Free Recommendation Letter for Student – (Format, Sample, & Example)

During the college application process, a Recommendation Letter for a Student becomes one of the most important aspects of the application. This letter helps the school/college understand the student as a person. Since the recipient of the letter has not had the opportunity to meet the student in person, the recommendation letter, along with the student’s scores and grades, serves as a basis for the recipient’s assessment of the student. This type of letter gives the recipient a sense of the student’s personal characteristics and intellectual qualities.

A recommendation letter holds great weight in the admission application process. Continue reading to find a recommendation letter format, a how-to guide, and some sample letters to give you an idea of why these letters are so useful.

 

Recommendation Letter Format for Student

This type of letter explains why the student is suitable for admission to a particular school or college, but that does not mean it should be full of false praise. The letter should be formal, clear and preferably limited to one page. Like any other letter, it has three main parts: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion.

Letter Format:

Dear [Name],

Introduction: In this paragraph, the introduction of the letter writer is most important. This part explains who is writing the letter, their relationship with the student, their qualifications, and their designation. It also states for whom the letter is being written.

Body: The main part of the letter. The body or the second paragraph is where the purpose of the recommendation letter is fulfilled. Here the student’s qualities, intellect, personality, etc. are outlined. It is also necessary to mention why the letter writer thinks the student is the right choice for the school or college, but it should be done in a concise manner and should be based on truth.

Conclusion: The last paragraph smoothly ends the letter. Here, the letter writer’s contact details are mentioned, and it is suggested that if there are any further questions or inquiries about the student, they can be addressed by contacting the letter writer by phone or email.

Yours sincerely,

[Sender]

 

How to Write a Recommendation Letter for a Student?

Though it is not a difficult letter to write, there are still some points that need to be kept in mind. These points are as follows:

• Emphasize the College

Gather as much information as possible about the school or college to which the letter is being submitted. Ask the student what they know and try to correlate the student’s skills with the principles of the school or college. Even in the case of a general letter, ask the student about the kind of schools they plan to attend.

• Information on the Student

Meet with the student and ask all relevant questions. Ask the student about their goals in life and their plan of action for the future. Understanding the student’s interests helps in mentioning their personality.

• Mention the Relationship

Always make sure to mention how and for how long you have known the student. If you are a teacher, mention which courses the student has taken with you and for how many years. If you are an employer, explain the student’s role in your organization and overall performance.

• Avoid Clichés

Steer clear of age-old clichés such as “diligent” or “hard worker.” Write a statement that feels personal and explains the student’s character in depth.

• Examples

Include specific examples of the student demonstrating the qualities and skills you are writing about. Real examples give the school or college a sense of proof about what is mentioned in the letter.

• Positive Tone

Throughout the letter, keep the tone positive. Do not be overly expressive, but mention how the student is the correct candidate or how suitable they are for the course.

• Contact information

Do not end the letter without including your contact information. Offer a way for the school or college to reach you if they have more questions. You can include your phone number and email address at the end of the letter.

 

Sample Recommendation Letters for Students

With the above guidelines in mind, refer to these nine letter samples below to understand the format and style of a recommendation letter for a student.

 

Recommendation Letter for the Student from Teacher/Professor

From:
Liberty Walton
6527 Purus Avenue
Logan, NV 12657
(581) 379-7573
abcxyz@gmail.com

Date: July 9th, 2023

To:
Hu Park
Admissions Director
Reedsport College
1429 Netus Rd.
Reedsport, NY 48247

Subject: Recommendation Letter for [Student Name]

Dear Mr. Park,

I am writing to highly recommend [Student Name] for admission to Reedsport College. I have had the pleasure of teaching [Student Name] for the past [number] years in [subject(s)] and have been consistently impressed by her intelligence, dedication, and commitment to her studies.

Throughout her time in my class, [Student Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional aptitude in [specific skills or areas]. She is a quick learner and actively engages in class discussions, always making insightful and thoughtful contributions. Her writing and verbal skills are particularly strong, and she consistently produces high-quality work.

