Get the Best College Recommendation Letters

October 1, 2025

3 Keys to Powerful Recommendation Letters

Letters of recommendation are an important piece of the application for colleges that require them. The most effective letters provide valuable insight into who you are—not just as a student, but also as a person. They provide outside validation that you have excelled—through exceptional commitment, notable achievement, strong character, generosity of spirit, or the ability to work well with others.

A well-crafted letter of recommendation can tip the scales in your favor—not only for admissions, but even for additional financial aid.

Follow these 3 simple guidelines to secure letters that really make a difference:

1. Choose Your Letter Writers Carefully
   1. Colleges often limit you to two letters, so you have to make them count. Depending on the college’s requirements, letter-writers may be teachers, counselors, advisors, employers, directors, or coaches. Pick people who know you well, are enthusiastic about you as a student and a person and are supportive of your education goals. They should also be able to write well and respect your requirements and deadlines.
   2. Many colleges require letters from your teachers. Don’t automatically pick teachers who gave you A’s. Instead, consider all teachers who like and respect you, connected with you in the classroom, appreciated your classroom contribution, and noticed your growth in the subject. If you know your intended college major, ask at least one of your teachers in that subject area of study to write a letter for you.
2. Give Your Letter Writers Guidance
   1. The most effective letters of recommendation don’t just say you’re a good student and would be an asset to the college; they explain why, with specific and relevant details. Guide your letter-writers by providing a brief list of your accomplishments relevant to them, along with reminders of how you achieved them through dedication, tenacity, initiative, or leadership.
   2. Examples
      • A coach — Note how seriously you took your training, practiced specific skills on your own time, always arrived ready to work, or demonstrated leadership with your teammates.
      • An employer — Highlight ways you went above and beyond your job description to make a difference, big or small.
      • A teacher — Mention times you sought extra help, mastered difficult topics, or contributed meaningfully to class discussions.
3. Make the Process Easy for Your Letter Writers
   1. Your letter writers are busy people, so make the process as easy as possible:
      • Give plenty of time — Make your request about one month before the deadline. That gives them enough time, but not so much that they forget.
      • Provide clear deadlines — Track letter submissions via your student portal at each college. If a letter has not shown up a week or so before the school’s deadline, gently remind the letter writer.
      • Give clear instructions — Include all the requirements, submission links, forms, and pre-addressed, stamped envelopes if necessary

Finally, remember that a great letter of recommendation takes effort. Always formally thank your letter writers afterward.