How long should a letter of recommendation be in words?

Asked by: Giuseppe Cruickshank  |  Last update: December 6, 2023
Score: 4.7/5 (2 votes)

How long should a letter of recommendation be? 300-400 words long and should present your character, accomplishments, and abilities from an objective perspective. An “academic reference letter” is often given directly to you by the referee, and you can keep it for future use.

Which is the appropriate length for letter of recommendation?

The length and submission of a recommendation letter

The recommendation letter should be no more than two pages in length. Although a recommendation letter is more about quality than quantity, a letter containing only a few sentences is not recommended.

Is 250 words enough for a letter of recommendation?

There is no word limit for your reference letter, though most recommenders will find 250-750 words sufficient.

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

What is a letter of recommendation?
  • Introduction and statement of recommendation.
  • List of specific reasons you are recommending them to the position.
  • Personal story with evidence of their qualities (soft and hard skills)
  • Closing statement with contact information.
  • Signature.

How many words is a teacher recommendation letter?

These letters are incredibly important in the admissions process. They offer the university valuable insights about how the student behaves in the classroom and what the student's strengths and weaknesses are. Letters should be no longer than a page (single-spaced), and no less than 450 words.

How long should a recommendation letter be?

32 related questions found

What should a teacher recommendation letter look like?

The parts of the letter include:
  • Introduction and statement of recommendation.
  • List of specific reasons you are recommending them to the position.
  • Personal story with evidence of their qualities (soft and hard skills)
  • Closing statement with contact information.
  • Signature.

What is the structure of a letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation generally follow the following format: A formal salutation. An introduction (which includes a recommendation statement and your professional title) An overview of some of the applicant's skills, strengths, or qualifications, which you can tailor to the application.

What are 3 qualities for letter of recommendation?

Traits that should be considered for discussion in a letter include past job/task performances, experience and expertise, intellectual ability, and personal attributes as they pertain to leadership quality, teambuilding, perseverance, and communication skills.

What is the best wording for a recommendation?

[He is/She is/They are] honest, dependable, and incredibly hardworking. Beyond that, [he is/she is/they are] an impressive [soft skill] who is able to [result]. [His/her/their] knowledge of [specific subject] and expertise in [specific subject] was a huge advantage to our entire office.

What are 3 examples of a good reference?

Here are a few examples of people who make great character references:
  • Coworker.
  • Co-volunteer or volunteer leader.
  • Coach.
  • Client or customer.
  • Vendor or business acquaintance.
  • Professor or academic advisor.
  • Personal or professional mentor.
  • Fellow student or graduate from an educational program.

What should a strong letter of recommendation include?

If a student asks you to write a letter of recommendation for them, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
  • Describe your personal relationship with the student. ...
  • Provide specific examples of the student's abilities and work ethic. ...
  • Stay away from vague wording and phrases. ...
  • Take the specific job or school into account.

How many words is a college recommendation letter?

How long should a letter of recommendation be? 300-400 words long and should present your character, accomplishments, and abilities from an objective perspective. An “academic reference letter” is often given directly to you by the referee, and you can keep it for future use.

Is it OK to read a letter of recommendation?

In the academic world, recommendation letters tend to be kept confidential. Your teacher or counselor may show you the letter and ask for your feedback or revisions, but this depends on the person. Even if you're burning with curiosity, you shouldn't pressure your recommenders to show you the letter.

Is 3 weeks too short for 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.

What is the closing line of a recommendation letter?

In the final paragraph, reaffirm why you're vouching for the applicant by highlighting the reason for your recommendation. Add their full name and the position you're recommending them for. Conclude the letter by adding a sign-off, your full name, job title, and signature.

Is 10 days enough time for a letter of recommendation?

It's helpful to ask them to write you a letter well in advance of your application's due date. It may be beneficial to provide those recommending you with a minimum of three weeks to write your letter and submit it, so they have enough time to devote to the writing process.

What words to start a recommendation letter?

It is my pleasure to recommend [employee name] for the position of [open role] at [company name]. During the [number of] years that I was his manager at [company name], I had the opportunity to observe him grow from a curious and dedicated [previous role] to our top [latest role].

What makes a letter of recommendation stand out?

A great letter of recommendation includes specific examples and anecdotes that demonstrate the applicant's skills and qualifications. It backs up descriptions of your qualifications with examples.

What are 2 characteristics of a good recommendation?

Match
  • Constructive. Try to offer solutions, not just identify problems.
  • Specific.
  • Measurable. Suggest ways that the instructor will know a recommendation has been implemented.
  • Sensitive.
  • Balanced.
  • Example of Constructive. Example: ...
  • Example of Specific. Example: ...
  • Example of Measurable. Example:

What questions should be asked in a letter of recommendation?

Why do you wish to pursue this major or career? What experience do you have which will prepare you for that major? What do you consider to be your greatest strength? Please give one example of a situation in which this strength has been shown.

Do letters of recommendation have to come from teachers?

Typically, you send in two recommendation letters with your application. I'm often asked by students if those letters must be from teachers. Ideally, yes, the first two recommendation letters should be from teachers from 10th or 11th grade from your core courses, with at least one being from 11th grade, if possible.

What do colleges look for in recommendation letters?

It should include any relevant projects or work you've done. Experiences that relate to your character and academic potential are helpful, too. The teacher should include specific details about their experiences with you. Letters of recommendations can be brief and bullet points are fine!

Do schools actually read letters of recommendation?

When admissions officers evaluate applicants, they review both “hard factors” (quantitative measures like GPA) as well as “soft factors,” such as essays, extracurricular activities, demonstrated interest, and recommendation letters.

Is it OK to ask for a copy of a letter of recommendation?

You're allowed to request and get copies of your letters of recommendation unless you've signed a waiver giving away your right to access them (you can still ask for the names of the references).

Is it illegal to write a bad letter of recommendation?

Many states have legislation that provides employers with qualified immunity when providing a reference in good faith, protecting them from civil liability. However, employers can still face lawsuits if they provide a reference in bad faith, relaying untruthful information about an employee to a potential employer.