Give lots of advance warning (at least several weeks).
2) Ask nicely.
Approach your Professor (in person, if possible; with a telephone call, or over email), explain what you are applying for (and why), and ask whether s/he might be willing to write you a letter of support.
3) Ask what kind of letter you might get!
How do you politely ask for a letter of recommendation?
Ask a teacher (or two) who knows you well and in whose class you excelled. The better relationship you have with your recommender, the more insightful your recommendation letter will be. It helps if the teacher is known to be a strong writer, too! Request your reference letters in person.
Should I ask for a letter of recommendation in person or email?
Letter of recommendation: Ask personally
When seeking letters of recommendation, don’t send e-mails or leave voicemails. It’s to your advantage to ask the person face-to-face. This conveys just how important this letter is to you. Many instructors and supervisors deal with dozens of recommendation requests every year.
How do you ask for a letter of recommendation last minute?
Guide for How To Ask a Teacher for a Last Minute Recommendation
- Step 1: Breathe. You’re ok.
- Step 2: Be Humble. You are about to ask a teacher for a very big favor.
- Step 3: Cast a Wide Net. Ask everyone and anyone who might bite and don’t wait to hear back before asking some more.
- Step 4: Thank Yous.
- Step 5: If No One Says ‘Yes’
How do you ask for a letter of recommendation on short notice?
You’re asking for a favor, and it’s not polite to ask on short notice. Admit that upfront and apologize for it, even if you don’t feel like it’s really your fault. Second, have a good reason for asking so late, and tell it. Not an excuse — an actual reason.
How do you ask for a letter of recommendation via email?
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN REQUESTING A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION VIA EMAIL
- Keep It Short.
- Remind Them Who You Are.
- Make Your Request Assertive And Specific.
- Don’t Assume Your Request Will Be Accepted.
- Use A Professional Subject Line.
- Use A Proper Salutation.
- Introduce Yourself And Refresh The Professor’s Mind.
What should a letter of recommendation say?
What to Include in a Recommendation Letter
- Potential (such as leadership potential)
- Skills/Abilities/Strengths.
- Dependability.
- Consistence.
- Persistence.
- Motivation.
- Character.
- Contributions (to class or community)
Is it rude to ask for a letter of recommendation via email?
Don’t write your initial email assuming that your professor will agree to write you a letter of recommendation. This is a favor for you and they are not obligated to agree to your demands. Your initial email should be in the form of a request that can be denied.
How early should you ask for a letter of recommendation?
Ask At Least a Month Before Your College Deadlines
Unless your school or teachers set other policies, you should ask for recommendation letters about four weeks before your college deadlines. If your deadlines vary, then ask four weeks before your earliest one.