Navigating Teacher Recommendations
Not sure who to ask for a letter of recommendation? When to ask? How to even bring it up without feeling awkward? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Even if your college list isn’t set in stone yet, you’ll need to lock down a few solid recommendation letters before applications open. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, so you can get those glowing recs without the stress.
How Important are Teacher Recommendations?
Your recommendation might just be an added boost to your application. However, some admissions officers have recounted stories where strong recommendations were the final deciding factor for a student’s acceptance—meaning that, yes, your recommendation letters can make or break your application.
For example, if a student’s application leaves an admissions officer wanting to better understand the student’s ability to interact with others in the classroom, a recommendation letter that talks about how funny, engaging, and encouraging that student is can go a long way in advocating for the student’s acceptance. Recommendation letters can also work to corroborate a student’s application narrative or provide a well-rounded picture of a student’s potential.
Getting a Good Rec
Your recommendation navigation begins at the start of 11th grade, and sometimes earlier! You want to begin building your relationship with your teachers ahead of time so they have more details to include in their letters. Meet with them outside of class to discuss ways you’re exploring the materials they teach beyond the classroom.
For example, before winter break, you might ask your English teacher for reading recommendations based on the books you’ve enjoyed in class. You could also reach out to your physics teacher with a research project you’ve started for a school club to gain their insights on how to develop it. Find a way to connect with your teachers to make it easier for them to write about how kind, smart, and ambitious you are.
Who Should I Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?
You might have heard that certain teachers write “better” recommendations than others, but that shouldn’t be your deciding factor. Instead, focus on these key points:
Ask a junior-year teacher. Colleges want to hear about your most recent academic performance, so prioritize teachers from 11th grade.
Choose someone who knows you well. A teacher who has seen you grow—perhaps one who also coached your team or sponsored a club you participated in—can write a more compelling letter.
Pick a teacher from a relevant subject. If you’re applying for an engineering program, at least one recommendation should come from a math or science teacher. Many colleges require recommendations from teachers in core subjects like math, science, English, history, or foreign language.
Consider how you performed in their class. A teacher who saw you work hard, improve, or engage deeply with the material will have the most to say about your academic abilities and character.
Who NOT to ask:
Someone famous. It’s cool if your parents know someone prominent in the field you want to work in, but that doesn’t really help you if that person doesn’t know you well.
A teacher who is rumored to give amazing recommendations. Honestly, I hear this from students all the time, and I still don’t know what students mean by it—if that teacher barely knows you, how good can their recommendation be? What anecdotes, insights, or stories can they share about you?
Coaches, employers, or club advisors (unless allowed as an additional letter) – These can be valuable supplemental recommendations but should not replace core subject teachers.
How Should I Ask?
Ask in person first. A face-to-face request is more personal and shows appreciation for their time.
Be clear and polite. Try saying something like: “I really enjoyed your class this year, and I learned so much from you. I’m starting my college applications and would be honored if you’d write me a recommendation letter. Would you be comfortable doing that?”
Follow up with an email. Thank them for agreeing to write the letter and provide key details:
A list of schools you’re applying to
Deadlines for submission
Your resume or a brief summary of your academic and extracurricular activities
When Should I Ask?
Timing is crucial when requesting recommendations. Here’s a timeline to keep you on track:
Spring of Junior Year (April-May): Ask your teachers for a letter in person. Some popular teachers limit the number of letters they write, so early requests increase your chances. We recommend after March, but before June. If the teacher says yes, follow up within the week with a thank you email that includes your resume.
Start of Senior Year (August-September): Follow up with a friendly reminder, providing any updated information they may need. Below, we’ve included an example email for what this check-in might look like.
Dear [Teacher’s Name],
I hope you’ve had a great summer! I really appreciate you agreeing to write me a letter of recommendation. Since school is starting up again, I wanted to update you on what I have accomplished this summer.
During my internship at [Company/Organization Name], I had the opportunity to [briefly describe your role—e.g., “work on a team developing a data visualization tool for environmental research”]. One of my biggest projects was [specific project—e.g., “designing an algorithm that predicts air pollution levels based on real-time data”]. It was exciting to see [details; e.g. “my coding skills applied in a real-world setting, and I even had the chance to present my findings to a team of engineers”].
This experience reinforced my passion for [field of interest, e.g., “computer science and environmental policy”], and I’m even more excited to pursue this in college. If there’s anything else you need from me—whether it’s a resume update or a list of my college deadlines—please let me know!
Thank you again for your support. I truly appreciate your time and guidance.
Best,
[Student Name]
Final Tips
Respect their time. Teachers write multiple recommendations, so give them plenty of notice.
Provide updates. If you have significant achievements or changes in your college list, keep them informed.
Show appreciation. A handwritten thank-you note or small gift (like homemade cookies or a coffee gift card) is a kind gesture.
A well-written recommendation can strengthen your college application, so choose wisely, ask early, and be respectful. Your teachers are invested in your success—help them help you by making the process smooth and thoughtful!
