• Top University in USA
  • Top University in Canada
  • Top University in Ireland
  • Top Universities in UK
  • Top Universities in Australia
  • Best MBA Colleges in Abroad
  • Business Management Studies Colleges

Top Countries

  • Study in USA
  • Study in UK
  • Study in Canada
  • Study in Australia
  • Study in Ireland
  • Study in Germany
  • Study in China
  • Study in Europe

Student Visas

  • Student Visa Canada
  • Student Visa UK
  • Student Visa USA
  • Student Visa Australia
  • Student Visa Germany
  • Student Visa New Zealand
  • Student Visa Ireland
  • JEE Main 2024
  • MHT CET 2024
  • JEE Advanced 2024
  • BITSAT 2024
  • View All Engineering Exams
  • Colleges Accepting B.Tech Applications
  • Top Engineering Colleges in India
  • Engineering Colleges in India
  • Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main
  • Top IITs in India
  • Top NITs in India
  • Top IIITs in India
  • JEE Main College Predictor
  • JEE Main Rank Predictor
  • MHT CET College Predictor
  • AP EAMCET College Predictor
  • GATE College Predictor
  • KCET College Predictor
  • JEE Advanced College Predictor
  • View All College Predictors
  • JEE Main Question Paper
  • JEE Main Cutoff
  • JEE Main Answer Key
  • JEE Main Result
  • Download E-Books and Sample Papers
  • Compare Colleges
  • B.Tech College Applications
  • JEE Advanced Registration
  • MAH MBA CET Exam
  • View All Management Exams

Colleges & Courses

  • MBA College Admissions
  • MBA Colleges in India
  • Top IIMs Colleges in India
  • Top Online MBA Colleges in India
  • MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Score
  • BBA Colleges in India
  • XAT College Predictor 2024
  • SNAP College Predictor
  • NMAT College Predictor
  • MAT College Predictor 2024
  • CMAT College Predictor 2024
  • CAT Percentile Predictor 2023
  • CAT 2023 College Predictor
  • CMAT 2024 Registration
  • TS ICET 2024 Registration
  • CMAT Exam Date 2024
  • MAH MBA CET Cutoff 2024
  • Download Helpful Ebooks
  • List of Popular Branches
  • QnA - Get answers to your doubts
  • IIM Fees Structure
  • AIIMS Nursing
  • Top Medical Colleges in India
  • Top Medical Colleges in India accepting NEET Score
  • Medical Colleges accepting NEET
  • List of Medical Colleges in India
  • List of AIIMS Colleges In India
  • Medical Colleges in Maharashtra
  • Medical Colleges in India Accepting NEET PG
  • NEET College Predictor
  • NEET PG College Predictor
  • NEET MDS College Predictor
  • DNB CET College Predictor
  • DNB PDCET College Predictor
  • NEET Application Form 2024
  • NEET PG Application Form 2024
  • NEET Cut off
  • NEET Online Preparation
  • Download Helpful E-books
  • LSAT India 2024
  • Colleges Accepting Admissions
  • Top Law Colleges in India
  • Law College Accepting CLAT Score
  • List of Law Colleges in India
  • Top Law Colleges in Delhi
  • Top Law Collages in Indore
  • Top Law Colleges in Chandigarh
  • Top Law Collages in Lucknow

Predictors & E-Books

  • CLAT College Predictor
  • MHCET Law ( 5 Year L.L.B) College Predictor
  • AILET College Predictor
  • Sample Papers
  • Compare Law Collages
  • Careers360 Youtube Channel
  • CLAT Syllabus 2025
  • CLAT Previous Year Question Paper
  • AIBE 18 Result 2023
  • NID DAT Exam
  • Pearl Academy Exam

Animation Courses

  • Animation Courses in India
  • Animation Courses in Bangalore
  • Animation Courses in Mumbai
  • Animation Courses in Pune
  • Animation Courses in Chennai
  • Animation Courses in Hyderabad
  • Design Colleges in India
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Bangalore
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Mumbai
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Pune
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Delhi
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Hyderabad
  • Fashion Design Colleges in India
  • Top Design Colleges in India
  • Free Sample Papers
  • Free Design E-books
  • List of Branches
  • Careers360 Youtube channel
  • NIFT College Predictor
  • UCEED College Predictor
  • NID DAT College Predictor
  • IPU CET BJMC
  • JMI Mass Communication Entrance Exam
  • IIMC Entrance Exam
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Delhi
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Bangalore
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Mumbai
  • List of Media & Journalism Colleges in India
  • Free Ebooks
  • CA Intermediate
  • CA Foundation
  • CS Executive
  • CS Professional
  • Difference between CA and CS
  • Difference between CA and CMA
  • CA Full form
  • CMA Full form
  • CS Full form
  • CA Salary In India

Top Courses & Careers

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
  • Master of Commerce (M.Com)
  • Company Secretary
  • Cost Accountant
  • Charted Accountant
  • Credit Manager
  • Financial Advisor
  • Top Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top Government Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top Private Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top M.Com Colleges in Mumbai
  • Top B.Com Colleges in India
  • IT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • IT Colleges in Uttar Pradesh
  • MCA Colleges in India
  • BCA Colleges in India

Quick Links

  • Information Technology Courses
  • Programming Courses
  • Web Development Courses
  • Data Analytics Courses
  • Big Data Analytics Courses
  • RUHS Pharmacy Admission Test
  • Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Pune
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Mumbai
  • Colleges Accepting GPAT Score
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Lucknow
  • List of Pharmacy Colleges in Nagpur
  • GPAT Result
  • GPAT 2024 Admit Card
  • GPAT Question Papers
  • NCHMCT JEE 2024
  • Mah BHMCT CET
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Delhi
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Hyderabad
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Mumbai
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Maharashtra
  • B.Sc Hotel Management
  • Hotel Management
  • Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology

Diploma Colleges

  • Top Diploma Colleges in Maharashtra
  • UPSC IAS 2024
  • SSC CGL 2024
  • IBPS RRB 2024
  • Previous Year Sample Papers
  • Free Competition E-books
  • Sarkari Result
  • QnA- Get your doubts answered
  • UPSC Previous Year Sample Papers
  • CTET Previous Year Sample Papers
  • SBI Clerk Previous Year Sample Papers
  • NDA Previous Year Sample Papers

Upcoming Events

  • NDA Application Form 2024
  • UPSC IAS Application Form 2024
  • CDS Application Form 2024
  • CTET Admit card 2024
  • HP TET Result 2023
  • SSC GD Constable Admit Card 2024
  • UPTET Notification 2024
  • SBI Clerk Result 2024

Other Exams

  • SSC CHSL 2024
  • UP PCS 2024
  • UGC NET 2024
  • RRB NTPC 2024
  • IBPS PO 2024
  • IBPS Clerk 2024
  • IBPS SO 2024
  • CBSE Class 10th
  • CBSE Class 12th
  • UP Board 10th
  • UP Board 12th
  • Bihar Board 10th
  • Bihar Board 12th
  • Top Schools in India
  • Top Schools in Delhi
  • Top Schools in Mumbai
  • Top Schools in Chennai
  • Top Schools in Hyderabad
  • Top Schools in Kolkata
  • Top Schools in Pune
  • Top Schools in Bangalore

Products & Resources

  • JEE Main Knockout April
  • NCERT Notes
  • NCERT Syllabus
  • NCERT Books
  • RD Sharma Solutions
  • Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission 2024-25
  • NCERT Solutions
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 12
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 11
  • NCERT solutions for Class 10
  • NCERT solutions for Class 9
  • NCERT solutions for Class 8
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 7
  • CUET PG 2024
  • IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2024
  • DU Admission 2024
  • UP B.Ed JEE 2024
  • DDU Entrance Exam
  • IIT JAM 2024
  • IGNOU Online Admission 2024
  • Universities in India
  • Top Universities in India 2024
  • Top Colleges in India
  • Top Universities in Uttar Pradesh 2024
  • Top Universities in Bihar
  • Top Universities in Madhya Pradesh 2024
  • Top Universities in Tamil Nadu 2024
  • Central Universities in India
  • CUET Exam City Intimation Slip 2024
  • IGNOU Date Sheet
  • CUET Mock Test 2024
  • CUET Admit card 2024
  • CUET PG Syllabus 2024
  • CUET Participating Universities 2024
  • CUET Previous Year Question Paper
  • CUET Syllabus 2024 for Science Students
  • E-Books and Sample Papers
  • CUET Exam Pattern 2024
  • CUET Exam Date 2024
  • CUET Syllabus 2024
  • IGNOU Exam Form 2024
  • IGNOU Result
  • CUET Courses List 2024

Engineering Preparation

  • Knockout JEE Main 2024
  • Test Series JEE Main 2024
  • JEE Main 2024 Rank Booster

Medical Preparation

  • Knockout NEET 2024
  • Test Series NEET 2024
  • Rank Booster NEET 2024

Online Courses

  • JEE Main One Month Course
  • NEET One Month Course
  • IBSAT Free Mock Tests
  • IIT JEE Foundation Course
  • Knockout BITSAT 2024
  • Career Guidance Tool

Top Streams

  • IT & Software Certification Courses
  • Engineering and Architecture Certification Courses
  • Programming And Development Certification Courses
  • Business and Management Certification Courses
  • Marketing Certification Courses
  • Health and Fitness Certification Courses
  • Design Certification Courses

Specializations

  • Digital Marketing Certification Courses
  • Cyber Security Certification Courses
  • Artificial Intelligence Certification Courses
  • Business Analytics Certification Courses
  • Data Science Certification Courses
  • Cloud Computing Certification Courses
  • Machine Learning Certification Courses
  • View All Certification Courses
  • UG Degree Courses
  • PG Degree Courses
  • Short Term Courses
  • Free Courses
  • Online Degrees and Diplomas
  • Compare Courses

Top Providers

  • Coursera Courses
  • Udemy Courses
  • Edx Courses
  • Swayam Courses
  • upGrad Courses
  • Simplilearn Courses
  • Great Learning Courses

Access premium articles, webinars, resources to make the best decisions for career, course, exams, scholarships, study abroad and much more with

Plan, Prepare & Make the Best Career Choices

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD Students (with Sample) - Need, Parts, Qualities

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Students: For PhD students, a letter of recommendation is a crucial component of the application documents. While other admissions materials, like transcripts and test results, are factual, a letter of recommendation for PhD students integrates the plans and facts of a CV and statement of purpose. A résumé is a summary of your accomplishments, transcripts are evidence of your achievements, and an SOP describes the significance of the course and your readiness for it. A reference letter for a PhD is an unbiased opinion on everything mentioned above. TOP EXAMS : IELTS | TOEFL | GRE | GMAT Country Guide : UK | Ireland | Australia | Canada

What is the need for a letter of recommendation for PhD students

Types of lors for phd, select the right person to write recommendation letter for phd, letter of recommendation for phd students: qualities to focus on, parts of a lor for phd students, elements of letter of recommendation for phd students.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD Students (with Sample) - Need, Parts, Qualities

A PhD application usually requires at least two letters of recommendation for students from their professors. This allows the admission committee to know the applicants as people with skills that would otherwise be difficult to know from their resumes, transcripts and SOP. A letter of recommendation for PhD students should mention at least three qualities of the applicant – a social quality and at least two technical or subject-related qualities.

Moreover, as a PhD is an advanced specialised programme, the subject-related quality should be focused on projects carried out and specialised courses that will aid his/her PhD research. Read the complete article to know all the details about PhD letter of recommendation, PhD reference letter samples, and more.

MET Institute of International Studies BBA Admissions 2024

B.Sc (Hons)/BA (Hons) Business Administration, is an International BBA programme offered at MET Institute of International Studies, Mumbai

Universities inviting applications | Get expert guidance

A recommendation letter for PhD student from professors holds much more importance than those applying for undergraduate or master's courses. Grades and GRE scores play a big role in receiving admission from a university. The LOR for PhD admission is usually the deciding factor when choosing between candidates with similar credentials. Go through the key points to be included in the reference letter for PhD students from the professor to gain an understanding of what it is before you ask your professor to write a PhD reference letter for you.

A PhD candidate must provide two letters of recommendation (LORs). Nevertheless, to ensure caution, it is recommended that the candidate should prepare a minimum of three LORs. Various universities may have different requirements for LORs from recommenders.

Academic Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

Usually, universities require applicants to submit two or three Letters of Recommendation (LORs) for PhD from their previous educational institution. For undergraduate programs, these LORs can be obtained from teachers at your high school, while for masters or PhD, professors from your university can provide them.

Professional Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD

A Professional Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD from a Supervisor differs from an Academic LOR by emphasizing certain content related to the applicant's teamwork skills, industry knowledge, and leadership qualities.

Before asking someone for a recommendation letter for PhD application, you should know whom to ask. PhD is purely an academic degree and therefore you need to have a recommendation letter for PhD from those who can vouch for your academic inclination and strengths. PhD recommendation letter should be written by academicians with whom you have worked or someone who has supervised or taught you. If you are aspiring for a PhD programme or want a lor for PhD post-doctoral research, you should ideally ask your master's project guide or PhD guide to be one of the referees for your letter of recommendation for PhD students.

Your faculty must go through a sample recommendation letter for a PhD from a professor before sitting down to write one recommendation letter PhD for you. Other letters of recommendation for PhD students from teachers and professionals can be taken from persons who are from the same field or specialization in which you intend to do your PhD. You can also take your recommendation letter for doctoral programs from your supervisor who has an understanding of your academic capabilities.

Friends and relatives are not supposed to write your LOR for PhD admission for a number of reasons; first, they do not have first-hand information about your academic capabilities. Second, as they have not professionally or academically worked with you, they would not be able to present relevant information in the PhD letter of recommendation about you. Also, the recommender might not have in-depth knowledge of the discipline you intend to do a PhD. Last but not least, relatives cannot be objective about your qualities. That's why it is not a great idea to take your student recommendation letter from them. So a letter of recommendation for PhD students from teachers, professors, supervisors, coaches, etc., is only applicable.

The person who is writing a letter of recommendation for PhD students would be a professional who has known the applicant academically for no less than one year. The recommender should not only know you as one of the students in the department, but they should also know you as a person, your capabilities as a student, as well as your control over the subject they have been teaching. They should also be aware of your plans.

Recommendation letters for Ph.D. students from supervisors, and professors are very subject-specific. Referees should speak of strong subject knowledge as well as analysis traits. A Letter of recommendation for student should show the student as possessing positive qualities like intelligence, self-motivation, responsibility, and amiableness. Emphasis should be given to passion and dedication as well.

Advanced study like a Ph.D. is often a challenging and demanding program. Therefore, the LOR for PhD admission should also display perseverance, competitiveness and the ability to work independently. Courses and knowledge related to PhD programme-related packages, extra courses, and statistical analysis techniques should be exemplified in the letter of recommendation for the PhD program.

  • IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and More - Which one is right for you?
  • Why Early IELTS Preparation Is Vital For Aspiring International Students

Shortlist best ranked universities & get expert guidance

Want to study in Ireland? Explore Universities & Courses

A student recommendation letter for a PhD will typically be between one to two pages. The document of recommendation letter for PhD student should be well differentiated into 5–6 paragraphs. The LOR for PhD should begin with an introductory paragraph about the recommender and his/her association with the applicant. You must read a PDF of the PhD recommendation letter sample before you ask your recommenders to give you one.

The next 3 to 4 paragraphs in the letter of recommendation for PhD program should outline the different academic and social qualities of the applicant with suitable substantiation. No quality should be mentioned without a suitable example. Finally, the concluding paragraph will sum up the above with a line recommending the applicant for the programme.

Also Read, Best Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Below is a LOR for PhD sample from a professor. Candidates can consider it as a letter of recommendation format for PhD and refer to it while writing their LOR for PhD.

Reference letter sample for PhD student

Like there is a letter of recommendation for PhD students from professors, you can also read about PhD reference letter sample pdf, sample LOR for graduate school from coworker pdf, letter of recommendation for PhD in computer science, sample recommendation letter for employee, etc which will give you a fair idea what a recommendation letter is all about.

A recommendation letter for PhD students from a professor or supervisor gives a human touch to the applicant’s profile. A reference letter for PhD student from a professor is the only document that can present the applicant’s social side to the admission committee. Therefore, choose a referee who can not only substantiate your academic strengths but also cite appropriate examples of your social qualities in your recommendation letter for PhD students.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

It is crucial that the person writing your recommendation letter is someone who is familiar with your academic abilities. The most frequent writers of letters of recommendation are academics; professors or supervisors, but, other experts who are familiar with you and have overseen your academic or research work may also be suitable candidates.