In addition to her academic achievements, [Student Name] is also highly involved in the school community. She has a strong desire to give back and regularly tutors other students in various subjects. She also actively participates in extracurricular activities, particularly [specific activity] where she has demonstrated strong leadership skills and the ability to effectively multitask and manage her time.

I believe that [Student Name] would be an asset to Reedsport College, and I wholeheartedly recommend her for admission. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

(Signature)
Liberty Walton

 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for High School Student

From:
Cleo Best
8351 Tincidunt Ave
Sedalia Utah 53700
(252) 204-1434
cbest@example.com
Date: October 5th, 2023

To:
Ina Burt
1685 Ut Street
Tyler, KS 73510

Subject: Recommendation Letter for [Student Name]
Dear Ina Burt,

It is my pleasure to recommend [Student Name], whom I have had the privilege of teaching for the past [Number of Years] in [Subject/s Taught]. In that time, I have seen [Student Name] excel academically and display a dedication and confidence that is rare in a high school student. I am positive that [he/she] would be an asset to your school and would be a great fit for [Name of the school].

When [Student Name] first entered my class, [he/she] came to meet me within a month and expressed that [he/she] was having trouble grasping certain concepts. With my guidance, [he/she] stayed for extra tutorials, sought help from peers and classmates and began asking questions in class to better understand the material. [His/Her] devotion and willingness to learn took me by surprise, as it is uncommon to see a high school student so committed to academics.

Even outside of the classroom, [Student Name] has shown tremendous dedication and confidence. [He/She] is an active member of the school’s [Club/Sports team], and has been [involved in that activity] since [age]. [He/She] is always on time for practices and games, and is often seen analyzing and calculating [performance data]. [He/She] is constantly striving for improvement and excellence in both academics and extracurriculars.

[Student Name] is not only a dedicated student, but also a well-rounded individual. [He/She] is a great leader and team player, with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. [He/She] is also known for being a kind, responsible and respectful person. [He/She] always puts forth the effort to succeed academically and personally.

I strongly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your esteemed institution. [He/She] will be a valuable asset to your school, and [he/she] will thrive in the challenging and stimulating academic environment that you offer. If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email address].

Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
Cleo Best

 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Graduate Student

From:
Lyle Sutton
985 Taland Lane
Atlanta, GA 59224
555-612-9934
erose@example.com

Date: Janurary 11th, 2022

To:
Palmer Thomas
23746 Lexicon Rd.
New York, NY 14747

Subject: Grad Student Recommendation

Dear Palmer Thomas,

I have had the pleasure of working with [Student name] as their [Subject] teacher, and I am writing to highly recommend them for your university. During their time in my class, [Student Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic performance, particularly in [Subject Name]. They have maintained a GPA of [Score] while taking a full load of honors classes and seminars.

[Student Name] has also been an active and engaged student outside of the classroom. This year, they earned the top spot in my class in [Subject name] and won an inter-college debate competition held in February. Additionally, they were employed as a teacher in a museum program where they taught fourth graders to ride horses.

[Student name] approaches all tasks with energy, a positive attitude, and great initiative. They have a strong ability to connect with people of all ages and excel at breaking down complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner. They have been a mentor and tutor to their juniors and siblings. This experience has further developed their leadership skills and ability to communicate with others effectively.

I have found [Student Name] to be extremely reliable, intelligent, organized, and friendly. They are able to connect with people on a very basic level and I am confident that they will be a great asset to your institution if accepted. I have highlighted the key qualities that I believe make [Student Name] an exceptional candidate, but please do not hesitate to contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email] if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

(Signature)
Lyle Sutton

 

Sample of Recommendation Letter for Student Scholarship

From:
Wilma Pace
6532 Odio Rd. Apt #676
Darlington, CO 06963
(926) 709-3295
pacew@example.com

Date: March 22nd, 2023

To:
Vielka Nielsen
7326 Elementum Rd.
Fort Smith, ND 79637

Subject: Recommendation Letter for Student Scholarship

Dear Vielka Nielsen,I have had the pleasure of knowing [student name] since [year] and have had the privilege of watching him grow as a student at [school name] for [years]. [Student name] has great potential and I am confident in recommending him for your scholarship program. He has demonstrated exceptional personal growth, both academically and in extra-curricular activities. His positive trajectory is evidence that you will not find a more deserving candidate for this scholarship.

