sample letter of recommendation for research fellowship

Sample Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Applicant

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A good recommendation letter can help you stand out among other fellowship applicants. You will most likely need at least two letters of recommendation as part of the application process. The best recommendations will come from people who know you well and can offer specific information about you as a student, person, or employee.

The sample recommendation letter shown below has been reprinted (with permission) from EssayEdge.com, which did not write or edit this sample recommendation letter. However, it is a good example of how a business recommendation should be formatted for a fellowship application.

Sample Recommendation Letter for a Fellowship

To Whom It May Concern:

I am proud to recommend a beloved student, Kaya Stone, for your fellowship program . I was asked to write as one who has functioned in the capacity of an employer of Kaya, but I would first like to say a few words about him as a student.

Kaya is a highly intelligent, perceptive young man. He came to our institution committed to capitalizing on the opportunity of his third year of study in Israel, and he left with the satisfaction of having accomplished that goal. Kaya grew in learning, in character, in his depth of understanding. He seeks truth in each area of his life, whether in learning, discussing philosophy, or relating to his fellow students and his teachers. Because of his positive disposition, his reflective way of operating, and all of the character traits that make him so special, Kaya’ s questions never go unanswered, and his searches always bring him to exciting discoveries. As a student , Kaya is outstanding. As an educator, I have watched him grow, seen his talents and abilities not only in the classroom but outside its walls when interacting with all types of people as well.

During his time at our institution, Kaya, who as I’m sure you know is an excellent writer and publicist, also has done a good deal of work for the yeshiva. This has included the text for many public relations brochures and packets, letters to parents, potential donors, and alumni, and essentially any correspondence which I have requested that he compose. The feedback is always overwhelmingly positive, and he has done so much in that way for our yeshiva. Even today, while he studies elsewhere, he continues to do a great deal of this work for our institution, in addition to the recruiting and other services he performs for the yeshiva.

Always, in his work, Kaya is consistent, dedicated and passionate, enthusiastic, cheerful, and a pleasure to work with. He has incredible creative energies and a refreshing idealism tempered only enough to accomplish what needs to be done. I highly recommend him for any position of work, leadership, education, or any other capacity in which he can spread his excitement and share his talents with others. At our institution, we are expecting big things from Kaya in the way of educational and communal leadership in the years to come. And knowing Kaya, he will not disappoint, and probably will exceed our expectations.

Thank you once again for the opportunity to recommend such a special and impressive young man.

Sincerely Yours,

Steven Rudenstein Dean, Yeshiva Lorentzen Chainani

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Professional Letters to Support a Fellowship Application

Table of Contents

A letter of recommendation is an integral part of any fellowship application. It provides the selection committee insight into an applicant’s character and qualifications. And this can be a deciding factor in whether or not the applicant is awarded the fellowship. Looking at a  sample letter of recommendation for fellowship program  can be very helpful in getting started with your letter.

Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up some great sample letters that you can refer to in this article. We’ll also share some of the key steps to writing a recommendation letter that’s both informative and enjoyable to read.

What Your Recommendation Letter Should Include

A letter of recommendation for a fellowship should be well-written and tailored to the kind of fellowships the candidate is applying to. It should highlight the candidate’s strengths and explain why they would make a good fit for the program.

Some of the main information you should include in your letter are:

• The candidate’s Name, contact information, and academic history.
• What the fellowship program is about, and the reason why they’re interested in it
• Description of the candidate’s educational and professional achievements.
• Details about the candidate’s qualifications.
• Reasons you think the candidate would be a good fit for the fellowship program.

How to Write a Recommendation Letter for a Fellowship Program

Writing a recommendation letter doesn’t have to be all that complicated. Here are some simple steps that you can follow:

• Start by introducing yourself and stating your position or relationship to the applicant. 
• Share what you know about their academic and professional accomplishments, as well as any other information that may be relevant.
• Highlight specific qualities or traits that make them a strong candidate for the fellowship program. 
• Provide detailed examples of how they have demonstrated these qualities in past experiences or projects.
• Finally, offer your endorsement and say why you believe they would be an excellent fit for the fellowship opportunity.

Professional Sample Letter of Recommendation for Fellowship Program

Dear [Name of Program Head],

I am writing to recommend [Name of Applicant] for the [Name of fellowship program]. I have known [Name of Applicant] for many years and can attest to his intelligence and dedication. He has always been a top student in everything he does, and I am confident he would excel in this program. 

[Name of Applicant] is an excellent communicator and possesses strong critical-thinking skills. He also has a great sense of humor, which makes him fun to be around. In addition to all these qualities, [Name of Applicant] is hardworking and responsible; I know he would take advantage of this opportunity fully. 

If you have any questions about [Name of Applicant]’s qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

[Signature]

To Whom It May Concern, 

I am writing to recommend [Name of applicant] for [Name of fellowship program]. I have known [Name of applicant] for many years and have always been impressed by their intelligence and work ethic.

In addition to being an excellent student, [Name of applicant] is also highly well-rounded and has a wide range of interests. I can think of no one who will be better suited for this opportunity than [Name of applicant].

If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

I am writing to recommend Kevin Smith for the XYZ Fellowship. I have worked with John extensively in a leadership capacity and can attest to his leadership strengths.

In our work together, he has consistently shown himself to be competent, innovative, and motivated. For example, during our last project together, John proved himself instrumental in developing an original solution that saved the team time and resources. 

I truly believe that John would excel as a fellow at XYZ organization, and I commend him for your consideration. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at 555-555-1234. 

Thank you for your time and consideration!

Wrapping Up

A letter of recommendation plays a crucial role in a student’s success in applying for a competitive fellowship. They are one of the most influential elements in an application next to the student’s essays . As such, you shouldn’t take writing your recommendation letter lightly.

The letter should be professional and concise and speak to their qualifications and potential. Hopefully, you’ve gained some ideas on how to better write your letter through the  sample letter of recommendation for fellowship program  in this article.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Letter of Recommendation for a Fellowship (Template)

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A letter of recommendation for fellowship is a letter written to a fellowship committee on behalf of a candidate. The letter should highlight the candidate's strengths and why they would be a good fit for the fellowship. It is important to tailor the letter to the specific fellowship for which the candidate is applying.

A letter of recommendation for fellowship should include

• The candidate's name, contact information, and academic history.
• Details about the fellowship program and why the candidate is interested in it.
• A description of the candidate's academic and professional achievements.
• Details about the candidate's skills and qualifications.
• Why the candidate would be a good fit for the fellowship program.

A letter of recommendation for a fellowship should be well-written and tailored to the specific fellowship for which the candidate is applying. It should highlight the candidate's strengths and explain why they would be a good fit for the program. The letter should be professional and concise, and it should be signed by someone who knows the candidate well and can speak to their qualifications.

There are many different types of fellowships, and each one requires a different type of recommendation letter. However, most fellowship applications require letters from professors or other professionals who can speak to your academic or professional achievements.

The following are four sample letters of recommendation for a fellowship application. Each letter is tailored to a specific type of fellowship.

Letter for a research fellowship

Dear _________,

It is my great pleasure to recommend ____________ for a research fellowship at your esteemed institution. ____________ is an outstanding young scholar with an impressive record of academic achievement. His/Her work in the field of ____________ has already garnered his/her national recognition, and I do not doubt that she will continue to produce groundbreaking research during his/her fellowship.

I have had the privilege of working with ____________ for several years, and I can attest to his/her passion for her work and her dedication to excellence. He/She is an excellent student and a gifted researcher, and I am confident that she will make significant contributions to the field of ____________ during his/her fellowship.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about ____________'s qualifications or suitability for this fellowship. I am happy to provide additional information.

Thank you for your consideration.

