Reference Letters - Canadian Students' Guide to Higher Learning

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APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
(Reference Letters)

When applying for scholarships, you will most likely be required to include at least one reference letter.

Getting a good reference letter can be hard, but with the tips below your task will be made a lot easier:

try to get someone who knows you very well
don't get someone with the same family name as yours
try to get it from a high ranking official (school principal, company president, etc.)
don't depend on only one person (if you get more letters, you can then pick the very best

When asking for a letter of recommendation (reference letter), it is best to give the person a letter with expectations and a firm deadline. Always give the writer at least two weeks notice. Use a request letter like this one:

November 10, 2003.

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am applying for the ABC Scholarship and the ZYX Trust Scholarship. Would you please write letters of recommendation for both of these for me?

I have included descriptions of the two scholarships along with a copy of my personal student record, which shows all of my extra-curricular activities.

The letter of recommendation for the ABC Scholarship must be sent back with my application so please return it to me when you are finished.

The letter of recommendation for the ZYX Scholarship must be sent separately so I have enclosed a stamped addressed envelope. Both applications are due December 15th.

Thank you very much for your time and co-operation. Let me know if you need any more information.

Yours truly,

Karen Anderson.