Source: Microsoft Office Online Templates
SAMPLE REQUEST FOR LETTER OF REFERENCE
[Your Name]
[Street Address]
[City, ST ZIP Code]
November 5, 2008
[Recipient Name]
[Title]
[School Name]
[Street Address]
[City, ST ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient Name]:
I am applying to Ph.D. programs in linguistics this winter and am writing to ask if you
would be willing to write a letter of recommendation in support of my applications. I plan
to specialize in Sociolinguistics in English, particularly with respect to gender changes in
speech. I would also like to further my understanding of English Syntactic Theory.
I believe that the two courses I took from you, LING 311 Linguistics and Society (Spring
2001) and LING 403 Seminar in Comparative Linguistics (Fall 2002), have helped me to
develop a solid foundation for my graduate studies in linguistics. Our investigation into
the complex and fascinating interactions among language, culture, and society planted the
seed from which my passion in Sociolinguistics has grown.
I have included a summary of my academic and professional experience to help you
decide whether to recommend me. I plan to apply for autumn, 2004 admission to four
schools, and the applications are due in early January.
Should you decide to recommend me, I will send you a draft of my statement of purpose,
copies of my transcripts, my resume, a writing sample, and any other materials you think
would help you in the evaluation process. If you have any questions, please contact me
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Enclosure