25 Powerful Recommendation Letter Templates & Examples

Introduction: The Power of a Strong Recommendation Letter

A compelling recommendation letter can be the key to unlocking opportunities for someone, whether it’s landing a dream job, gaining admission to a prestigious university, or securing a coveted scholarship. It’s more than just a formality; it’s a testament to an individual’s skills, character, and potential, delivered from a credible source. However, crafting a truly effective recommendation letter can be challenging. Many people struggle with knowing where to start, what information to include, and how to strike the right tone. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide, featuring 25 carefully designed recommendation letter templates and examples to help you write impactful and persuasive letters for a variety of situations.

This article provides you with the tools and knowledge you need to write standout recommendations. We’ll explore different scenarios and offer practical templates that you can adapt to fit your specific needs. From academic recommendations highlighting a student’s intellectual capabilities to professional recommendations emphasizing an employee’s work ethic and accomplishments, we cover a wide spectrum of situations. Each template includes a sample letter demonstrating how to effectively use the template to create a powerful and personalized recommendation. By using these resources, you can confidently write recommendations that truly make a difference in the lives of those you support. Furthermore, we’ll delve into best practices for structuring your letter, highlighting key skills and achievements, and maintaining a professional and supportive tone throughout.

25 Recommendation Letter Templates and Examples

Below are 25 templates designed for diverse situations. Each template is followed by a sample letter illustrating its usage. Remember to personalize these templates with specific details about the individual you are recommending.

1. General Recommendation Letter Template

This template is suitable for providing a general recommendation for someone you know well.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      [Recipient Name]
      [Recipient Title]
      [Organization Name]
      [Recipient Address]

      Dear [Recipient Name],

      I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant - e.g., their professor, their supervisor].

      During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [Applicant Name]'s [Positive Qualities - e.g., work ethic, intelligence, dedication].  Specifically, [Give Specific Example of their Qualities].

      [Applicant Name] is also [Additional Positive Qualities - e.g., a team player, a problem-solver, highly motivated].  [He/She/They] consistently [Demonstrate their abilities - e.g., exceeded expectations, took initiative, delivered high-quality work].

      I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your [Organization/Program].  I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: General Recommendation

[Your Name]
123 Main Street
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
John Smith
Marketing Director, XYZ Marketing Agency

2. Academic Recommendation Letter Template (Undergraduate)

Use this template to recommend an undergraduate student for admission to a program or scholarship.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Title]
      [Department]
      [University Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      Admissions Committee
      [University Name]
      [Address]

      Dear Admissions Committee,

      It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student Name] for admission to your undergraduate program. I have had the opportunity to teach [Student Name] in [Course Name(s)] at [University Name] during [Academic Year(s)].

      [Student Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for [Subject/Field]. [He/She/They] consistently [Describe specific academic achievements - e.g., earned top marks, actively participated in class discussions, demonstrated critical thinking skills].

      Beyond [his/her/their] academic abilities, [Student Name] is [Describe personal qualities - e.g., highly motivated, intellectually curious, a collaborative learner].  [Give a specific example illustrating this quality].

      I am confident that [Student Name] possesses the intellectual curiosity, dedication, and personal qualities necessary to succeed in your rigorous undergraduate program. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Academic Recommendation (Undergraduate)

[Your Name]
Professor of History
History Department
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA 94720
(510) 642-1234
prof.yourname@berkeley.edu

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Dr. David Miller
Professor of History

3. Academic Recommendation Letter Template (Graduate)

This template is designed for recommending a student for graduate studies.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Title]
      [Department]
      [University Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      Admissions Committee
      [University Name]
      [Address]

      Dear Admissions Committee,

      I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for admission to your graduate program in [Field of Study]. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Student - e.g., their research advisor, their professor].

      During this time, [Student Name] has consistently impressed me with [his/her/their] [Positive Qualities - e.g., intellectual curiosity, research skills, dedication to learning]. [He/She/They] demonstrated this through [Give Specific Examples - e.g., conducting independent research, presenting at conferences, publishing in peer-reviewed journals].

      [Student Name]'s research on [Specific Research Topic] is particularly noteworthy. [Describe the significance of their research and their contributions].

      [He/She/They] possess[es] the necessary skills, knowledge, and motivation to excel in your graduate program.  I am confident that [Student Name] will make significant contributions to the field of [Field of Study].

      I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Academic Recommendation (Graduate)

[Your Name]
Professor of Computer Science
Department of Computer Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 253-1000
prof.yourname@mit.edu

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Dr. Alice Chen
Professor of Computer Science

4. Recommendation Letter for a Job (Entry-Level)

Use this when recommending someone for their first job or an entry-level position.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      [Hiring Manager Name]
      [Hiring Manager Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Company Address]

      Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

      I am pleased to recommend [Employee Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Employee Name] as [Your Relationship to Employee - e.g., their supervisor, their mentor] at [Company Name].

