Can I reuse my letters of recommendation?

Asked by: Prof. Kylee Langosh I  |  Last update: October 6, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (12 votes)

If you're reapplying, your recommenders may resubmit the previously written letters with your new application.

Can you use the same letter of recommendation multiple times?

The substance of the letter won't change (e.g., your leadership, strengths, and personality). Some counselors address the letter “To Whom it May Concern” so it can be used for multiple purposes.

Is it okay to use old letters of recommendation?

The letter from a few years ago isn't bad. And so, just ask if the professor would re-date the letter. If you're reapplying to medical school, or you unfortunately got a letter several years ago.

Can you reuse recommendation letters on a common app?

Transfer recommenders: The first time you submit a recommendation for a student you'll be asked if you want to reuse that form. This means any incomplete or future requests will automatically be submitted for you using the information in this recommendation.

Can I use a one year old recommendation letter?

No, you should get another one. The maximum time limit is about 3 to 4 months. A student should give the teacher the prompt for recommendation letter at least 2 months before applying so, a 3 to 4 months old recommendation letter is just fine.

Is it Ethical to Write Your Own Letter of Recommendation for a Job or Program?

40 related questions found

Can letters of recommendation be reused?

If you're reapplying, your recommenders may resubmit the previously written letters with your new application.

How long do recommendation letters last?

There is no strict deadline for recommendation letters. Ideally, they should be as recent as possible to provide the most relevant picture of your qualifications. Here's a breakdown: Generally Preferred: Letters written within the past 12-18 months hold the most weight.

Can I use the same letter of recommendation for different jobs?

Answer: An applicant may want to use the same reference provider across multiple opportunities as the reference letter provided may be specific to the applicant, rather than specific to the opportunity. Using the same reference allows both the reference and the applicant to save time and effort.

Is there a word limit for letters of recommendation on the Common App?

Although the Common App does not have any specific word limit for recommendation letters, it is advisable to keep recommendations concise, at anywhere between 300-500 words. The maximum length of the recommendation letter should be 1 page at most.

Can I use the same recommendation letter for different graduate programs?

No. Separate letters of recommendation are required for each application you submit. Recommenders are asked to provide a recommendation based on the particular program for which you are applying, so letters of recommendation are specific to each application.

Can you use old letters of recommendation on Reddit?

Yes, letters are typically the same, can be reused, and submitted through a single form (the Common App).

What words should you avoid in a letter of recommendation?

Adjectives to Limit*
  • Caring.
  • Compassionate.
  • Hard-working.
  • Conscientious.
  • Dependable.
  • Diligent.
  • Dedicated.
  • Tactful.

How old can a letter of recs be?

Letters don't expire, they decay. As each year passes they are worth that much less. I'd say the half-life is about 3–5 years, but it's very context-dependent.

How many rec letters is too much?

Most colleges will ask for up to three letters of recommendation, so keep that in mind and don't overdo it. If a school wants two recommendation letters, only submit two.

Can you use the same letters of recommendation for different colleges?

Question: Can the same letter of recommendation be sent to all the schools my child is applying to? Answer: Yes, absolutely!

Can you read your letters of recommendation after acceptance?

Under FERPA, students have the right to access these records after enrolling in an educational institution. This allows students to review their recommendation letters. However, during the application and admissions process, you'll often encounter a FERPA waiver.

Can you reuse recommendation letters on common app?

Once your teachers upload their letters of recommendation, these letters can be used for all the colleges you apply to through the Common App.

Should I waive my right to see letters of recommendation?

If you do not waive your right to see your letters, it might signal to admissions officers that you don't trust your recommenders—leading them to be more wary of both you and the letters. Finally, even if you waive your right of access, it is not uncommon for recommenders to share the letters with you anyway.

What is the ideal word count for a letter of recommendation?

The ideal word count to draft the LOR for US universities is approx. 400-500 words.

Who are the best people to get letters of recommendation from?

This could be a teacher, a coach, a mentor, someone from your faith community, a boss, someone who you have volunteered with, etc. Pro Tip: Ask someone who has known you for a long time or who has seen you work hard at school, a job, or an extra-curricular activity.

Can you use a letter of recommendation for multiple things?

If you decide to apply for a similar job or academic program, you may also want to use the same letter of recommendation for that application. In this case, ask your reference for permission before you use their letter for another application.

Are letters of recommendation due at the same time as application?

Yes. Submit your application by the deadline. The letters of recommendation may be uploaded by the recommender after your submission, however some departments may not review your application until all letters have been received.

Does Yale accept Interfolio?

Q: Will Yale GSAS accept letters of recommendation from a dossier service such as Interfolio? Yes. We will accept letters of recommendation from Interfolio or other dossier services that have the ability to upload a letter directly to our online recommendation system on behalf of a faculty member.

What is the validity of a recommendation letter?

Is my reference letter/report on candidate still valid? Unless specified otherwise on the description of the programme/position, the reference letters you previously submitted remain valid for 12 months.