How to Write a Scholarship Letter of Recommendation
A scholarship letter of recommendation is a formal document written by someone who knows the applicant well and can attest to their qualifications, character, and potential for success. It provides scholarship committees with an honest, third-party perspective on the applicant’s abilities and suitability for the award.
Scholarship committees rely heavily on letters of recommendation to gain insight into an applicant’s character, work ethic, and potential, elements that are often not captured in grades and test scores. A strong letter of recommendation can significantly strengthen a candidate’s application.
Who Should Write a Scholarship Recommendation Letter
The best recommenders are those who know the applicant in a professional or academic capacity and can speak to their strengths and abilities. Ideal recommenders may include:
Teachers and Professors – Who have observed the applicant’s academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and classroom participation .
Employers or Supervisors – Who can speak to the applicant’s work ethic, professionalism, and job performance.
Coaches or Club Advisors – Who have witnessed the applicant’s leadership, teamwork, and commitment.
Community Leaders – Who can attest to the applicant’s character and community involvement.
Mentors – Who have guided the applicant’s personal or professional development.
Key Elements of a Strong Scholarship Recommendation Letter
1. Formal Header
Include your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s address. This establishes professionalism and makes the letter easy to reference.
2. Clear Introduction
State your relationship to the applicant, how long you have known them, and in what capacity. This helps the committee understand the context of your recommendation.
3. Specific Examples
Provide concrete examples of the applicant’s skills, achievements, and character. Instead of stating that the applicant is “hardworking,” describe specific instances where they demonstrated this quality.
4. Quantifiable Achievements
Use numbers and specifics where possible. For example, “She improved her grades from a B to an A in one semester” or “He led a team of 15 volunteers.”
5. Relevant Qualities
Highlight qualities that align with the scholarship’s values and mission. Research the scholarship to understand what qualities are most valued.
6. Comparison to Peers
If appropriate, compare the applicant to others you have taught, supervised, or mentored. This helps the committee understand the applicant’s standing among their peers.
7. Strong Conclusion
Summarize your recommendation, express your confidence in the applicant, and offer to provide further information if needed.
Sample Scholarship Recommendation Letter
[Your Full Name]
[Your Position/Title]
[Your Institution/Organization]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Organization Name]
[Address]
RE: Letter of Recommendation for [Student’s Full Name]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Student’s Full Name] for the [Scholarship Name]. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as [Relationship, e.g., their Biology teacher, supervisor, club advisor]. During this time, I have had the opportunity to observe their academic excellence, leadership abilities, and unwavering commitment to their goals.
[Student’s Name] stands out as one of the most dedicated and intellectually curious students I have encountered. In my [Subject] class, they consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex concepts and an ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. They were not content to simply receive information; they actively engaged with course material, asked thoughtful questions, and challenged themselves to go beyond the requirements of the curriculum.
Beyond their academic achievements, [Student’s Name] has demonstrated exceptional leadership and community involvement. As [Position/Role] of [Organization/Club], they spearheaded [Project/Initiative], which resulted in [Specific Outcome]. Their ability to motivate and inspire others was evident throughout the project, and they handled challenges with maturity and resilience.
[Student’s Name] possesses the intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and personal integrity that will enable them to excel in their chosen field. They approach every task with diligence and a commitment to excellence. Their ability to balance academic demands with meaningful community engagement speaks to their exceptional time management and dedication to making a positive impact.
I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] is an ideal candidate for the [Scholarship Name]. Their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to serving others make them a deserving recipient of this award. I am confident that they will not only succeed in their academic pursuits but will also continue to be a positive force in their community and beyond.
I recommend [Student’s Name] without reservation and would be happy to provide further information if required. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Position/Title]
Tips for Writing an Effective Scholarship Recommendation
Be Specific and Personal
Generic letters are less effective than those that provide specific examples. Use anecdotes that illustrate the applicant’s qualities and achievements.
Highlight the Applicant’s Growth
Describe how the applicant has grown and developed over time, especially if you have known them for an extended period.
Connect to the Scholarship
Tailor the letter to the specific scholarship by highlighting qualities that align with the scholarship’s mission and values.
Use Professional Language
Maintain a formal tone throughout the letter. Avoid slang, overly casual language, or emotional appeals.
Be Honest and Authentic
Scholarship committees can often detect insincerity. Be honest about the applicant’s strengths while presenting them positively.
Proofread Carefully
Spelling and grammatical errors can undermine the credibility of your recommendation. Always proofread before submitting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Generic Letters – Using a template without personalizing it for the applicant.
Lack of Specific Examples – Making vague statements without concrete evidence.
Focusing Solely on Grades – Overlooking the applicant’s character, leadership, and community involvement.
Excessive Length – Writing a letter that is too long or rambling.
Damning with Faint Praise – Writing a letter that is lukewarm or unenthusiastic.
Missing Contact Information – Forgetting to provide your phone number or email address.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I address the letter if I do not know the name of the committee member?
You can address the letter to “Scholarship Committee” or “Dear Members of the Scholarship Committee.”
What is the ideal length for a scholarship recommendation letter?
A recommendation letter should typically be one page in length, although it can be longer if the recommender has extensive knowledge of the applicant.
Can I ask for a copy of the letter before it is submitted?
While many recommenders will share a copy with the applicant, scholarship committees prefer letters that are submitted confidentially to ensure authenticity.
What if a recommender declines to write a letter?
If a recommender declines, respect their decision and find someone else. It is better to have an enthusiastic recommender than one who is reluctant.
Should I provide my recommender with any materials?
Yes. It is helpful to provide your recommender with your resume, information about the scholarship, and a summary of relevant accomplishments.
