When writing a letter of recommendation (or evaluation) it is most helpful to provide as much personal and anecdotal information as you can with the admissions committee. Usually, applicants will share their transcript, test scores, and a rèsumè and/or curriculum vitae, so re-iterating these aspects is not necessary unless you can provide greater meaning and insight into those areas. Some types of schools and programs may have specific characteristics and/or experiences which they may want you to discuss. The applicant should provide this information if applicable. For example, many medical schools have specific competencies they want references to address. These can be viewed here.
When writing, remember to use official letterhead and sign the letter with your signature. It is also helpful to address the letter generally instead of to a specific school, for example, “Dear Medical School Admissions Committee”.
Most importantly, many schools and programs have submission deadlines. Please be aware of these and make sure that you submit your letter before the deadline. If you do not do so, the applicant may not be able to be considered for admission.
Suggested Topics for Letters of Recommendation or Evaluation
One should address topics you have observed or know well and for which you can give specific examples as evidence. The more concrete your examples, the better.
Personal knowledge of the student: Provide context both for your knowledge of the applicant and for his/her performance
- How long and in what capacity you have known the applicant
- How well you know the applicant
- How the applicant compares to others you have known, past and present
- How well your applicant performed in your course(s)/employment/etc. (beyond a grade)
- How difficult your course(s)/employment/etc. is and why
Intellectual readiness and academic ability: How well do you think this applicant will handle professional school
- General intellectual ability
- Ability to learn and retain information
- Oral communication skills
- Written communication skills
- Ability to deal with complex and abstract ideas
- Ability to handle ambiguity
- Critical thinking skills
- Problem-analysis and problem-solving abilities
- Creativity
- Evidence of interest in the course(s) subject matter
- Evidence of being a lifelong learner
- Evidence of initiative and the ability to work independently
- Laboratory skills and techniques
- Research skills
Motivation and suitability for the profession: Do you think this applicant will thrive in this profession?
- Exposure to the realities of the profession
- Understanding of the profession
- Understanding of current issues affecting the profession
- Evidence of commitment to public service
- Suitability for the profession
Personal characteristics and evidence of: Is this someone you would trust to care for you or a loved one? Please share any observations that will illuminate the applicant’s strengths and weaknesses
- Maturity
- Leadership
- Moral/ethical integrity
- Law-abiding behavior
- Social skills
- Responsibility and dependability
- Empathy and altruism
- Sincerity and dedication
- Tolerance for diversity
- Personal initiative
- Overall potential
Remember it is not about quantity but quality and remember to show not tell. Please note that the use of these guidelines is optional. They are intended to help you think about your letter and facilitate the writing process. It is not expected to provide information about every characteristic listed above, only those in which you can portray the applicant to the best of your ability.