Why Students Must Request Recommendation Letters
Letters of recommendation are a critical part of the college application process. They provide colleges with meaningful insight into a student’s academic performance, character, and potential. To avoid delays and ensure strong, thoughtful letters, students should request recommendations before leaving for summer break. Early planning gives teachers more time and helps students submit complete, competitive applications.
Quest For Success (QFS) guides students through every step of the recommendation process, ensuring they choose the right teachers and meet all deadlines with confidence.
Why Recommendation Letters Matter
Most colleges—especially private institutions—require one counselor and one or two teacher recommendations. Many admissions offices consider these letters to hold “considerable” or “moderate” importance. A well-written letter can strengthen applications, influence scholarship decisions, and support honors program admissions.
Choose the Right Recommenders
Students should request recommendations from junior-year teachers who taught them in core academic subjects. The ideal recommender knows the student well and can speak to academic performance, growth, engagement, and overall contribution to the classroom. Whether learning in-person or online, the teacher should have observed consistent participation and effort.
Students should always choose someone who genuinely supports them. Since most letters remain confidential, trust and rapport with the recommender are essential.
Select Teachers in Core Subjects
Many colleges specifically request recommendations from core subject teachers—English, math, science, social science, or world languages. Even when not required, at least one letter should come from a core academic teacher.
If schools allow additional recommenders, students may include adults who have guided them in meaningful activities, such as a journalism teacher, coach, music instructor, or mentor.
How to Request a Recommendation
Students should request recommendation letters privately—either in person or via email if an in-person meeting isn’t possible. After a teacher agrees, students must follow their school’s process before adding recommenders to platforms like the Common App. Once added, teachers will receive an automatic request from the application system.
Provide Helpful Information
After the recommender agrees, students should share essential information, including:
- Full name and contact details
- Application deadlines
- Notable achievements or improvements in that class
A resume should only be shared if the teacher asks for it. Strong letters focus on the student’s performance in that teacher’s class—not a repeat of the student’s resume. Teachers typically write one general letter for all colleges.
Meet All Submission Deadlines
Students must keep track of Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision deadlines. Recommendation letters must be submitted on time to ensure applications are complete and reviewed without delay.
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Final Thoughts
Requesting recommendation letters before summer is a simple but strategic step that strengthens college applications. Early planning ensures teachers have the time to write detailed, meaningful letters that reflect a student’s strengths and potential. By choosing the right recommenders, staying organized, and appreciating their support, students set themselves up for a smooth and successful application process.
With expert counseling and personalized support, QFS helps students present stronger, well-prepared applications that stand out to competitive universities.