← Back to home

Resources / Applying

Teacher recommendations, step by step

Strong letters come from real relationships with teachers. Here is how to build toward them, from junior year to submission.

Junior year

• Start thinking early. Which teachers know your student's work and character best?
• Set an intention. Participate, ask questions and visit office hours in those classes.
• Make a recommender list. Usually core-subject teachers from junior year. Check what each college asks for.
• Prepare materials. A short note on favorite moments in the class, a résumé of activities, and the schools on the list. The brag sheet above covers all of it.
• Ask, and follow up. Ask in person, well ahead of deadlines, then send a thank-you note.

Senior year

• Waive FERPA rights on the application, so colleges know letters were written in confidence.
• Follow up with recommenders before deadlines, and let them know where your student is applying.