The reference letter should be 1-2 pages long with 5-6 paragraphs.

PhD suggestions are highly specialised. Referees should emphasise both analytical skills and in-depth topic understanding. Letters of recommendation for students should highlight their intelligence, initiative, responsibility, and interpersonal skills.

Yes, PhD, postdoc, and scholarship applications typically require two to three letters of recommendation. These letters should come from professors who know your work and can detail your possibilities.

  • Latest Articles
  • Popular Articles

Upcoming Studyabroad Exams

Medical college admission test.

Result Date : 23 April,2024

Law School Admission Test

Exam Date : 07 June,2024

Explore Career Options (By Industry)

  • Construction
  • Entertainment
  • Manufacturing
  • Information Technology

Data Administrator

Database professionals use software to store and organise data such as financial information, and customer shipping records. Individuals who opt for a career as data administrators ensure that data is available for users and secured from unauthorised sales. DB administrators may work in various types of industries. It may involve computer systems design, service firms, insurance companies, banks and hospitals.

Bio Medical Engineer

The field of biomedical engineering opens up a universe of expert chances. An Individual in the biomedical engineering career path work in the field of engineering as well as medicine, in order to find out solutions to common problems of the two fields. The biomedical engineering job opportunities are to collaborate with doctors and researchers to develop medical systems, equipment, or devices that can solve clinical problems. Here we will be discussing jobs after biomedical engineering, how to get a job in biomedical engineering, biomedical engineering scope, and salary. 

Ethical Hacker

A career as ethical hacker involves various challenges and provides lucrative opportunities in the digital era where every giant business and startup owns its cyberspace on the world wide web. Individuals in the ethical hacker career path try to find the vulnerabilities in the cyber system to get its authority. If he or she succeeds in it then he or she gets its illegal authority. Individuals in the ethical hacker career path then steal information or delete the file that could affect the business, functioning, or services of the organization.

GIS officer work on various GIS software to conduct a study and gather spatial and non-spatial information. GIS experts update the GIS data and maintain it. The databases include aerial or satellite imagery, latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates, and manually digitized images of maps. In a career as GIS expert, one is responsible for creating online and mobile maps.

Data Analyst

The invention of the database has given fresh breath to the people involved in the data analytics career path. Analysis refers to splitting up a whole into its individual components for individual analysis. Data analysis is a method through which raw data are processed and transformed into information that would be beneficial for user strategic thinking.

Data are collected and examined to respond to questions, evaluate hypotheses or contradict theories. It is a tool for analyzing, transforming, modeling, and arranging data with useful knowledge, to assist in decision-making and methods, encompassing various strategies, and is used in different fields of business, research, and social science.

Geothermal Engineer

Individuals who opt for a career as geothermal engineers are the professionals involved in the processing of geothermal energy. The responsibilities of geothermal engineers may vary depending on the workplace location. Those who work in fields design facilities to process and distribute geothermal energy. They oversee the functioning of machinery used in the field.

Database Architect

If you are intrigued by the programming world and are interested in developing communications networks then a career as database architect may be a good option for you. Data architect roles and responsibilities include building design models for data communication networks. Wide Area Networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), and intranets are included in the database networks. It is expected that database architects will have in-depth knowledge of a company's business to develop a network to fulfil the requirements of the organisation. Stay tuned as we look at the larger picture and give you more information on what is db architecture, why you should pursue database architecture, what to expect from such a degree and what your job opportunities will be after graduation. Here, we will be discussing how to become a data architect. Students can visit NIT Trichy , IIT Kharagpur , JMI New Delhi . 

Remote Sensing Technician

Individuals who opt for a career as a remote sensing technician possess unique personalities. Remote sensing analysts seem to be rational human beings, they are strong, independent, persistent, sincere, realistic and resourceful. Some of them are analytical as well, which means they are intelligent, introspective and inquisitive. 

Remote sensing scientists use remote sensing technology to support scientists in fields such as community planning, flight planning or the management of natural resources. Analysing data collected from aircraft, satellites or ground-based platforms using statistical analysis software, image analysis software or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a significant part of their work. Do you want to learn how to become remote sensing technician? There's no need to be concerned; we've devised a simple remote sensing technician career path for you. Scroll through the pages and read.

Budget Analyst

Budget analysis, in a nutshell, entails thoroughly analyzing the details of a financial budget. The budget analysis aims to better understand and manage revenue. Budget analysts assist in the achievement of financial targets, the preservation of profitability, and the pursuit of long-term growth for a business. Budget analysts generally have a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, economics, or a closely related field. Knowledge of Financial Management is of prime importance in this career.

Underwriter

An underwriter is a person who assesses and evaluates the risk of insurance in his or her field like mortgage, loan, health policy, investment, and so on and so forth. The underwriter career path does involve risks as analysing the risks means finding out if there is a way for the insurance underwriter jobs to recover the money from its clients. If the risk turns out to be too much for the company then in the future it is an underwriter who will be held accountable for it. Therefore, one must carry out his or her job with a lot of attention and diligence.

Finance Executive

Product manager.

A Product Manager is a professional responsible for product planning and marketing. He or she manages the product throughout the Product Life Cycle, gathering and prioritising the product. A product manager job description includes defining the product vision and working closely with team members of other departments to deliver winning products.  

Operations Manager

Individuals in the operations manager jobs are responsible for ensuring the efficiency of each department to acquire its optimal goal. They plan the use of resources and distribution of materials. The operations manager's job description includes managing budgets, negotiating contracts, and performing administrative tasks.

Stock Analyst

Individuals who opt for a career as a stock analyst examine the company's investments makes decisions and keep track of financial securities. The nature of such investments will differ from one business to the next. Individuals in the stock analyst career use data mining to forecast a company's profits and revenues, advise clients on whether to buy or sell, participate in seminars, and discussing financial matters with executives and evaluate annual reports.

A Researcher is a professional who is responsible for collecting data and information by reviewing the literature and conducting experiments and surveys. He or she uses various methodological processes to provide accurate data and information that is utilised by academicians and other industry professionals. Here, we will discuss what is a researcher, the researcher's salary, types of researchers.

Welding Engineer

Welding Engineer Job Description: A Welding Engineer work involves managing welding projects and supervising welding teams. He or she is responsible for reviewing welding procedures, processes and documentation. A career as Welding Engineer involves conducting failure analyses and causes on welding issues. 

Transportation Planner

A career as Transportation Planner requires technical application of science and technology in engineering, particularly the concepts, equipment and technologies involved in the production of products and services. In fields like land use, infrastructure review, ecological standards and street design, he or she considers issues of health, environment and performance. A Transportation Planner assigns resources for implementing and designing programmes. He or she is responsible for assessing needs, preparing plans and forecasts and compliance with regulations.

Environmental Engineer

Individuals who opt for a career as an environmental engineer are construction professionals who utilise the skills and knowledge of biology, soil science, chemistry and the concept of engineering to design and develop projects that serve as solutions to various environmental problems. 

Safety Manager

A Safety Manager is a professional responsible for employee’s safety at work. He or she plans, implements and oversees the company’s employee safety. A Safety Manager ensures compliance and adherence to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines.

Conservation Architect

A Conservation Architect is a professional responsible for conserving and restoring buildings or monuments having a historic value. He or she applies techniques to document and stabilise the object’s state without any further damage. A Conservation Architect restores the monuments and heritage buildings to bring them back to their original state.

Structural Engineer

A Structural Engineer designs buildings, bridges, and other related structures. He or she analyzes the structures and makes sure the structures are strong enough to be used by the people. A career as a Structural Engineer requires working in the construction process. It comes under the civil engineering discipline. A Structure Engineer creates structural models with the help of computer-aided design software. 

Highway Engineer

Highway Engineer Job Description:  A Highway Engineer is a civil engineer who specialises in planning and building thousands of miles of roads that support connectivity and allow transportation across the country. He or she ensures that traffic management schemes are effectively planned concerning economic sustainability and successful implementation.

Field Surveyor

Are you searching for a Field Surveyor Job Description? A Field Surveyor is a professional responsible for conducting field surveys for various places or geographical conditions. He or she collects the required data and information as per the instructions given by senior officials. 

Orthotist and Prosthetist

Orthotists and Prosthetists are professionals who provide aid to patients with disabilities. They fix them to artificial limbs (prosthetics) and help them to regain stability. There are times when people lose their limbs in an accident. In some other occasions, they are born without a limb or orthopaedic impairment. Orthotists and prosthetists play a crucial role in their lives with fixing them to assistive devices and provide mobility.

Pathologist

A career in pathology in India is filled with several responsibilities as it is a medical branch and affects human lives. The demand for pathologists has been increasing over the past few years as people are getting more aware of different diseases. Not only that, but an increase in population and lifestyle changes have also contributed to the increase in a pathologist’s demand. The pathology careers provide an extremely huge number of opportunities and if you want to be a part of the medical field you can consider being a pathologist. If you want to know more about a career in pathology in India then continue reading this article.

Veterinary Doctor

Speech therapist, gynaecologist.

Gynaecology can be defined as the study of the female body. The job outlook for gynaecology is excellent since there is evergreen demand for one because of their responsibility of dealing with not only women’s health but also fertility and pregnancy issues. Although most women prefer to have a women obstetrician gynaecologist as their doctor, men also explore a career as a gynaecologist and there are ample amounts of male doctors in the field who are gynaecologists and aid women during delivery and childbirth. 

Audiologist

The audiologist career involves audiology professionals who are responsible to treat hearing loss and proactively preventing the relevant damage. Individuals who opt for a career as an audiologist use various testing strategies with the aim to determine if someone has a normal sensitivity to sounds or not. After the identification of hearing loss, a hearing doctor is required to determine which sections of the hearing are affected, to what extent they are affected, and where the wound causing the hearing loss is found. As soon as the hearing loss is identified, the patients are provided with recommendations for interventions and rehabilitation such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and appropriate medical referrals. While audiology is a branch of science that studies and researches hearing, balance, and related disorders.

An oncologist is a specialised doctor responsible for providing medical care to patients diagnosed with cancer. He or she uses several therapies to control the cancer and its effect on the human body such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy and biopsy. An oncologist designs a treatment plan based on a pathology report after diagnosing the type of cancer and where it is spreading inside the body.

Are you searching for an ‘Anatomist job description’? An Anatomist is a research professional who applies the laws of biological science to determine the ability of bodies of various living organisms including animals and humans to regenerate the damaged or destroyed organs. If you want to know what does an anatomist do, then read the entire article, where we will answer all your questions.

For an individual who opts for a career as an actor, the primary responsibility is to completely speak to the character he or she is playing and to persuade the crowd that the character is genuine by connecting with them and bringing them into the story. This applies to significant roles and littler parts, as all roles join to make an effective creation. Here in this article, we will discuss how to become an actor in India, actor exams, actor salary in India, and actor jobs. 

Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats create and direct original routines for themselves, in addition to developing interpretations of existing routines. The work of circus acrobats can be seen in a variety of performance settings, including circus, reality shows, sports events like the Olympics, movies and commercials. Individuals who opt for a career as acrobats must be prepared to face rejections and intermittent periods of work. The creativity of acrobats may extend to other aspects of the performance. For example, acrobats in the circus may work with gym trainers, celebrities or collaborate with other professionals to enhance such performance elements as costume and or maybe at the teaching end of the career.

Video Game Designer

Career as a video game designer is filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. A video game designer is someone who is involved in the process of creating a game from day one. He or she is responsible for fulfilling duties like designing the character of the game, the several levels involved, plot, art and similar other elements. Individuals who opt for a career as a video game designer may also write the codes for the game using different programming languages.

Depending on the video game designer job description and experience they may also have to lead a team and do the early testing of the game in order to suggest changes and find loopholes.

Radio Jockey

Radio Jockey is an exciting, promising career and a great challenge for music lovers. If you are really interested in a career as radio jockey, then it is very important for an RJ to have an automatic, fun, and friendly personality. If you want to get a job done in this field, a strong command of the language and a good voice are always good things. Apart from this, in order to be a good radio jockey, you will also listen to good radio jockeys so that you can understand their style and later make your own by practicing.

A career as radio jockey has a lot to offer to deserving candidates. If you want to know more about a career as radio jockey, and how to become a radio jockey then continue reading the article.

Choreographer

The word “choreography" actually comes from Greek words that mean “dance writing." Individuals who opt for a career as a choreographer create and direct original dances, in addition to developing interpretations of existing dances. A Choreographer dances and utilises his or her creativity in other aspects of dance performance. For example, he or she may work with the music director to select music or collaborate with other famous choreographers to enhance such performance elements as lighting, costume and set design.

Social Media Manager

A career as social media manager involves implementing the company’s or brand’s marketing plan across all social media channels. Social media managers help in building or improving a brand’s or a company’s website traffic, build brand awareness, create and implement marketing and brand strategy. Social media managers are key to important social communication as well.

Photographer

Photography is considered both a science and an art, an artistic means of expression in which the camera replaces the pen. In a career as a photographer, an individual is hired to capture the moments of public and private events, such as press conferences or weddings, or may also work inside a studio, where people go to get their picture clicked. Photography is divided into many streams each generating numerous career opportunities in photography. With the boom in advertising, media, and the fashion industry, photography has emerged as a lucrative and thrilling career option for many Indian youths.

An individual who is pursuing a career as a producer is responsible for managing the business aspects of production. They are involved in each aspect of production from its inception to deception. Famous movie producers review the script, recommend changes and visualise the story. 

They are responsible for overseeing the finance involved in the project and distributing the film for broadcasting on various platforms. A career as a producer is quite fulfilling as well as exhaustive in terms of playing different roles in order for a production to be successful. Famous movie producers are responsible for hiring creative and technical personnel on contract basis.

Copy Writer

In a career as a copywriter, one has to consult with the client and understand the brief well. A career as a copywriter has a lot to offer to deserving candidates. Several new mediums of advertising are opening therefore making it a lucrative career choice. Students can pursue various copywriter courses such as Journalism , Advertising , Marketing Management . Here, we have discussed how to become a freelance copywriter, copywriter career path, how to become a copywriter in India, and copywriting career outlook. 

In a career as a vlogger, one generally works for himself or herself. However, once an individual has gained viewership there are several brands and companies that approach them for paid collaboration. It is one of those fields where an individual can earn well while following his or her passion. 

Ever since internet costs got reduced the viewership for these types of content has increased on a large scale. Therefore, a career as a vlogger has a lot to offer. If you want to know more about the Vlogger eligibility, roles and responsibilities then continue reading the article. 

For publishing books, newspapers, magazines and digital material, editorial and commercial strategies are set by publishers. Individuals in publishing career paths make choices about the markets their businesses will reach and the type of content that their audience will be served. Individuals in book publisher careers collaborate with editorial staff, designers, authors, and freelance contributors who develop and manage the creation of content.

Careers in journalism are filled with excitement as well as responsibilities. One cannot afford to miss out on the details. As it is the small details that provide insights into a story. Depending on those insights a journalist goes about writing a news article. A journalism career can be stressful at times but if you are someone who is passionate about it then it is the right choice for you. If you want to know more about the media field and journalist career then continue reading this article.

Individuals in the editor career path is an unsung hero of the news industry who polishes the language of the news stories provided by stringers, reporters, copywriters and content writers and also news agencies. Individuals who opt for a career as an editor make it more persuasive, concise and clear for readers. In this article, we will discuss the details of the editor's career path such as how to become an editor in India, editor salary in India and editor skills and qualities.

Individuals who opt for a career as a reporter may often be at work on national holidays and festivities. He or she pitches various story ideas and covers news stories in risky situations. Students can pursue a BMC (Bachelor of Mass Communication) , B.M.M. (Bachelor of Mass Media) , or  MAJMC (MA in Journalism and Mass Communication) to become a reporter. While we sit at home reporters travel to locations to collect information that carries a news value.  

Corporate Executive

Are you searching for a Corporate Executive job description? A Corporate Executive role comes with administrative duties. He or she provides support to the leadership of the organisation. A Corporate Executive fulfils the business purpose and ensures its financial stability. In this article, we are going to discuss how to become corporate executive.

