Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship FAQs
1) What is the purpose of a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
The purpose of a letter of recommendation for a scholarship is for a trusted individual to formally explain why the applicant is a good candidate for the scholarship. Letters of recommendation go into detail about the applicant’s qualifications and character, and why they should receive the scholarship.
2) Who can write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
It is best to ask someone who knows you in either an educational or professional setting to write a letter on your behalf. Some common examples of individuals to ask are teachers, managers, or mentors you’ve worked closely with.
3) How many letters of recommendation are typically required for a scholarship application?
Most scholarship applications ask for at least three letters of recommendation. Some may ask for more or fewer depending on their own guidelines. Make sure to check with the scholarship organization beforehand so you can be sure to request the letters they require.
4) What should be included in a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
Letters of recommendation for scholarships should include basic information like the name of the person writing the letter, how they know the applicant, and any information they’d like to share about why the applicant should be considered for the scholarship.
5) How long should a letter of recommendation for a scholarship be?
A letter of recommendation should generally be about a page long with an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion — unless otherwise stated.
6) Can a family member or friend write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
Most scholarship organizations are looking for letters of recommendation from people who know you professionally or in an educational setting, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t ask a family member or friend. It’s best to inquire with the scholarship committee about who is qualified to write your recommendation.
7) Are there any specific guidelines or formats to follow while writing a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
The required guidelines or format of your recommendation letter can vary depending on the scholarship you’re applying for. It’s best to check with the organization to make sure you’re following their desired format. That said, some loose guidelines to follow when writing your letter are to include a formal opening salutation addressing the scholarship organization, a few body paragraphs describing how you know the applicant and why you think they’re qualified for the scholarship, and a closing paragraph that wraps up the letter.
8) Should the recommender mention specific achievements or experiences in the letter?
Yes, recommenders should mention the applicant’s achievements and applicable experience and relate them to why the applicant should receive a scholarship.
9) Is it important for the recommender to have personal knowledge of the applicant's abilities?
Yes, it’s very important that the recommender has personal knowledge of the applicant’s abilities in order to accurately explain the applicant’s skills and abilities in their letter.
10) Should the letter of recommendation be addressed to a specific individual or organization?
It depends on the guidelines outlined in the scholarship application. If there is a specific individual who reviews letters of recommendation, it would be best to address the letter to them. If no specific contact is listed then it’s safe to address the letter to the organization as a whole.
11) Can a letter of recommendation for a scholarship be used for multiple applications?
It’s OK to use the same letter of recommendation for multiple applications as long as the letter speaks to why you’re qualified for each specific scholarship. Be sure you have the recommender’s permission to reuse their letters and change who the letter is addressed to for each application.
12) Are there any common mistakes to avoid when writing a letter of recommendation for a scholarship?
When writing a letter of recommendation, be sure to check for grammatical errors and typos to keep your letter readable and professional. Additionally, it’s best to cut out unnecessary language and get straight to the point by describing the applicant’s qualifications in detail.