(Your Name)

(Your Email)

Letter for a teaching fellowship

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to recommend __________ for the teaching fellowship she has applied for. I have had the pleasure of working with ____________ as his/her teacher during the past school year, and I can say without hesitation that he/she is an outstanding educator.

____________ has a true passion for teaching, and he/she is constantly seeking new ways to engage her students in learning. He/She has a gift for taking complex concepts and making them understandable for students of all ages. His/Her classroom is always lively and engaging, and his/her students are always eager to learn more.

__________would be an excellent addition to any teaching team, and I highly recommend her for the teaching fellowship he/she has applied for. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Letter for a grant writing fellowship

Dear (the person you are recommending),

I am very pleased to recommend (name of the person you are recommending) for the grant writing fellowship. (He/She) is an exceptional writer and has a true gift for crafting compelling proposals. I have worked with (him/her) on numerous proposals, and I can attest to (his/her) skills in this area.

Moreover, (name of the person you are recommending) is a motivated and hard-working individual who is always willing to go the extra mile. I am confident that (he/she) will be an asset to any organization that hires (him/her).

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Letter for a general fellowship

I am writing in regards to the general fellowship that I saw advertised online. I am extremely interested in the opportunity and would love to learn more about it.

I am a recent graduate of (university name) with a degree in (major). I have experience in (relevant experience) , and I believe that I would be a great candidate for the fellowship.

I am eager to learn more about the program and what is required of me. Can you please send me more information, including the application deadline? I look forward to hearing from you soon.

(Your name)

Final Thoughts

When writing a letter of recommendation for fellowship, it is important to highlight the applicant's qualifications and to express your confidence in their ability to succeed. 

You should also be sure to include any relevant information about your relationship with the applicant, such as how long you have known them and what you have observed of their work ethic and academic ability.

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About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes , Glassdoor , American Express , Reader's Digest , LiveCareer , Zety , Yahoo , Recruiter.com , SparkHire , SHRM.org , Process.st , FairyGodBoss , HRCI.org , St. Edwards University , NC State University , IBTimes.com , Thrive Global , TMCnet.com , Work It Daily , Workology , Career Guide , MyPerfectResume , College Career Life , The HR Digest , WorkWise , Career Cast , Elite Staffing , Women in HR , All About Careers , Upstart HR , The Street , Monster , The Ladders , Introvert Whisperer , and many more. Find him on LinkedIn .

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Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters are a critical element of every application. They validate the claims you've made as an applicant, providing specific examples and details of your academic accomplishments, personal endeavors, and character. Selection committees rely on them to impartially evaluate your performance and potential to be successful in the opportunity you are pursuing. Good letter-writers are those who know you well enough to provide these assessments with enthusiasm and authenticity.

Academic letters are typically written by faculty, lecturers, or faculty research advisors who have overseen your work in courses, research settings, or other academic contexts. These letters generally address how you performed, your potential for future success in the field, and any other attributes that make you qualified for the particular award. Post-doctoral associates/fellows and graduate students may also have insight into your performance if they've worked with you in a course or project. However, depending on the fellowship or research opportunity, they do not usually make suitable academic letter-writers. It is important that you check the criteria of the award and/or check-in with administrators who manage the award to see whether letters from non-faculty members would be appropriate for that opportunity.

Some students, especially those in their early college years, have not yet had the opportunity to directly interact with faculty – perhaps you have had more direct interaction with Teaching Fellows ("TFs"). In these cases, you might consider asking the faculty course leader or head of a research group to work together with your TF to generate a co-signed letter. Keep in mind, though, that coordinating co-signed letters takes more time than usual, so plan ahead. Peers (other college students or recent alumni in student organizations), on the other hand,  are not suitable letter writers. If you're applying for a non-academic opportunity, or one that is specifically interested in learning about the applicant's personal attributes (character, leadership potential, commitment to service, etc.), then you might consider asking for a letter of recommendation from a College staff member or organization supervisor, coach, faculty who may be familiar with your work outside of the classroom, work supervisor, or Resident Dean or other House staff.

Letters from high school teachers or your high school years: Soliciting letters from high school teachers is not usually acceptable for fellowship and research opportunities at the college level. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If you've engaged in research as a high school student and are applying to a competitive research fellowship that funds independent study (e.g. Herchel Smith Harvard Summer Science Fellowship ) as a first-year student, it may be acceptable to provide a letter from that experience, but only if the writer can provide strong evidence that you are qualified to pursue an independent research project.

Navigating Recommendations

Letters of recommendation are a critical part of academic and professional development. If you need a letter from a faculty member, research advisor, or other Harvard community member, do not be afraid to ask if they'd be willing to provide you a strong recommendation letter (even if the deadline is still years away, for instance, a medical school/graduate school application).

Help them help you.

• Ask for recommendation letters in advance of the deadline—at least 3-4 weeks' notice is typical. Usually, letters of recommendation are due at the  same time as your own materials! Please take note of this.
• Remind the recommender how they know you, if they have not heard from you in a while. If being in their course was significant to your development or trajectory, let them know! You might also consider re-sending a copy of a paper or project you wrote for their class, to remind them of your good work.
• Give your recommenders specific instructions – this includes how, where, and when to submit the recommendation letter and any guidance from the selection committee on specific topics recommenders should be addressing. If you'd like the recommender to highlight events, skills, or experiences that speak to your qualifications for the opportunity, tell them so. Invite their questions about your materials and the application process, and check-in with them frequently as the deadline approaches.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for multiple letters. Recommenders who have agreed to support your application for one opportunity may also be willing to recommend you for another. If you are considering asking for multiple letters, you'll need to provide specific information about each opportunity, so that your recommender knows how to tailor their letter to best complement your application. (Remember, give plenty of notice—just because they have written for you before doesn't mean they can write a new letter overnight!) Check in frequently to see if they have any questions or concerns or need more information from you.

Give thanks and provide updates.

Regardless of the outcome of your application, be sure that you let your recommenders know you appreciate the effort and time they put toward the recommendation and update them on the outcome of your joint efforts. Even after the experience is long over, do your best to check-in with those recommenders; keeping them engaged with your trajectory is the best way to keep them engaged as your advocate and mentor.

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Writing Recommendation Letters

Information for referees.

A crucial part of each applicant’s application for fellowship programs is the quality of the supporting recommendation letters.  While each referee has their own style and approach to recommendation letters, the suggestions below synthesize guidance provided by fellowship foundations and faculty advisors who have successfully supported past fellowship recipients. 

What Fellowship Foundations look for in recommendation letters

Fellowship foundations have repeatedly emphasized that  fellowship  recommendation letters should be more than just general recommendation letters.  Individuals who write recommendation letters should pay close attention to  the applicant criteria and recommender guidelines found on each fellowship's website . 

Broadly speaking, fellowship letters should focus on:

• The applicant’s  intellectual and academic strengths  (If a referee knows an applicant well, it is also appropriate to comment on any personal knowledge you may have of an  applicant’s character )
• Specific examples of when the referee   has witnessed the applicant actively demonstrating their abilities  (this is much more important than the applicant’s score in a referee's class exams, although this is worth noting if the applicant was at the very top of their class)
• Why the applicant is  a good fit for the specific academic program  they have chosen to pursue (e.g., the MPhil in Biological Science in Pathology at Cambridge)
• How the applicant  meets the specific criteria for the fellowship  for which they are applying (recommendation writers are asked to pay particular attention to the  Applicant Criteria  and  Recommender Guidelines  found on specific fellowship websites)

Recommendation letter writers should mention how the referee knows the applicant (and for how long) and make certain to write a letter that  adheres to a specific fellowship’s word or character count limits , since some fellowships reject letters that do not adhere to their regulations.