Multimedia Specialist

A multimedia specialist is a media professional who creates, audio, videos, graphic image files, computer animations for multimedia applications. He or she is responsible for planning, producing, and maintaining websites and applications. 

Quality Controller

A quality controller plays a crucial role in an organisation. He or she is responsible for performing quality checks on manufactured products. He or she identifies the defects in a product and rejects the product. 

A quality controller records detailed information about products with defects and sends it to the supervisor or plant manager to take necessary actions to improve the production process.

Production Manager

A QA Lead is in charge of the QA Team. The role of QA Lead comes with the responsibility of assessing services and products in order to determine that he or she meets the quality standards. He or she develops, implements and manages test plans. 

Process Development Engineer

The Process Development Engineers design, implement, manufacture, mine, and other production systems using technical knowledge and expertise in the industry. They use computer modeling software to test technologies and machinery. An individual who is opting career as Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing cost-effective and efficient processes. They also monitor the production process and ensure it functions smoothly and efficiently.

AWS Solution Architect

An AWS Solution Architect is someone who specializes in developing and implementing cloud computing systems. He or she has a good understanding of the various aspects of cloud computing and can confidently deploy and manage their systems. He or she troubleshoots the issues and evaluates the risk from the third party. 

Azure Administrator

An Azure Administrator is a professional responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining Azure Solutions. He or she manages cloud infrastructure service instances and various cloud servers as well as sets up public and private cloud systems. 

Computer Programmer

Careers in computer programming primarily refer to the systematic act of writing code and moreover include wider computer science areas. The word 'programmer' or 'coder' has entered into practice with the growing number of newly self-taught tech enthusiasts. Computer programming careers involve the use of designs created by software developers and engineers and transforming them into commands that can be implemented by computers. These commands result in regular usage of social media sites, word-processing applications and browsers.

Information Security Manager

Individuals in the information security manager career path involves in overseeing and controlling all aspects of computer security. The IT security manager job description includes planning and carrying out security measures to protect the business data and information from corruption, theft, unauthorised access, and deliberate attack 

ITSM Manager

Automation test engineer.

An Automation Test Engineer job involves executing automated test scripts. He or she identifies the project’s problems and troubleshoots them. The role involves documenting the defect using management tools. He or she works with the application team in order to resolve any issues arising during the testing process. 

Applications for Admissions are open.

SAT® | CollegeBoard

SAT® | CollegeBoard

Registeration closing on 19th Apr for SAT® | One Test-Many Universities | 90% discount on registrations fee | Free Practice | Multiple Attempts | no penalty for guessing

TOEFL ® Registrations 2024

TOEFL ® Registrations 2024

Thinking of Studying Abroad? Think the TOEFL® test. Register now & Save 10% on English Proficiency Tests with Gift Cards

GRE ® Registrations 2024

GRE ® Registrations 2024

Apply for GRE® Test now & save 10% with gift card | World's most used Admission Test for Graduate & Professional Schools

PTE Exam 2024 Registrations

PTE Exam 2024 Registrations

Register now for PTE & Save 5% on English Proficiency Tests with Gift Cards

GMAT™ Exam-Focus Edition

GMAT™ Exam-Focus Edition

Register for GMAT™ Exam- Focus Edition| Shortest GMAT ever | Valid for 5 Years | Multiple attempts | Wide Acceptance

Study in Canada

Explore Universities, Courses & Subjects | Work while study

Everything about Education

Latest updates, Exclusive Content, Webinars and more.

Explore on Careers360

  • Explore Top Study Abroad Exams
  • Study Destinations and Visa
  • TOEFL Syllabus
  • TOEFL Exam Pattern
  • TOEFL Eligibility
  • TOEFL Registration
  • TOEFL Result
  • LSAT Eligibility
  • LSAT Scores
  • LSAT Test Dates
  • LSAT Test Centres
  • LSAT Eligibility Criteria
  • LSAT Sample Papers
  • LSAT Exam Pattern
  • LSAT Preparation Tips
  • LSAT Syllabus
  • LSAT Selection Process
  • IELTS Application Form
  • IELTS Cut Off
  • IELTS Eligibility Criteria
  • IELTS Preparation Books And Study Materials
  • IELTS Preparation Tips
  • IELTS Sample Paper
  • IELTS Selection Procedure
  • IELTS Syllabus
  • IELTS Test Dates
  • IELTS Test Pattern
  • GRE Test Syllabus
  • GRE Sample Paper
  • GRE Eligibility Criteria
  • GRE Registration
  • GRE Test Pattern
  • GRE Test Dates
  • GRE Test Centres
  • GRE Preparation Tips
  • GRE Selection Procedure
  • SAT Preparation Tips
  • SAT Syllabus
  • SAT Test Centres
  • SAT Exam Pattern
  • SAT Test Eligibility
  • SAT Registration
  • SAT Exam Dates
  • SAT Sample Papers
  • USMLE Exam Dates
  • USMLE Test Centres
  • USMLE Scores
  • USMLE Application Form
  • USMLE Eligibility Criteria
  • ACT Test Dates
  • ACT Registration
  • ACT Eligibility Criteria
  • ACT Exam Pattern
  • ACT Test Centres
  • MCAT Test Dates
  • MCAT Exam Pattern
  • MCAT Syllabus
  • MCAT Registration
  • MCAT Eligibility
  • MCAT Scores
  • GMAT Test Dates
  • GMAT Exam Pattern
  • GMAT Syllabus
  • GMAT Registration
  • GMAT Eligibility
  • GMAT Scores

Popular Study Abroad Countries

  • Study in Singapore
  • Student Visa For Canada
  • Student Visa For UK
  • Student Visa For USA
  • Student Visa For Australia
  • Germany Student Visa
  • New Zealand Student Visa
  • Student Visa For Ireland

Download Careers360 App's

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

student

Cetifications

student

We Appeared in

Economic Times

recommendation letter for phd format

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

How to write a letter of recommendation for grad school

When someone asks you to write a graduate school letter of recommendation , it demonstrates that they value your opinion, trust you and believe in your writing skills.

But as flattering as it is to be asked, there is also some pressure associated with crafting an effective and convincing letter of recommendation. After all, the applicant is counting on you to influence the admissions board and highlight their accomplishments, strengths and skill sets.

The good news is, writing a graduate school letter of recommendation is more intuitive than you think. Below, we’ve rounded up all the tips you need to write the perfect letter for anyone in your sphere.

What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

First off, let’s go over what a letter of recommendation is.

A letter of recommendation is a brief, written endorsement needed for certain jobs, programs or schools that details a person’s qualifications for whatever they’re applying for.

It’s written by a trusted and valued source: usually a past employer, teacher, mentor or colleague. In a letter of recommendation for graduate school, the writer describes the person’s skills, their personality and why they’re the right fit for the program. This is all so the institution has confirmation of the applicant’s ability to succeed in the program.

If you don’t believe you’re the right fit to write a student’s recommendation, that’s OK, too. You can politely decline and explain to the student why. You can also offer to help them find someone else who’s a more appropriate choice.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Writing a Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

Once you’ve decided to accept and write the letter of recommendation, take a moment to consider some key questions before you begin crafting your statement.

  • What is your relationship like with this person?
  • What do you think of their work you’ve seen? How would you describe it?
  • What are significant memories you have with them?
  • What qualities or strengths does this person have?
  • What would you specifically want somebody to know about this person?
  • What value would this person bring to this grad school program, and how would they thrive in the field after the program?

What to Ask From Someone Before Writing a Letter of Recommendation

Of course, there is some student information you’ll want to obtain before starting your recommendation. To ensure you’re addressing all the right points and representing them in the best light possible, make sure you ask them the below questions.

The basics . First off, you should find out where this letter is going, to whom it should be addressed, what the deadlines are and how they’d like you to submit it (mail, email, etc.).

Why they want to go to this program and why they are drawn to this school . It’s important to know the motivation behind their graduate school studies: Is it for the love of learning? To get a better job? To switch fields altogether? This will help inform what you write in the letter. Similarly, it’s good to know why a specific school is calling them as well.

Any strengths or qualities they want highlighted . Each person will have different qualities they want you to discuss in their letter of recommendation. If the strengths they mention are ones you agree with and seem relevant to the degree program, definitely include them. You should also ask about what achievements they’ve made that will help them stand out from the crowd of applicants.

Their resume . No one can memorize a person’s entire job and education history. A resume can help remind you of special projects and exemplary work they’ve accomplished in the past, which you can then emphasize in your letter.

What to Include in a Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

There are specific things you should always include in a letter of recommendation for graduate school to make it shine and improve the applicant’s chances of admission.

These are the points that you must undoubtedly touch on throughout your recommendation:

How do you know the applicant? It’s important to describe who you are and how you know the applicant, as well as how long you’ve known them. Personal anecdotes are a must, and they boost your credibility.

Why are they a good fit for the program? Include an explanation for why you think they would specifically thrive in the program. Avoid being vague or general. Dive into why the school would be the perfect fit, and vice versa!

What are their most shining accomplishments? Describe their achievements, especially the ones you’ve personally witnessed. In addition, reference their top strengths and qualities. Again, avoid generalities and use vivid anecdotes.

Can you explain any gaps or discrepancies? A letter of recommendation is often a good time to clear up any troubling parts of the student’s resume or work history — perhaps there was an employment gap or grades dip because they were caring for a sick relative, for example. If you’re aware of any weak spots on their resume from extenuating circumstances, this is the time to note it.

What sets the applicant apart from the rest? Be sure to conclude on a strong note with a very clear, concise recommendation. Highlight what sets them apart from other people, so the program can clearly understand why they should admit this candidate into their college or university.

How to Format and Structure a Graduate School Letter of Recommendation

As for structure, letters of recommendation should not be longer than a page. Start off with a greeting (“Dear [Name]” or “To Whom It May Concern,” if you don’t know the recipient). In the opening paragraph, explain who you are, the nature of your relationship with the student and your overall impression of them.

Within the body of the letter, you can expand on their personality, skills and achievements — along with personal anecdotes — before wrapping up with a final strong and clear recommendation for the applicant.

Then, feel free to add in a polite offer to contact you if they need more information and a formal parting signature. Double-check for spelling and grammar, too, as any mistake could weaken your credibility.

Once you’ve proofread the letter, all you have to do is submit it as instructed and patiently wait for an update from the applicant. Best of luck!

For more information, explore  USC Online ’s master’s degrees, doctoral programs and graduate certificates.

  • FRONT MATTER

Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters

Print

The three sample recommendation letters that follow, which you can download by clicking on the link below, are effective because they detail what makes the students stand out as exceptional and because they paint individual pictures of each student. Note how these excerpts, excerpted from each of the three letters, individualize and humanize the student:

“I have been especially impressed by Janet’s determination and sparkle.” “I enthusiastically supported her application for the student position on the Mythic University Board of Trustees for the same reasons. She was the runner-up for that distinguished post, and Mythic University lost out on a true leader. But I believe her time is yet to come.” “In short, John is both scholarly and culturally entrenched, ambitious but not pretentious, self-deprecating yet confident, forthright but unassuming, delightfully irreverent yet appropriately respectful—a complex and whole human being.”

In addition, the writers of these three letters take advantage of many of the rhetorical strategies discussed in Chapters 3 and 4 of this manual: enhancing their own credibility, narrative technique, anecdotal evidence, recommending by citing others, and using active verbs and transitions.

Finally, a late paragraph in the last letter, at the prompting of the graduate scholarship application, even provides a few criticisms of the student. Because these criticisms are offered even-handedly and efficiently, I would argue that the letter has even more ethos, and it is noteworthy that the student still landed the desired scholarship.

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

  • View all journals
  • Explore content
  • About the journal
  • Publish with us
  • Sign up for alerts
  • CAREER COLUMN
  • 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Undergraduates need them for graduate-school applications; PhD students and postdocs use them to apply for fellowships and jobs; senior scientists often have to have them to apply for awards and promotions. But writing an effective and personal recommendation letter can be time-consuming, especially for academics who must juggle grant applications, manuscripts, teaching and student supervision. And some might struggle to say the right things to support a former employee or student in their career move, while sounding original and unique.

Access options

Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals

Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription

24,99 € / 30 days

cancel any time

Subscribe to this journal

Receive 51 print issues and online access

185,98 € per year

only 3,65 € per issue

Rent or buy this article

Prices vary by article type

Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout

Nature 584 , 158 (2020)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-020-02186-8

These interviews have been edited for length and clarity.

Related Articles

recommendation letter for phd format

  • Research management

Londoners see what a scientist looks like up close in 50 photographs

Londoners see what a scientist looks like up close in 50 photographs

Career News 18 APR 24

Deadly diseases and inflatable suits: how I found my niche in virology research

Deadly diseases and inflatable suits: how I found my niche in virology research

Spotlight 17 APR 24

How young people benefit from Swiss apprenticeships

How young people benefit from Swiss apprenticeships

Ready or not, AI is coming to science education — and students have opinions

Ready or not, AI is coming to science education — and students have opinions

Career Feature 08 APR 24

After the genocide: what scientists are learning from Rwanda

After the genocide: what scientists are learning from Rwanda

News Feature 05 APR 24

Researchers want a ‘nutrition label’ for academic-paper facts

Researchers want a ‘nutrition label’ for academic-paper facts

Nature Index 17 APR 24

How we landed job interviews for professorships straight out of our PhD programmes

How we landed job interviews for professorships straight out of our PhD programmes

Career Column 08 APR 24

Postdoctoral Position

We are seeking highly motivated and skilled candidates for postdoctoral fellow positions

Boston, Massachusetts (US)

Boston Children's Hospital (BCH)

recommendation letter for phd format

Qiushi Chair Professor

Distinguished scholars with notable achievements and extensive international influence.

Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Zhejiang University

recommendation letter for phd format

ZJU 100 Young Professor

Promising young scholars who can independently establish and develop a research direction.

Head of the Thrust of Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Reporting to the Dean of Systems Hub, the Head of ROAS is an executive assuming overall responsibility for the academic, student, human resources...

Guangzhou, Guangdong, China

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou)

recommendation letter for phd format

Head of Biology, Bio-island

Head of Biology to lead the discovery biology group.

BeiGene Ltd.

recommendation letter for phd format

Sign up for the Nature Briefing newsletter — what matters in science, free to your inbox daily.

