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Asking for Recommendations: A Step-by-Step Guide

When applying for competitive scholarships and fellowships, strong letters of recommendation are essential. Follow these steps to ensure you choose the right recommenders and support them effectively:

Step 1: Choose the Right Recommenders

Before reaching out to potential letter writers:

This step is critical in ensuring that your recommender is the best candidate to support your application. 

Step 2: Always Ask Before Listing

Once you have determined who you plan to approach:

  • Do not enter their contact information in your application until you have confirmed they are both willing and able to write a strong letter on your behalf.

Asking in advance demonstrates professionalism and courtesy, and ensures your recommender is prepared to write a thoughtful, enthusiastic letter—without being caught off guard by an automated request.

Step 3: Give Recommenders What They Need

Give your recommenders plenty of lead time and provide the following materials well in advance:

  • An overview of the award, including how you and your project align with its mission.
  • An updated resume or CV tailored to the award. (Need help? The SBU Career Center can assist!)
  • Drafts of your application essays—even if they’re not final. A rough draft labeled as a work in progress is better than nothing.
  • Clear submission instructions, including whether the letter should be sent to the External Scholarships & Fellowships Advisor or uploaded via an emailed prompt.
  • Important deadlines! If the award requires a campus nomination, provide the Campus Nomination Deadline, not just the national deadline.

Providing these materials—and doing so early—gives your recommender the tools and context they need to write a detailed, persuasive letter that speaks directly to your strengths and alignment with the award.

Step 4:  Additional Guidance

For more tips, check out this helpful article from the Chronicle of Higher Education:

How to Ask for a Recommendation: And how to supervise the faculty member writing it