As per my understanding, this scholarship requires a student who possesses [list of qualities and achievements]. You are searching for a student who is capable of [eligibility criteria]. Throughout the time I have known him, [student name] has consistently exhibited these qualities. For example, [narrate a specific occasion or example]. Additionally, [student name] has always displayed [personality traits] that are not just admirable but also essential for success in higher education.

In his personal life, [student name] is a young person of strong character who is dedicated, intelligent and has set high aspirations for himself. He is willing to work hard to achieve those goals. Despite financial challenges faced by his family, [he/she] has not let that hinder his progress. I was impressed to see how [student name] [positive incident].

I have no reservations in recommending [student name] for this scholarship. I am confident that he will continue to uphold the standards required and make your institution proud. Should you have any further questions regarding his work, character, academics, or even his sports performance, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email].

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Vielka Nielsen

 

Sample Recommendation Letter for Student Going to College

From:
Remedios Hester
5787 Mollis St.
City of Industry, CA 87973
(555) 514-1269
remhester@example.com

Date: March 1st, 2023

To:
Eleanor Jennings
9631 Semper Ave
Astoria, NJ 66309

Subject: College Recommendation Letter

Dear Eleanor Jennings,

[Student name] is a phenomenal young individual. I have had the pleasure of supervising and teaching him closely at [school name] for the past [years]. During these years he has shown some tremendous examples of his strength and dedication. I understand he is applying for a [program name] in your college. I want to suggest to him for acceptance.

[Student’s name] can outdo any assignment with enthusiasm that is inspiring even for his teachers. I would also like to take the opportunity to make a note of [student name]’s scholarly aptitude. While studying for my subject [name of the subject], many times he has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and performance. I have been surprised more than once while being his teacher all these years.

His commitment to his academics is amazing. His marks will show you that he is a brilliant student. Also, his dozens of certificates and medals will show you how good he is at managing his time and how serious he is about everything he does. Such a trait is uncommon in a student his age.

He has shown reliability many times and will continue to do in the future; that is my belief. He is an unrivaled applicant for your college. If you have any further doubts or questions, feel free to call me on [phone number] or drop an email at [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)

Remedios Hester

 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Student Teacher From a Teacher

From,
Ezra Duffy
7348 Dis Rd. Apt #782
Austin, TX 50710
(203) 982-6130
ezra.duffy@sample.com

Date: August 10th, 2023

To,
Haviva Holcomb
P.O. Box 642
3450 In Road
Isle of Palms, NY 03828

Subject: Recommendation for [Student Name] for [Program Name]

Dear Haviva Holcomb,

I am writing to strongly recommend [Student Name] for the [Program Name] at [School/Institution]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Student Name] as a student teacher in my [Subject] class for 12 weeks. During this time, [he/she] has demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and dedication in the field of education.

In my class, [Student Name] was part of a 2-teacher team responsible for teaching 50 students, 9 of whom had a learning disability. [He/She] was in charge of 2 sections of [Subject], 2 sections of [Subject], and 1 section of [Subject] for grade [Standard]. [He/She] demonstrated an excellent understanding of different learning styles and was able to adjust assignments and teaching methods accordingly to better support the needs of each student. [His/Her] lesson plans were well-organized, thoroughly prepared, and effectively implemented.

[Student Name] not only used traditional teaching methods, but also incorporated real-life examples and relatable materials such as cartoons, to engage students and foster an interest in the subject matter. [He/She] has a warm, positive, and welcoming personality, making students feel comfortable and eager to learn. This was also evident in the positive working relationship [he/she] developed with the staff members.

