How early should I ask for a letter of recommendation reddit?

Asked by: Carleton Okuneva  |  Last update: January 25, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (33 votes)

I would ask informally near the end of 11th, then officially around the beginning of 12th. Maybe later if you're only applying RD.

How early is too early to ask for a letter of recommendation?

for a reference unless a professor/instructor letter is specifically requested. If you aren't sure, ask an OFSP staff member to help you decide who to ask for a particular recommendation. Start early. Ideally, give the person three to four weeks, but never less than two weeks to complete the recommendation.

How long in advance should you ask for a reference letter?

Ideally, you should give your recommenders about two to three months advance notice. This will not only make it easier for them to write the letter, but it also demonstrates that you are planning ahead and have thought carefully about your application process.

How long should you work with someone before asking for a letter of recommendation?

Ask your employer to write a letter of recommendation if you know you put in the work and were with them for more than just a few weeks.

How far in advance should I ask my professor for a letter of recommendation?

Ask early.

It is common courtesy to allow recommenders at least 3-4 weeks to prepare and submit their letters.

You're asking for letters of rec WRONG

15 related questions found

What is the etiquette for asking for a letter of recommendation?

What's the etiquette for requesting and writing letters of...
  • Ask the appropriate person. ...
  • Cloak the 'ask' in a compliment. ...
  • Explain why you need the letter. ...
  • Be clear about the submission process and deadline. ...
  • Say 'Thank you' to the person who wrote your letter of recommendation.

Is a week too late to ask for a letter of recommendation?

When applying for academic programs, try to ask people for recommendations four to six weeks before the application deadline. While you may have less time to secure recommendations for a job application, it's still important to ask your references early so they can write you a quality letter.

Who is the best person to write a letter of recommendation?

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.

How to politely ask for a letter of recommendation?

Dear Ms./Mr. [Recommender Name], I hope you're well. I'm in the process of applying to [school or company name] and want to ask if you feel comfortable writing a strong letter of recommendation on my behalf. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as [your relationship to the recommender].

What not to say in a letter of recommendation?

A successful letter should avoid:
  • General language or overly broad descriptors of the student's performance in the classroom;
  • Focusing on a student's punctuality or ability to complete the readings. ...
  • Too much time and attention detailing the relationship with the student or the content of the course.

Can you ask for a letter of recommendation in advance?

Don't: Ask Right Before the Time You Need it!

If you ask them right before your deadline, they will either reject your request, not finish it on time or be forced to rush it and end up giving you a low-quality L.O.R. Ideally, you should ask your recommender for the letter about two months in advance.

Do professors like writing letters of recommendation?

It's job-hunting and grad-school admissions season. As a professor, that means it's time to write recommendation letters. Professors enjoy writing letters for excellent students, in part to "pay it back" for all those letters we've had to ask for (and still ask for).

What is a reasonable time for a letter of recommendation?

You should try to get your request to them as soon as possible, but give your references at least a month to complete and submit your letters. The start of your senior year is a good time to begin asking teachers for recommendation letters, especially if you're applying for early decision.

How far in advance should I ask for a letter of recommendation reddit?

I would say 2-4 months in advance depending on the person. Use your best judgement, and definitely line up backups if possible - I had a professor stop responding to my emails a week before I needed the letter after agreeing to do it, because he got busy with his classes.

Is it awkward to ask for a letter of recommendation?

Requesting a letter of recommendation can be an uncomfortable thing. You are asking a person of authority to write a good review of you. You want to ask someone who you have a positive relationship with, someone who may also be invested in your success. This ensures that you will more likely be painted in a good light.

Do letters of recommendation help get a job?

References and/or letters of recommendation are usually a necessary part of your job search. In fact, once an employer narrows their list of potential candidates, references are often the determining factor for which candidate gets offered the position.

Is it OK to ask for a recommendation via email?

If a face-to-face conversation isn't an option, you can always ask for a letter of recommendation via email. Scheduling a time to meet ensures that the person has time to devote to you, and it allows you to explain why you've selected them as the best person to write the letter.

What is a brag sheet for a letter of recommendation?

Brag sheets are a way for you to help your counselor and teachers write letters of recommendation. These forms give them more insight into who you are outside of school and your interests. Fill out these forms, and share them with your counselor and teachers when you ask them for a letter of recommendation!

Do all masters require letters of recommendation?

The short answer is no, letters of recommendation for graduate school applications are not always needed for graduate school.

How early should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

The second aspect of starting early is giving your recommender enough time to write the letter. It's best practice to give at least one month in advance, and more if you're applying to graduate school. At absolute minimum, you want to give them a two week's notice.

What are the 6 details that should be included in a letter of recommendation?

In most cases, your letter of recommendation should include the following:
  • 1 Date. Provide the date you send your letter, especially if there are specific application cycles or deadlines to adhere to. ...
  • 2 Greeting. ...
  • 3 Introduction. ...
  • 4 Overview. ...
  • 5 Personal anecdote. ...
  • 6 Closing statement. ...
  • 7 Signature.

Does it matter who the letter of recommendation is from?

Avoid recommendation letters from well-known or influential people who don't know you well or personally. Having someone write on your behalf just because they are “cool” or impressive doesn't boost your application — it can actually hurt it.

How far ahead do you need to request a letter of recommendation from a professor?

Give the professor time to consider your request. 3. Ask early. Make an appointment to discuss the recommendation at least three weeks in advance of the deadline—preferably a month or more, especially if you need multiple letters.

How much advance notice for letter of recommendation?

A good rule to keep in mind is to give your recommenders at least one month of advance notice. If you do, they should have plenty of time to schedule and write the letter.

Can I reuse letters of recommendation?

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