University of Kentucky®
Providing good letters of recommendation, when required, is key to putting your best foot forward with your grad school application. Here are five key tips to submitting the best letters of recommendation when applying to a UK Online graduate program.
5 Tips for Letters of Recommendation
1. Establish Strong Relationships
This step should begin long before you need a letter of recommendation. Actively engage with professors, mentors, or leaders in your field. Participate in relevant research projects or activities and maintain professional communication with the leaders of these activities. These relationships are perfect for letters of recommendation.
2. Select the Right Recommenders
When examining all your relationships, choose individuals familiar with your academic performance, research potential, work experience, and critical thinking. Opt for those who can provide specific examples that highlight your skills and qualifications for the program.
3. Follow University Guidelines
Read the application requirements listed on your program’s UK Online webpage. Different programs may require specific types of recommenders (e.g., professional vs academic). Be familiar with the number of letters required and adhere to all requirements. Consider listing more references than required to account for a recommender who does not respond.
4. Start Early, Provide Details
Reach out to recommenders in advance, ideally months before the application deadline. Ensure they understand your needs and are willing to help. Share your CV or resume to help them craft a more impactful and tailored letter. Let them know to look for an email from the University of Kentucky where they will upload their letter.
5. Respond Appropriately
Promptly respond to requests recommenders may have for additional information or materials. Monitor the status of your letters of recommendation in your application portal and follow up with reminders to your recommenders if needed. When you see their letter has been submitted, thank them for their time and effort in writing the letter.
How do I submit a letter of recommendation?
Enter the email address of each recommender you plan to use. The application system will automatically send an email to the recommender asking them to upload their letter. Each recommendation is specific to one application. If you are applying to more than one program, and using the same recommender, they will have to upload their letter for each application.
Will I see what my recommenders write about me?
No. Letters are kept confidential. You will not have any insight as to the content of their letter.
How do these letters assist the admissions committee?
They give the admissions committee a perspective on the applicant beyond their grades and test scores. They provide valuable insights into an applicant's strengths, abilities, and potential for success in their chosen field of study.
What information do these letters include?
Typically, letters of recommendation include information about your academic performance, leadership skills, research abilities, and relevant experiences. They may also highlight personal qualities such as dedication, passion, persistence, and commitment to your field.
Are there specific requirements or guidelines for these letters?
Recommenders should not be related to you. The recommenders must be credible sources and have direct knowledge of your professional qualifications.
How should I approach potential recommenders?
You should ask a recommender if you can list them on your application before doing so. It is acceptable to do this via phone, email, or in person. If they agree to participate, thank them for their willingness to assist you.
When are the emails sent to recommenders to upload their letter of reference?
Our application system will automatically send an email to recommenders as soon as you input their email. You can monitor the status of each request in your application dashboard.
