Hey guys, I'm a junior and I was wondering if all colleges require recommendation letters? If so, how many should I ask for and who should I ask? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Hello! Not all colleges require recommendation letters, but a majority of them do, especially the more competitive ones. Generally, colleges ask for 1-3 letters, with most requesting 2. It's essential to check each college's specific requirements on their admissions webpage to ensure you're fulfilling their expectations. Some schools may also have specific requirements for who the recommenders should be, so keep an eye out for that as well. As for who to ask, it's a great idea to approach teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths, work ethic, and character. Ideally, these teachers should have taught you in core academic subjects (like math, science, English, social sciences, or foreign languages) during your junior or senior year. Additionally, if you have a particular area of interest or a major in mind, it's a plus to have a recommendation from a teacher in that field. Remember to give your teachers ample time to write the letters (at least a month before the deadline) and provide them with any necessary information about your achievements, extracurriculars, and future goals. Good luck with your college applications!
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