Mastering the Art of Acquiring a Letter of Recommendation for the Common App- A Comprehensive Guide

How to Get Letter of Recommendation for Common App

Obtaining a letter of recommendation for the Common App can be a crucial step in the college application process. These letters provide insight into your character, achievements, and potential, and can significantly impact your chances of being accepted into your desired college. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get a letter of recommendation for the Common App.

1. Choose the Right Recommender

The first step in obtaining a letter of recommendation is to select the right person to write it. Ideally, your recommender should be someone who knows you well and can speak to your abilities, achievements, and character. This could be a teacher, counselor, coach, employer, or community leader. Make sure to choose someone who can provide a unique perspective on your qualifications.

2. Request the Recommendation Early

Give your recommender plenty of time to write your letter. Ideally, you should ask for the recommendation at least one month before the deadline. This gives your recommender ample time to write a thoughtful and personalized letter.

3. Provide Relevant Information

When asking for a recommendation, provide your recommender with any relevant information that will help them write a compelling letter. This may include your resume, a list of your extracurricular activities, your academic transcript, and any other materials that showcase your achievements and character.

4. Follow Up

After providing your recommender with the necessary information, follow up with a friendly reminder a week or two before the deadline. This ensures that your recommender is aware of the deadline and has enough time to complete the letter.

5. Express Gratitude

Once your recommender has submitted the letter, express your gratitude. Send a thank-you note or email to your recommender, acknowledging their time and effort in writing the letter.

6. Review the Letter

After receiving the letter of recommendation, review it carefully. Make sure it accurately reflects your achievements and character. If you find any discrepancies, contact your recommender to discuss them.

7. Submit the Letter to the Common App

Finally, submit the letter of recommendation to the Common App. Log in to your account, navigate to the recommendation section, and follow the instructions to upload the letter. Make sure to double-check that the letter has been successfully submitted before the deadline.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you obtain a strong letter of recommendation for the Common App, which can help you stand out among other applicants.