Introduction
Recommendation letters are a critical part of university applications. For IB and AP students, they provide context beyond grades, showing admissions officers who you are as a learner and community member. But asking a teacher for a recommendation can feel intimidating. What if they say no? What if they don’t know you well enough? The good news is that with the right approach, you can make the process smooth, respectful, and stress-free.
Quick Start Checklist
- Ask early—don’t wait until deadlines.
- Choose teachers who know you well.
- Make your request polite and specific.
- Provide helpful details about your goals.
- Say thank you and follow up.
Step 1: Ask Early
Teachers are often writing multiple letters for multiple students. Give them plenty of time:
- Ideally ask at the end of your junior year or early in senior year.
- Avoid last-minute requests, which can lead to rushed letters.
Step 2: Choose the Right Teachers
Pick teachers who can genuinely speak about your strengths. Consider:
- Who knows your academic abilities best?
- Who has seen your growth and resilience?
- Who can connect your classroom performance to your university goals?
It doesn’t always have to be the teacher from your best subject—the best letters often come from teachers who know you as a person.
Step 3: Make a Polite Request
When asking, be respectful and clear. For example:
“I really enjoyed your IB Biology class and learned a lot from completing my IA under your guidance. Would you be willing to write me a recommendation letter for my university applications?”
Always ask in person if possible, or write a thoughtful email if not.
Step 4: Provide Helpful Information
Make the teacher’s job easier by giving them context:
- A short list of universities you’re applying to.
- Your intended major or area of study.
- Key achievements or projects from their class (Extended Essay, IA, AP project).
- Deadlines for submissions.
Some students even provide a short “brag sheet” outlining activities, awards, and goals.
Step 5: Follow Up and Say Thank You
- Send a polite reminder as the deadline approaches.
- After submission, thank your teacher sincerely—both verbally and in writing.
- If you get into your chosen university, let them know—they’ll be thrilled to hear it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Asking too late.
- Choosing a teacher who barely knows you.
- Treating the recommendation as a formality instead of an opportunity.
- Forgetting to express gratitude.
RevisionDojo Tip: Build Relationships Early
The strongest recommendation letters come from teachers who know you beyond academics. Participate in class, ask questions, and build rapport throughout your IB or AP journey—don’t wait until application season to connect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I ask more than one teacher for a recommendation?
Yes, many applications allow two or more recommendations. Choose teachers from different subjects to show range.
2. What if my teacher says no?
Don’t panic. Some teachers decline because they feel they can’t write a strong letter. It’s better to ask someone else who can highlight your strengths.
3. Should I read the letter before it’s submitted?
Most systems (like UCAS or Common App) keep letters confidential. Trust your teacher—confidential recommendations are often taken more seriously.
Conclusion
Asking for a recommendation letter doesn’t have to be stressful. By asking early, choosing the right teacher, providing useful details, and showing gratitude, you can secure strong, supportive letters that boost your university application.
Call to Action
Want more guidance on university applications? RevisionDojo provides resources and strategies to help IB and AP students with personal statements, recommendations, and admissions success. Explore our guides today and apply with confidence.
