Use this guide with the official instructions.

Programme prompts, limits and document rules always take priority over general advice.

Choose evidence over title

A professor who supervised your research closely can write a stronger letter than a famous academic who barely knows your work. Match each referee to the criteria they can assess.

Ask early and clearly

Request the letter four to six weeks before the deadline when possible. State the programme, deadline, submission method and why you are asking that person.

  • Current CV
  • Programme and selection criteria
  • Draft goals or essays
  • Projects completed together
  • Exact deadline and portal instructions

Help without writing the letter

A concise evidence sheet is appropriate. It reminds the referee of outcomes, dates and examples. Do not pressure a referee to sign a letter they did not write or cannot support.

Manage the submission respectfully

Send one polite reminder before the deadline, confirm receipt if the portal allows it and thank the referee. Keep them updated on the outcome.