When do colleges require letters of recommendation, and how many should I get?

I'm starting to feel the pressure of getting my college application materials together. I've seen that some schools require letters of recommendation. How can I find out which colleges require them, and how many should I aim to collect? Also, any tips on who to ask would be super helpful!

Understanding the requirements for letters of recommendation is indeed an important step in the application process. Each college has its own guidelines, so you'll want to check the admissions page of each school you're interested in. Typically, colleges that require letters of recommendation ask for 1-3.

As for who to ask, choose teachers who know you well and who can speak to your strengths, ideally from your junior or senior year. It's also beneficial to have at least one letter from a teacher in a core academic area related to your intended major if possible.

In addition to teachers, if you're involved in extracurricular activities, a coach, club advisor, or someone else who has watched you develop in leadership or other skills could also be a good choice. Start this process early to give them ample time to write a thoughtful letter. Remember to provide them with key information about yourself like your resume or a list of accomplishments to help them write a detailed, personalized recommendation.

Lastly, always follow up with a thank you note to show your appreciation for their support. Best of luck!