Asking for References

Potential employers and graduate/professional schools will typically request names of references as part of the application process. Use these tips and formatting guidelines to prepare references during your search process.

Follow the Instructions 

• Generally, 3-5 references will be requested.
• A reference list should include your references’ names, your relationship to the person (i.e. faculty, employer, supervisor), and contact information for the reference (phone number and email). 
• Use specified forms or directions as requested by the employer or graduate school.
• Graduate/professional schools typically ask for letters of recommendation.

Choose a Good Balance 

• References can include instructors, department heads, work supervisors, co-workers, internship supervisors, academic advisors, or club/organization advisors.
• Choose a reference who can comment on your skills such as academic ability based on your classroom performance, your work ethic as an employee, or your ability to lead, participate in, and coordinate activities based on club/organization/volunteer sites. 
• Consider where you are applying and choose references accordingly. 

Make the Request

• Ask permission from references before including them on the reference sheet.
• Make sure to ask well before the due date (1-2 months) if requesting a letter of recommendation.
• Provide references with any supporting materials they may need or request (i.e. resume, transcript, position description or personal statement).
• Give your graduate/professional school references the directions and program-specific requirements for each letter of recommendation.