Quick links

  • Explore articles by subject
  • Guide to authors
  • Editorial policies

Top Streams

  • Data Science Courses in USA
  • Business Analytics Courses in USA
  • Engineering Courses in USA
  • Tax Courses in USA
  • Healthcare Courses in USA
  • Language Courses in USA
  • Insurance Courses in USA
  • Digital Marketing Courses in USA

Top Specialization

  • Masters in Data Analytics in USA
  • Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA
  • Masters in Supply Chain Management in USA
  • Masters in Computer Science in USA
  • MBA in Finance in USA
  • Masters in Architecture in USA

Top Universities

  • Cornell University
  • Yale University
  • Princeton University
  • University of California Los Angeles
  • University of Harvard
  • Stanford University
  • Arizona State University
  • Northeastern University
  • Project Management Courses in Australia
  • Accounting Courses in Australia
  • Medical Courses in Australia
  • Psychology Courses in Australia
  • Interior Designing Courses in Australia
  • Pharmacy Courses in Australia
  • Social Work Courses in Australia
  • MBA in Australia
  • Masters in Education in Australia
  • Masters in Pharmacy in Australia
  • Masters in Information Technology in Australia
  • BBA in Australia
  • Masters in Teaching in Australia
  • Masters in Psychology in Australia
  • University of Melbourne
  • Deakin University
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Monash University
  • University of Sydney
  • University of Queensland
  • RMIT University
  • Macquarie University
  • Data Science Courses in Canada
  • Business Management Courses in Canada
  • Supply Chain Management Courses in Canada
  • Project Management Courses in Canada
  • Business Analytics Courses in Canada
  • Hotel Management Courses in Canada
  • MBA in Canada
  • MS in Canada
  • Masters in Computer Science in Canada
  • Masters in Management in Canada
  • Masters in Psychology in Canada
  • Masters in Education in Canada
  • MBA in Finance in Canada
  • Masters in Business Analytics in Canada
  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia
  • McGill University
  • University of Alberta
  • York University
  • University of Calgary
  • Algoma University
  • University Canada West
  • Project Management Courses in UK
  • Data Science Courses in UK
  • Public Health Courses in UK
  • Digital Marketing Courses in UK
  • Hotel Management Courses in UK
  • Nursing Courses in UK
  • Medicine Courses in UK
  • Interior Designing Courses in UK
  • Masters in Computer Science in UK
  • Masters in Psychology in UK
  • MBA in Finance in UK
  • MBA in Healthcare Management in UK
  • Masters in Education in UK
  • Masters in Marketing in UK
  • MBA in HR in UK
  • University of Oxford
  • University of Cambridge
  • Coventry University
  • University of East London
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • University of Birmingham
  • Imperial College London
  • University of Glasgow

Top Resources

  • Universities in Germany
  • Study in Germany
  • Masters in Germany
  • Courses in Germany
  • Bachelors in Germany
  • Germany Job Seeker Visa
  • Cost of Living in Germany
  • Best Universities in Germany

Top Courses

  • Masters in Data Science in Germany
  • MS in Computer Science in Germany
  • Marine Engineering in Germany
  • MS Courses in Germany
  • Masters in Psychology in Germany
  • Hotel Management Courses in Germany
  • Masters in Economics in Germany
  • Paramedical Courses in Germany
  • Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
  • University of Bonn
  • University of Freiburg
  • University of Hamburg
  • University of Stuttgart
  • Saarland University
  • Mannheim University
  • MBA in Ireland
  • Phd in Ireland
  • Masters in Computer Science Ireland
  • Cyber Security in Ireland
  • Masters in Data Analytics Ireland
  • Ms in Data Science in Ireland
  • Pharmacy courses in ireland
  • Business Analytics Course in Ireland
  • Universities in Ireland
  • Study in Ireland
  • Masters in Ireland
  • Courses in Ireland
  • Bachelors in Ireland
  • Cost of Living in Ireland
  • Ireland Student Visa
  • Part Time Jobs in Ireland
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Dublin
  • Dublin City University
  • University of Limerick
  • Dublin Business School
  • Maynooth University
  • University College Cork
  • National College of Ireland

Colleges & Courses

  • Masters in France
  • Phd in France
  • Study Medicine in France
  • Best Universities in Frankfurt
  • Best Architecture Colleges in France
  • ESIGELEC France
  • Study in France for Indian Students
  • Intakes in France
  • SOP for France Visa
  • Study in France from India
  • Reasons to Study in France
  • How to Settle in France

More About France

  • Cost of Living in France
  • France Study Visa
  • Cost of Living in Frankfurt
  • France Scholarship for Indian Students
  • Part Time Jobs in France
  • Stay Back in France After Masters

About Finland

  • Universities in Finland
  • Study in Finland
  • Courses in Finland
  • Bachelor Courses in Finland
  • Masters Courses in Finland
  • Cost of Living in Finland
  • MS in Finland
  • Average Fees in Finland Universities
  • PhD in Finland
  • Bachelor Degree in Medicine & Surgery
  • MBBS Courses in Georgia
  • MBBS Courses in Russia
  • Alte University
  • Caucasus University
  • Georgian National University SEU
  • David Tvildiani Medical University
  • Caspian International School Of Medicine
  • Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University
  • Kyrgyz State Medical Academy
  • Cremeia Federal University
  • Bashkir State Medical University
  • Kursk State Medical University
  • Andijan State Medical Institute
  • IELTS Syllabus
  • IELTS Prepration
  • IELTS Eligibility
  • IELTS Test Format
  • IELTS Band Descriptors
  • IELTS Speaking test
  • IELTS Writing Task 1
  • IELTS score validity
  • IELTS Cue Card

IELTS Reading Answers Sample

  • Animal Camouflage
  • Types Of Societies
  • Australia Convict Colonies
  • A Spark A Flint
  • Emigration To The Us
  • The History Of Salt
  • Zoo Conservation Programmes
  • The Robots Are Coming
  • The Development Of Plastic

IELTS Speaking Cue Card Sample

  • Describe A Puzzle You Have Played
  • Describe A Long Walk You Ever Had
  • Describe Your Favourite Movie
  • Describe A Difficult Thing You did
  • Describe A Businessman You Admire
  • Memorable Day in My Life
  • Describe Your Dream House
  • Describe A Bag You Want to Own
  • Describe a Famous Athlete You Know
  • Aquatic Animal

IELTS Essay Sample Sample

  • Best Education System
  • IELTS Opinion Essay
  • Agree or Disagree Essay
  • Problem Solution Essays
  • Essay on Space Exploration
  • Essay On Historical Places
  • Essay Writing Samples
  • Tourism Essay
  • Global Warming Essay
  • GRE Exam Fees
  • GRE Exam Syllabus
  • GRE Exam Eligibility
  • Sections in GRE Exam
  • GRE Exam Benefits
  • GRE Exam Results
  • GRE Cutoff for US Universities
  • GRE Preparation
  • Send GRE scores to Universities

GRE Exam Study Material

  • GRE Verbal Preparation
  • GRE Study Material
  • GRE AWA Essays
  • GRE Sample Issue Essays
  • Stanford University GRE Cutoff
  • Harvard University GRE Cutoff
  • GRE Quantitative Reasoning
  • GRE Verbal Reasoning
  • GRE Reading Comprehension
  • Prepare for GRE in 2 months

Other Resources

  • Documents Required For Gre Exam
  • GRE Exam Duration
  • GRE at Home
  • GRE vs GMAT
  • Improve GRE Verbal Scores

Free GRE Ebooks

  • GRE Preparation Guide (Free PDF)
  • GRE Syllabus (Free PDF)
  • GMAT Eligibility
  • GMAT Syllabus
  • GMAT Exam Dates
  • GMAT Registration
  • GMAT Exam Fees
  • GMAT Sections
  • GMAT Purpose

GMAT Exam Study Material

  • How to prepare for GMAT?
  • GMAT Score Validity
  • GMAT Preparation Books
  • GMAT Preparation
  • GMAT Exam Duration
  • GMAT Score for Harvard
  • GMAT Reading Comprehension
  • GMAT Retake Strategy

Free GMAT Ebooks

  • GMAT Guide PDF
  • Download GMAT Syllabus PDF
  • TOEFL Exam Registration
  • TOEFL Exam Eligibility
  • TOEFL Exam Pattern
  • TOEFL Exam Preparation
  • TOEFL Exam Tips
  • TOEFL Exam Dates
  • Documents for TOEFL Exam
  • TOEFL Exam Fee

TOEFL Exam Study Material

  • TOEFL Preparation Books
  • TOEFL Speaking Section
  • TOEFL Score and Results
  • TOEFL Writing Section
  • TOEFL Reading Section
  • TOEFL Listening Section
  • TOEFL Vocabulary
  • Types of Essays in TOEFL

Free TOEFL Ebooks

  • TOEFL Exam Guide (Free PDF)
  • PTE Exam Dates
  • PTE Exam Syllabus
  • PTE Exam Eligibility Criteria
  • PTE Test Centers in India
  • PTE Exam Pattern
  • PTE Exam Fees
  • PTE Exam Duration
  • PTE Exam Registration

PTE Exam Study Material

  • PTE Exam Preparation
  • PTE Speaking Test
  • PTE Reading Test
  • PTE Listening Test
  • PTE Writing Test
  • PTE Essay Writing
  • PTE exam for Australia

Free PTE Ebooks

  • PTE Syllabus (Free PDF)
  • Duolingo Exam
  • Duolingo Test Eligibility
  • Duolingo Exam Pattern
  • Duolingo Exam Fees
  • Duolingo Test Validity
  • Duolingo Syllabus
  • Duolingo Preparation

Duolingo Exam Study Material

  • Duolingo Exam Dates
  • Duolingo Test Score
  • Duolingo Test Results
  • Duolingo Test Booking

Free Duolingo Ebooks

  • Duolingo Guide (Free PDF)
  • Duolingo Test Pattern (Free PDF)

NEET & MCAT Exam

  • NEET Study Material
  • NEET Preparation
  • MCAT Eligibility
  • MCAT Preparation

SAT & ACT Exam

  • ACT Eligibility
  • ACT Exam Dates
  • SAT Syllabus
  • SAT Exam Pattern
  • SAT Exam Eligibility

USMLE & OET Exam

  • USMLE Syllabus
  • USMLE Preparation
  • USMLE Step 1
  • OET Syllabus
  • OET Eligibility
  • OET Prepration

PLAB & LSAT Exam

  • PLAB Exam Syllabus
  • PLAB Exam Fees
  • LSAT Eligibility
  • LSAT Registration
  • TOEIC Result
  • Study Guide

Application Process

  • LOR for Masters
  • SOP Samples for MS
  • LOR for Phd
  • SOP for Internship
  • SOP for Phd
  • Check Visa Status
  • Motivation Letter Format
  • Motivation Letter for Internship
  • F1 Visa Documents Checklist

Career Prospects

  • Popular Courses after Bcom in Abroad
  • Part Time Jobs in Australia
  • Part Time Jobs in USA
  • Salary after MS in Germany
  • Salary after MBA in Canada
  • Average Salary in Singapore
  • Higher Studies after MBA in Abroad
  • Study in Canada after 12th

Trending Topics

  • Best Education System in World
  • Best Flying Schools in World
  • Top Free Education Countries
  • Best Countries to Migrate from India
  • 1 Year PG Diploma Courses in Canada
  • Canada Vs India
  • Germany Post Study Work Visa
  • Post Study Visa in USA
  • Data Science Vs Data Analytics
  • Public Vs Private Universities in Germany
  • Universities Vs Colleges
  • Difference Between GPA and CGPA
  • Undergraduate Vs Graduate
  • MBA in UK Vs MBA in USA
  • Degree Vs Diploma in Canada
  • IELTS vs TOEFL
  • Duolingo English Test vs. IELTS
  • Why Study in Canada
  • Cost of Living in Canada
  • Education System in Canada
  • SOP for Canada
  • Summer Intake in Canada
  • Spring Intake in Canada
  • Winter Intake in Canada
  • Accommodation in Canada for Students
  • Average Salary in Canada
  • Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
  • Why Study in USA
  • Cost of Studying in USA
  • Spring Intake in USA
  • Winter Intake in USA
  • Summer Intake in USA
  • STEM Courses in USA
  • Scholarships for MS in USA
  • Acceptable Study Gap in USA
  • Interesting Facts about USA
  • Free USA course
  • Why Study in UK
  • Cost of Living in UK
  • Cost of Studying in UK
  • Education System in UK
  • Summer Intake in UK
  • Spring Intake in UK
  • Student Visa for UK
  • Accommodation in UK for Students
  • Scholarships in UK
  • Why Study in Germany
  • Cost of Studying in Germany
  • Education System in Germany
  • SOP for Germany
  • Summer Intake in Germany
  • Winter Intake in Germany
  • Study Visa for Germany
  • Accommodation in Germany for Students
  • Free Education in Germany

Country Guides

  • Study in UK
  • Study in Canada
  • Study in USA
  • Study in Australia
  • SOP Samples for Canada Student Visa
  • US F1 Visa Guide for Aspirants

Exams Guides

  • Duolingo Test Pattern

Recommended Reads

  • Fully Funded Masters Guide
  • SOP Samples For Australia
  • Scholarships for Canada
  • Data Science Guide
  • SOP for MS in Computer Science
  • Study Abroad Exams
  • Alumni Connect
  • Booster Program

GPA CALCULATOR Convert percentage marks to GPA effortlessly with our calculator!

Expense calculator plan your study abroad expenses with our comprehensive calculator, ielts band calculator estimate your ielts band score with our accurate calculator, education loan calculator discover your eligible loan amount limit with our education calculator, university partner explore growth and opportunities with our university partnership, accommodation discover your perfect study abroad accommodation here, experience-center discover our offline centers for a personalized experience, our offices visit us for expert study abroad counseling..

  • 18002102030
  • Study Abroad

Letter Of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Format & How to Write

Updated on 29 january, 2024.

Anupriya Mukherjee

Anupriya Mukherjee

Sr. content writer.

Anupriya Mukherjee

A letter of recommendation or LOR for a PhD is an important document required for admission into PhD programs at foreign institutions if you are planning to study abroad . While scores, transcripts, and other vital documents are mostly factual, the LOR is an independent objective analysis of applicants. PhD courses usually require two to three recommendations. These provide committees with an overview of the applicant’s core strengths, skills, and accomplishments.

Table of Contents

Lor for phd : guidelines:.

  • Academic LOR:
  • Professional LOR:

Introduction:

Conclusion:, popular guides to simplify your study abroad journey, sample lor for phd:, important tips to write lor for phd, download country guides (free pdfs).

The vital part of writing a LOR is choosing the right recommender. For a PhD SOP, the recommender should be someone who can endorse your candidature and provide an unbiased application essay. Since all the other documents are self-prepared, they are likely to be biased. LOR provides an external perspective, which entirely depends on your recommender. It is unique because it is your assessment from an external viewpoint. Your recommender for PhD should be someone who can be described as follows:

  • One who has a good rapport.
  • Who understands your personality, achievements, and capabilities.
  • With whom you have shared your academic and professional experiences and journey 
  • Who is aware of your current research ideas
  • Who supports your research ideas.

Types of LOR for PhD

International universities offering PhD require two to three LORs depending on your academic and professional experience. Two academic LORs are needed, and one professional LOR is required if you have work experience. Basically, the LOR for PhD is classified into two categories:

Academic LOR: 

Academic letter of recommendation is provided by the professor of your educational institution. Most commonly, you are asked to provide two academic LORs for PhD in an international university. In such LORs, professors need to highlight the applicant’s capabilities and achievements. It should reflect the recommender’s perspective about you and your research ideas.

Professional LOR: 

The applicant’s professional letter of recommendation is asked if they have any work experience. Only one professional LOR is needed in that case. It is provided by your immediate supervisor or employer. It should reflect the recommender’s perspective on your professional ability to work within a team.

How to write a LOR for PhD?

When your recommender is willing to write your LOR for PhD, you should share your research ideas, achievements, capabilities, objectives, and relevant information. The format of the LOR should consist of the answers to several questions related to your suitability for a PhD. The LOR, whether academic or professional, written by your recommender should sound realistic and authentic. The standard LOR format for PhD should have the following details:

This part of the LOR should include the details regarding the recommender. It is a brief introduction of the recommender with their current designation and professional experience mentioned in the LOR. They also need to mention their relationship and duration of association with the applicant. The details of the recommender’s association and guidance must be mentioned in the LOR.

It includes the details of the applicant’s technical skills, certification, internship work, research ideas, research outcomes, research goals, capabilities, qualities, work experience, presentations, seminars, extracurricular activities, etc. It is quite crucial to add all the relevant information required to consider the applicant’s candidature and future undertakings. 

This last part of the LOR format summarizes the applicant’s desire for the PhD program. The closing part of the LOR essay application includes the recommender’s signature and contact details.

An excellent sample LOR for PhD highlights at least three attributes of the aspirant – a social attribute and two subject-linked or technical attributes. Here are some notable guidelines:

  • The LOR should be 1-2 pages long with 5-6 paragraphs. 
  • Recommenders should start the LOR by introducing themselves and the aspirant.
  • Recommenders should also discuss how and from when they are professionally related to the applicants in the first paragraph. 
  • The following paragraphs should be divided into three segments, each highlighting aspirant’s particular skill or quality.
  • Recommenders should emphasize analytical abilities, subject knowledge, time management skills, dedication, responsibility, research abilities, etc. 
  • The conclusion will sum up the qualities of the aspirant while ending with a solid recommendation to the university for accepting the application.

Full Funded Master's Guide Banner

Fully Funded Master's Guide

The list of scholarships to cover ALL your university expenses.

List of Study Abroad Exams Banner

Exams To Study Abroad

Top study abroad exams to fast-forward your global career!

Download Detailed Guide On MBA Banner

Free Guide On MBA

Transform your career trajectory with an MBA abroad!

recommendation letter for phd format

Packing List For Students

Most useful items to pack when preparing to study abroad.

How to choose your Major banner

How To Choose Your Major ?

Choose in-demand specializations for a successful career abroad.

The following sample LOR for PhD is one of many ways of writing it.

I am pleased to get the chance to recommend (name of applicant) for the PhD position in (course/study area name) at your institution. I have taught (name of applicant) for the last (tenure in years) in the areas of (subject areas). I will be delighted to witness him/her excelling in this particular field.

The topic (title) proposed by him/her is vital for the modern-day scenario and needs extensive research. It will be beneficial for all the industry stakeholders in the (sector name) and also academicians who can access real-time insights on the subject.

