Subject Line

Letter of Recommendation Request for [program]

Hi Professor [name],

Introduction (ex: I hope that this past semester has gone well for you! OR I saw your recent
article publication…) This is [your name], I was in your [class name] class in [semester that you
took the class]. I am writing to ask if you would be interested in and willing to write me a letter of
recommendation for a [scholarship, graduate program, internship, etc] that I am applying for.

I have always been interested in [what your program is about - provide details so they can tailor
their recommendation]. The reason I thought to ask you is because [why you are asking them
specifically].

Your recommendation would be invaluable to me because [details on why you are applying to
this program and why their perspective will be helpful as a recommendation].

I have attached my resume and personal statement for my application to this email for your
reference. The deadline for this application is [date], so I hope I am writing enough in advance.

I very much appreciate your time in reading this email, and I look forward to hearing from you!

Thank you,

[Your Name]