Here are some things to consider when asking a faculty member for a letter of recommendation

First things first! Make sure you’re asking the right person. Does this faculty member know you and your work? Have they, for instance, taught you in more than one course, or been your academic advisor? It need not always be the most senior person in the department or the one you like best. Ask someone who is best situated to speak about your abilities, your work, and your growth.

Ask, don’t assume. Check in with the faculty member if they have the time and if they feel they can speak to your work and abilities. If they refuse your request, don’t take it personally. They may be busy, may feel like they haven’t seen enough of your work, or may be overwhelmed with other commitments. Better to approach someone who can give your letter the attention it requires.

Ask in advance. If and when they agree, give them time to write the letter. Ideally, a month or two. Even if your professor has a template for such letters, they will need time to look through your application materials and write thoughtfully about you. Note that the professors may be changing up the minutiae to better support different applications you may be making simultaneously.

Have a meeting to discuss your future plans. But when it comes to the request, ask in writing. Professors are multitasking at any given point, and an email helps us keep track of the letters we promise to write and when they’re due.

Provide the instructor the details of what you’re applying for. They may ask to see a sample of writing, your transcripts, or even a CV. This is not a bad thing! It allows them to make an honest estimation.

Some Higher Education institutions require recommendations via online forms rather than a straightforward letter. In this case, they send the links via email. Always provide your professor’s institutional email (and phone number, if needed). Where they don’t have an institutional phone number, give the office phone number. You’ll be able to track if they have submitted the recommendation via your application portal, but likely will not be able to see their responses.

Follow up politely and remind them of the deadline if they have not submitted with a few days to spare.

Once the letter has been submitted or provided to you, acknowledge it with a note or email of thanks. These networks don’t end when you have your next admission or job, and small courtesies don’t go unnoticed.