(Name of applicant) has completed a research project over a period of (duration) on (name of project) under my supervision. I have witnessed his/her work efficiency, critical thinking abilities, and inquisitiveness regarding various findings. He/she also has brilliant communication skills and the ability to mentor and guide peers.

(Name) has a down-to-earth nature and respects others while adhering to rules and regulations. His/her independent or group work on research projects and studies has been immensely satisfying. He/she is an analytical thinker and is stimulated by new academic challenges. This trait makes him/her strive for innovative solutions to real-world problems with a strong desire to improve the world around.

Hectic timelines, various constraints, tough work conditions, multitasking, and dealing with multiple people along the way, are things that he/she can tackle with ease while delivering work seamlessly. With these positive abilities, he/she will be an asset to any institution.

(Name) has improved consistently every year and is a deserving candidate for an opportunity to work in the field of (topic name). I would be delighted if my recommendation helps him/her obtain admission in the (course name). 

If you have any queries regarding research, academics, or other areas pertaining to (applicant name’s) candidature, please feel free to reach me at the following phone or email address. I am usually available on the phone between Monday and Friday from (time to time, i.e. 11 am to 4 pm).

(Name of Referee)

Designation:

Phone Number:

Following important tips should be considered while writing a LOR for PhD:

  • The selection of the right recommender is crucial. Choose your recommender carefully who meets the specifications mentioned in your PhD application.
  • Choosing your recommenders with finer academic and professional qualifications is of utmost importance.
  • Stay in contact with your potential recommenders and maintain good communication with them in advance.
  • Share your research proposal, goals, and achievements with your recommenders.
  • Your LORs for PhD should differ from each other.
  • Your LOR should showcase your qualities, capabilities, and strengths. 
  • Online recommendation forms should be submitted much before the deadline.
  • The letter should be realistic and unbiased.
  • The relationship between the recommender and the applicant should be demonstrated clearly.
  • All the information stated in the LOR should be genuine, authentic, and accurate. Ensure that no information is false or exaggerated.

In conclusion, a well-crafted Letter of Recommendation is a crucial component of any PhD application, serving as a testament to the candidate's academic abilities, research potential, and character. It provides the admissions committee with valuable insights from a third-party perspective, often influencing the final decision. For recommenders, it's important to provide a balanced, honest, and detailed account of the candidate’s capabilities, tailoring the letter to highlight qualities that are most relevant to the PhD program. For applicants, choosing the right recommenders and ensuring they understand the importance of the letter in the context of a PhD application is key. A strong Letter of Recommendation, which effectively captures the essence of the candidate's skills and potential, can significantly enhance the application, making it stand out in a competitive academic landscape.

Study in the USA Guide banner

Study in the USA

Check out top courses & program in USA. [Complete Guide]

Study in the Canada banner

Study in the Canada

Check out top courses & program in Canada. [Complete Guide]

Study in the Germany Banner

Study in the Germany

Check out top courses & program in Germany. [Complete Guide]

Study in the Australia banner

Study in the Australia

Check out top courses & program in Australia. [Complete Guide]

Study in the UK banner

Study in the UK

Check out top courses & program in UK. [Complete Guide]

Anupriya Mukherjee is a passion-driven professional working as a Content Marketer and earlier worked as a Digital Marketeer. With around 6 years of work experience, she has experience creating high-quality, engaging content for websites, blogs, news articles, video scripts, brochures, and ebooks.

Exams to Study Abroad

Top study abroad destinations, important resources, get free consultation, similar articles.

recommendation letter for phd format

  • UNITED STATES
  • 台灣 (TAIWAN)
  • TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)
  • Academic Editing Services
  • - Research Paper
  • - Journal Manuscript
  • - Dissertation
  • - College & University Assignments
  • Admissions Editing Services
  • - Application Essay
  • - Personal Statement
  • - Recommendation Letter
  • - Cover Letter
  • - CV/Resume
  • Business Editing Services
  • - Business Documents
  • - Report & Brochure
  • - Website & Blog
  • Writer Editing Services
  • - Script & Screenplay
  • Our Editors
  • Client Reviews
  • Editing & Proofreading Prices
  • Wordvice Points
  • Partner Discount
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • APA Citation Generator
  • MLA Citation Generator
  • Chicago Citation Generator
  • Vancouver Citation Generator
  • - APA Style
  • - MLA Style
  • - Chicago Style
  • - Vancouver Style
  • Writing & Editing Guide
  • Academic Resources
  • Admissions Resources

Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Examples 2022-2023

recommendation letter for phd format

Grad school recommendation letters are an essential part of every graduate school application package–even in this (almost) post-COVID era of remote work and Zoom classes. Nearly all applications to graduate school still require at least two recommendation letters from individuals who can discuss your abilities, competencies, and personal character in a coherent way and recommend you for admission to graduate school.

Many referees have difficulty writing these recommendations themselves (for language issues or simply because they are busy) and some rely on the applicant to pen the draft of the letter and receive confirmation before submitting it to the graduate school. But regardless of who is writing the letter, there are a few key elements the recommender needs to include to craft a stellar recommendation for their graduate candidate.

Who should write a recommendation letter for graduate school?

Choosing which professors, supervisors, or advisors to request a graduate school recommendation letter from can be somewhat overwhelming. Should you choose someone who does not know you personally but who has connections to your target graduate school? If a famous professor writes you a grad school recommendation letter, will this automatically give you an advantage with the admissions committee? 

In general, graduate recommendation letters should come from people who know you well, who respect you enough to say glowing things about you as a student and researcher, and who hold positions in school or work that are above your own. At least one letter of recommendation should be submitted from a past or current professor or academic advisor. 

Another could be from someone in a slightly different role, including an employer, a research adviser, a senior colleague, or a professor from a different department or kind of class (e.g., a discussion class professor instead of a lecturer). No matter who it is, the recommender should know the applicant and recognize their accomplishments. It also helps if the recommender understands some details about the program to which their candidate is applying.

Here are some guidelines to follow when choosing who to ask for letters of recommendation for graduate school. Select someone who:

  • Knows you well and can answer positively. Choose an individual who you have spent time with outside the classroom if possible. They should also be familiar with your career goals and hold a favorable view of you. 
  • Has known you for quite a while. A recommendation letter for graduate school carries more influence if the person has known you for months or years instead of months. If you can, find someone who knows you from various contexts, such as a professor who is also your advisor. 
  • Can speak to your strengths in relation to your graduate program. Choosing a finance professor to write your recommendation letter for an MBA program would be a good idea because they can write about the qualities that will aid you in pursuing an MBA (qualities you can also include in your MBA essay ) and a broader career in business. 
  • Has substantive stories to share about you. Who was fortunate enough to see you succeed in an academic, extracurricular, or professional setting? Having someone write your LOR who has good stories to share about you is certainly going to benefit you more than someone whose class you took with two hundred other students. 

How to Request a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

Knowing how to request a letter of recommendation for graduate school can directly impact the quality of the letter your referee writes for you. Show respect and consideration for the time that your recommender is taking to write a glowing review that will get you into graduate school and positively impact the rest of your life. 

With this in mind, it may seem obvious that the very best way to ask for a letter of recommendation for graduate school is to do so in person. While this isn’t possible for all students (due to availability or schedule), it is the best route if you want to ensure that your LOR is not only written on time, but includes all the positive information about you that admissions committees want to see in a graduate candidate. When you cannot ask in person, sending an email is an appropriate second-best option. But remember to always be cordial and polite when making this request. 

What information should be included in a graduate recommendation letter?

Your referral letter should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

Your letter of recommendation should cover a range of skills, from academic abilities to research experiences, to applied experiences in and out of class. As the recommender, your letter should clearly answer some specific questions:

  • What is your relationship with the student?
  • Why should the graduate faculty listen to your opinion? (include your status, title)
  • What makes this student special? (discuss their characteristics, qualities, traits)
  • What specifically did this student do to impress you? (discuss their accomplishments, habits in class)
  • What makes this student qualified for graduate school and for this program? (include specific courses or interests of the student in addition to abilities and traits)
  • What do you know about the program the student is applying to?

What information does the LOR recommender need from me?

The recommender should be given sufficient time to write (and/or confirm) the letter. If it has been a while since you were last in contact, sending a background information file will make things easier. Include the following information so that the recommender can use a few details to bolster their letter:

  • Classes the student has taken with the recommender
  • Experiences you have shared
  • Transcripts
  • Research experience and internships
  • Awards and achievements
  • Academic/career goals
  • Relevant professional experience

In addition to background information, make sure that the recommender has the necessary information to plan the writing in a timely manner and target the letter as much as possible:

  • Graduate program application due date
  • Copy of recommendation forms (if applicable)
  • Instructions for submitting LORs (hard copy, soft copy, or direct to school)
  • Details about the program and school the student is applying to

What style of writing should be used in a recommendation letter?

Although the letter of recommendation is more informal than academic writing, you should make sure that your language has no grammatical or mechanics errors and that it is of an academic level that reflects the author’s educational level and qualifications. Apply the following standards to the writing and the essay-drafting process:

  • Make your language more personal in tone than research writing.
  • Use the active voice and first-person point of view more often.
  • Write chronologically, starting from important traits and then moving on to actions and achievements.
  • Use lots of details—list course names, scores, and specific achievements of the student.
  • Edit your letter before submitting it to the graduate admissions faculty.

How to Write a Grad School Letter of Recommendation Letter: LOR Outline

A well-structured recommendation letter (like any organized essay) will guide the reader logically towards an understanding of why this student is worthy not only of praise but of admission to graduate school. Grad school requires quite a few high-level scholastic attributes that not all students possess, and therefore it is important to focus on both the achievements of the candidate and on their personal character and potential to thrive in a difficult academic environment.

Use this outline as a letter of recommendation template in which to input your candidate’s achievements, skills, and traits. Note that the flow of information moves the reader into greater detail, using form phrases and transitions that increase the readability of the letter.

1. Greeting to the recipient

Dear {Name}, or To Whom It May Concern, To the graduate faculty of the {University / Department}

2. Opening paragraph: position; relationship to the applicant; general assessment of the applicant

It is my absolute pleasure to recommend {Name} for admissions to {Program} at {University}… I am a professor of {area of study} in the department of {department} at {University}.

recommendation letter for grad school example 1

3. Second paragraph: positive skill or trait; evidence of trait or skill; anecdotes demonstrating this skill

Jane has excellent communication skills. Her written work is both clear and concise, as well as interesting to read…

recommendation letter for grad school example 2

4. Third (up to fifth) paragraph: Other skills or traits; evidence of character and skills; detailed anecdotes

At a personal level, Jane is a well-disciplined, industrious student with a pleasant personality. She went well beyond the course expectations…

recommendation letter for grad school example 3

5. Final Paragraph: clear recommendation of the candidate to the specific school or program.

Jane is unquestionably an exceptional candidate for graduate study in {Program Applying for}. Jane’s work in “Developments in Anthropology” suggests that she would greatly benefit from the opportunities for intellectual development provided by a sustained period of graduate study…

recommendation letter for grad school example 5

6. Closing line: polite offer to be contacted if needed

If I can be of any further assistance, or provide you with any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

recommendation letter for grad school example 6

Letter of Recommendation Template and Useful Phrases

Admission essays often contain template phrases or “form phrases” that allow the writer to plug in their specific information while not spending too much time deciding how to compose every single aspect of the writing. This can be especially useful for ESL authors because conventional expressions used in academic and essay writing can be difficult to learn and memorize. Use the following form phrases to help craft a more professional letter of recommendation.

Introducing yourself

  • My name is  {Author}  and I have been a Professor of Math at  {University}  since  {date} .
  • I write to you today to proudly express my support for  {Student}  in applying to your prestigious university.

Discussing your relationship with the applicant

  • I first came to know  {Student}  while teaching him/her in my  {Course Name}  course…
  • I was  {Student} ’s thesis advisor during his/her senior year.
  • I have known  {Student}  for several years now and can attest to his/her strengths and quality of character.

Discussing the student’s general positive traits

  • {Student}  has excellent communication skills and displays them regularly in class discussions.
  • He/She is a highly intelligent and competent student who excels in many areas.
  • Not only is  {Student}  hard-working and thoughtful, but he/she also demonstrates kindness and generosity towards his/her peers.

Demonstrating evidence of student’s character and skills

  • She/he has shown herself/himself to be a true leader who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them in his/her work.
  • {Student}  demonstrated his/her independence daily, completing difficult lab exercises by researching outside of class.
  • During his/her internship,  {Student}  consistently managed his/her work responsibilities diligently and learned quickly. For example…

Discussing the school/program the student is applying to

  • As  {University}  is renowned for its  {Program} , I believe this is an ideal place for  {Student}  to solidify his/her abilities and cement his/her knowledge of  {area of study} .
  • The learning environment that  {University}  is famous for creating excellent opportunities in which  {Student}  to apply his/her skills.

Final endorsement and offer to be contacted

  • For the above reasons, I am confident that  {Student}  will make an excellent addition to your graduate program, and I wholeheartedly support him/her for admission to your program.
  • Thank you for your time and attention in reading my endorsement.

Further Tips for Writing Admissions Essays

  • Highlight your self-motivation, competence, and potential in this essay
  • Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in the active voice.
  • Demonstrate through examples; don’t just write that you are a “persistent person”—show it!
  • Approach every topic with continuity and focus.

The Final Step: Editing Your Recommendation Letter

As any good writer knows, it takes more than one draft to create a strong and compelling work of writing. After you have written your recommendation letter draft, there is still a lot of room for revision. One way to ensure that grammar mistakes and style errors do not get in the way of a strong letter is to let the admissions experts at Wordvice’s Admissions Editing Services edit and proofread your (of your candidate’s) letter of recommendation or other application essays, raising the chances that your candidate will be admitted to the program of their choice.

With a full suite of professional proofreading services , we edit thousands of admission documents each year for all kinds of authors of academic and admissions documents just like you. Furthermore, our application essay editing services , recommendation letter editing services , personal statement editing services , CV editing services , cover letter editing services , and SOP editing services are tailored to the needs of your specific admissions essay.

For more articles on writing and editing your essays and academic work, visit Wordvice’s Academic Resource page . 

Princeton Writes Logo

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

It’s that time of year. No, not just for New Year’s resolutions! It’s application season. And many applications–for graduate schools, summer internships, and fellowships–require letters of recommendation, sometimes referred to as LORs.

It is an honor to be asked to write an LOR, but you need to establish some ground rules and create a basic recommendation letter template to use as a starting point; otherwise, the deadlines could pile up, and there are futures on the line! No pressure.

First, you should only consent to write a LOR for someone you know and whose work or skills or personal integrity you can vouch for. If you feel you don’t know the applicant well enough, it is best to respond to their request quickly and with grace, simply stating that while you support their application, you don’t feel you are the right person to recommend them.

If you do know the applicant well and would feel comfortable writing for them, also respond quickly, say you would be delighted to recommend them, and ask what specific qualities they would like to make sure you highlight. You might also ask for links to websites and application materials that would help inform your letter. If the application website focuses on certain attributes–such as leadership, academic excellence, or grit–make sure you address those attributes in relation to your “recomendee.”

The letter template can start as a three paragraph structure that you can customize each time you write for a new person (don’t try to use the exact same letter for multiple people). In the first paragraph, explain why you are writing and whom you are writing in support of: “I am writing to recommend X for the Y program.” Then, explain how you know the applicant and in what context. And speaking of context, give your reader a sense of where the applicant stands among comparable individuals who have crossed your path, as this will give your words more weight: “I have worked with scores of undergraduate leaders over the years, but rarely have I encountered someone with Charlie’s capacity to inspire and mobilize others.”

In the middle paragraph, note two or three of  the applicant’s specific strengths and give examples of how you’ve seen them in action: “When we had our annual meeting, X supported the office at every turn, checking reservations for our 150 guests, ordering food from local vendors, and helping with both set up and clean up for the event. We couldn’t have had such a successful event without her hard work and enthusiasm.” You can credibly claim that someone is hardworking or that they “go above and beyond” or some other laudatory phrase only if you give evidence to support your claim.

