent directly to admissions.
Make sure your student thanks their recommender for their support during your student’s time with them.
How to Manage Letter of Recommendation Deadlines
Your student shouldn’t feel bad reminding their recommender of any important deadlines looming if they haven’t heard from them. If you still haven’t heard from them two weeks before the application is due, it’s time to gently check-in!
To really be on top of this process, send the recommender a due date that is earlier than the official deadline. More often than not, they appreciate the kind reminders.
Make Sure to Say Thanks
Don’t let this busy season make you forget to send them a thank you! This task only takes a few minutes and goes a really long way. It even helps strengthen your student’s relationship with their recommender. Keep in mind that the most thoughtful thank you cards are the ones written by your student!
Asking for letters of recommendation is a vital part of the private school application process. Our goal is to help your student put their best and most authentic foot forward when it comes to their academics, student life and overall character. If you have any questions about the private school application process, ask away!