The Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a crucial component of your graduate school application. It provides external validation of your academic abilities, character, and potential for success. A well-crafted LOR can significantly enhance your chances of admission.
Key Elements of a Professional LOR
Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School Template CocoSign
Sender’s Credentials: The letter should clearly state the sender’s qualifications and relationship to the applicant. This establishes credibility and context.
Applicant’s Qualifications: Highlight the applicant’s strengths, academic achievements, and relevant experiences. Use specific examples to illustrate their capabilities.
Evaluator’s Observations: Share personal observations and insights about the applicant’s character, work ethic, and potential for graduate study.
Recommendation: Clearly state your recommendation for the applicant’s admission to the graduate program.
Design Considerations
1. Letterhead:
Use a professional letterhead with the sender’s name, title, affiliation, contact information, and logo (if applicable).
Ensure the letterhead is consistent with the overall design of the document.
2. Formatting:
Font: Choose a clear and legible font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
Font Size: Use a standard font size, typically 11 or 12 points.
Spacing: Maintain consistent spacing between lines and paragraphs. Use 1.5 or double spacing for readability.
Margins: Use standard margins (e.g., 1 inch on all sides) to create a professional appearance.
3. Layout:
Heading: Center the heading “Letter of Recommendation” at the top of the page.
Date: Include the date in the top right corner.
Recipient Address: Address the letter to the appropriate admissions committee or department.
Salutation: Use a formal salutation, such as “Dear Admissions Committee,” followed by a colon.
Body: Divide the body into paragraphs to organize your thoughts and maintain clarity.
Closing: Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and typed name.
Enclosure: If you are attaching any supporting documents, indicate this in the bottom left corner.
Begin by introducing yourself and your relationship to the applicant.
Briefly state the purpose of the letter and your knowledge of the applicant.
2. Academic Achievements:
Highlight the applicant’s academic performance, including GPA, coursework, and any honors or awards received.
Use specific examples to illustrate their abilities and potential.
3. Research Experience:
Discuss the applicant’s research experience, if applicable.
Describe their contributions to research projects, publications, or presentations.
4. Professional Skills:
Highlight the applicant’s professional skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication.
Provide examples of how these skills have been demonstrated.
5. Personal Qualities:
Share your observations about the applicant’s character, work ethic, and interpersonal skills.
Describe qualities that make them a good fit for the graduate program.
6. Recommendation:
Clearly state your recommendation for the applicant’s admission.
Express your confidence in their ability to succeed in the program.
7. Conclusion:
Reiterate the applicant’s strengths and qualifications.
Thank the admissions committee for considering the application.
Additional Tips
Be Specific: Use concrete examples to support your claims.
Tailor the Letter: Customize the letter to the specific graduate program and applicant.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure the letter is free of errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Obtain the Applicant’s Permission: Seek the applicant’s permission before writing the letter.
By following these guidelines and design considerations, you can create a professional and compelling Letter of Recommendation that effectively showcases the applicant’s qualifications and increases their chances of admission to graduate school.