What does not typically impress Fellowship Foundations in recommendation letters

• Generic short letters that do not indicate significant familiarity with the applicant
• Letters that summarize or repeat – without elaboration – information found elsewhere in the application, such as the applicant’s resume
• General praise of the applicant without specific examples
• Comments that focus on activities that are in the distant past
• Letters written by someone who lacks knowledge of the applicant’s accomplishments and goals

Avoiding biases in recommendation letters

• A large body of social science research indicates that even individuals with egalitarian beliefs can unintentionally discriminate in recommendation letters
• Common patterns of bias include describing women as warm (hardworking, collaborative, kind) and men as competent (brilliant, stellar, exceptional)
• Common bias patterns include writing shorter letters for women than men, and unintentionally communicating reservations about candidates in underrepresented groups with faint praise (smart, qualified, articulate, etc.)

Tips on formatting recommendation letters

• Letters should be addressed to the individual who chairs the fellowship committee (if known), or to the committee as a whole (students should provide referees with this information)
• Letters for major fellowships are typically on letterhead, and 1.5 - 2 pages, single spaced

Other considerations

• Referees are encouraged to ask the applicant who else is writing for them, so they can consider what else is being written (students should provide referees with this information)
• Referees are asked to consider other applicants for whom they are writing letters, so referees won’t repeat the same language for all applicants

Potential referees might wish to decline a request

• If the referee does not feel they can be emphatically positive about applicant
• If the referee recalls little more about an applicant than grade the applicant earned in a class
• If the referee does not believe s/he is an appropriate person to write a letter
• If the applicant approaches the referee in an unprofessional manner
• If the applicant does not provide ample time for the referee to craft a substantial letter

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Fellowship Letter of Recommendation Writing Guide 2024

Trying to guarantee yourself a spot in the fellowship program at your dream university? A powerful recommendation letter for fellowship might do the magic.

In the face of the raging competition to join the top institutes, you must strengthen your application in every way possible. Remember, when applying to a leading institution, you’re competing against other candidates with similarly impressive academic merit. The word of a credible recommender can make a huge difference and increase your chances of getting selected.

If you seek a sample letter of recommendation for fellowship program, you’ve come to the right page. However, this article also covers a step-by-step guide on how to write a reference letter for fellowship programs, along with the best practices.

Table of Contents

What is a Fellowship Letter of Recommendation? Why is it Important?

What do admission officers expect to find in a recommendation letter for fellowship?

Recommendation letter for fellowship sample

Write your fellowship reference letter in 6 steps

Who can write a recommendation letter for fellowship?

Your fellowship LOR is an integral part of your application to a fellowship program. To put it simply, a recommendation letter is a letter endorsing your competence and assuring the admission committee that you’re indeed a deserving candidate.

A Recommendation Letter for research fellowship usually comes from a professor or other academic professional who has taught or mentored you. However, considering how busy they are and how often they receive requests for such letters, they don’t always have the time to write one. Instead, you might have to draft the letter yourself and get it signed by the recommender.

A recommendation letter for fellowship plays a huge role in your application, because it testifies to your qualities and abilities. Not everything can be included in your CV; there are various additional aspects that might influence the admission committee’s decision.

Your reference letter for postdoctoral fellowship can be the difference between getting selected for the fellowship program or having your application rejected. This is why it’s crucial to make sure that your LOR is powerful and puts you in the best light possible.

consulting a professional academic writer can reduce rejection/mistake risks. 

What Questions Should You Ask Before Writing a Reference Letter for Fellowship?

It’s imperative to cover all the relevant details in your recommendation letter. The LOR should also be tailored to your profile and your requirements. Make sure to ask yourself the following questions before you draft your recommendation letter for fellowship program. In case your recommender is the one writing it, discuss these with him/her.

How is the recommender connected to you?

The person recommending you for the fellowship program must be in a trustable position to do so. Explaining the recommender’s connection to the candidate makes the letter a lot more credible.

How well does your endorser know you?

Being in a trustable position to recommend you isn’t enough – the recommender should also know you well enough to provide valuable insights.

What kind of fellowship program are you applying to?

If you check out our fellowship recommendation letter sample, you’d notice that a good recommendation later is tailored according to the fellowship program it is for. The letter must elaborate on why the candidate is perfect for the program in particular.

What makes you a deserving candidate for the program?

The whole point of a reference letter for fellowship is to reinforce the idea that you deserve a chance to prove yourself through the fellowship program. Think of all the qualities that make you a deserving candidate.

Is there a specific format you need to follow?

Often, institutes set specific formats and other requirements that candidates must follow when writing their recommendation letters. If nothing is specified, you may follow the format used in our recommendation letter sample for fellowship application.

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What Do Admission Officers Expect to Find in a Recommendation Letter for Fellowship?

The reason why LORs hold such importance is that the admission officers rely on them for a variety of information and insights on the candidates. Here are some of the details that your recommendation letter must cover.

Personality:

The recommender’s impression of your personality can have a strong influence on the admission committee’s decision. The more your personality is relevant to the program, the better.

Soft skills:

Your hard skills are already covered in your CV, but your endorser can prove additional insights into your soft skills.

Uniqueness:

Let’s face it – basic qualities like being a hardworking student and having strong academic merit are too common in LORs. Your recommendation letter must cover unique individual traits that set you apart from the rest.

Justification:

Hollow praise doesn’t do much good in a recommendation letter for fellowship doctor When discussing the candidate’s qualities, the recommender must justify them with examples.

Professionalism:

Admission officers judge the authenticity of an LOR based on its tone and pitch. Of course, an LOR written by an experienced academic professional would usually be very different from one written by a candidate who is new to writing recommendation letters.

How long should a fellowship reference letter be?

As you might notice in our sample recommendation letter for fellowship program, LORs are usually 400 to 500 words long. Unless the institute’s LOR guidelines state otherwise, try to keep it within one page of an A4-sized sheet.

The font size should be either 11 or 12, and stick to professional fonts only. Arial and Times New Roman are good choices. Remember to maintain a 1-inch margin on each side of the page.

Recommendation Letter for Fellowship Sample

The following sample recommendation letter for fellowship program will help you get a better understanding of what your LOR should look like. Take note of how the recommender has endorsed the candidate without seeming to praise him blindly or excessively. You may follow this sample fellowship letter of recommendation to fine-tune the tone, pitch, and format in your own LOR.

To whom it may concern,

It’s my privilege to recommend Mr Sounak Basu for your Journalism and Mass communication fellowship program. I am writing this later in the capacity of an educator who supervised Sounak through his research efforts during his postgraduate program. Having him as my student was a pleasure, for he always showed qualities that set him apart from the rest.

Sounak is a dedicated and hardworking student to say the least. However, it’s his inquisitive nature and hunger for knowledge that drew my attention. He has a strong passion for understanding complex theories down to their roots. However, he doesn’t just stop at learning the theories – he takes a practical approach and seeks to utilise them in his research endeavours.

I believe Sounak would be an ideal candidate for the fellowship program at your institute, not only due to his commitment to learning but also because of his active participation. I’ve grown to know him as a team player who’s always ready to volunteer for different projects and events. Not many students I’ve supervised have displayed his level of integrity, practicality, and dedication.

I’d also like to point out that Sounak took up a number of side projects on his own initiative during his postgraduate program under my guidance. I feel gratified to have had the privilege of guiding him with those projects and evaluating them. He certainly has the ability to think out of the box, always coming up with unique research ideas.

Lastly, I should mention that during my time as his mentor, I got to know him quite well as a person. Sounak is a cheerful and passionate student who is always ready to assist others as needed. Not only is he a committed learner himself, but he also takes pleasure in guiding other students with complex concepts and projects.

At this stage of his academic life, Sounak needs the global exposure offered by an esteemed institution like yours. I believe that pursuing a fellowship program at your institute will help him unlock his true potential and reach new heights. Considering his inquisitive nature, unrelenting commitment, and creativity, I don’t doubt that his success would, in turn, benefit the academic world.