      During [his/her/their] time here, [Employee Name] consistently demonstrated [Positive Qualities - e.g., a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, a positive attitude]. [He/She/They] quickly grasped new concepts and was always eager to take on new challenges.

      [Give a specific example of their accomplishments or contributions]. For example, [He/She/They] [Describe a specific achievement - e.g., successfully completed a project ahead of schedule, improved a process, exceeded sales targets].

      Although this is an entry-level position, I am confident that [Employee Name]'s [Skills and Qualities] will make [him/her/them] a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for this opportunity.

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for a Job (Entry-Level)

[Your Name]
Marketing Manager
GreenTech Solutions
100 Elm Street
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Sarah Johnson
Marketing Manager, GreenTech Solutions

5. Recommendation Letter for a Job (Mid-Level)

Suitable for recommending someone with a few years of experience for a mid-level position.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      [Hiring Manager Name]
      [Hiring Manager Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Company Address]

      Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

      I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Employee Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the opportunity to work closely with [Employee Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Employee - e.g., their colleague, their manager] at [Company Name].

      [Employee Name] is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a proven track record of success in [Industry/Field].  [He/She/They] possess[es] a strong understanding of [Relevant Skills/Knowledge] and is adept at [Specific Tasks/Responsibilities].

      During [his/her/their] time at [Company Name], [Employee Name] consistently [Describe Accomplishments - e.g., exceeded expectations, implemented successful strategies, led key projects]. For example, [He/She/They] [Give Specific Example of their Achievements with Quantifiable Results].

      [Employee Name] is also a [Positive Personal Qualities - e.g., strong communicator, problem-solver, team player]. [He/She/They] is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of the team and the company.

      I am confident that [Employee Name]'s skills, experience, and dedication would make [him/her/them] a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for a Job (Mid-Level)

[Your Name]
Senior Project Manager
TechSolutions Inc.
400 Pine Street
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Robert Williams
Senior Project Manager, TechSolutions Inc.

6. Recommendation Letter for a Job (Senior-Level)

For recommending an experienced professional for a senior management or executive role.

      [Your Name]
      [Your Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Your Phone Number]
      [Your Email Address]

      [Date]

      [Hiring Manager Name]
      [Hiring Manager Title]
      [Company Name]
      [Company Address]

      Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

      It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Employee Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Employee Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Employee - e.g., their mentor, their executive colleague] at [Company Name].

      [Employee Name] is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of success in [Industry/Field]. [He/She/They] possess[es] a deep understanding of [Relevant Skills/Knowledge] and a remarkable ability to [Specific Accomplishments - e.g., drive growth, transform organizations, build high-performing teams].

      During [his/her/their] tenure at [Company Name], [Employee Name] consistently [Describe Specific Achievements with Quantifiable Results - e.g., increased revenue by X%, reduced costs by Y%, successfully launched Z new products]. For example, [He/She/They] [Give a Specific and Compelling Example of their Impact].

      [Employee Name] is also a [Positive Personal Qualities - e.g., visionary leader, strategic thinker, effective communicator]. [He/She/They] is highly respected by colleagues and stakeholders alike.

      I am confident that [Employee Name]'s leadership skills, strategic vision, and extensive experience would make [him/her/them] an invaluable asset to your organization. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without any hesitation.

      Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

      Sincerely,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for a Job (Senior-Level)

[Your Name]
CEO
GlobalTech Enterprises
600 Market Street
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
David Thompson
CEO, GlobalTech Enterprises

7. Recommendation Letter for an Internship

Use this template to recommend a student or recent graduate for an internship opportunity.

        [Your Name]
        [Your Title]
        [Organization Name]
        [Your Address]
        [Your Phone Number]
        [Your Email Address]

        [Date]

        [Hiring Manager Name]
        [Hiring Manager Title]
        [Organization Name]
        [Organization Address]

        Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

        I am writing to recommend [Student Name] for the [Internship Title] internship at [Organization Name]. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Student - e.g., their professor, their supervisor].

        [Student Name] is a highly motivated and talented [Student's Field of Study/Area of Interest] student with a strong interest in [Specific Area related to Internship]. [He/She/They] possess[es] a solid understanding of [Relevant Skills/Knowledge] and a keen desire to learn and grow.

        During [his/her/their] time [with me/in my class/at Organization Name], [Student Name] consistently demonstrated [Positive Qualities - e.g., a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, a proactive attitude]. [Give a specific example].

