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?”
