Tony explains How to Write Recommendations for US Universities

When it comes to college admissions, recommendation letters from teachers and counselors can be game-changers for students. These letters provide colleges with valuable insights that go beyond grades and test scores, offering a window into a student’s character, growth, and potential. But what makes a recommendation letter truly stand out? As a former Director of College Counseling, I’ve seen firsthand how the best letters are both specific and personal, painting a vivid picture of the student for admissions committees.

Whether you’re a teacher or a counselor, here’s how you can write letters that make a real impact.

What Teachers Should Include in a Recommendation Letter

A strong teacher recommendation does more than praise a student’s academic record. It tells a story, backed by specific examples, that helps colleges understand who the student really is.

Key Elements to Include:

• Academic Performance & Intellectual Qualities:
  Go beyond the transcript. Highlight intellectual curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills using examples from class assignments or projects.
• Personal Qualities & Character:
  Share anecdotes that reveal leadership, empathy, resilience, or teamwork. Don’t just list traits- illustrate them in action.
• Classroom Contributions:
  Describe the student’s participation, willingness to help peers, and any unique perspectives they bring to discussions or group work.
• Growth & Improvement:
  If the student has overcome challenges or shown notable progress, mention it! Growth stories are powerful.
• Context & Relationship:
  Explain how long and in what capacity you’ve known the student, and why your perspective matters.
• Alignment with Goals or Programs:
  If the student is applying to a specific program, tailor your letter to highlight relevant strengths and interests.
• Memorable Anecdotes:
  Concrete stories make your letter memorable and credible.
• Enthusiastic and Honest Endorsement:
  Be sincere and positive in your support.

Pro Tip: Admissions officers read thousands of letters. Specific stories and vivid details help your letter- and your student- stand out.

What the Common App Asks Teachers

The Common Application Teacher Evaluation form guides teachers in providing both ratings and narrative insight. Here’s what you’ll be asked:

• Basic Information:
  Subject taught, how long you’ve known the student, and which courses.
• Academic & Personal Ratings:
  Rate the student in areas like academic achievement, leadership, integrity, motivation, and more.  NOTE:  Some schools elect not to fill out this section.
• Descriptive Questions:
  First words that come to mind about the student, and the context of your relationship.
• Written Evaluation:
  A narrative (up to 1000 words) that offers a broad-based assessment, with specific examples of the student’s academic and personal strengths.

What Counselors Should Include in a Recommendation Letter

Counselor letters provide the broader context for a student’s achievements. They help colleges understand the student’s journey within the school environment.

Key Data Points to Include:

• Contextual Information:
  Your relationship with the student, description of the school, and any extenuating circumstances that affected the student’s record.
• Holistic Portrait:
  Discuss the student’s growth, maturity, and character, using specific anecdotes.
• Academic & Extracurricular Engagement:
  Highlight interests, leadership roles, and achievements both in and out of the classroom.
• Future Potential:
  Endorse the student’s readiness for college and potential contributions to campus life.
• Specific Stories:
  Use memorable examples to bring the student’s qualities to life, quotes from teachers, coaches, and advisors.

Remember: Avoid generic praise. Focus on individualized, vivid observations that set the student apart. 

What the Common App Asks Counselors

Counselors are asked to provide both factual information and qualitative insights:

• Student & School Information:
  Student’s details, school profile, counselor’s contact info.
• Academic Context:
  School size, curriculum rigor, GPA scale, class rank, and graduation statistics.
• Counselor Evaluation:
  How long you’ve known the student, the first words that come to mind, and a written evaluation (up to 1000 words) covering academic, extracurricular, and personal qualities.
• Additional Ratings:
  Rigor of course load, class rank, GPA, and any extra comments or context.

Teacher vs. Counselor Letters: What’s the Difference?

Best Practices for Writing Recommendation Letters

• Use specific anecdotes and avoid generic language.
• Keep letters focused and concise-one page is ideal for teachers.
• Tailor each letter to the student and the college or program. 
• Be honest and enthusiastic in your endorsement.
• Don’t repeat information found elsewhere in the application.

Final Thoughts

A thoughtful, well-crafted recommendation letter can make the difference for a student in a competitive admissions process. By focusing on specific examples, providing context, and offering genuine support, teachers and counselors can help students shine.