In the final paragraph, draw a conclusion about the applicant’s fitness for the position. Indicate that you know what the position is and what the organization does; then connect the applicant directly to that: ” X’s attention to detail, dedication to her fellow students, and curiosity make her a wonderful candidate for this position. I am confident that she will help advance Y’s mission.” Then, end with a statement about what you think the candidate might contribute to the world: “X is a compassionate and thoughtful scholar. I expect her work to change the field of AI and to help us imagine the future.”

Finally, once the letter is written, unless the institution or program forbids it, offer to share the letter with the applicant to make sure you haven’t left out some important quality they would like to convey.

The LOR is important for the applicant, but it can also give you a boost, as you will be rewarded with sharing the joy of a mentee or colleague who has moved a little closer to fulfilling their dreams!

Contact Info

B03 New South Building, Princeton University

Phone: 609.258.9980

Email: [email protected]

Recent Posts

  • A Poem for You: Make/Do by Divya Victor
  • Word of the Week: expeditious (ek-SPE-ˈdi-shəs)
  • Word of the Week: bird-dog (BERD-dawg)

Sample Recommendation Letter for Graduate School

How a Well-Worded Reference Can Give Your Application a Boost

  • Recommendation Letters
  • Choosing a Graduate Program
  • Tips & Advice
  • Admissions Essays
  • Medical School Admissions
  • Homework Help
  • Private School
  • College Admissions
  • College Life
  • Business School
  • Distance Learning

Whether you're applying to business school, medical school, law school, or another program, scholarship, or fellowship , most graduate school applicants are going to need two to three letters of recommendation that will be submitted to the admissions committee (along with your undergraduate transcripts, standardized test scores, essays, etc.) as part of the application process .

Not every school requires letters of recommendation. You can often get by without one at some online schools and even brick-and-mortar schools that have more relaxed admission requirements. However, schools with highly competitive admissions processes (i.e. the ones that get a lot of applicants but don't have classroom space for everyone) use recommendation letters, in part, to determine whether or not you are a fit for their school.

Why Graduate Schools Ask for Recommendations

Graduate schools seek recommendations for the same reason employers require career references. They want to know what people who have seen your work and experienced your efforts firsthand have to say about you. Nearly every other resource you provide to a school is a first-person accounting. Your résumé is your interpretation of your career achievements, your essay answers a question with your opinion or tells a story from your point of view, and your admissions interview includes questions that, again, are answered from your point of view. A recommendation letter, on the other hand, is all about someone else's perspective on you, your potential, and your accomplishments. 

Most graduate schools encourage you to choose a reference who knows you well. This ensures that their letter of recommendation will actually have substance and won't simply be full of fluff or vague opinions about your work attitude and academic performance. Someone who knows you well will be able to provide well-informed opinions and concrete examples to back them up. 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Grad School

This is a sample recommendation for a graduate school applicant was written by the applicant's college dean, who was familiar with the applicant's academic achievements. The letter is short but does an ample job of emphasizing things that would be important to a graduate school admissions committee, such as GPA, work ethic, and leadership ability. Notice how the writer includes plenty of adjectives to describe the person being recommended. There's also an example of how the subject's leadership capability has helped others.

To Whom It May Concern:
As the Dean of Stonewell College, I have had the pleasure of knowing Hannah Smith for the last four years. She has been a tremendous student and an asset to our school. I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Hannah for your graduate program.
I feel confident that she will continue to succeed in her studies. Hannah is a dedicated student and thus far, her grades have been exemplary. In class, she has proven to be a take-charge person who is able to successfully develop plans and implement them.
Hannah has also assisted us in our admissions office. She has successfully demonstrated leadership ability by counseling new and prospective students. Her advice has been a great help to these students, many of whom have taken time to share their comments with me regarding her pleasant and encouraging attitude.
It is for these reasons that I offer high recommendations for Hannah without reservation. Her drive and abilities will truly be an asset to your establishment. If you have any questions regarding this recommendation, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Roger Fleming
Dean of Stonewell College

As positive as this letter is, it would have been even stronger if the writer had provided additional specific examples of his student's achievements, or had pointed to quantifiable results. For example, he could have included the numbers of students the subject had worked with or detailed specific instances in which she had helped others. Examples of any plans she'd developed, how she implemented them, and what the outcome was once they were put to use would have been useful as well. The more detailed the letter, the more likely it is to tip the admissions scale in your favor.

  • Sample Recommendation Letters for College Applicants
  • How to Get Recommendation Letters for Grad School
  • College Recommendation Letter Do's and Don'ts
  • Sample Business School Recommendation Letter
  • 4 Recommendation Letter Samples That Get It Right
  • Should You Ask a Teaching Assistant for a Recommendation Letter?
  • NonTraditional Applicants to Grad School: 3 Tips for Getting Recommendations
  • Sample MBA Leadership Recommendation Letter
  • Getting the Best MBA Recommendation Letters
  • How to Get a Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
  • Grad School Recommendation Letter by a Professor Sample Template
  • Sample Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Applicant
  • Who Should You Ask for a Recommendation Letter?
  • Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters
  • Sample Letter of Recommendation - Business School Applicant
  • A Guide to Writing Recommendation Letters

Biological Engineering Communication Lab

Writing Letters of Recommendation

To complement a blog post on asking for letters of recommendation , the MIT Communication Lab hereby shares general tips on writing letters of recommendation. Use this guide if you were asked to write a letter of recommendation and are looking for general tips on how to write the strongest letter. If you are the seeker of letters of recommendation, don’t start here! It is essential for you to visit our companion blog post before learning more about writing letters of recommendation.

Writing a letter of recommendation is an important responsibility, consequential both in your own career and credibility (the mentor) and in the requester’s future (the mentee). A well-crafted letter takes time and requires some reflection on your relationship with the person you are recommending. Here are some tips to write an influential letter of recommendation.

Note/disclaimer: This article is not tailored to serve experienced letter writers but instead hopes to constitute a solid foundation to orient and reassure junior writers (for instance those asked to write a letter in support of an undergraduate student applying to graduate / medical school or to a first job). The guidelines shared below are not fast rules nor do they indicate a structure expected in MIT Biological Engineering applications; in time, you will develop your own style and perhaps your own recipe, as you read more letters yourself and recognize perspectives and phrases that resonate with you. This guide is meant to serve as a generic guide to help letter writers advocate successfully for the students they are recommending.

Remember that you can  make an appointment  with the Communication Lab to brainstorm what to include in your letter, or to review and edit your draft. We have  annotated a recommendation letter   to identify the important components. You can also find  more examples of recommendation letters on this website.

  • Define the scope of your letter  by understanding from your mentee who else they’re collecting letters from and, if possible, by explicitly hearing from your mentee what particular traits or strengths they are hoping you’ll address in your letter. The mentee should carefully select a balanced set of letter writers who can collectively testify to all the qualifications the mentee wishes to put forth. It’s also in the mentee’s best interest to inform you of their overall statement of purpose, so you can align your message with theirs.
  • Be emphatic about stellar mentees (with phrases like “my absolute strongest recommendation”, “I would have the student join my lab if they applied”), but more modestly excited for more average mentees (“I believe they can be successful in your program”). Committees may read several of your letters over the years, and you want your word, your “support knob”, to be trustworthy and well-calibrated to reflect faithfully your assessment of the mentees’ capabilities.
  • It may happen that your readers know you personally and may be able to detect the genuineness of your tone throughout the letter. Consequently, even if someone writes a first draft of the letter for you (it is indeed common for professionals in high positions to delegate the bulk of the writing to colleagues who worked more closely with the mentee), take time to revise it and use your own natural “voice”, so your readers can recognize and interpret it.
  • In many institutions, a record is kept of all of your past letters, 20 years back! Be as accurate as you can when comparing mentees in consecutive years.
  • Acceptance to top programs is extremely competitive and these programs often receive many applications whose references describe candidates as “truly outstanding”, “exceptional”, “best in 5 years” and the like. Consider including informative comparative statements both to the candidates’ peer comparison set during their past training as well as acceptees of the program the candidate is applying for (to the best of your knowledge). Specific comments about the candidate’s potential for future growth can be helpful, but may also be interpreted as indirect criticism of the candidate or an indication of the candidate’s existing weaknesses.
  • Especially if you are relatively junior in your field, it is also useful to briefly detail your background. Through this lens, you can indicate how many mentees you have observed and evaluated over the years, and how this letter’s mentee compares or ranks with their peers.
  • Be quantitative in your comparison if the numbers reflect positively on the mentee ( e.g.  “top 10%”, “best in 5 years”)
  • If former mentees of yours have been accepted to the coveted position, compare the candidate to this cohort.
  • It is worth mentioning if you yourself were once part of the sought-out organization, as readers will deem your judgment better informed and well-adjusted.
  • Be aware of implicit biases.  These are great resources on how to avoid  gender bias  and  racial bias  (or “code words”) in letters of recommendation, but remember that implicit bias plays a role in how we write recommendations for many groups of people.
  • Try and recall situations when you have personally witnessed the mentee demonstrate these skills. Relate the mentee’s past experiences in a way that showcases these important competencies.
  • Include as many details as you remember, in order to make the mentee memorable to the readers, and to make your appraisal grounded and convincing.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, most academic institutions implemented exceptional disruptions in order to keep students and employees safe. Your mentees’ transcripts and CVs are likely to reflect these arduous times and the decisions made to keep up engagement and productivity. When possible, attempt to “interpret” emergency grades (such as pass/fail) and provide insight as to which regular grade (for instance A or B) the performance amounted to. Strive to add context and nuance when explaining why your mentee may have switched projects, or found a remote or computational temporary tangent internship, removed from their traditional research setting. And of course, highlight qualities illustrated by the COVID parenthesis,  including your mentee’s inventiveness, determination, can-do attitude, professionalism, adaptability.
  • Alternatively, if you are unfamiliar with the target organization, parse the organization’s webpage to gauge which skills and traits the organization values. Incorporate the language utilized by the organization to describe successful applicants and applications into your letter.
  • e.g., if an organization values “independent, self-driven students dedicated to service”, you can specifically describe how your mentee exhibits independence and the pursuit of service.
  • If the mentee is applying to graduate school for instance, highlighting the student’s familiarity with research settings is imperative. Illustrating their tenacity, perseverance, resourcefulness, and creativity in the face of inconclusive results or other adverse events will also underscore the preparedness of the student. Tangible accomplishments with a lasting impact on the research group, such as (but not exclusively) publications, are of great advantage too. Focus on a single project over many semesters, independence, patience, ability to rapidly learn new skills, and technical expertise are all qualities ideally embodied by aspiring graduate students.
  • Letters from academic instructors, rather than from research advisors, often serve as additional letters to recount the excellent classroom work the student produced. The student’s GPA speaks for itself and narrating “another A” will not make a marked difference in the student’s application. If you are an academic instructor, think of all the ways the student stands out and focus on making sure your reader is aware of those exceptional traits!
  • If the mentee is applying to medical school, speaking of their empathy, cultural competence, ethics, social and interpersonal talents, including communication skills, can be a significant complement to highlighting their intellectual and scientific chops.
  • To join a startup, a mentee would preferably not be risk-averse, be able to pivot and switch priorities, and be highly motivated to give work a large place in their overall lives.
  • Being a good team player is key in industry… and everywhere!
  • For industry, it is also certainly worth highlighting your mentee’s translational mindset; being able to work across disciplines (e.g. interfacing technically with scientists and concisely with businesspeople) is a valuable skillset.
  • Talk about extracurricular activities not as a laundry list or aiming at being comprehensive in your portrait of the mentee but only if they are an outstanding expression of the student’s leadership, passion, aspirations, motto…
  • Mentioning involvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) endeavors can be viewed as a plus, but here again be very intentional in your writing: what specific qualities in the mentee are you intending to spotlight?
  • As you conclude your letter and reiterate your esteem for the mentee and the promise you see in them, mentioning the trust you have in the mentee’s entire career (not simply their first next step) can go a long way in persuading the readers of your honest confidence.
  • Some recommenders choose to  bold   words or sentences  in their letters, in order to direct the reader’s eyes to essential contents in their paragraphs. This must be done carefully to be effective: often readers will skim the letter and only pay attention to its bolded parts, so a full picture of the student should transpire through this bolded summary.
  • Use   institutional letterhead for your letter. MIT’s letterhead can be found here . Institutional identity helps contextualize your standpoint for readers.
  • Check whether the letter should be addressed to one person in particular, one committee by name, or should be very generic in its opening.

Get started with your own letter of recommendation! Find a quiet setting, reserve an uninterrupted block of time, and organize your thoughts about your mentee, their traits and accomplishments, and your relationship. A short, thoughtful letter is better than no letter at all! And remember, if you think you cannot in good conscience write a positive letter, alert your mentee right away, and decline kindly, so your mentee has time to turn around and make other arrangements before the deadline.

Blog post written by Maxine Jonas , Viraat Goel , and Prerna Bhargava .

PhD Handbook

LOR Samples for...

LOR Samples for PhD: How to Write LOR Format for PhD Programs?

Author_Image

The LOR samples for PhD are an essential part of your admission application. LOR examples for PhD will prove in handy, especially in scenarios where your candidature will be assessed for research assistantships and similar opportunities. The LOR plays a crucial role in attesting to your potential as a scholar/researcher contributing to new knowledge and hence, worthy of funding as part of your PhD program.

What are the Types of LOR Samples for PhD?

Universities offering PhD require two academic LORs and one professional LOR samples for PhD if you have work experience. Most commonly, your professional LOR will pertain to a scientific body/institution where you have conducted your post-graduate research/internship or a scientific inquiry. But if you do not have work experience, you will have to submit three academic LORs.

How to Choose Your Recommenders for a PhD Program?

Choosing the right recommender who can endorse your candidature providing an objective and comprehensive assessment, is very important. This is because your other documents like the resume , SOP , and application essays will be written by you and therefore, are likely to be ‘biased’. The letter of recommendation is unique because it is your assessment from an external perspective. So, choose a recommender:

How to Choose Your Recommenders for a PhD Program

  • With whom you have a good rapport.
  • Who is familiar with your current research ideas/work.
  • Who is well aware of your research aspirations and is supportive of the same.
  • Who understands your innate capabilities and personality.
  • With whom you have shared experiences in an academic or professional context.

Suggested: PhD in USA 2022

How to Write Professional LOR Samples for PhD?

In an ideal scenario, your recommender will have to write the LOR samples for PhD or fill out the recommendation form consisting of various questions related to your suitability for a PhD. This is because the LOR examples for PhD written by your recommender make it real and authentic.

If your recommender is willing to write your LOR examples for PhD, then it is best to share with him/her your talking points, such as the research problem statement/questions, research proposal, resume, and any other relevant information that can help the recommender gauge your candidature. In any case, we recommend the following LOR format for PhD.

1.    Academic LOR format for PhD:

Following are the steps to write LOR examples for PhD:

  • Introduction

Introduce the recommender; what is his/her professional experience and designation? What is the recommender's relationship with you? (Course Instructor/Project Guide/Mentor/Head of the Department). Mention the duration of your association with the recommender. If he/she has taught you, what were the subjects taught? (theory lectures/practical lab sessions), and when (semester/year)? If he/she has guided you on your research project/s or has mentored you during an internship, mention that. Include the semester/year in which they guided you and other necessary details of the association. What are the recommender’s general impressions of you?

  • Body Paragraphs

Following are the steps to be considered to write an actionable format of LOR for PhD.

  • How does your recommender remember you? What were your notable qualities? State each quality in a different paragraph. Address these qualities in the order of their importance. Focus on two-three qualities, so you may keep the body of the letter to two or three paragraphs. Your research aptitude toward the chosen field of interest should be highlighted.
  • Use specific examples to show how each quality was observed. What were the specific incident/s–when and where were these qualities/skills/capabilities noted by the recommender? (During theory classes/lab sessions/research work/assignments). If you write about the theory classes, lab sessions, or class assignments, provide details to draw relevance of this course to your research interests/goals and highlight your contribution and potential to expedite new knowledge in the proposed area.
  • If applicable, mention the technical skills you acquired or the certifications you completed, and explain with examples how these are related to your research interests.
  • If you write about the research project in which your recommender guided you, mention the topic, the objective, and your role/contribution to it. Also, include the team size and if you have led the project. Lastly, mention how you performed in the project and its potential for new advancements or research in similar areas. Mention if the research project was published in a peer-reviewed journal and the details of the same.
  • If you were an intern, mention your role in the internship. Also, comment on how relevant the internship is to your prospective research goals. If applicable, mention relevant presentations/research/seminars/publications. Mention the topic and briefly discuss it from the perspective of your mentor. Explain when and where this was presented and how it demonstrated your specific capabilities. If you include your participation in co-curricular or extra-curricular activities, mention when and where these activities took place and how these qualities will help you in your future undertakings.
  • The key qualities you can cover are research aptitude/potential, the ability for independent research, team management, time management, leadership and initiative, and scholarly writing skills (mention only which are applicable).

