need many recommendation letters - what's a reasonable request?

[guest464345]

Hi everyone -

I'm applying to direct-entry FNP programs this fall. As we all know, these programs are super-competitive. I anticipate applying to several schools, in the hopes of getting accepted somewhere, somehow :)

Each school requires 3-4 professional or academic recommendations. Each school has their own version of a recommendation form, some only requiring checking boxes and making short comments, others requiring a formal letter as well. And of course they're all looking for slightly different things in that letter. So, about three letters per school....applying at five places....that's a lot of forms.

My question is, what's reasonable to ask from my references? For the schools that want a standard letter and a few boxes checked on a form, is it reasonable to ask someone to print two copies of their letter & fill out forms for two schools? Is three too many? Or is each writer a one-shot deal?

I don't think I have 15 people who can write me a glowing reference. But I don't want to be a pain in the *** and impose on people, either. What do you think is reasonable?

(I really, really wish that nursing schools would standardize and centralize their application process, like PA and med schools....not to mention the widely varying lists of prerequisites that still cause me anxiety...rant for another day, though).

[hardworkpaysoff, MSN, RN]

I think it will make it easier on you in the long run if you have them make multiple copies of your letter. I wouldn't get 15 recommenders, just a few flexible/reliable ones that know you well enough.

When you get your initial 1-3 copies from each, you could also ask them if it will be okay if you get more letters in the near future. I don't think you would be a bother to them if you give them enough notice and time (It won't take much out of them if they already did a previous letter for you). Also take into account that each school might have different instructions/formats and your recommenders might have to personalize them based on the school's wants. Just stay in communication with your recommenders and you should be fine and just in case, have a couple back up ones.

[FNPHopeful2012]

Hi!

I am in the exact same boat! I actually posted about this too, and someone had a great suggestion. Try your best to compile everything into a SUPER organized package for your letter writer to make their life easier. I'm planning to make an organized binder, with a little index in the beginning for each school. Then, I'll include the cover letter (if provided), and if not, I'll clearly note that they can expect an online link for the online recommendation forms. Also, let them know they can definitely just say "see attached letter" and pretty much have the same letter (unless the school has specifics they want to read). Also, I'm trying to hustle to start working on my personal statement so I can give them that along with my resume to review. My friend in the direct entry program suggested if I didn't have time to write my personal statement now, at least to write a blurb about why I want to go to NP school. Lastly, make sure to include pre-addressed envelopes, postage stamps, and anything else they might need to complete your letter! Hope that helps!

I literally looked up every school, narrowed it down to 35..and then my friend told me that was WAY too much to apply to. She suggested 15-20 schools, so I'm thinking it shouldn't be TOO bad. Good luck!