Need help with how to ask a professor for a letter of recommendation

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

Hello Professor [Last Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was one of the few male students in your [Class Name and Number] during the Fall 2024 semester. I am reaching out to request your support in my application for several merit-based scholarships offered by the Community Foundation, which would greatly assist me in pursuing my upper-division program.

Your teaching style and ability to convey the material truly reinforced my commitment to the nursing field. I would be incredibly grateful if you could provide a letter of recommendation for me.

If you’re able to assist, the Community Foundation will send you a form to complete by March 5th. I will also include a personal information sheet for your reference. However, if you feel uncomfortable or if time is an issue, I completely understand.

Thank you very much for considering my request.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

One Reply to “Need help with how to ask a professor for a letter of recommendation”

  1. Your message is already off to a great start! It’s polite, clear, and to the point. Here are some suggestions to make it even stronger:

    1. Subject Line: If you’re sending an email, make sure your subject line is clear. Something like “Request for Letter of Recommendation” would work well.

    2. Greeting: You might want to include a warmer greeting. For example, “Dear Professor [Last Name],” feels a bit more personal than “Good evening.”

    3. Personal Touch: Briefly include a specific memory or project from the class that stood out to you. This will remind the professor who you are and could make your request more memorable.

    4. Context for the Recommendation: It might be helpful to specify what qualities or achievements you’d like them to highlight in their letter, especially if you have any relevant accomplishments or experiences.

    5. Closing: End with a polite closing that expresses your appreciation again.

    Here’s a revised version based on these suggestions:


    Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

    Dear Professor [Last Name],

    I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was one of the few male students in your [Class Name and Number] section during the Fall 2024 semester. I truly enjoyed your class, especially the [mention any specific topic, project, or experience] that helped solidify my confidence in pursuing a nursing career.

    I am reaching out to ask if you would be willing to provide a letter of recommendation for some merit-based scholarships offered through the Community Foundation. I believe your insights into my abilities and passion for nursing would greatly support my application.

    If you agree, the Community Foundation will send you a form to fill out on my behalf by March 5th. I will also attach a personal information sheet to provide further context.

    I completely understand if you’re unable to assist due to time constraints or other commitments; your support means a great deal to me either way.

    Thank you very much for considering my request!

    Best regards,
    [Your Name]
    [Your Contact Information]


    Feel free to modify this as you see fit, and good luck with your scholarships!

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