I sincerely thank you for the opportunity to recommend an amazing student like Sounak, and can assure you that he would be a great addition to your esteemed institute. Do feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions.

Yours Sincerely,

Rajiv Sharma,

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication,

University of Calcutta,

Guidelines for Using Samples

Of course, you can’t simply use the sample as a template – it would become too generic. Here’s how you can leverage LOR samples.

• First, go through multiple (at least four) sample letters of recommendation for fellowship program to check out different angles that a recommender can cover.
• Always customize and contextualise your recommendation letter with your personal information. This is very important to avoid getting your application rejected.
• The quality of your LOR must match that of the sample letter of recommendation for fellowship program.

Write Your Fellowship Reference Letter in 6 Steps

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on writing an effective recommendation letter for fellowship program.

Step 1: Explain the endorser’s connection with you

As mentioned earlier, establishing the endorser’s credibility is crucial. The introductory paragraph should explain the endorser’s relationship with the candidate.

Cover the academic qualities

Since the recommendation letter is for an academic program, your academic qualities take priority. In this regard, don’t forget to cover personality traits that enhance your academic performance.

Talk about extracurricular and additional activities

In addition to the candidate’s academic excellence in general, the endorser should also bring up any extra projects or activities that the candidate has partaken in.  

Write about the candidate’s personality

Step 5: summarise the contents and persuade.

The second-last section of the recommendation letter should summarize the candidate’s qualities and push the recommendation, emphasizing that he/she would be a great candidate.

Step 6: Conclude the letter

Finally, conclude the letter on a positive note, thanking the reader. The recommender should also share his/her contact details and assure the admission officers that they can contact him/her if they have any queries.

Who Can Write a Recommendation Letter for Fellowship?

The person writing your recommendation letter for fellowship must be in a position of authenticity and authority. The letter should also come from someone who knows you well enough to vouch for you. Usually, fellowship recommendation letters are written by professors, mentors, and HODs.

Final Checklist

• Does the letter establish the recommender’s credibility?
• Has the letter been written in the right format?
• Is the flow of information sequential and logical?
• Did you customize the LOR properly?
• Is your LOR as good as the sample letter of recommendation for fellowship program?

Dos and don’ts

• Maintain a professional tone
• Proofread the document multiple times
• Stay positive and enthusiastic
• Emphasize your nature and personality
• Use a flawless and high-quality language
• Refrain from copying a recommendation letter for postdoc position sample and simply changing the names and course details.
• Don’t exceed the specified word count.
• Refrain from using any informal words or phrases.
• Never use false information or exaggerate the candidate’s qualities.
• Don’t spend too many words on generic qualities and achievements.

Tips for Writing a Fellowship LOR

• Make sure the strengths discussed in the letter align with the requirements of the fellowship program in question.
• Dedicate a paragraph explaining why the applicant is an ideal candidate for the institute.
• Justify your statements about the candidate using practical examples.
• Open the letter with a strong introduction and close it with a convincing conclusion.
• Follow the sample recommendation letter for fellowship program closely.

Hopefully, the detailed guide and the sample above should be enough to help you draft a powerful recommendation letter for fellowship for yourself.

However, don’t hesitate to seek out professional assistance if you aren’t confident about writing a good LOR or find it too difficult.

Expert LOR writers can craft highly tailored recommendation letters for every purpose.

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Vasuki Ram, senior writer and the founder of SOP Consultants is a B-tech Graduate who used to work in an MNC. Starting from 2013, she along with her team has assisted more than 10,000 students. Shift in her career was drastic. Read full story here.

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• Professional Development

How To Write a Fellowship Letter of Recommendation in 6 Steps

A letter of recommendation for a fellowship can be a powerful tool in helping students become competitive applicants for highly sought after awards. It helps to provide an objective assessment of the applicant’s qualifications and background and can be an important factor in the selection process. When writing a letter of recommendation for a fellowship, it is important to keep in mind the purpose and goals of the fellowship for which the applicant is applying. Demonstrating an understanding of the program and the applicant’s potential to excel in it can help to make a compelling case for their candidacy. When crafting a letter of recommendation, one should include information on the applicant’s academic background, work experience, and relevant accomplishments. In addition, it is also important to provide a candid assessment of the applicant’s character and ability to contribute to the fellowship program. Finally, your letter should be written in a professional and respectful tone, while making sure to highlight the applicant’s unique talents and skills.

What to include in a fellowship recommendation letter

If you’re writing a letter of recommendation for someone who is applying for a fellowship, take into account the following points:

Specific examples

It’s crucial to provide specific examples of the applicant’s or student’s accomplishments. This demonstrates your knowledge of their skills and abilities. Additionally, it demonstrates to the admissions committee that you are speaking truthfully when discussing the applicant. The applicant’s qualifications are better explained with specific examples, which can strengthen the letter and increase their chances of admission.

Purpose of the program

An explanation of how the student fits the program’s goals should also be included in the letter of recommendation. For instance, if submitting a research project proposal is a requirement of the fellowship program, you should discuss why you believe the proposed study will be worthwhile. Strengthening the recommendation letter by offering more assistance with the student’s research or course of study

Impact on the applicant

A description of how the fellowship might benefit the applicant is another thing you could put in. This section might discuss how a fellowship could help an applicant achieve their academic and professional objectives. Include a description of your thoughts in this section if you think the fellowship would help the applicant personally.

Positively framed weaknesses

Try to frame any of the applicants’ flaws you point out in the letter in a positive light. Instead of saying that the applicant struggled to properly cite sources in research papers, you could say that they showed a commitment to enhancing their citation styles. Explaining shortcomings in a constructive manner can show the admissions committee that the applicant wants to keep developing their knowledge and skills.

Accurate details

It’s crucial to be as accurate as possible when adding specifics to the letter’s body. Instead of overstating a student’s abilities, try to back up your assertions with facts or figures. For instance, you might mention that the applicant completed their program in the top 10% of their class rather than merely stating that they were good students. By including a statistic, you can improve the accuracy of the information and give the admissions committee a better idea of the applicant’s range of skills.

Why is it important to write a letter of recommendation for a fellowship?

When submitting an application for a fellowship, a letter of recommendation is crucial because it enables the applicant to set themselves apart from other candidates. A fellowship is a program that broadens education through study, research, or an internship. Fellowships typically include a financial grant, stipend, or other compensation to help the fellow with program expenses. Given the fierce competition for many fellowship programs, a letter of recommendation can strengthen an application.

How to write a letter of recommendation for a fellowship

Consider taking the following actions if someone asks you to write a letter of recommendation for a fellowship program:

1. Converse with the applicant

Try to speak with the applicant for a while before you start writing. Ask them about the fellowship, the program, their research proposal, and any other topics that might help you write a stronger letter during this conversation. This knowledge will help you decide what kind of material to put in the letter’s body.

2. Address the letter to the appropriate recipient

It’s crucial to make sure you’ve addressed the letter to the correct recipient at the top. Sometimes, the fellowship program is overseen by a single person, and other times, an entire committee evaluates applicants. It’s best to either mention a specific person or address the committee as a whole. This shows that you are aware of the application process and have made an effort to comprehend the particular fellowship program.

3. Write an introduction

You can mention your relationship with the student in the letter’s opening paragraph. This could include your relationship with the applicant, how long you’ve known them, and your impressions of them overall. The admissions committee will better understand your qualifications to represent the applicant after reading your introduction. Additionally, it gives you a chance to highlight your own academic and professional accomplishments. A thorough opening can lay a solid groundwork for the remainder of the recommendation letter.

4. Write body paragraphs

There are one or two body paragraphs you can write following the introduction. Recommendation letters are ordinarily one to one and a half pages long. Employers may see from a longer letter that you have a lot of positive things to say about the applicant. The body paragraphs of the letter may describe the applicant’s prior work, discuss why you believe they would be a good fit for the fellowship program, or discuss the qualities of their character that would make them a strong student. The body paragraphs contain the bulk of your recommendation.

