If you want to apply for university in the United Kingdom, you surely realize that there is a lot of preparation ahead of you. Personal statement, language exams, and references are just a few of the many documents you need to gather. In this article, we will focus on the recommendation letter. It is a very crucial element required for applying to universities in the United Kingdom, as references serve as the ‘voice from the outside’ speaking about you to the institutions. Find out where you can obtain them and what to pay special attention to when preparing a recommendation letter.
A college application? Always with references!
References are one of the essential documents required by universities in England when you apply for admission to one of them. It is from the recommendation letter that the admissions committee learns, among other things about your past achievements, character traits influencing the way you act, and your level of English language proficiency. Think carefully when choosing a person to prepare this document for you. As for the self-presentation, you have a chance in the so-called personal statement, references come from a third-party person. You must be sure that they will present you in a positive light and provide a skillful recommendation to the university. Check out our practical tips!
Who can write a recommendation letter for you?
Carefully consider the choice of the person who will write a recommendation letter for you. Someone who takes on this task should know you fairly well and have at least a basic understanding of your achievements. Of course, it is worth having a conversation beforehand and telling this person about the course of your academic or professional career, successes, and other relevant aspects. They may not know about them or be familiar with all of them. When it comes to formal requirements, the letter must be written by a person of public trust – a teacher, professor, head of an organization where you volunteered, or an employer. If you have a minimum of two years of work experience in the UK, you can apply for studies based on your CV and a recommendation letter from your current employer. Indeed, there are many possibilities!
The information that universities require
What exactly should be included in the references attached to the application to study in the UK? You should start by describing the relationship that connects you with the author of the recommendation letter. Indeed, it will add credibility to the message. Next, ask the chosen person to present your achievements. It’s not just about accomplishments that can be documented with diplomas, but also about everyday things, such as consistent studying, dedication to work, or additional activities like volunteering. It’s worth mentioning the character traits that contribute to the fact that you achieve such goals. An essential paragraph is also needed regarding your English language proficiency, including both spoken and written language skills. The author of the recommendation must specifically refer to the chosen field of study and address the qualities that will enable you to successfully pursue studies in the selected academic field.
Structure of good references
The recommendation letter is a formal document, so each university in England expects a specific structure and order of information. Make sure that the references fit within the range of 3000-4000 characters with spaces. The required language is, of course, English. It’s worth writing in a natural manner and finding the right balance between unnecessary pathos and excessive informality. The document consists of three main sections:
Introduction:
- a brief introduction,
- outlining the relationship between the candidate and the author.
Middle part:
- presenting the candidate with an emphasis on positive traits,
- describing achievements,
- highlighting the candidate’s distinctions in the context of the chosen field of study.
Conclusion:
- information related to the applicant’s English language proficiency level,
- supporting the candidacy for the chosen course of study,
- expressing hope for admission to the university.
Remember that the recommendation letter must be unique. Never copy ready-made content, as your dreams of studying in the United Kingdom will never come true.
Have you already known what must be in the recommendation
letter?
If you are still unsure whether your references are prepared correctly and will guarantee success in the application process, reach out to us! We will provide you with guidance on what to pay special attention to and help you prepare a recommendation letter that will catch the attention of the admissions committee. It’s really not difficult, especially with the support of edu-4u.uk! Studying at a university in England is a gateway to career and professional development, so take advantage of it too!
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