Hey peeps! Quick question – which colleges actually require teacher recommendations? Also, how many do they typically ask for? Just trying to plan ahead so I don’t spring this on my teachers at the last minute.
Hey there! It's great you're thinking ahead. Most colleges, especially selective ones, require teacher recommendations as part of the application process. Typically, schools ask for two recommendations from core subject teachers (math, science, English, social studies, or foreign languages). However, it's always best to check the specific requirements of each institution because they can vary.
For example, MIT requires one math or science teacher recommendation and one humanities, social science, or language teacher recommendation. Make sure to ask your teachers well in advance – I recommend at least a month or more before the application deadline. This gives them plenty of time to write a thoughtful recommendation. And remember to provide them with your resume or a list of your interests and accomplishments to help them write a more personalized letter.
Good luck with your applications!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.