Summarise your qualities as a desirable candidate for the PhD program. Add any other comments you feel appropriate. Encourage the reader to contact the recommender for additional information or with any questions. Close the letter with the appropriate business closing along with the recommender's signature.

2.    Professional format of LOR for PhD

Following are the steps to write a professional PhD recommendation letter sample.

Introduce the recommender and his/her professional experience and designation. What is the recommender's relationship with you? (senior/junior scientist/ immediate supervisor). Mention the recommender’s duration of association with you. What is your role in the organisation? Mention the name of your team/project/department you’re associated with, an overview of your career/research progress in the organisation, and the recommender’s general impressions about you.

  • What were your notable qualities? State each quality in a different paragraph. Address these qualities in order of importance. Focus on two-three qualities, so you keep the body of the letter to two or three paragraphs.
  • Use specific examples to show how each quality was observed. What were the specific incident/s–when and where were these qualities/skills/capabilities noted by the recommender—while mentoring you or noting daily observations as your manager, supervisor, Head of the Department, or any other position of authority.
  • Mention the details of the tasks you performed and the tools you used. If you are writing about a project, elucidate instances that highlight your performance/contribution and potential for research. Quantify your achievements at the workplace.
  • Include instances that demonstrate your potential future research undertakings.
  • Focus on any one of these qualities: research aptitude, diligence, discipline, hard work, dedication, sincerity, and proactivity. Explain with situations and examples—when and where these qualities were demonstrated.
  • You can also cover team management, time management, organisational abilities, leadership and initiative, communication/presentation, organisational abilities, and emotional maturity (mention only those qualities that are applicable).
  • Discuss your experience and how it helped you acquire relevant skills for PhD in a specific discipline. Elaborate on your career aspirations and interest to pursue a PhD. Mention any other achievement/s in the organisation if applicable. When and how were these obtained and how do these attest to your research aptitude and potential to contribute to new knowledge.

Summarise your qualities as a desirable candidate for PhD with a forward-thinking approach. Add any other comments you feel appropriate. Encourage the reader to contact the recommender for additional information or questions. Close the letter with the proper business closing along with the recommender's signature.

Suggested: Sample LOR for Masters (MS)

LOR Requirements of Top Universities for PhD

Following are the top three universities for pursuing PhD along with their LOR format for PhD requirements and guidelines.

  • Stanford University
  • Columbia University
  • University of California, Berkeley

Let’s explore them one by one!

1. Stanford University

Stanford University requires three professional LOR samples for PhD as an application requirement. It’s highly recommended to get recommendation letters from the faculty of the last attended institution. However, if you have more than five years of experience, professional LORs can be obtained from work associates for academic LORs.

2. Columbia University

For a PhD program at Columbia, you’re required to submit three letters of recommendation (at least 2 from the last attended academic institution and 1 from the workplace based on the relevance of the recommenders to the research specialisation you are applying to.

3. The University of California, Berkeley

Three letters of recommendation are required as part of the PhD application process for UC Berkeley. You need to enter the details of your recommenders, such as email ID, designation, etc, for them to receive the link to fill and submit online recommendation forms.

A scanned copy of offline LOR taken on college letterhead can be uploaded as part of the application. At least two of your recommenders should be from areas relevant to your PhD specialisation while the other LOR can also be from someone outside your field but familiar with your research interests and academic capabilities.

Important Tips for Writing LOR for PhD

Following are the tricks/tips to consider while writing a sample LOR for a PhD .

  • Choose your recommenders cautiously as per specifications in your respective PhD application. Besides, select those recommenders who have better academic qualifications/experience.
  • Communicate and stay in touch with your potential recommenders when you plan on requesting recommendations from them, well in advance.
  • Discuss your research problem statement, goals, and research proposal with your recommenders.
  • Submit the online recommendation forms well before the application deadline.
  • Target the purpose for which the letter is written clearly once at the beginning and once at the end.
  • Ensure that each LOR has distinctive anecdotes and qualities to showcase.
  • Assess your strengths/capabilities and present them candidly without exaggerating what is not true.
  • The letter should demonstrate the familiarity between you and the recommender. The recommender should have sufficient information to be able to substantiate such familiarity.
  • Share your resume, abstracts of previous research works, abstract of current research proposal/research problem statement, a scanned copy of offline LOR, and essential talking points addressing the given questions with your recommender when an online recommendation form is required. This will help the recommender vouch for your candidature better.

Suggested: Letter of Recommendation Guide for MS, MBA, and Others

We understand that writing a sample LOR for PhD can be challenging. But don’t worry, as Yocket is here to help you master the nuances to draft a succinct LOR for PhD courses. You can avail our end-to-end personalised services and connect with well-trained counsellors by subscribing to Yocket premium . They will surely help guide your study abroad documentation process!

editor-picture

Rohan Deshmukh

Articles you might like

PhD Statements of Purpose

Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School: A Necessary Guide & Sample

  • Posted on December 28, 2023

While most of the reviewing and editing requests we get at phdstatementsofpurpose are for Statements of Purpose , Personal Statements, Letters of Intent; Motivation Letters and Academic CV , we’ve received so many queries about Letters of Recommendation especially this application cycle.

Most of these queries are from international students (not professors or professional references).

And it’s understandable.

Generally, admission essays are not required when making university application to graduate schools/universities outside the USA and parts of Europe so some recommenders are not familiar with these types of essays and others may be too busy to write.

So this article answers commonly asked questions about how to write Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School, which include the following;

  • What’s a letter of recommendation?

Who do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

  • How do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

What’s the format of a letter of recommendation?

  • Can I write/draft my own letter of recommendation?

What’s a Letter of Recommendation?

Basically, letters of recommendation are letters addressed to the graduate school admission committee offering insights about the applicants’ ability and potential as a graduate school student.

So if you’re a student gathering your university application materials, make sure you pay particular attention to this crucial component.

As with any other admission materials you’ll be asked for, the first place to start is at the program website. While the requirements may be generally similar, you need to check that you’re only providing what’s required and in the right format.

Stanford University for instance asks that the letters of recommendation are from academic or professional references “who know you well and are able to evaluate your potential for graduate study.”

Generally, you’ll be required to supply two or three letters of recommendation.

It’s vitally important to choose the right individual to vouch for your abilities and tilt the scale in your favor during the rigorous admission vetting.

  • The recommenders should be academic/professional references
  • They should know you well.
  • Ideally, one of the references should be from a university professor familiar with your academic work.
  • A supervisor from an internship or a professional colleague may also write your letters of recommendation.
  • A letter of recommendation may not be written by a personal friend or family member.

How do I ask someone to write my letters of recommendation?

This image captures a commonly asked question as to how to appropriately ask for a letter of recommendation.

This is in fact one of the most asked questions regarding letters of recommendations.

We propose that you identify your references early and approach them courteously.

We found the Stanford’s letters of recommendation guide tips to be very useful.

  • Plan early and communicate with your references well in advance to give them time to write insightful and compelling letters. This will also show that you value their time. Six months is recommended.
  • Initiate contact in a personalized way. Whether you’re reaching out in person, via a call/video, email etc, start by thanking them for their mentorship and support and then explain your intention to apply for graduate school.
  • Provide your recommenders with context and information. This will allow them to tailor your letter to the programs requirements and accentuate the most relevant attributes. Provide specific details about the program including timelines.
  • Request them to write your letters of recommendations in a direct, respectful way.
  • Provide all relevant materials. You can send your resume, transcripts, SOP/PS, and projects you’ve worked on together to help them create an individualised, specific LOR. If the program provides specific prompts to follow when writing the LOR, send them as well.
  • Follow up with the recommenders and engage them as needed.

Say thank you.

This may vary from university to university. Stanford for instance requires that the recommender fill out a Recommendation Form

This is followed by a write-up covering the following:

Introduction: State the applicant’s name, the program you’re recommending him/her for, the capacity and duration you’ve known him or her.

“ Please write candidly about the applicant’s qualifications, potential to carry on advanced study in the field specified, intellectual independence, capability for analytical thinking, ability to organize and express ideas clearly, and potential for teaching. Descriptions of significant actions, accomplishments, character, and personal qualities related to scholarly achievement are particularly helpful.”

General Format & Guide

The General Format of a recommendation letter is as follows:

Introduction : State the applicant’s name, the program you’re recommending him/her for, the capacity and duration you’ve known him or her.

Example: “ I am writing in support of the application of XXX who is seeking admission to the Graduate Program in the XXX department. I have known him for 2 years as his professor and lecturer in X, Y, & Z at XXX Institute. During this period, I have observed him mature in leaps and bounds to levels that make him a supremely qualified candidate for the program”

Body : Vouch for the applicant’s academic/professional credentials. Give specific examples/projects that can help the admission committee get an insight into the applicants ability.

Example: “ I instructed XXX in the YYY, where his performance stood out, achieving an impressive A grade in the YYY course, placing him in the top 2% of the class of 200 students. His work in the YYY Lab revealed his exceptional mental acuity as he emerged as the top student in this class.

I chaired the panel in which XXX presented on his work titled “DDD” as part of his Lab project in his third year. His thorough understanding of concepts was in display. The project is a testament to his technical prowess as he used FFF to extract CCC from DDD images. When we returned the project for improvement, he swiftly integrated our recommendations and made further improvements, showing himself to be a diligent student open to learning and growing.

Vouch for the applicant’s non-academic/non-professional credentials:

XXX will need more than stellar academic credentials and lab experience to excel as a graduate student. Luckily, he packs other attributes in good measure as well. During YYY Project, he took on the team leader role and orchestrated seamless collaboration among team members. His presentation on this project was captivating and showcased his strong verbal and non-verbal communication.

Conclusion : Reiterate the applicant’s suitability for the program.

Example: “ XXX is an exceptional candidate for your Graduate Program given his impressive academic record, research and laboratory experience and I am therefore confident that he will thrive in your program and make significant contributions to your academic community.

Please feel free to contact me for further information.”

Can I write/draft my own recommendation letter?

This is also among the most asked questions especially on Reddit

Sometimes professors are too busy or overwhelmed with writing LOR. Others may not be familiar with how to write a good LOR and still some may feel that the particular student is better placed to provide a draft, which they will review, edit, and standardize.

Another of the commonly asked questions is whether one can write/review their own letters of recommendation.

It’s not a practice that’s highly encouraged however.

Stanford : “You should not draft, write, translate, or submit your own reference. Stanford University’s application terms explicitly state that the letters of recommendation must be authored solely by your recommenders. Informing your recommenders about this policy is your responsibility to ensure the integrity of your application.”

MIT : “You cannot be involved in any way in the drafting, writing, or submitting of your recommendation letters. Writing a first draft of a letter to give to your recommender is not allowed. However, you may provide a resume or summary of your accomplishments to your recommender to use for contextual information; you may also provide them with a copy of your Statement of Purpose.”

This article has covered the basics of writing letters of recommendation.

We understand that some applicants have profiles that do not necessarily match the example we’ve used here.

So if this example does not cover your profile, you’re welcome to have a chat with us.

Our most read articles

  • PhD in Computer Science Statement of Purpose
  • PhD in Biomedical Engineering Statement of Purpose
  • SOP for MBA
  • SOP for Law Internship
  • SOP for Tourism
  • SOP for Social Work

Letters of Recommendation

Instructions on obtaining letters of recommendation

  • Dissertation
  • Fellowships
  • Maximizing Your Degree
  • Before You Arrive
  • First Weeks at Harvard
  • Harvard Speak
  • Pre-Arrival Resources for New International Students
  • Alumni Council
  • Student Engagement
  • English Proficiency
  • Right to Inspect Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, and Writing Sample
  • Transcripts
  • After Application Submission
  • Applying to the Visiting Students Program
  • Admissions Policies
  • Cost of Attendance
  • Express Interest
  • Commencement
  • Diversity & Inclusion Fellows
  • Student Affinity Groups
  • Recruitment and Outreach
  • Find Your Financial Aid Officer
  • Funding and Aid
  • Financial Wellness
  • Consumer Information
  • Life Sciences
  • Policies (Student Handbook)
  • Student Center
  • Title IX and Gender Equity

Before applying, confirm that three faculty members or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study have agreed to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf. At least one letter should be from a faculty member at the school where you earned your most recent degree, unless you have been out of school for more than five years. 

Your recommenders must submit their letters through the recommender portal by the application deadline: Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept letters submitted via email, mail, or a dossier service. 

During the application process, you will be asked whether you wish to waive your right to see these letters. By law, enrolled students have the right to view their letters of recommendation unless they indicate otherwise at the time of application. Learn more about your right to inspect letters of recommendation . 

Can I submit my application before my recommenders submit their letters? 

Yes. Please remember that letters of recommendation must be received by the graduate program’s application deadline. 

How many letters of recommendation can be included in my application? 

Harvard Griffin GSAS requires three letters of recommendation. You may ask additional recommenders to submit letters if you choose, however, it is not guaranteed that the admissions committee will review additional letters. 

What if my recommender is unable to submit a letter in English?

If you have a recommender who is unable to submit a letter in English, they can choose to obtain a certified English translation of their letter. The recommender would need to upload a copy of their original letter in the language it was written, a copy of the English translation of the letter, and verification from the professional translator certifying the translation. Translations must be literal and complete versions of the original record. Harvard Griffin GSAS does not endorse a specific translator or translation service.

Share this page

Explore events.

  • Grades 6-12
  • School Leaders

50 Fun Earth Day Crafts and Activities 🌎!

How To Write a Reference Letter (Examples and Free Template)

Pass along your praise in a meaningful way.

recommendation letter for phd format

Teacher job searches frequently require something many other careers don’t: a letter of reference. Both principals and teachers may find themselves asked to write these letters for their employees or coworkers. Wondering what to include and how to make the recommendation useful? Here’s how to write a reference letter for a teacher.

Want to make things even easier? Grab our free reference letter printable template, which walks you through the whole process. Just fill out the form on this page .

What is a reference letter?

How to write a letter of reference, reference letter example: principal for teacher, reference letter example: teacher for coworker.

Reference letters are just what they sound like: a testimonial about a person’s professional qualifications, abilities, and achievements. They’re written by someone who knows the applicant well and can speak to specifics about their career.

These days, most jobs don’t require reference letters since employers perform reference checks themselves. However, academia is different. Many teaching jobs require candidates to submit written letters of reference as part of their application packet. This is just one part of their overall evaluation of a candidate, of course. But these letters remain a key part of many teachers’ job searches.

Letter of Reference vs. Letter of Recommendation

These two terms are often used interchangeably, but reference letters are almost always specific to a job search. Students often need letters of recommendation for scholarships and college applications. If you need help writing a letter of recommendation for a student, check out these articles:

  • Tips for Writing a College Recommendation Letter
  • Strong Scholarship Recommendation Letter Examples

Writing a reference letter can feel like a daunting task, but these tips can help. Don’t forget to grab our free printable letter of reference template too!

Review Reference Letter Samples

If you’ve never written a reference letter or you want to up your game, take a look at some samples first. One of our favorite ways to do it is to use AI like ChatGPT to generate some reference letter samples specific to your situation. You definitely don’t want to copy these word-for-word, but you might find some helpful phrases or get a better idea of the format you should use. We’ve included some sample letters below too.

Brainstorm Ideas First

Before you begin writing, do a quick brainstorming session and jot down your thoughts about these prompts:

  • What three words first come to mind when you think of this teacher?
  • List this person’s biggest strengths as an educator.
  • List a few times when this teacher really impressed you.
  • Has this person won any awards or accolades worth mentioning?
  • What makes this teacher special compared to their peers?
  • What would this teacher’s students say about them? What about parents or co-workers? (If you have examples, round them up to include in the letter.)

Personalize the Letter

If you can, try to write a letter that’s specific to the job the teacher needs a reference letter for. Find out what they’ll be doing in their new role or position so you can include the most relevant qualities in your recommendation. Some reference letters are more general, so it’s OK if you can’t personalize them to the job.