I have no doubt that [Student Name] would be an exceptional candidate for the [Program Name] at [School/Institution]. [He/She] is knowledgeable, confident, and deeply passionate about teaching. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on [phone number] or [email] if you have any further questions or need additional information.

Sincerely,

(Signature)

Ezra Duffy

 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Middle School Student

From,
McKenzie Hernandez
674 Mia Street Apt #367
Greensboro, VT 40684
(555) 222-1592
mckenz@example.com
Date: April 10th, 2024

To,
Dale Griffin
Revere Middle School
P.O. Box 854
Revere, SD 43841

Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Middle School Student

Dear Dale Griffin,

It is with the utmost pleasure that I recommend my student, [student name], for your school, [school name]. I have been [his/her] [subject] teacher for three years now and have been immensely impressed with [his/her] ability to learn things quickly. [His/Her] inquisitive nature and passion for learning make [him/her] way more advanced than [his/her] actual grade level.

[Student name] has shown a passion for learning on multiple occasions. [He/She] is always ready to absorb something new. [His/Her] [subject name] project which [he/she] submitted to me this last term shows [his/her] deep understanding of the subject. Not only has [he/she] shown interest in learning [himself/herself], but also shown great interest in teaching too.

As a teacher, I found it extremely fulfilling to watch [him/her] grow before me. Watching a student focus on topics that are beyond [his/her] grade level and being enthusiastic towards learning them is not something a teacher witnesses daily. You can contact me on [phone number] or [email id]. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)

McKenzie Hernandez

 

Sample Letter of Recommendation for Medical Student

From:
Arthur Garcia
823 Mills Ave
Carter, NV 40684
(555) 143-7333
agarcia@sample.com
Date: February 10th, 2024

To:
Dr. Fatima Hooper
Eastern Hospital
278 2nd St.
Jacobsville, OR 84111

Subject: Medical Student Recommendation Letter

Dr. Fatima Hooper,
It is a true pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for [student name], who has been my student in [subject name] at [school name]. Without question, [student name] is one of the best students I have had in my career as a teacher.

[Student name] is a creative thinker, has an eye for detail, and loves applying logic in every situation. These qualities make her a perfect choice for a science student. Early on in her life, [student name] knew that she would like to become a doctor. Her entire academic energy has been focused on that goal since she was in middle school.

She has been a part of a volunteer group of NGO that treats poor people for free. Her experience has made her an invaluable asset to any medical school. For any further questions, you can call me on [phone number] or email me at [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)
Arthur Garcia

 

Sample Nursing Student Letter of Recommendation

From:
Blythe Carroll
7709 Justo Ave.
Princeton, TX 77987
(555) 882-1496
carrollbb@example.com
Date: January 12th, 2023

To:
Cara Whitehead
4005 Praesent St.
Torrance, WY 22767

Subject: Nurse Recommendation for [student name]

Dear Cara Whitehead,
I am writing to highly recommend [student name] for the internship program at [hospital name]. As [student name]’s instructor for three of [her/his] main courses in the nursing program at [college name], I have had the pleasure of observing [student name]’s exceptional skills and dedication to the field of nursing.

[Student name] has an innate ability to connect with patients and provide care with genuine compassion and love. [She/He] is an extremely hardworking and eager student, consistently going above and beyond in [her/his] coursework and clinical experiences. In addition, [student name] has a strong attention to detail and is highly organized, which is evident in [her/his] file maintenance and reliability.

[Student name] has also demonstrated a deep commitment to the nursing profession through active participation in weekly seminars and attending the annual conference last year. I have no doubt that [she/he] will excel in the internship program at [hospital name] and become a valuable asset to your team. If you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [phone number] or [email].

Yours Sincerely,

(Signature)
Blythe Carroll

 

Conclusion

These templates and samples are designed to assist you in crafting a compelling letter of recommendation for your student. As a key point of reference for an unfamiliar person, a letter of recommendation is a vital tool for highlighting the strengths and qualifications of a deserving candidate.

A well-written letter can make all the difference in a student’s academic and professional journey. These samples will guide you in effectively communicating the positive attributes of your student and supporting their application process.