        [He/She/They] is also [Describe additional relevant skills or qualities - e.g., a team player, a problem solver, detail-oriented]. I am confident that [Student Name] would be a valuable asset to your internship program.

        I highly recommend [him/her/them] for this internship opportunity. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

        Sincerely,
        [Your Signature]
        [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for an Internship

[Your Name]
Professor of Marketing
Business Department
State University
123 University Drive
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Dr. John Davis
Professor of Marketing

8. Recommendation Letter for Scholarship

Use this template to recommend a student for a scholarship.

        [Your Name]
        [Your Title]
        [Organization Name]
        [Your Address]
        [Your Phone Number]
        [Your Email Address]

        [Date]

        Scholarship Committee
        [Scholarship Name]
        [Address]

        Dear Scholarship Committee,

        I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Student - e.g., their teacher, their mentor].

        [Student Name] is an exceptional student with a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to [Student's Field of Study/Area of Interest]. [He/She/They] has consistently excelled in [his/her/their] studies, earning a GPA of [GPA] and demonstrating a deep understanding of [Relevant Subjects].

        Beyond academics, [Student Name] is also actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities/Community Service]. [He/She/They] is a [Positive Qualities - e.g., leader, team player, dedicated volunteer] and is passionate about [Cause/Activity].

        [Give a specific example showcasing their qualities or achievements].

        I believe that [Student Name] possesses the intellectual ability, leadership potential, and commitment to make a significant contribution to [Society/Field of Study]. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship.

        Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

        Sincerely,
        [Your Signature]
        [Your Typed Name]
      

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for Scholarship

[Your Name]
High School Principal
Anytown High School
789 High School Drive
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Michael Johnson
High School Principal

9. Recommendation Letter for Volunteer Work

This template is for recommending someone based on their volunteer contributions.

          [Your Name]
          [Your Title]
          [Organization Name]
          [Your Address]
          [Your Phone Number]
          [Your Email Address]

          [Date]

          [Recipient Name]
          [Recipient Title]
          [Organization Name]
          [Recipient Address]

          Dear [Recipient Name],

          I am writing to recommend [Volunteer Name] for [Position/Opportunity] at [Organization Name]. I have known [Volunteer Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Volunteer - e.g., their supervisor, a fellow volunteer].

          During this time, [Volunteer Name] has been an invaluable asset to [Our Organization/Our Cause]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated [Positive Qualities - e.g., dedication, compassion, reliability] through [his/her/their] work on [Specific Projects/Tasks].

          [Give a specific example illustrating their volunteer contributions and their impact].

          [Volunteer Name] is also [Describe additional relevant qualities - e.g., a team player, a strong communicator, a problem-solver]. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your organization.

          I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

          Sincerely,
          [Your Signature]
          [Your Typed Name]
        

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for Volunteer Work

[Your Name]
Volunteer Coordinator
Habitat for Humanity
123 Charity Lane
Anytown, USA 12345
(555) 555-5555
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Jane Doe
Volunteer Coordinator

10. Recommendation Letter for Medical School

Specifically tailored for recommending someone applying to medical school.

          [Your Name]
          [Your Title]
          [Department]
          [University Name/Hospital Name]
          [Your Address]
          [Your Phone Number]
          [Your Email Address]

          [Date]

          Admissions Committee
          [Medical School Name]
          [Address]

          Dear Admissions Committee,

          It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student Name] for admission to your medical school. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Student - e.g., their professor, their research mentor, their attending physician].

          [Student Name] is an exceptional student with a strong foundation in [Relevant Sciences - e.g., biology, chemistry, physics]. [He/She/They] has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of these subjects, earning high marks in my [Course Name(s)].

          Beyond academics, [Student Name] possesses the qualities necessary to excel as a physician, including [Positive Qualities - e.g., empathy, compassion, critical thinking skills, leadership abilities]. [Give a specific example illustrating these qualities, such as volunteer work in a hospital or research experience].

          [He/She/They] has also demonstrated a strong commitment to medicine through [Activities - e.g., shadowing physicians, volunteering in a clinic, participating in medical research]. [Elaborate on their experiences and what they learned].

          I am confident that [Student Name] possesses the intellectual ability, personal qualities, and dedication to succeed in your rigorous medical school program. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.

          Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

          Sincerely,
          [Your Signature]
          [Your Typed Name]
        

Sample Letter: Recommendation Letter for Medical School

[Your Name]
Professor of Biology
Biology Department
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 825-1234
your.email@example.com

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Dr. Emily Carter
Professor of Biology

11. Recommendation Letter for Law School