Some universities, especially for master's and PhD programmes, ask for one or more recommendation letters. A recommendation is a credible person's view of your abilities and can make your application stand out. In this guide you will learn who to ask and how.
What is a recommendation letter?
A recommendation letter is written by a professor, teacher or employer about your academic or professional abilities. Universities use it to learn about qualities grades do not show: perseverance, research ability, teamwork and motivation.
Who should you ask?
- For a bachelor's: a teacher or school principal who knows you well.
- For a master's or PhD: professors you took courses or projects with; your project supervisor is the best choice.
- For professional programmes: an employer or direct supervisor.
Someone who knows you well and can give specific examples is better than a famous person who only knows your name.
How to ask
- Ask early: at least several weeks before the deadline.
- Ask politely and formally, and ask whether they can write a strong letter.
- Give full information: your CV, motivation letter, programme names, deadlines and how to submit.
- Send a polite reminder close to the deadline.
- Say thank you and let them know the outcome.
How letters are submitted
Many universities send an upload link directly to the referee's email, and the referee uploads the letter to the portal. In that case an official university or work email address is best. Some universities accept a signed letter on letterhead submitted by the applicant.
What makes a good letter?
- An introduction of the referee and their relationship to you (how long and in what context).
- Specific examples of your abilities and achievements.
- A comparison with other students, if possible (e.g. "in the top 5%").
- How your qualities relate to the programme.
- Letterhead, signature and the referee's contact details.
An important ethical point
Sometimes a referee asks you to prepare a draft. You can give them points and specific examples, but the final text must be theirs, honest and approved by them. Creating or forging a recommendation letter, like any fake document, can lead to rejection and serious consequences.
Common mistakes
- Asking at the last minute.
- Choosing someone who does not know you well.
- Not giving the referee enough information.
- Using one generic letter for all programmes.
Frequently asked questions
How many recommendation letters do I need?
It depends on the programme; usually one to three. Always check the programme requirements.
Do bachelor's applications need recommendation letters?
Not always; many European bachelor's programmes do not require them.
Which language should the letter be in?
Usually the language of instruction or English; if it is in Persian, an official translation is needed.
Can I write the letter myself?
No. You can provide information and examples, but the final text must come from the referee and be approved by them.
Official sources
Last updated: October 2026. Rules and costs may change; check the official source again before making a final decision.