5. Write a conclusion

Try to conclude your letter by summarizing it after the body paragraphs. The main points of the letter are reemphasized in this paragraph, which also summarizes the key information. You could say in your conclusion that the admissions team can get in touch with you if they have any additional questions. This demonstrates your willingness to speak on behalf of the applicant in addition to the recommendation letter’s contents. The letter is more effective overall when it has a solid conclusion.

6. Proofread

Before mailing the letter, its important to proofread thoroughly. You can use proofreading to make sure you wrote the details clearly and included all the necessary information. If you frequently write letters of recommendation for students, proofreading can assist you in staying organized as you work. You can verify with the applicant at this time the recipient’s name, the mailing address for the letter, and the title of the fellowship program.

A sample recommendation letter for a fellowship application is provided below:

Dear [ admissions counselors name ] ,

Introduction:

Im writing this letter on behalf of [applicants name]. Theyre applying for admission to [name of fellowship program]. I had a working relationship with the applicant for [period of time] and was [type of relationship with applicant]. I was able to learn more about the applicant’s ability to work under pressure, conduct research, and dedication to getting things done during this time. I highly recommend [applicant] for this fellowship program.

Body paragraph:

This applicant has demonstrated their abilities in a number of situations, including [description of situation]. They also demonstrated the following skills [list a few pertinent skills or abilities] The applicant has proven their suitability, and I think they possess the necessary abilities to make a valuable contribution to this fellowship.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, I think [applicants name] is a fantastic choice for [fellowship name] because of their all-encompassing skills and credentials. I would be happy to have a phone conversation with you about the applicant if you have any additional questions.

[ Your name ]

Heres an example of a fellowship letter of recommendation:

January 5, 2022

Dear Political Science Fellowship Committee,

Harrison Rodriguez, who is applying for a position in your Political Theory Fellowship Program, has asked me to write on his behalf. My name is Dr. Jones, and Ive had the pleasure of supervising Mr. Rodriguez through his postgraduate research efforts. He has made significant contributions to numerous political theory research projects, so I think he qualifies for this fellowship.

Mr. Rodriguez is a committed student with a strong passion for comprehending how political theory affects how society functions. By compiling survey data and conducting various tests, he contributed to a study on voting patterns and socioeconomic status. Mr. If Rodriguez is awarded this fellowship, I believe the academic community would greatly benefit from the way his research would address important issues in politics and contemporary society.

In conclusion, I think Mr. Rodriguez is a driven and enthusiastic student who enhances any project in which he is involved. I sincerely recommend him for this fellowship, please take that into consideration. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Dr. Jones, Ph.D.

Writing Recommendation Letters for Fellowship Applicants

Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation for fellowship?

People who know you well enough to vouch for you in your application should write you letters of recommendation. It won’t help your application if a Nobel laureate who doesn’t know you recommends you.

How long should a fellowship recommendation letter be?

The letter should provide comprehensive but detailed information on observed performance in no more than two pages. Comments should be as succinct as possible. To ensure maximum availability to fellowship program directors, the letters must be finished by July 1.

Do you need a letter of recommendation for fellowship?

Most fellowships require at least one letter from a professor who specializes in the area you are applying for. Make sure you have at least one rotation during the course of the year that will give you time with a subspecialty faculty member who can serve as your letter of recommendation writer.

What is a fellowship letter?

SHARE. Individuals in a variety of fields who have attained a certain level of education and training and wish to begin a program of further studies in a specific specialty are intended for fellowship recommendation letters.

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Recommendation letters

Choosing your recommender(s) wisely is an important step of the application process., desired qualities of a recommender, familiarity with your academic and personal self.

Ideally, your recommender should be familiar with not only your academic and research abilities, but also know you as a person. For example, knowing how your personal interests and background will enhance your research and general educational experience.

Recent or continued connection

Just because you remember that faculty member does not mean they won’t get you confused with another of their many students. Having a recommender who was a professor for a first-year lecture hall course is probably not enough, unless you did such a stellar job in that course that you clearly stick out in that faculty member’s mind as one of the best and the brightest they have ever seen.

Availability

Recommenders should not just be an important name. A world-famous recommender will be of little use if they can’t speak about whom you truly are and/or your potential in the field. Your choice for a recommender should be able to have relevant discussions with you as well the time to draft the actual recommendation.

Department officers and administrators often have information about faculty members’ time constraints. Consider asking these individuals about your recommender choice and ask for advice. Will the faculty member be traveling, on sabbatical, working on their new book, etc.?

Student action items

One of the largest reasons for failed fellowship applications is that a recommender doesn’t send their recommendation in by the deadline. It is important to remember that a recommender is also working within a deadline and you should make sure you both reach it on time.

Even if they are incredibly diligent and organized people, you should always be sure to follow up and remind your recommenders of their obligations.

Faculty are busy, emergencies happen, people travel, etc., but these shouldn’t be reasons you don’t get a fellowship.

Provide enough information

Providing recommenders with the necessary information to draft thorough and impressive recommendations is important. The more information the recommender has, the better the recommendation will be.

Don’t ask for or expect a blanket recommendation. You deserve more than that! You should send your recommenders:

• Relevant “information for recommenders” provided by the fellowship organization (deadline, formatting or other guidelines, specific questions that should be addressed etc.)
• An updated CV
• Your academic record
• Your proposed course of study and area of research
• A draft of your research proposal
• Perhaps even your personal statement (especially if you don’t know the person well).

Being thorough and organized here will likely impress your recommender and make their job easier (possibly influencing a better recommendation).

Talk to your recommender

Along with paper documentation, try to have actual discussions with your recommenders.

At this point, you should have done your research on the fellowship(s) you are applying to, so inform your recommenders of what the fellowship organization is looking for (selection criteria, goals, targeted types of people, backgrounds etc.).

This is also a chance to discuss your research topic in detail. This will not only give recommenders the information they need for the letter, but may also help you clarify your research proposal. These conversations are a good opportunity to ask for feedback as well.

Make suggestions

Don’t be afraid to make suggestions of things a recommender can include in the recommendation.

You may already have a close relationship with your recommender, but it doesn’t hurt for you to remind them of your background, strengths, and accomplishments. A faculty member’s time is important, and they are often very busy people. You may not have another chance for such an extensive exchange like this. Milk it for all it is worth!

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Writing Letters of Recommendation

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• Examples of what the applicant has done (e.g., if the student wrote a brilliant paper, mention its topic and why it stood out).
• Merits of the proposed research project, course of study, internship, etc.
• Positive impact the fellowship would have on the student's short- or long-term goals and overall educational trajectory.Place the student in a larger context: e.g., a letter could compare the present applicant to past applicants/winners. If possible, the student can be compared to graduate students or professionals. Quantitative remarks and percentages may be useful: "among the three best students I have taught." The strongest comparisons have the widest reach: "top 5% of students in my 20 years of teaching" is stronger than "the best in his section."
• Draw on the remarks of colleagues for supporting evidence or the acknowledgement of specific strengths. Letters from professors may also draw on the comments from teaching assistants who may have worked more closely with the applicants.
• Ask a student to send you a current resume and relevant application materials and have a conversation with the student about what to highlight. These can be helpful guides as you craft your recommendation. 
• Be aware of bias in letter writing (avoid gendered language, racial stereotypes) 
• Be honest with yourself. Consider whether you can dedicate the time and energy to writing a detailed letter. If not, say no (see below.)

  Avoiding Racial Bias in Letter of Reference Writing 

Avoiding Gender Bias in Letter of Reference Writing 

Tip: Think about how your letter of recommendation might help shape an interview with the fellowship committee.

