Do Recommendation Letters Matter?

How much weight do colleges actually put on recommendation letters? I have some great teachers who could write me a letter, but with limited space on applications, I want to focus my efforts on what will actually make a difference. Is it worth investing time in getting strong letters of recommendation?

Yes, recommendation letters do matter in the college application process. While the importance may vary among colleges, most admissions offices value the insight that recommendation letters provide about a student's character, academic abilities, and potential to contribute to their campus community. In fact, letters of recommendation typically fall into the top five factors considered during the admissions process, along with grades, test scores, essays, and extracurricular involvement.

A strong recommendation letter can help to differentiate you from other applicants and provide valuable context about your performance in the classroom. Teachers can offer perspective on your intellectual curiosity, work ethic, collaborative skills, and contributions to class discussions, which can help admissions officers better understand how you might fit into their school.

If you have great teachers who could write you strong letters, it would be worth investing time to ask them. In most cases, colleges require or highly recommend at least two letters of recommendation from teachers, ideally from different subject areas. It's best to approach teachers who know you well and can speak specifically to your strengths and growth over time. Additionally, don't forget that some colleges may also require or recommend a letter from a school counselor or other individual who can offer insight into your personal qualities.

Remember that you won't be losing any space on your application for including recommendation letters, as these are submitted separately by the letter writer. However, it's essential to give your recommenders plenty of time to write thoughtful and well-crafted letters. Keep in mind, teachers may be writing for multiple students, so ask early and give them the tools they need to write a compelling letter by providing your resume or a brag sheet of your accomplishments.

In summary, recommendation letters do matter and can provide valuable insight into your abilities and personal qualities, which can have a significant impact on your application. Make sure to choose teachers who know you well, and give them enough time to write a thoughtfully crafted letter on your behalf.