Most college applications require at least a counselor letter of recommendation, but some require one or two teacher letters. Colleges want to hear from adults in your community about your character, skills, talents, and potential you will bring to their campus.

**You're probably asking: **

• How many?
• Who?
• Can I see the letters?
• What is a student information sheet?

Things you should ask before identifying recommenders:

• Who can speak to my character, grit, tenacity, diligence, resilience, success, and failure?
• Who can describe my growth and contributions inside and/or outside the classroom?
• Who may be able to fill in holes, add context to, or articulate my impact in a unique and compelling voice?

**If you have subscribed to one of our support packages, your detailed college plan will have this information, but find out if your colleges require letters of recommendation before asking**

Some high schools have a student information, or "brag" sheet. This is a way to highlight your accomplishments in the school community, or a specific classroom. If your school has one of these, fill it out for your recommenders.

If they do not, answer these questions and submit it to your teacher or counselor when you ask them to write for you.

• Why I am asking you
• Why I am applying to college (keep in mind the letter will go to multiple colleges, so you should not have them reference a specific college or university if that is the case).
• Why I am interested in this major
• What I am proudest of - that I hope you have seen
• What I remember about your class is...
• What I hope you will be able to touch on

Including a resume or list of activities and accomplishments might be helpful as well.

Be sure to thank your teacher or counselor. While they like supporting students, they do not HAVE to. Express your gratitude early.

Note: Letter of rec forms will require you to waive your right to read the finished product. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act waiver will be a requirement on the majority of college applications. You need to waive your rights before submitting letter of rec requests on the Common Application (more on that in the module about completing applications).