On the whole, the following are not helpful: 

• Letters that consist largely of unsupported praise and fail to provide specific examples of points mentioned or generic letters sent without regard to the specific fellowship, course of study, or project proposed.
• Letters that may be read as implying criticism (beware of left-handed compliments) or whose criticisms might be taken to indicate stronger reservations than stated. Letters should be honest - and honest criticism, if generously presented, can enhance the force of a letter - but committees take critical comments very seriously.

When to Say "No"

There may be times when declining to write a letter is the best thing to do, such as:

• If the student asks too close to the deadline or approaches you in a highly unprofessional manner (We advise students to ask for letters no less than three weeks in advance of a deadline.)
• If you feel that you cannot be emphatically positive in support of a student.
• If you recall little more about a student than the recorded grades.
• If you do not have the time to write a good letter or if you think that you are not the best person to write a letter. 

Tip: You can help the student to consider alternative letter writers, but agreeing to write for a student whom you cannot strongly support does not help.

Other Considerations

• If you are called upon to write letters for two or more applicants for the same fellowship, beware of using too much of the same language in each, especially if they will be read by the same committee. If you have questions about whether your students are applying through the same region for external fellowships, please contact Fellowship Programs ( [email protected] or 203-432-8685).
• Although we encourage students to provide their recommenders with helpful, detailed information, it is not ethical to request that students provide drafts of their own letters. Faculty should also beware of leaning too heavily on material provided by students, since students give much the same information to each recommender and following this too closely can lead to letters that sound too similar.
• If you have written a letter in collaboration with another faculty member, be mindful about how you and your colleague use subsequent versions of that letter. We want to avoid situations in which a student is represented by different letters with largely identical language from two different faculty members.

(Some of the items above are responses to an informal survey of Truman Scholarship selection panel members. With thanks to Mary Tolar, former Deputy Secretary of the Truman Scholarship Foundation.)

Note: Lost your copy of a letter you wrote? If it was submitted through our office and we still have it on file, we'll gladly send it to you upon your request.

If you are writing for an external award like the Truman, Rhodes, Marshall, or Fulbright, the applicant should provide you with specific guidelines pertaining to that competition.

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Recommendation Letters

Tips for writing letters of recommendation.

As a research mentor who works closely with students in the lab, you will likely be asked to write recommendation letters for your student for research fellowships. Below are some tips for writing good letters.

1. Be sure that the student has given you enough information about the program or fellowship for which the letter is requested. Also make sure that you will have enough time to write the letter before the deadline. It is the student’s responsibility to give you all the information you need and enough time – a few weeks is best. If they do not, you may decline to write the letter.

2. If the letter is confidential, be sure that the student has given you a preaddressed envelope that will go directly to the program and not to the student and that they have signed a waiver indicating that they will not have access to the letter or its contents.

3. If you do not think that you can write a strong or positive letter for the student because you don’t know them well enough, are not familiar with their strengths in the area specified by the program, or you do not think that they are a good fit for the program, it is a good idea to tell the student before you agree to write the letter. You may want to meet with the student to talk about the program, find out why they are applying and what you can say in support of their application. A weak or neutral letter is often worse than no letter at all. If you feel that you cannot write a good letter it may be better for the student to ask someone else.

4. Begin the letter by stating that you are recommending student X for the Y Fellowship. Then write a sentence or two indicating how long and in what connection you have known the student.

5. Direct your comments about the student to the specific interests of the program or fellowship to which they are applying. Is it purely research or are they also looking for leadership or community service activities?

6. It is a good idea to provide specific examples of the student’s qualifications for the program rather than to list their accomplishments as they appear on the student’s resume. The personal story can be more compelling than a list.

7. If you think that the student has some very positive attributes but at the same time has a problem, it is VERY helpful to the selection committee if you mention the problem or if you do not want to put confidential information in a letter, you may say that you would be willing to discuss the student in more detail by phone.

8. It is useful to the application review committee for you to discuss where you would rank this student among other students with whom you have worked. Is this student in the top 10% of students you have mentored in the lab? If you are just getting started as a mentor and recommendation letter writer, then obviously this would not be possible for you to do.

9. For some programs it is better for the student to have a letter that is signed by the lab PI or a faculty member. In this case, you may be asked by your PI to write the letter since you are working more directly with the student and can write in more detail about their commitment and abilities in the lab. Some PI’s will then ask you to co-sign the letter with them. Alternatively, the PI may ask you to write a summary of the student’s progress in the lab, but prefer to write their own letter.

10. If you are asked to write letters for a student for more than one program, make sure that the letter is adapted to reflect the specific focus of the program. And always double check to make sure that the heading, greeting and first sentence are correct for the new letter. Unfortunately, it is a common mistake to send a letter to a fellowship committee without making the editorial changes to address the committee of the new program.

11. You may be asked to write letters for more than one student for the same program; PRISE is a good example. Since the same reviewers will read these letters, it is important to make each letter as individual and personal as possible.

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To whom it may concern,

I am delighted to recommend Mr. Rishi Mehta for the Postdoctoral Fellowship to the research program in -XYZ- at your esteemed university. In my capacity as the former Professor in the Department of Audiology  at ABC  University, _________ (place), I have taught Mr. Rishi  for four years during his undergraduate studies. As I recall, he was very dedicated and enthusiastic in the class to learning and sharing his creative ideas that were out of the box and I can attest to his intelligence and capability.

Mr. Rishi received exceptional grades in my class and also demonstrated strong communication skills, as well as excellent research capabilities. He holds an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology from our university with outstanding academic performance that was consistently good up until his graduation. He has extensive experience with various research projects including Project 1, Project 2 and Project 3. His thesis work on XXX was highly praised by faculty at our university for its originality and insight. He has extensive analytical reasoning capability which I believe your institution would find valuable.

In addition to his academic credentials, Rishi is also a dynamic student who has exceptional leadership skills. During his time at our University, he served as the President of the __________ Club and chaired numerous events that raised awareness about environmental protection among students. His excellent planning and networking abilities are highly commendable. Rishi excels when working in a diverse environment while still maintaining top notch productivity levels which makes him even more dexterous amidst challenges posed by group work dynamics. Additionally, he has an impressive level of knowledge about current happenings in the field of _________ which makes him a valuable addition to your program.

To conclude, I believe Mr. Rishi Mehta should be considered for the Postdoctoral Fellowship due to not only his impressive qualifications but also for his passionate enthusiasm regarding furthering himself in AAA. I highly recommend Mr. Rishi Mehta for the Postdoctoral Fellowship for the research program in -XYZ- at your esteemed university without reservation and look forward to hearing about his success in all future endeavors!

Sonal Bardwaj

Retired Professor of Audiology

Guidelines for Using LOR Samples for Fellowship

Make sure you pay attention when you read a sample recommendation letter for fellowship program. Here are some things to consider:

• Read the LOR Sample thoroughly
• How does the recommender portray the applicant for the fellowship
• How different is each paragraph in the sample based on the specific materials
• How the recommender tries to introduce themselves and how they establish the professional relationship they have with the applicant in the sample
• Check the grammar and vocabulary
• Check the format and structure of the Fellowship Recommendation Letter Sample

Write your Fellowship Recommendation Letter in 6 steps?

Step 1: Get to know the applicant

Before getting started, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the applicant. What are their strengths? Are they interested in a particular field of study? Know as much about the applicant as possible so your letter will be well-informed and convincing.

Step 2: Consider the personality and characteristics of the applicant

Just like with anything else related to writing, crafting an effective fellowship recommendation letter requires taking into account the personality of the applicant. In order to garner favor with admission committees, letters should demonstrate that the writer really knows their applicant well.

Step 3: Define the applicant's qualifications and abilities

Briefly describe the applicant’s qualifications and abilities accordingly with evidence from the recommender’s point of view.

