Letters of Recommendation: How to Get Strong LORs

Letters of recommendation (LORs) give admissions committees an independent view of your abilities. A strong letter from someone who knows your work well can make a real difference, especially at competitive programs.

Most master’s programs ask for two or three letters, usually from professors and, for experienced applicants, managers.

Who to ask

• Professors who taught you in relevant subjects
• Project or thesis guides
• Managers or team leaders at work
• Internship supervisors

When to ask

Ask at least four to six weeks before your first deadline. Professors and managers are busy, and many receive several requests at the same time.

What to share with your recommenders

• Your CV and statement of purpose
• The list of programs and deadlines
• Specific projects or achievements you worked on with them
• Instructions for submitting the letter online

What makes a strong letter

• Specific examples of your work and skills
• Comparison with peers, where possible
• Comments on character, teamwork and initiative
• A clear endorsement of your plans

Mistakes to avoid

• Asking someone who barely knows you because of their title
• Asking at the last minute
• Writing and signing the letter yourself on someone else’s behalf
• Using identical letters for every application

How the online submission works

Most universities no longer accept paper letters. When you fill in the application form, you enter each recommender’s name, designation and official email address. The university then emails them a private link to upload the letter or answer a short questionnaire. You never see the letter, and you can usually track whether it has been submitted.

• Use official college or company email addresses where possible; personal email IDs can raise questions.
• Tell your recommenders to expect the email and to check their spam folder.
• Enter recommender details early, even if you submit the rest of the application later.
• Waive your right to see the letter if asked; admissions committees trust waived letters more.

A simple step-by-step plan

1. List four or five possible recommenders and pick the two or three who know your work best.
2. Meet or call each one to ask politely whether they can write a positive, detailed letter.
3. Send a short brief with your CV, SOP draft, deadlines and two or three projects you would like them to mention.
4. Register them on each application portal.
5. Send a gentle reminder a week before each deadline.
6. Thank them, and let them know where you finally enrol.

Academic or professional: which counts more?

Fresh graduates should usually rely on academic letters, because professors can comment on research ability and classroom performance. Applicants with two or more years of work experience can mix one academic letter with one from a manager. MBA programs generally prefer professional referees who have supervised you directly.

Frequently asked questions

Can a family member write a letter?

No, letters should come from academic or professional referees.

Do I need academic letters if I have work experience?

Many programs accept professional letters for experienced applicants; check each program.

What if my professor asks me to draft the letter?

You may share notes, but the letter should reflect their own views and words.

How we help

Choosing a university is only the first step. Our counsellors review your academic record, test scores, budget and career plans, then suggest a realistic shortlist with safe, moderate and ambitious options. Applications are processed through our partner network of universities and admission platforms, so you get one point of contact from shortlist to offer letter.

We also help you prepare your statement of purpose, check your documents before submission, plan your education loan and get ready for the visa stage. Our guidance is free for students: tell us about your plans and a counsellor will reply personally.