Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for universities in the US - Overview, format, and sample

When applying to universities in the US, a well-crafted Letter of Recommendation (LOR) can significantly strengthen your application by providing a third-party perspective on your academic abilities, character, and potential. This important document not only highlights your past achievements but also sheds light on how you are perceived by your mentors and peers.

In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive sample, discuss the optimal format, and share essential writing tips to help you write a compelling LOR for universities in the US that resonates with admissions committees.

What is a Letter of Recommendation (LOR)?

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a document written by a person, usually a professor, teacher, or employer, to endorse an individual's abilities, skills, achievements, and character. This letter is often required as part of applications for universities, graduate schools, and job applications. The purpose of a LOR is to provide insight into the applicant’s qualifications from a third-party perspective, helping the recipient (such as a university or employer) understand the applicant’s potential for success in the new role or academic program.

The letter commonly includes:

• An introduction of the writer and their relationship with the applicant

• A detailed evaluation of the applicant's skills, accomplishments, and personal qualities

• Specific examples that highlight the applicant's capabilities and achievements

• A summary explaining why the applicant is a good fit for the position or program

• A strong endorsement of the applicant, encouraging the recipient to consider them favourably

Why is a Letter of Recommendation required?

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is required for several key reasons across academic, professional, and even volunteer contexts. Here’s why they are important:

1. Credibility: LORs add credibility by verifying an applicant's skills and achievements through a respected third party.

2. Holistic view: They provide qualitative insights into an applicant's character and work ethic, complementing the quantitative data like grades and test scores.

3. Specific qualities: Recommenders can highlight specific strengths and relevant accomplishments, enhancing the application's relevance.

4. Differentiation: In competitive fields, LORs can differentiate an applicant by detailing unique attributes not evident in other application materials.

5. Supports claims: LORs reinforce the applicant's self-reported skills and experiences with concrete examples.

6. Institutional requirement: Many schools and employers require LORs to gain a well-rounded view of each applicant.

Format of the Letter of Recommendation for US universities

The format of a LOR for US universities typically includes several key components to ensure it effectively supports an applicant. Here’s a standard format:

1. Header

• Date: When the letter was written

• Contact information: Includes the recommender's name, position, institution/company, address, email, and phone number

• Salutation: Typically "Dear [Admissions Committee/Admissions Officer’s Name],"

2. Introduction

• Purpose of the letter: Briefly state the purpose of the letter

• Recommender’s relationship to the applicant: Describe how the recommender knows the applicant (e.g., as a professor, advisor, or employer) and the duration of their relationship

3. Body paragraphs (2-3 Paragraphs)

• Overview of the applicant: Discuss the applicant's role, responsibilities, and context in which they worked together

• Assessment of abilities and qualities: Detail the applicant’s relevant skills, achievements, and personal qualities. Use specific examples to illustrate these points, such as projects, accomplishments, or personal traits that make the applicant stand out

• Comparison to peers: If appropriate, compare the applicant to others in similar roles or capacities to emphasise their strengths

4. Conclusion

• Summary of recommendation: Summarise why the applicant is a strong candidate for the specific program they are applying to

• Strong endorsement: Explicitly state your endorsement of the applicant

• Offer to provide further information: Include a statement expressing willingness to provide further information if needed

5. Closing

• Sign-off: Use a formal closure such as "Sincerely," or "Best regards,"

• Signature: Handwritten signature (if submitting by mail) followed by the typed name

• Contact information: Repeat your contact information under the signature for easy reference

Letter of Recommendation (LOR) sample for US university

Here’s a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) example for your reference for an applicant. This example assumes the recommender is a professor recommending a student for a graduate program:

Sample of LOR:

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

I am writing to you in my capacity as a Professor of Computer Science at [University Name], to wholeheartedly recommend my student, [Student’s Name], for your Master’s program in Computer Science. Having known [Student’s Name] for the past three years, during which she has taken my courses on Machine Learning and Advanced Algorithms, I have witnessed her profound dedication and aptitude in computer science firsthand.

[Student’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a keen analytical mind and a deep passion for computer science. Her project on “Predictive Analytics for E-Commerce” was a testament to her ability to apply complex algorithms to solve real-world problems. This project not only received the highest grade in the class but was also nominated for our annual student research showcase.

Moreover, her capability to assimilate complex concepts and articulate them was evident when she assisted me in tutoring first-year students. Her patience and ability to explain difficult concepts in an accessible manner greatly enhanced the learning experiences of her peers. [Student’s Name]’s interpersonal skills are commendable, and she is well-respected by both her classmates and professors.

In addition to her academic prowess, [Student’s Name] has demonstrated leadership in the University’s Women in Tech club, where she organised events and workshops to encourage more female students to pursue STEM fields. Her initiative and leadership have made a significant impact on our campus community.

Based on her academic achievements, intellectual curiosity, and the leadership she has shown, I am confident that [Student’s Name] will be an excellent fit for your program. She is a motivated student and a persistent researcher with the potential to contribute meaningfully to your academic community.

I strongly endorse her application and am available for any further information you might need. Please feel free to contact me at [Email Address] or [Phone Number].

Thank you for considering this application.

Sincerely,

[Professor’s Handwritten Signature (if submitting by mail)]

[Professor’s Name] [Position] [Department, University Name]

Hope this blog helps you understand everything you need to know about a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) when applying to universities in the US.

Additionally, as the LOR is a requirement for getting admission into US universities, similarly, you also need to have proof of your English language proficiency by taking an English language test such as IELTS. Therefore, if you have any queries related to the same, then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your queries.

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