Step 4: Structure the letter according to guidelines

The main points of focus usually include summarizing why the applicant deserves a fellowship, highlighting any extracurricular activities or achievements that the applicant may have had, and showing that the applicant is ideal for the fellowship program.

Step 5: Conclusion

Summarize all the points made in the letter so far by supporting the applicant and giving them the recommender’s positive approval for enrollment in a fellowship program.

Include the letter of recommendation with the rest of the applicant’s fellowship application materials.

Who Is Eligible to Write an LOR for Fellowship?

Professors, Employers and people who are associated with the applicant in academia or work environment are mainly eligible to write a Fellowship Letter of Recommendation.

Final Checklist

To ensure that your Reference Letter for Postdoctoral Fellowship is as strong as possible, follow these steps:

• Have I provided the correct address?
• Have I established the relationship between the recommender and applicant?
• Are there any key details that make the applicant worthy of the fellowship program?
• Is my recommendation letter in accordance with the Fellowship program's guidelines?
• Have I followed the format correctly?

Do's and Don't in Your LOR for Fellowship

• Be personal and meaningful.
• Match the letter to the specific applicant.
• Use clear, concise language.
• Be respectful and complimentary.
• Don’t exaggerate 
• Focusing exclusively on an individual’s weaknesses can come across as unhelpful or negative. Instead, share general observations about their work ethic and creativity that reflect well on them as scholars.
• Try to avoid false information

Tips for Writing a Recommendation Letter for Fellowship

• Start with a personal anecdote about the person you are recommending. This will give the reader a good feeling about you and why they should read on.
• Use strong language to introduce your recommendation and make it clear why the person should be chosen for the fellowship.
• Inform the recipient of what they can expect from the Fellowship and what this will allow them to do in their field of study or work.
• End your letter by thanking them for considering your applicant for the fellowship and assuring them that you will keep an eye out for their accomplishments while they are spending their time at the fellowship program!
• Proofread and double check your work. Mistakes can happen when we’re rushing, and it’s important to make sure that all of your letters look top notch before submitting them.

After reading this blog, I hope you have received a good foundation on which to start drafting Fellowship recommendation letters.

Follow the tips provided and use the writing guide as a reference when crafting your letter. Good Luck!

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INFORMATION FOR

• Residents & Fellows
• Researchers

31 Letters of Recommendation

Hello everyone,

I’ve completed my annual letter writing marathon and 31 fellowship LORs are now posted on ERAS. Although the individual letters are confidential, I thought you’d like seeing the template used to compose them (attached). The template saves time but, more importantly, ensures a consistent structure that contains all the key elements. This year’s letter changed to adhere to new AAIM guidelines (attached), but I have no doubt everyone will match extremely well as always.

Even if you’re not applying this year, look at the template to see how you are evaluated in the domains of clinical performance, scholarship, and citizenship, which is what fellowship directors care about. Although the template includes verbiage that can reflect poor or mediocre performance, most residents performed magnificently and this was richly reflected in their letters.

FYI, here’s what people are applying in this year:

• Cardiology: 2
• Endocrinology: 1
• General Internal Medicine: 1
• Heme-Onc: 6
• Informatics: 1
• National Clinical Scholars Program: 1
• Nephrology: 1
• Pulmonary & Critical Care: 5
• Rheumatology: 4

Even if you’re not applying this year, look at the template to see how you are evaluated in the domains of clinical performance, scholarship, and citizenship, which is what fellowship directors care about.

Good luck to all the candidates!

Featured in this article

• Mark David Siegel, MD Professor of Medicine (Pulmonary); Program Director, Internal Medicine Traditional Residency Program

Related Links

• Fellowship Letter of Recommendation Template
• AAIM Guidelines for Writing Fellowship Letters of Recommendation

Asking for Letters of Recommendation

Each scholarship or fellowship application has different parameters for the required letters of recommendation. Before requesting a recommendation from a faculty member, familiarize yourself with these parameters and read the guidelines below.

Choosing a Recommender

To ensure strong recommendations, it's important to pick recommenders who really know you and your work. You could seek recommendations from faculty from whom you have taken multiple courses, faculty who have advised you on a project, etc. Make sure these are people who know you, remember your work, and can describe your contributions in concrete ways!

Pay close attention to the scholarship's requirements and suggestions for recommendations.  Some scholarships ask for a faculty reference from within your discipline; some require information from a recommender who has worked with you in a specific capacity (research, service project, etc.); some may require assessments from experts who can speak to your language skills.

In most cases your recommenders should be faculty members, though sometimes staff members or individuals who have supervised you or worked with you in professional or volunteer settings may provide strong references.  Friends or family members are not appropriate recommenders.

If you’re early in your academic career, start cultivating connections with faculty now. Go to office hours to discuss material. Attend lectures and participate in optional departmental events. Get involved in research or creative work in your field. A professor who knows you will not only want to help you but will be able to write you a better letter. Read more about how to work and collaborate with faculty here .

Have at least one or two back-up recommenders in mind. Your referees are under no obligation to write you a letter, and you need to make sure you have options in the event that someone is unable to write a recommendation.

Requesting a Recommendation

You might feel anxious or uncertain about asking for a letter of recommendation, but remember that fielding these kinds of requests from students is likely a part of your recommender’s normal job.  You are not strange or pushy for asking.

Ask for the letter of recommendation at least six weeks in advance of the deadline . You want your recommender to have time to craft a glowing letter. Requesting a professor’s help too close to the deadline does not reflect well on your character, judgement, or professionalism. Although some professors are generous about these protocols, remember that your recommenders are doing you a favor, often at a considerable expense of time and energy. You want to make sure that you seem like someone they would like to take the time and effort to help.

When requesting a recommendation over email, write a more formal request, even if your normal interactions with the professor are very casual. If asking in person, dress nicely. It is not necessary to dress as if you are going to a job interview, but wear presentable clothing. Don't put your professor on the spot by making your request right before or after class; instead, attend office hours or make an appointment.

Make your request specific, and be clear about the reasons you think the recommender can write you a compelling letter. For example:

- “Your course on ____ really helped me solidify my research interests.” - “Your advising has led me to develop my interest in ______.” - “I was really grateful for the opportunity to work with you on ____.” - “I remember our conversation about ____.”

Always make sure you give your referee an “out” -- a way to gracefully turn down your request if they are unable to write a recommendation. Present the recommendation as something that would help you as you progress, rather than something that could make or break your future career. We suggest using the follow phrasing:

Do you feel that you are able to provide a good letter of recommendation for me for this scholarship?

If a Recommender Agrees

Thank your recommender promptly and provide all the relevant information and details about the application process, including the specific type of fellowship, scholarship or program to which you are applying (for example: if you are applying for a Marshall, include the specific degree, department and university); links to relevant parts of the scholarship website (not just the main page); and contact information for CFSA. If you need to register the recommender on the scholarship website, do so.  Make sure your recommender knows how recommendations will be delivered and processed. Confirm that your referee knows the scholarship's deadlines (both official and internal Syracuse University deadlines, if applicable). We recommend providing your recommender with a filled out Student Recommendation Request Form that includes the above information.

Provide your CV or resume, your transcript, and any application materials you’re preparing. It is okay to share your application essay drafts! If your application materials are at draft stage, make sure your recommender knows that. Offer to meet in person or chat over the phone. Provide any other material you think may be relevant and could help your referee write a strong recommendation.

Always consider signing the waiver of the right to read your letters. Some students do not waive their rights to read letters and the letters written for them, no matter how glowing, are often heavily discounted by readers.  Some recommenders will not write for students who do not waive their rights to read letters.

Remember to send your recommender a thank you note or email after the letter has been submitted, and be sure to follow up to let them know the results of your application (whether or not you win the scholarship).

