How to Ask a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

Asking a professor for a letter of recommendation (LOR) can be an anxiety-producing experience. However, if you follow the protocol below, you can rest assured that your actions are professional and appropriate.

Sample Email to Request a LOR

Subject: Request for a Letter of Recommendation

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am currently a [Your Year] majoring in [Your Major] at [Your University]. I have greatly enjoyed and benefited from the classes I have taken with you, particularly [Class Name], and I appreciate the insights and guidance you have provided.

I am writing to request if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I am applying to [Program/Position/Opportunity], and your recommendation would be incredibly valuable given your knowledge of my academic abilities and dedication.

If you are able to assist, I would be happy to provide any additional information you might need, such as my resume, a draft of my personal statement, or details about the program. The deadline for the recommendation is [Deadline Date].

Thank you very much for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Warm regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]

  • You should give your professor at least one month to write and submit your LOR.
  • If your deadline is close to the holidays/winter break (November-January), two months advanced notice is preferred so they have time write your recommendation around their vacation time.
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Make it clear the deadline for your LOR, any special instructions they need to submit your LOR, and plan to remind your recommender at least a week before the deadline.

  • Provide your professor with a resume and/or portfolio of your work to help them learn more about your experience and work
  • Share the job/program description along with why you are interested in the opportunity and anything specific you want them to highlight about your qualifications

Once someone agrees to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf, you need to register their information and email address on the LSAC.org website. LSAC.org will contact your recommender directly by email and their letter will be uploaded to the LSAC.org website.