Recommendation letters can be crucial in your university application process, especially if you’re applying for a master’s or PhD program. Getting a strong recommendation letter can be the difference between acceptance and rejection. But how do you go about getting a recommendation letter? And what are the specific requirements, especially when applying to universities in China?
Who Should Write Your Recommendation Letter?
First, it’s important to know who is eligible to write your recommendation letter. For bachelor’s applicants, a letter from a school teacher may be acceptable. However, for master’s and PhD applicants, universities generally require letters from university professors or associate professors.
Why is this the case? University professors or associate professors have the expertise to evaluate your academic abilities, and they have a more established reputation in their field compared to assistant professors. Many universities, particularly in China, do not accept recommendation letters from assistant professors. So, make sure you choose the right person!
Tip: It’s always better to ask professors who have taught you in classes or who have supervised your research projects. They will be more familiar with your work and can provide a more genuine and personalized recommendation.
How Many Letters Do You Need?
When applying to universities, particularly in China, two recommendation letters are usually required, and both letters should come from different professors or supervisors. These letters should ideally highlight different aspects of your academic and personal abilities, giving a well-rounded picture of who you are.
What If Professors Are Too Busy?
Professors, especially in university settings, are often overwhelmed with teaching, research, and administrative duties. Writing recommendation letters takes time, and sometimes they may not have the bandwidth to create one for you from scratch.
So, what do you do?
- Take Initiative: You can write the recommendation letter yourself, using the professor’s style of writing, highlighting your strengths, and making sure it matches the tone and content they would typically use.
- Let the Professor Review: Once you’ve written the letter, you can send it to the professor for feedback. If they are happy with it, they’ll add their signature, contact information, and any necessary adjustments.
This method allows the professor to save time, while you still get a well-written recommendation letter that highlights your best qualities.
What Should Be Included in the Recommendation Letter?
While universities don’t always require recommendation letters to have a university pad or seal, it’s essential that the professor includes their contact details on the letter. This is because if the university needs to verify the letter or contact the professor for any additional information, they’ll need to be able to reach them easily.
Sample Recommendation Letters
Here are two sample recommendation letters that you can refer to when crafting or requesting your own.
Sample 1: Bachelor’s Degree Application (From a Teacher)
[Professor’s Name]
[University Name]
[Department Name]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to your undergraduate program. I have known [Student’s First Name] for [number of years/months] as their [subject] teacher at [School Name].
During this time, [Student’s Name] has demonstrated exceptional academic skills, including [mention specific subjects or areas the student excelled in]. What impressed me the most about [Student’s First Name] was their ability to apply classroom theory to real-world situations, as seen in their [mention specific projects, assignments, or class participation]. They are a quick learner, diligent, and dedicated to their studies.
Additionally, [Student’s First Name] is a well-rounded individual who displays leadership and teamwork skills both inside and outside the classroom. I am confident that they will thrive in your program and contribute positively to your academic community.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Professor’s Name]
[Contact Information]
Sample 2: Master’s Degree Application (From a University Professor)
[Professor’s Name]
[University Name]
[Department Name]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to highly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for admission to your Master’s program in [Program Name]. I have had the privilege of teaching [Student’s First Name] in my [Course Name] class during the [specific term or year]. Over the course of the semester, [Student’s First Name] has consistently demonstrated excellent academic performance, a strong commitment to their studies, and a keen interest in the field of [Subject].
In particular, [Student’s First Name] demonstrated their research skills during our [mention specific project or research]. Their ability to analyze complex data and draw meaningful conclusions was outstanding. [Student’s First Name] worked with great diligence and independence, and I have no doubt they will bring the same dedication to their graduate studies.
[Student’s First Name] also possesses strong communication skills, both in written and oral formats, and works well within a team. I am confident they will be an asset to your program.
Please feel free to contact me for further information if necessary. I wholeheartedly support [Student’s First Name] in their application and recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Professor’s Name]
[Contact Information]
Conclusion
Getting a strong recommendation letter requires planning, good relationships with your professors, and a bit of effort on your part. Don’t be afraid to take the initiative and write a draft for your professor if they’re too busy—this will make it easier for them to provide their signature and contact details, and ensure that your letter is submitted on time.
Remember, these letters are your opportunity to show universities who you are beyond your grades, so choose your recommenders wisely, and be sure to follow up politely to ensure everything goes smoothly.