If a Recommender Cannot Write You a Letter

Turning down your request for a letter of recommendation is rarely a rejection of you or your work. There are many different reasons a faculty member may say no: they may be very busy and unable to find the time to give your letter the time it requires; they may feel they do not know you or your work very well; they may have another deadline around the same time that would prevent them from completing your letter; they may not feel qualified to write a recommendation for the particular fellowship or program to which you are applying.

Sometimes a "no" from a recommender you have approached can actually be a good thing. You need the strongest letters possible, and a recommendation from a faculty member who is unable to take the time to write an excellent letter, or who does not know you very well, is unlikely to help you.

Make sure you respond graciously and gratefully. A faculty member turning you down now may be happy and willing to recommend you in the future.

Three Syracuse University Students Named 2024 Tillman Scholars

Angelina lim ’25 named a 2024 beinecke scholar, julia fancher named a 2024-25 astronaut scholar, two students selected for prestigious fulbright uk summer institutes, record number receive awards through fulbright u.s. student program.

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Graduate Research Fellowship Program

Reference Writers

Reference letters are a key component of a strong application package. The most effective reference letters provide detailed and specific information about how an applicant meets the  NSF Merit Review Criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts .

The reference letter should include comments on the applicant’s potential for contributing to a globally-engaged United States science and engineering workforce, statements about the applicant’s academic potential and prior research experiences, statements about the applicant’s proposed research, and any other information to enable reviewers to evaluate the application according to the NSF Merit Review Criteria.

Once the applicant completes the appropriate section of their GRFP application, reference writers will receive an email detailing the requirements for the letter and the process of submission. All reference letters must be submitted online via the GRFP Module and received by the deadline for the current competition.

ISL Bicentennial Research Fellowship for 2025, apply starting 9/3

Posted on August 25, 2024 by avincibo

Brittany Kropf (MLIS & MA in Public History, 2014) is the Rare Books and Manuscripts Librarian at the Indiana State Library . She shared the following opportunity, which is a unique opportunity for folks with a history research background and/or history dual degree students & alumni. They hope for some applicants outside of Marion County and even Indiana.

Description In honor of the Indiana State Library’s 200th anniversary, the ISL Bicentennial Committee, in conjunction with the Indiana State Library Foundation, will support one ISL Bicentennial Research Fellowship for 2025. Emerging or established researchers and historians who are prepared to conduct and publish new research and scholarship with a focus on Indiana history or a specific collection housed at the Indiana State Library are encouraged to apply. The fellowship provides a $1000 stipend to support in-person research for five consecutive work days at the Indiana State Library in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana.

Eligibility Applicants must be emerging or established historians, researchers, authors, post-docs, or graduate students with proven writing skills, a demonstrated passion for Indiana history, and the ability to perform in-person research at the Indiana State Library for five consecutive days, Mon.-Fri. between January 6-December 19, 2025. Applicants can be based anywhere in the U.S., but we particularly encourage Indiana residents outside of Marion County to apply.

Timeline Application opens: Tuesday September 3, 2024, 8:30 a.m. EST Application deadline: Tuesday November 26, 2024, 4:30 p.m. EST Fellowship will be awarded by: Tuesday December 31, 2024, 4:30 p.m. EST Fellowship period Monday January 6-Friday December 19, 2025

How to Apply Please submit a completed ISL Bicentennial Application  along with Research Statement/Proposal (1 pg.), a resume/CV (3 pg. maximum), one letter of recommendation, and up to three writing samples/samples of work to [email protected] . Writing samples can be submitted as pdf or word file formats and should not be longer than 20 pages each.

Selection Process A Bicentennial Research Fellowship Review Committee composed of staff librarians and historians will convene to review all application documents and award the fellowship. All applicants will receive written notification via email on whether they have been selected for the fellowship. The application review will take place between December 2-20, 2024.

Additional Benefits -An ISL mentor will be onsite to assist the fellow at the Indiana State Library -Access to onsite research databases and ISL services -Study carrel room from which to conduct research -Access and contacts to partner organizations and agencies while in Indianapolis

https://www.in.gov/library/isl-bicentennial/

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Observer Research Foundation America (ORF America)

U.S.-India AI Fellowship Program 2024-2025

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The Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and ORF America are excited to announce the U.S.-India AI Fellowship Program 2024-2025. The program seeks to support innovative policy solutions, AI research, promote cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting professional relationships between young leaders interested in advancing AI cooperation between India and the United States. The inaugural one-year AI Fellowship Program will bring together a cohort of 20 diverse, early and mid-career professionals and emerging leaders (10 from India and 10 from the United States) with diverse backgrounds in industry, government, academia, and civil society, and expertise and interest in AI, the economy, and society.

Fellowship Overview:

The U.S.-India AI Fellowship Program is a 12-month program designed for outstanding early and mid-career professionals and emerging leaders in industry, government, academia, and civil society who are passionate about advancing and leveraging the field of artificial intelligence as a force for the collective good. Fellows of the inaugural cohort will have the opportunity to learn about current AI policy and technology developments, participate in in-person meetings in the United States, India, and the UAE, attend AI seminars and lectures with leading policy, industry and technology experts in the field, while also working independently and in cooperation with other fellows on their own research and analysis. The AI Fellowship Program is organized alongside the U.S.-India AI Task Force, a group of high-level experts set out to draft principles and recommendations for future U.S. and India technology relations. Fellows will have opportunities to interact with and contribute to the AI Task Force.

Activities and Benefit:

Convening: Fellows will participate in three in-person conferences in Washington, D.C., New Delhi, and Abu Dhabi. Related travel and accommodation expenses are covered by the fellowship.

Training: Fellows will have access to dedicated in-person seminars and virtual lectures focused on U.S.-India cooperation on AI policy, technology, business, and the latest in AI developments and R&D.

Research: During the fellowship, Fellows will each author one short-form article on a current AI or AI-related policy topic, one longer piece for an edited volume, and contribute to a vision document and blueprint for U.S.-India AI cooperation.

Networking: Fellows will build lasting professional and personal connections with other fellows, AI experts and meet senior government officials and industry leaders as part of the program.

Eligibility:

Applicants should be early or mid-career professionals between 25-40 years with strong interests in AI, technology and public policy, and U.S.-India relations.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor, Masters, and/or PhD degree in a relevant field with at least 2 years of professional experience in industry, government, academia, and civil society and a demonstrated professional or academic track record.

Intellectually curious and willing to explore beyond their comfort zone.

Willing to actively participate, openly share professional knowledge and learn from other participants.

Ability to engage in English in a professional in-person conference and virtual meeting settings.

Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or India or have a student or working visa in one of the countries. Selected fellows must commit to participate in all aspects of the program and able to travel to Abu Dhabi (Fall 2024), New Delhi (Spring 2025) and Washington, D.C. (Fall 2025). ORF and ORF America will provide a visa letter, but fellows must secure their own visa.

AI Fellows are expected to spend between 16-20 hours per month to fulfill the program’s requirements, in addition to attending all 3 in-person meetings.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their application in a single PDF document to [email protected] and note “US-India AI Fellowship Program” in the subject line. The application should include the following:

Personal Statement: A brief statement (600-900 words) that (a) describes your interest and motivation to become an AI fellow, and (b) outlines a relevant idea, issue or policy challenge at the intersection of U.S.-India cooperation and AI that you would like to explore during your fellowship.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current CV highlighting your academic and professional achievements, relevant experience, and professional or academic publications (including URLs to the publication).

Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from a professional or academic reference who can speak to your qualifications and potential for success in the fellowship.

Writing Sample: Provide a writing sample (PDF or URL) of a recent professional or academic publication.

Application Deadline: The deadline to apply for the AI Fellowship Program is September 8, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Selection Process: Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee from both the United States and India. Successful applicants will be notified in the last week of September 2024. ORF and ORF America are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all our programs. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Contact Information: For more information about the U.S.-India AI Fellowship Program and the application process, please contact ORF America at [email protected]