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Your grades tell part of your story. A letter of recommendation tells the rest. Here's what you need to know to get a great one, from choosing the right person to write it to getting it to us on time.

Why do I have to submit a letter of recommendation?

At ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, we review every application holistically. That means we look at far more than your GPA. A letter gives us a view you can't give us yourself: how you show up in the classroom, how you've grown and the kind of person you are. It's one more way for us to get to know you. 

So…who should write it?

Choose someone who knows you well and has watched you grow. For most students, that's a high school teacher or counselor. We ask first-year applicants for one academic letter.

Here's a tip: the best writer isn't always the teacher whose class gave you the easiest A. Some of the strongest letters come from classes where you struggled, stuck with it and improved. Growth makes a great story.

Can I submit more than one?

Yes. Only one letter is required, but you're welcome to add letters from a mentor, coach, supervisor or another supporter who sees a different side of you. We suggest no more than three. More isn't better. Choose letters that each add something new.

What should it say?

That's up to your recommender, and that's the point. We hope the letter will show us what the rest of your application can't: perseverance, improvement, a willingness to take on challenges or how you've handled circumstances in your life. A recommender can also share context you may not feel comfortable sharing yourself.

When should I ask my recommender to write a letter for me?

Early. Recommenders are busy, and a thoughtful letter takes time. Ask at least 3 to 5 weeks before your deadline.

• Applying by our Early Action deadline of November 15? Ask by mid-October at the latest.
• Applying by our Regular Decision deadline of January 15? Ask before winter break, when your recommender still has time and schedules aren't packed.

Follow your school's process if it has one. Some counselors have a request form or a set date for requests.

How does my letter get to ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ?

Your recommender sends it directly to us, in one of two ways:

1. Through the Common App. Add your recommender in your Common App account, and the Common App will send them a request.
2. By email. Your recommender can email the letter to transcripts@colorado.edu.

One important detail: every letter should include your full legal name and date of birth at the top. It helps us match the letter to your application quickly.

A quick checklist for asking

Make it easy for your recommender to say yes and to write something great:

• Ask politely, in person or by email, and give them plenty of time.
• Share your deadline (Nov. 15 or Jan. 15).
• Give them a short resume or list of activities.
• Tell them a few things you'd love for them to mention, like a project you're proud of or how you've grown.
• Explain how to submit the letter (see above) and remind them to include your full legal name and date of birth.
• Send a thank-you note when it's done. They'll appreciate it.
   

Apply Now!

Written by ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Office of Admissions