Letters of Recommendation

Who can be my recommenders?

Recommendations should be written by individuals who have supervised you in an academic, employment, or community service setting and who can comment on your intellectual ability, creativity, initiative, sensitivity to others, and leadership potential. Recommendations should not be written by friends or family members. When feasible, at least one recommendation should be from a university professor familiar with your academic work. Applicants should obtain current recommendations that directly address their candidacy for admission to HGSE.

Can I remind my recommenders to submit their letters online?

Yes, you are able to send an email reminder to your referees via the online application system. Please be sure, however, that your recommenders are aware of the application deadlines and online process, and choose them carefully to ensure that they can write on your behalf in a timely manner.

Can I submit my application if my recommenders have not completed the online recommendation?

If you have entered the names and contact information of your referees and if the other portions of your application are complete, then you may submit your online application.

Can I change a recommender once I have submitted the online application?

No, we are unable to facilitate changing recommenders once you have submitted your application.

Can I submit a paper letter of recommendation?

We ask that you do not submit paper letters of recommendation. If a recommender is experiencing trouble with the online system, ask him or her to click on the "Need Help" link on the recommender form. Please be advised that these are the most efficient methods for getting help. If you continue to experience difficulty and would prefer to speak with someone on the phone, you may contact technical support at 1-800-526-3313.