Most colleges require two recommendations from the following disciplines: English, social studies, math, science, and foreign language. Students may also request an additional reference that speaks to talents or experiences in other areas, such as art, music, athletics, physical education, leadership, or community service.
The process for requesting a teacher recommendation is as follows:
- The student formally asks a teacher to write a recommendation. This request should be made in person (not via email or in writing). The teacher may decline. It is recommended that students give careful thought to which two teachers to ask. These teachers should not be in the same department. Requests for recommendations should be made at least one month prior to any application deadline.
- The teacher writes the recommendation and delivers it directly to the Registrar. The teacher's recommendation should be limited to his/her personal experience with the student. Once written, no changes will be made to the recommendation other than to correct factual or typographical errors.
- The student has the right to request a copy of the recommendation from the Registrar.
- The student is encouraged to write a thank-you note shortly after the letter is completed.
If a college application contains its own Teacher Recommendation Form(s) students should:
- Complete the steps as outlined above.
- Fill out the personal information section on the college's teacher form, then take it to the Records Office. Request that it be included with the other materials in the transcript package that are being sent to that college.
- If a college does not require teacher recommendations, they should be sent with the transcript package anyway.
Transcript Package Home // Transcript Package // Teacher Rec // Counselor Rec // Sample Transcript // Release Procedure // Consent Form // Teacher Rec Form // Sample Note
