Let's Talk Recommendations, 10 Tips to Get it Right

Recommendations are a vital part of your college application, offering admissions officers a glimpse into your character and performance in the classroom and community.

How Many Recommendations Are Needed? Most schools request 2-3 recommendations: one from your school counselor and two from high school teachers. Here are ten tips to ensure you get the best letters for your applications.

1. When to Ask Your Teachers

Plan to ask teachers by early spring of your junior year. After returning from holiday break, decide on whom you’d like to approach, as popular teachers often limit how many letters they can write. If you didn’t request any junior year, be sure to give at least four weeks’ notice if asking in senior year.

2. Choosing the Right Teachers

While most students ask junior-year teachers, the key is selecting one who knows you well. This teacher doesn’t need to be from the class where you earned your highest grades. Sometimes, a teacher from a challenging class where you showed significant effort and improvement can make a great recommender. Choose teachers from core subjects like Math, Science, English, History/Social Studies, or possibly a foreign language. Ideally, one recommendation should align with your intended major, while another could reflect a different subject, showcasing your well-roundedness. If you’re applying to a specific program, such as film, theater, music, or fine arts, it’s best to ask a teacher familiar with your work in that field. Consider asking a teacher who may not be the most popular but truly understands your dedication and passion for your goals. If possible, try to ask a teacher who taught you in an AP, IB, or honors class.

If there’s a teacher from your sophomore year with whom you’ve stayed in touch and who knows you well, don’t hesitate to ask them. Above all, choose someone who can speak confidently and authentically about who you are.

3. How to Request a Recommendation

Ask in person! Approach your teacher after class or during office hours with a brief reason for your request, like, “I’ve really enjoyed your Shakespeare class this fall and learned so much. I’d be so grateful if you could write a recommendation for my college applications.” Ask if they need a “brag sheet” or questionnaire from you to help with the letter. Follow up the same day with an email thanking them and noting any deadlines, especially if you’re applying for Early Action or Early Decision in the fall.

4. What to Include in a Brag Sheet

Teachers work with many students, so even if they know you well, they might not recall all the details. Since most recommendation letters are written in the fall of your senior year, prepare a document that highlights key moments and achievements they could mention. Include a memorable project or paper you enjoyed, a class discussion that sparked your interest in your intended major, and a list of your most meaningful activities, leadership roles, jobs, or awards. This document should give an overview of your accomplishments and, most importantly, what you’d like the teacher to emphasize. Avoid simply copying your transcript—these letters give admissions officers insight beyond your grades. A well-organized and thoughtful brag sheet can help your teacher craft an impactful recommendation.

5. Appreciate The Role of Your High School Counselor

   
   

Meet with your counselor regularly through junior and senior year—they coordinate transcript and recommendation submissions. They may also request a brag sheet and can provide insights on academic or personal changes the admissions office should know about. Remember, many counselors work with a large number of students, so some letters may be more general.

6. Submitting Recommendations from Non-Academic Mentors

   
   

If a college allows, you may want to submit a recommendation from a coach, employer, clergy member, or someone else who knows you well outside of the classroom. Choose someone who can speak to your grit, dedication, compassion, kindness, and leadership skills. For example, a student once received a glowing letter from the school janitor who’d seen their kindness and character firsthand.

7. Will You See the Recommendation?

   
   

No, you won’t see the letter before it’s submitted. Your teacher sends it to your counselor to upload, and you’ll need to waive your right to view it. This allows your teacher to give an honest, candid account of you.

8. Stay in Touch and Show Appreciation

Keep your recommenders updated on your application progress. A thoughtful thank-you gift is always a kind gesture.

9. Research Each College’s Recommendation Guidelines Carefully

   
   

Make sure you research the colleges that you want to apply to and their recommendation guidelines. All of this information should be on their website. They may only allow one letter, or they may require one only from a math/science teacher. Check these websites early in the process so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute. 

10. Don't Bombard Colleges With Too Many Letters

Do not send the colleges you are applying to 8+ letters of recommendation. It will drive them crazy. You need to focus on quality over quantity. 

As an independent college counselor in Fairfield County, CT, I help students navigate the admissions process with personalized support. With in-depth knowledge of college research, I can craft a balanced list of schools that aligns with each student’s academic strengths and desired college experience. I offer guidance in selecting coursework, writing compelling essays, and creating a well-rounded application that highlights their unique strengths. With my tailored advice, I help students stand out in a competitive admissions landscape and make informed decisions about their educational future.

Contact me to schedule a call and explore how we can make your college aspirations a reality.