reference letters

Can you use the same reference letters for all applications? I think it would be very difficult having a person fill our five letters of recommendation.

Renee

It would be nice however most schools want references completed on a form from the school. Just be organized and have everything ready for the people writing your references (prepaid envelopes, already addressed, etc) and they will not mind filling them all out for you at all.

I felt the same way. I figure have everything prepared and let the individual fill them out accordingly. Unfortunately, sometimes a recommendation can do more harm than good. I truly feel that if someone is willing to give you a favorable recommendation, they would not mind a few extra forms......I hope

chris

Be sure that the schools to which you apply do not have certain rules that apply to getting rec letters. Some say it has to be sealed and signed on institutional letterhead and envelope with the letter writer's signature across the back of the envelope. Just one weird example I've come across. I made packets for everyone with a coversheet detailing instructions for the persons writing my letters. Include any submission deadlines, information about yourself that might be needed or requested, and if having more than one letter sent by an individual then bundle each school with a separate paperclip to help keep them straight. I had five schools with 3 letters each, so it could have easily gotten confused.