Do you normally use a template for writing a college recommendation letter? Did you know that a winning college recommendation letter template has five main parts, which are the:
- Salutation
- First Paragraph
- Second Paragraph
- Third Paragraph, and
- Conclusion.
That’s it! It does not require a lengthy letter to get accepted to college. Highlight the most important points and make it short and sweet.
Sample Template for Writing College Recommendation Letters
This template shows the format of a college reference letter which can be used by online college students also. Use it as a guide to make sure that all the important information is included.
Salutation: When writing a recommendation letter always include a salutation such as; Dear Dr. Smith, Dear Ms. Stevens, and so on. However, if you are writing a general letter without addressing it to a specific individual, say “To Whom it May Concern” or omit the salutation altogether and start with the first paragraph of the letter.
The first paragraph: In the first paragraph of the letter of recommendation you should provide information about who you are. However, don’t ramble on about yourself because the letter is not about you. Next, describe the person that you are recommending and what you are recommending him for. Also briefly explain how you know the person you are recommending and why you are qualified to write a college recommendation letter for this person.
The second paragraph: In the second paragraph provide supporting details about the qualities, abilities and qualifications of the person that you are recommending. So gather enough information about the person and learn about their accomplishments, talents, credentials and career goals. Here you want to give specific information about the person you are writing about, such as why you are recommending this person, whey they are qualified, and what they can contribute to the school.
The third paragraph: In the third paragraph, conclude your recommendation letter with a brief summary of why you are recommending this individual.
Conclusion: The concluding paragraph of a recommendation letter should include your contact information such as your phone number, email address and other contact information that you think is necessary. This way if additional information is needed, the school will have no problem contacting you for the information.
So this was it! Do you have a template for writing college recommendation letters that you would like to share? Please do so in the comment section below.