Ask the teacher if there’s anything specific they’d like you to mention. You may also ask if there’s anything they’d prefer to keep confidential. For instance, if the teacher has a disability, they may not want to disclose that information yet.

Write an Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the teacher you’re providing a reference for. Include information such as how long you’ve known them and whether you’re speaking as a colleague, coworker, mentor, or supervisor.

Verify Their Qualifications and Experience

In the next paragraph, speak to the teacher’s education, including any special certifications or professional development achievements. Mention any awards, honors, or accolades they’ve earned. You can keep this section fairly short; the teacher has likely listed all of this on their CV already. Your reference letter will just help verify these qualifications.

Highlight Their Best Qualities

In the body of your letter, write two or three paragraphs that really help identify what makes this teacher special. Don’t try to squeeze in everything you know; instead, think about what really helps the person you’re recommending stand out. For each paragraph, focus on one of these areas (or other relevant topics), choosing the two or three overall that seem most important for this person.

  • Subject matter knowledge and expertise
  • Pedagogy skills
  • Student and/or parent relationships
  • Professional development
  • Community relations
  • Communication skills
  • Leadership roles
  • School pride and loyalty
  • Personal traits, such as passion, enthusiasm, dedication, creativity, etc.

Provide Specific Examples and Anecdotes

This is where you really have the chance to make your letter valuable to the candidate. It’s easy to describe a person as “passionate about recognizing diversity” or “excellent at differentiating learning.” Without examples, though, these are just words. Try to anchor each quality you mention with specific examples or anecdotes that back up those words. Here are a couple of examples:

  • “Alana is passionate about recognizing and celebrating diversity in her classroom. She frequently draws on her strong community relationships to bring diverse speakers and cultural activities to her classroom. Last fall, she organized an incredibly popular school-wide Diversity Fair where students and their families were encouraged to share their own cultures and experiences and learn from each other. One parent noted, ‘I’ve lived in this community for three years, but this is the first time I really feel like I know my neighbors.’”
  • “One of Jamie’s strongest qualities is their ability to differentiate learning for their students. They’re always willing to determine what’s keeping a student from doing their best and finding new ways to overcome challenges. For instance, Jamie was instrumental in helping our school implement text-to-speech software that assists struggling readers and those who have visual impairment. This leveled the playing field in their history and geography classes, helping students focus on the subject at hand instead of spending too much time deciphering text.”

Conclude With a Strong Endorsement

You’ve come all this way, so don’t fall short at the very end! This is the time to state your personal recommendation in no uncertain terms. Sum up your major points, and offer to provide more information if needed.

  • “I’m pleased to recommend Alana Whitmore for an elementary teaching position at your school. Her commitment to diversity, creative classroom approaches, and compassion for students and fellow coworkers would make her an excellent addition to any education team. If you want to discuss her qualifications further, don’t hesitate to contact me.”

Write Professionally and Proofread Carefully

This is a business communication, so strive for a professional but warm tone overall. If it’s a paper letter, use the standard business letter format (on your school letterhead if you’re an administrator). In an email, be sure your signature includes contact information such as a phone number and school address.

Don’t forget to proofread! A letter riddled with spelling errors and grammar mistakes is unlikely to hold much sway with a hiring committee or selection panel. Use a program like Grammarly to help you edit your letter until you’re satisfied with the final version.

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Alana Whitmore for any opportunity that may arise that aligns with her exceptional skills and dedication as an elementary school teacher. In my capacity as the principal of Maya Angelou Elementary, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the invaluable contributions Alana has made to our school community.

Alana has worked here for seven years, three as a fifth-grade teacher and four in third grade. She came to us fresh from earning her teaching certification at Lancaster University, and continued her education over the last several years to earn her Master’s of Education in Curriculum Design and Development. She was honored with our district’s Teacher of the Year award in 2022 and was the keynote speaker at our state’s education conference in 2023.

Alana is an exemplary educator who consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to the academic and emotional growth of her students. Through her inventive teaching methods and personalized approach, she ensures that every child in her classroom is provided with opportunities to thrive and succeed. During a recent observation, I noted how she cleverly adapted her unit on volcanoes to embrace different learning styles. She provided choices like watching a video, reading an article, or listening to a short podcast to build background knowledge. Students individually chose the option they preferred, then used their knowledge to work with a partner to design a poster, write a report, or give a short presentation on the topic. Students were all engaged throughout the process, enjoying a measure of autonomy while still meeting the stated learning objectives.

Furthermore, Alana excels in building strong and collaborative relationships with parents and guardians. She understands the importance of fostering open communication and partnership between home and school, and she actively seeks opportunities to involve families in their child’s education. One parent reached out to me to share these thoughts: “Ms. Whitmore is the first teacher who seems to care about me as a parent and a person. She went out of her way to arrange a videoconference that met my hectic work schedule, and seemed genuinely interested in the suggestions I had for helping my son. Knowing that she really cares has made this school year so much better for us all.”

In addition to her effectiveness in the classroom and with parents, Alana is highly regarded by her colleagues for her collaborative spirit and willingness to share her expertise. Last year, she helped organize a very well-received professional development day, with a variety of sessions that allowed every teacher to find a subject that truly mattered to them. She serves as a mentor to one of our new teachers, who told me that Alana has helped him see how he can put his college educational theories into practice in the real world. Other teachers regularly share praise for Alana’s cooperative spirit, and she’s been awarded “Coworker of the Year” by our staff three years in a row.

Alana embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator: She is dedicated, passionate, and deeply invested in the well-being and success of her students. Her commitment to differentiation, parent relationships, and collaboration sets her apart as a truly outstanding teacher. I wholeheartedly recommend Alana Whitmore for any role or opportunity where her skills, expertise, and dedication can make a meaningful impact. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Gina Torres Principal, Maya Angelou Elementary

Dear Selection Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Jamie Lin for any teaching position that may become available within your school. As a fellow teacher and colleague at Ridgemont High School, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Jamie and have witnessed firsthand their exceptional talents and dedication to the field of education.

Jamie came to our school as a teacher of history and geography in 2019, working with ninth- through twelfth-grade students each year since. Before joining our team, they earned their Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on diversity studies. During Jamie’s four years here, they have been nominated for Teacher of the Year three times and received the award in 2023. Jamie frequently speaks at educational conferences on subjects like cultural relevance and student diversity.

One of Jamie’s greatest strengths is their ability to foster diversity and inclusivity within the learning environment. Whether discussing historical events or exploring global cultures, Jamie ensures that all students feel valued, respected, and represented in the curriculum. They frequently draw on their strong community relationships to bring diverse speakers and cultural activities to the classroom. Speakers and cultural presentations have included representatives of several indigenous communities and local authors from a variety of backgrounds. They also invite community politicians and activists to debate key issues, while students observe and then question the speakers themselves.

In addition to their dedication to diversity, Jamie is a remarkably creative educator who consistently goes above and beyond to engage students in meaningful and thought-provoking learning experiences. They have a passion for project-based learning, teaching critical thinking and problem-solving by having students tackle real-world issues. Through their projects, Jamie’s students have painted cultural murals on the walls in the school courtyard, helped translate our school handbook and other documents into three different languages, and created clubs for fellow students interested in topics like history, geography, and global cultures. Jamie believes in demonstrating what you’ve learned in meaningful ways, and their students thrive in this environment.

Furthermore, Jamie excels at building strong community relationships both inside and outside the classroom. They actively collaborate with colleagues, parents, and community members to create a supportive and enriching learning environment that extends beyond the walls of the school. Last fall, Jamie organized an incredibly popular school-wide Diversity Fair where students and their families were encouraged to share their own cultures and experiences and learn from each other. One parent noted, “I’ve lived in this community for three years, but this is the first time I really feel like I know my neighbors.”

Overall, Jamie Lin is an exceptional educator who embodies the qualities of excellence, creativity, and community engagement. Their passion for teaching, dedication to diversity, and innovative approach to education make them an invaluable asset to any school community.

I wholeheartedly endorse Jamie Lin for any teaching position and am confident that they will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of their students and colleagues. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Fatima Sundaram Teacher of Civics and Government, Ridgemont High School

Grab our free reference letter template!

This free editable template guides you through the process of how to write a reference letter. Just fill out the form on this page for instant access.

Have more questions about how to write a reference letter? Come ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

IMAGES

  1. 30 Phd Letter Of Recommendation

    recommendation letter for phd format

  2. Letter of Recommendation Examples for Graduate School

    recommendation letter for phd format

  3. FREE 45+ Sample Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School in MS

    recommendation letter for phd format

  4. Recommendation-letter-for-PhD-Scholarship

    recommendation letter for phd format

  5. Free Recommendation Letter for Scholarship Template

    recommendation letter for phd format

  6. Letter Of Recommendation From Professor For Phd • Invitation Template Ideas

    recommendation letter for phd format

VIDEO

  1. The Best PhD-Level Resume & Cover Letter For Getting Through Today's AI Filtering

  2. How to Write SOP, WRITE UP,COVER LETTER||PHD ADMISSIONS||SAMPLE WRITE UP||SAMPLE SOP||PRADEEP RAWAT

  3. PhD Cover Letter for Foreign Study

  4. Recommendation Letter || Phd or Masters Admission || Part 1 (বাংলা ভিডিও)

  5. Write an impressive recommendation letter!

  6. How to request a letter of recommendation. #phdlife #phd #phdtips #academia #letterofrecommendation

COMMENTS

  1. PDF Sample letter of recommendation

    Sample letter of recommendation. It is my pleasure to recommend Jane Doe for admission to [name of program] at [name of university]. I am a fifth-year Ph.D. student at the University of California, Berkeley. I came to know Jane when I was her Graduate Student Instructor for Philosophy 111: Ethical Relativism, taught by Professor John Smith.

  2. How To Write a Letter of Recommendation for PhD Programs

    Recommendation letter template. Here's a template you can use when writing a recommendation letter for a student hoping to be accepted into a Ph.D. program: [Recipient's name] I am pleased to recommend [applicant name] for the [Ph.D. program] at the [university name]. I am [your name], a [work position]. I have [number] years of experience ...

  3. Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD Students (with Sample)

    A student recommendation letter for a PhD will typically be between one to two pages. The document of recommendation letter for PhD student should be well differentiated into 5-6 paragraphs. The LOR for PhD should begin with an introductory paragraph about the recommender and his/her association with the applicant.

  4. Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School: The Definitive Guide

    Sample letter of recommendation for graduate school. Dear Program Committee: I hope you will strongly consider accepting Constance Wong to your PhD in Counseling Psychology program. I recommend her most highly to you. I am an associate professor at Chapman University. I have known Constance for approximately 3 years.

  5. Letters of Recommendation for Grad School I Stanford Online

    The recommendation letter prompt encourages recommenders to provide candid assessments of your qualifications,including your potential for advanced study, analytical thinking capabilities, and ability to express ideas clearly. Descriptions of significant achievements, personal qualities, and character traits relevant to your scholarly pursuits ...

  6. PDF Writing a Letter of Recommendation

    Read Some Sample Letters If you have never written a letter of recommendation before, read a stack of reference letters to see what works and what doesn't. Most faculty have access to graduate student applications and the letters submitted. Junior faculty can also ask their more experienced colleagues to share "sample" letters they have ...

  7. How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

    How to Format and Structure a Graduate School Letter of Recommendation. As for structure, letters of recommendation should not be longer than a page. Start off with a greeting ("Dear [Name]" or "To Whom It May Concern," if you don't know the recipient). In the opening paragraph, explain who you are, the nature of your relationship ...

  8. Graduate School Recommendation Letter From Professor

    Grad School Recommendation Letter by a Professor Sample Template. By Tara Kuther, Ph.D. Dear Dr. Smith, I am writing to you in support of Mr. Stu Student and his desire to attend Graduate School University for the Basket Weaving program. Though many students ask me to make this request on their behalf, I only recommend candidates who I feel are ...

  9. Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters

    Sample Graduate School Recommendation Letters. The three sample recommendation letters that follow, which you can download by clicking on the link below, are effective because they detail what makes the students stand out as exceptional and because they paint individual pictures of each student. Note how these excerpts, excerpted from each of ...

  10. Writing the perfect recommendation letter

    Writing recommendation letters is great fun — it allows me to reflect on my interactions with pupils, remember the creative times together and promote them in their future careers. It is like ...

  11. Best Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for PhD with Sample & Format

    If you need a LOR for Ph.D., here is everything that you need to know including guidelines and a useful sample. A well-crafted Letter of Recommendation is a crucial component of any PhD application, serving as a testament to the candidate's academic abilities, research potential, and character. It provides the admissions committee with valuable insights from a third-party perspective, often ...

  12. How To Write a Graduate School Recommendation Letter (With Example

    Here's a template for a graduate school recommendation letter: [First and last name] [Job title] [Phone number] [Email address] [Date] [Opening salutation]: [Write two to three sentences about the purpose of the letter. Include the first and last name of the candidate and the name of the degree program where they want to enroll.

  13. How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation

    Table of contents. Step 1: Choose who to ask. Step 2: Reach out and request a meeting. Step 3: Ask for a letter of recommendation. Step 4: Share your resume and other materials. Step 5: Remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines. Other interesting articles.

  14. Graduate School Letter of Recommendation Examples 2022-2023

    Use this outline as a letter of recommendation template in which to input your candidate's achievements, skills, and traits. Note that the flow of information moves the reader into greater detail, using form phrases and transitions that increase the readability of the letter. 1. Greeting to the recipient.

  15. How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

    The letter template can start as a three paragraph structure that you can customize each time you write for a new person (don't try to use the exact same letter for multiple people). In the first paragraph, explain why you are writing and whom you are writing in support of: "I am writing to recommend X for the Y program.".

  16. Sample Recommendation Letter for Graduate School

    This is a sample recommendation for a graduate school applicant was written by the applicant's college dean, who was familiar with the applicant's academic achievements. The letter is short but does an ample job of emphasizing things that would be important to a graduate school admissions committee, such as GPA, work ethic, and leadership ability.

  17. Letter of Recommendation (LOR) FOR PhD: Sample ...

    Letters of Recommendation are written by the academic staff like professors, teachers, counselors, or work supervisors if the applicant has any voluntary or professional work experience. LOR for PhD is significant because selection committees gauge the potential of the applicant to go through the academics and research capability mainly through ...

  18. Writing Letters of Recommendation : Biological Engineering

    Writing a letter of recommendation is an important responsibility, consequential both in your own career and credibility (the mentor) and in the requester's future (the mentee). A well-crafted letter takes time and requires some reflection on your relationship with the person you are recommending. Here are some tips to write an influential ...

  19. LOR Samples for PhD: How to Write LOR Format for PhD Programs?

    3.8k views. The LOR samples for PhD are an essential part of your admission application. LOR examples for PhD will prove in handy, especially in scenarios where your candidature will be assessed for research assistantships and similar opportunities. The LOR plays a crucial role in attesting to your potential as a scholar/researcher contributing ...

  20. How to Write a Recommendation Letter for a PhD Application

    Follow these instructions to prepare a thorough letter of recommendation for an aspiring Ph.D. student: 1. Gather information from the student. Start by collecting details from the student so you can prepare a thoughtful recommendation. Although you can use your own experiences and memories to write your letter, it's useful to have ...

  21. Letters of Recommendation for Graduate School: A Necessary Guide & Sample

    Basically, letters of recommendation are letters addressed to the graduate school admission committee offering insights about the applicants' ability and potential as a graduate school student. So if you're a student gathering your university application materials, make sure you pay particular attention to this crucial component.

  22. Letters of Recommendation

    At least one letter should be from a faculty member at the school where you earned your most recent degree, unless you have been out of school for more than five years. Your recommenders must submit their letters through the recommender portal by the application deadline: Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept letters submitted via email, mail ...

  23. How To Write a Letter of Recommendation (With Example)

    To upload the template into Google Docs, go to File > Open > and select the correct downloaded file. Related: 11 Impactful Words To Use In a Letter of Recommendation Recommendation letter example Here's an example of a completed letter: To Whom It May Concern: It is my pleasure to strongly recommend Annie Chiu for a position as a data analyst for L&Q International.

  24. How To Write a Reference Letter (Examples and Free Template)

    How To Write a Letter of Reference. Writing a reference letter can feel like a daunting task, but these tips can help. Don't forget to grab our free printable letter of reference template too! Review Reference Letter Samples. If you've never written a reference letter or you want to up your game, take a look at some samples first.