Letter of Recommendation Explained: Tips for a Stellar LOR

If you're planning to apply for a master's program or any other higher education course, you're probably familiar with the term "LOR." But what exactly is LOR, and how important is it in the admission process? In this article, we will cover everything about LOR, including what it is, who can provide it, and how to submit it to the universities.

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What is LOR?

LOR stands for Letter of Recommendation, and it is a document that contains a reference or endorsement for an applicant. It serves as a way for the admissions committee to understand the applicant's personality, achievements, and capabilities beyond the academic record.

Who can provide LOR? 

Ideally, it is recommended to obtain LOR from individuals who know the applicant's work or academic background closely. For example, if the applicant is a recent graduate, they can approach their professors for a recommendation. If they have completed an internship or worked in a company, they can approach their managers or supervisors. It is suggested to get a recommendation from a Ph.D. scholar or a highly designated lecturer as it adds credibility to the application.

How to submit LOR to the universities?

It is essential to approach people who are close to the applicant, as it reflects positively on the LOR. It is also recommended to ask the recommender if they have an official email id, as it adds credibility to the recommendation. If not, any working email id can be used. The applicant should enter the recommender's details like name, email id, mobile number, and address in their application process.

After submitting the details, the recommender will receive an email from the university, asking them to upload the LOR. Some universities directly ask the applicant to upload the LOR while submitting the application. It is essential to ensure that the LOR is in the right format, with the recommender's recommendation on the first page and their details like name, email id, and phone number. The document should also have a sign and stamp on it.

Key Points

Lastly, it is crucial to submit all the required documents on time, including the LOR. If the recommender fails to submit the LOR, the applicant's application may get rejected. Therefore, it is essential to start the application process early and submit all the documents on time.

When you ask someone to write an LOR for you, make sure that they know you well enough to provide an honest and accurate assessment of your capabilities. It's also essential to give them enough time to write the LOR, at least a month or two before the application deadline.

Conclusion

In conclusion, LOR is an essential document that adds credibility to the application process. Applicants should approach people who know them closely, use official email ids, ensure the LOR is in the right format, and submit it on time. By following these guidelines, applicants can increase their chances of getting admission to their desired universities.