One of the main mistakes international applicants make in their application process to universities abroad, involves getting the wrong letters of recommendation (or ‘references’) from the wrong people, or managing the recommendation process poorly. Use the cumulative experience of the GradTrain team and follow these rules to choose the right references and learn how to manage the process in order to avoid some common mistakes that can become the “kiss of death” for your application. Get references who know you well; Choose references who can make you stand out; Choose wisely: Academic vs. professional letters; Be relevant; Don’t be shy; Read the signs; Allow your references enough time and make their lives easier; Fit the narrative of your application; Be appreciative; Don’t ever use a reference without their permission.

1. How To Ask For A
Letter of
Recommendation
The GradTrain Guide to
For Grad School Abroad (and beyond…)

2. Step 1: Choose Well
#1: Choose someone who knows you well.
If you aren’t sure, ask them if they feel that they know you well enough.
Don’t just ask:
“Can you write a recommendation for me?"
Phrase it:
“Do you feel you know me well enough to write a letter of recommendation for me?“
#2: Choose a faculty member. Preferably a big name in the field you wish to
research is best. Though it is more important that the recommender knows you well.
"Teacher&Studlaugh" US Department of
Education, CC BY 2.0

3. Step 2: Start Early
Ask for a letter 5-6 weeks before the deadline.
If theyare rushed –
youwill end up with a weaker recommendation.
Don’t be shy.
Writing recommendation letters is part of a professors’ job. They are happyto write
recommendations for good students.
We know…
You may be hesitant to ask for the letter and push it off until it becomes close to the
deadline… Don’t.
"Padcamp 2012" Kevin Jarett, CC BY 2.0

4. Step 3: Provide Information
Recommenders need information about you in order to
write an effective recommendation
When asking for the letter, include -
a summary of your interests & accomplishments
- and -
attach your resume or CV.

5. Step 4: Follow Up
Send a reminder e-mail to your recommender at least a
week before the deadline.

6. After you get the letter, make sure to say thank you.
(You’ll be surprised how many people forget…)
If you send a thank you note, the recommender will be more willing to write a
letter if you ever need one again. If not – you won’t even feel comfortable to ask!
Oh. And let the recommender know if you received the position you were
applying for.
Step 5: Show Your Gratitude

7. TIP TIME!
Create Contacts Now. It’s never too early!
Go to office hours.
"Graduation Day 20 July 2011 220"
fourthandfifteen, CC BY 2.0
Get involved in research and volunteer work.
Join clubs and organizations. Take leadership positions.

8. Read more: The 10 commandments of recommendation letters
www.gradtrain.com