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Letters of Recommendation

Why Letters of Recommendation Matter

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Letters of recommendation are a vital part of your application to health professions programs. They provide admissions committees with insight into your character, academic abilities, interpersonal skills, and readiness for a career in healthcare—through the lens of professionals who know you well. 

Most programs require three to five letters, and each should come from someone who can speak to your strengths in a meaningful and professional context. 

Who Should Write Your Letters

Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your qualifications with depth and specificity. Ideal letter writers include: 

  • Science Faculty: Most medical and dental schools require at least one letter from a science professor (biology, chemistry, physics). 
  • Clinical Supervisors: Physicians, dentists, PAs, or other licensed professionals who have observed you in a healthcare setting. 
  • Research Mentors: If you’ve participated in research, a letter from your PI or lab supervisor can highlight your analytical and collaborative skills. 
  • Academic Advisors or Program Coordinators: Especially if they’ve worked closely with you in a pre-health context. 
  • Community Service or Volunteer Coordinators: Can speak to your commitment to service and leadership. 

Avoid letters from family members, friends, or individuals who cannot provide a professional evaluation. 

How to Request a Letter

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and respectful process: 

  1. Ask Early
    Reach out at least 6–8 weeks before your application deadline. The earlier, the better—especially for busy faculty.

  2. Ask in Person (if possible)
    A face-to-face or video conversation is ideal. Be clear about why you’re asking them and what program you’re applying to. 

  3. Provide Supporting Materials
    Share your resume, transcript, personal statement draft, and a summary of your experiences with the recommender. Include deadlines and instructions for submission. 

  4. Letter Collection
    Most health professions application services include a built-in letter of recommendation system, which means your recommenders must submit their letters directly through the platform (such as AMCAS, AACOMAS, AADSAS, or CASPA). These systems streamline the process and ensure that letters are securely and correctly matched to your application.
    To keep costs low and ensure your letters remain confidential, it’s best to ask your recommenders to wait until the application service officially opens. At that point, you’ll be able to send them an electronic request through the system, which allows them to upload their letter directly into the secure recommendation letter service (RLS) linked to your application. Be sure to discuss this plan with your letter writers ahead of time so they’re prepared.

    If a recommender needs to submit their letter before the application portal opens, you’ll need to use a third-party RLS to maintain confidentiality—NEVER accept the letter yourself. Once your application account is active, you’ll instruct the RLS to transfer the letters into your application. While there are several reputable RLS providers available, Interfolio is widely accepted and commonly used for this purpose. 

  5. Follow Up Politely
    Send a reminder before the deadline, and thank your recommenders once the letter is submitted. 

Tips for Strong Letters of Recommendation

Prioritize Quality Over Quantity 
Admissions committees value depth and specificity over volume. A few well-written letters from individuals who know you personally and professionally are far more impactful than multiple generic endorsements. Focus on securing letters from people who can speak to your character, work ethic, and readiness for a career in healthcare. 

Choose a Diverse Set of Recommenders
Aim to include letter writers from different areas of your academic and professional life. A strong set of letters might include a science professor, a clinical supervisor, a research mentor, and a community service coordinator. This variety helps paint a well-rounded picture of your skills, experiences, and values. 

Communicate Your Goals Clearly 
Help your recommenders understand your motivation for pursuing a health profession and the specific programs you’re applying to. Share your personal statement, resume, and a brief summary of your career goals so they can tailor their letter to support your application effectively. 

Stay Organized Throughout the Process 
Keep track of who you’ve asked, when they agreed, and when each letter is submitted. Use a spreadsheet or checklist to monitor deadlines, submission methods (e.g., Interfolio, AMCAS Letter Service), and follow-up reminders. Staying organized ensures that your letters are submitted on time and to the correct locations. 

Build Your Foundation
for a Health Career

Office of Pre-Health Advising
Engineering Bldg. RM# 125
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Kia Hart
(313) 993-1928
hartkl@udmercy.edu  

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