How to Ask Your Teacher for a Letter of Recommendation

Asking a teacher for a letter of recommendation can feel a little intimidating, especially if you attend a large school where you may not have had much one-on-one time with your teachers. You might be wondering: How do I ask for a recommendation from a teacher who doesn’t know me well? Don’t worry—many students face this exact challenge, and there are ways to handle it effectively.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making sure you get a strong letter of recommendation, even if you’re not on a first-name basis with your teacher.

1. Be Thoughtful About Who You Ask

Start by considering which teacher can best speak to your strengths, even if you didn’t have constant interaction with them. Teachers who have seen you grow, improve, or handle challenges in class are often great choices. If you didn’t have a lot of direct interaction, don’t worry! Teachers are usually willing to help, especially if you make their job easier by providing them with information they can use to write a detailed letter.

2. Ask Early (and Politely!)

Timing is key. Teachers are often asked to write multiple letters of recommendation, so asking well in advance (at least a month before the deadline) gives them enough time to write a thoughtful letter. When asking, be polite and respectful. Here’s an example of how you might approach them:

Email Example:

"Hi [Teacher’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to ask if you’d be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for my college applications. I’ve really enjoyed your class, and I feel that you’ve seen me grow academically. I’m happy to provide any information that might help you write the letter—just let me know what you need!"

3. Provide a Recommendation Packet

If you attend a large school or feel like your teacher doesn’t know you outside of class, a recommendation packet is an incredibly helpful tool. This packet provides your teacher with insight into who you are as a person, what matters to you, and what your future goals are.

The idea is to give your teacher a fuller picture of who you are so they can write a letter that reflects not just your performance in their class, but also your character, goals, and personal growth. Here are some key components to include in your packet:

Recommendation Packet Questions:

1. Record a special quote or saying that you feel is significant.
   Indicate why you selected this quote and what it means to you.

2. Which extracurricular activity have you found to be the most meaningful and why?
   Share why this activity matters to you and what skills or lessons you’ve gained from it.

3. Three words to describe me.
   Offer three key adjectives that define your personality, work ethic, or approach to life.

4. In what specific ways do you wish to contribute to your college’s activities and campus life?
   Describe how you see yourself getting involved on campus, whether through clubs, volunteering, or leadership roles.

5. What do you regard as the important things in life?
   Give insight into your values and what drives you.

6. Something you would be surprised to know about me is…
   Include an interesting or unexpected fact that gives a glimpse into your unique personality or interests.

7. I have shown leadership by…
   Describe a time when you stepped up to lead, whether in school, an extracurricular, or your community.

8. My academic record is or is not an accurate reflection of my abilities and potential.
   Provide an honest assessment of your grades and explain any discrepancies, if applicable.

9. Why should a college want “you” as part of its student body?
   Highlight what you will bring to the college, beyond academics—your perspective, your drive, or your creativity.

10. Write an example of a comment that a teacher might write about you.
    Reflect on what you think your teachers would say about your work ethic, attitude, or improvement.

11. Are there any circumstances, school experiences, or people who have influenced your life?
    Share any personal background that has shaped who you are today.

12. Describe your family (special circumstances).
    Include any unique family dynamics or challenges that have impacted your academic journey.

13. What are two weaknesses you are working to improve on?
    Show that you’re self-aware and actively working on personal growth.

14. I would also like my teacher/counselor to mention…
    Add anything specific you’d like the teacher to highlight in their letter, whether it’s a project you’re proud of or a character trait that may not be obvious.

4. Follow Up and Say Thank You

Once you’ve provided the packet, make sure to follow up with your teacher closer to the deadline to confirm they have everything they need. And, of course, send a thank you note after they’ve completed the letter—whether by email or handwritten. Showing appreciation for their time and effort is key!

5. It’s Okay if Your Teacher Doesn’t Know You Personally

Not everyone attends a small school where they can form close relationships with their teachers. That’s why providing a well-thought-out packet can make all the difference. By answering these questions, you give your teacher the tools to write a recommendation that goes beyond just classroom performance, helping them see the bigger picture of who you are.

Asking for a letter of recommendation doesn’t have to be stressful, even if you feel like your teacher doesn’t know you well. By choosing your teacher thoughtfully, asking politely and early, and providing a detailed recommendation packet, you’ll be setting your teacher up to write a letter that reflects both your academic abilities and your personal character. Remember, teachers are there to help you—give them the tools to do so!