A well-written recommendation letter from a mentor or teacher can make all the difference. So, if one of your students or someone you know has asked you to craft a recommendation letter for a scholarship but you don\u2019t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’ll provide samples and tips covering various circumstances \u2014 from general scholarship letter advice to specific examples \u2014 that will kickstart your inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, let’s jump in.<\/p>\n\n\n
![\"14](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/14-Letter-of-Recommendation-for-Scholarship-Samples-With-Tips-cover-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nHow to write a scholarship recommendation letter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Writing a recommendation letter for a scholarship can feel overwhelming, especially with so much at stake for prospective college students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, you can avoid any potential hiccups as long as you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Address the scholarship requirements and describe how the applicant meets the criteria,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Highlight the applicant\u2019s positive qualities and academic achievements,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mention specific anecdotes to flesh out the applicant\u2019s milestones and work ethic,<\/strong> and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Follow the scholarship program\u2019s guidelines about the length and format of the letter<\/strong>. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
But, even when you\u2019re aware of the above pointers, you might still scratch your head when wondering how to write a letter of recommendation for a scholarship. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, our contributors have agreed to share their expertise and provide some additional tips. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\n\nFree communication tool for educators<\/h2>\n
Improve collaboration and cut down on emails by moving your team communication to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
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\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\nTip #1: Research what a specific program is looking for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
One of the most important things is to tailor your letter so that its contents hit all the points outlined in the scholarship requirements. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Eric Eng<\/a>, a private college admissions consultant and founder, the recommendation should be a sincere endorsement that doesn\u2019t go off-topic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Eric](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/eric-eng.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cUnderstand the student\u2019s qualities, academic accomplishments, and aspirations that align with the scholarship. Tailor the letter to the specific scholarship, highlighting how the student can contribute to, and benefit from, the scholarship.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMoreover, Dr. Natalie Morse<\/a>, a Ph.D. consultant and founder, emphasizes that customizing the letter of recommendation has a significant impact on the selection committee\u2019s final decision:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Natalie](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/natalie-morse.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cIf the writer can<\/em> tailor the letter of recommendation to the specific scholarship and use keywords or attributes that that scholarship is looking for,<\/em><\/strong> that helps the committee know that they have found the right person.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nMost scholarship programs have a dedicated webpage outlining admission requirements. So, you can research the criteria and see which examples to mention in your scholarship recommendation letter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip #2: Avoid criticism & highlight growth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getting accepted or rejected from college can have a long-term impact on a student\u2019s future, so the recommendation letter shouldn\u2019t focus on their weaknesses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s much better to use the opportunity to highlight growth rather than shortcomings<\/strong>, advises Lynne Fuller<\/a>, a college counselor and founder:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Lynne](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/lynne-fuller.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201c<\/em>Share how someone has grown throughout a project, year, event, or experience.<\/em><\/strong> It is wise to mention how that development supported your efforts but also how incredible it was to witness the way it transformed the candidate. <\/em>Remember to use action words that aptly describe the candidate\u2019s efforts, like curiosity, dedication, foresight, and introspection.<\/em><\/strong>\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nBroaching the candidate\u2019s weaknesses is also a no-go for Josef Durand<\/a>, an admissions counselor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Josef](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/josef-durand.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201dThe recommendee trusts you with their future, so why would you want to say anything negative about them? Even a lukewarm recommendation letter can cost a student their dream school or program!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nTake time to think about which qualities you want to highlight<\/strong> in your scholarship recommendation letter. Work ethic and leadership skills are always a plus, but what else did you learn from your experience with the student? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t be afraid to go beyond standard academic achievements that pop up in run-of-the-mill scholarship recommendation letters. For instance, communication skills<\/a>, resilience, and empathy<\/a> all go a step further in proving an applicant’s eligibility for a specific scholarship. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip #3: Be specific<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To avoid sounding generic when writing a recommendation, you should be specific about the applicant\u2019s impact and performance<\/strong>, shares Morse:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cIf you want to write a really good letter of recommendation for a scholarship, you need to be effusive and <\/em>quantify the student\u2019s impact<\/em><\/strong>. <\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example: \u2018This person was easily within the top 1% of students I have had in the last 20 years and went above and beyond to complete assignments and seek new knowledge.\u2018<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The committees need to know that this person is outstanding and really worth investing in<\/em><\/strong>.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nIn Eng\u2019s opinion, being genuine and specific is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201c<\/em>Present concrete examples of the student\u2019s accomplishments \u2014 it helps portray a vivid, credible picture of their capabilities.<\/em><\/strong> Also, use a story or an incident to highlight the student\u2019s character and achievements.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nBe careful not to go overboard<\/strong> when praising an applicant, Eng continues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cYou should <\/em>avoid clich\u00e9s and generic praises<\/em><\/strong> \u2014 they could dilute the impact of your recommendation letter. Never exaggerate the student\u2019s abilities or accomplishments, as it may come across as insincere or untrustworthy.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n\nFree communication tool for educators<\/h2>\n
Improve collaboration and cut down on emails by moving your team communication to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n Learn more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/pumble\/banners\/templates.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\nTip #4: Proofread the recommendation letter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Spelling mistakes can drastically downgrade an otherwise exceptional scholarship recommendation letter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although mishaps happen, a few errors that slip through the cracks can leave a negative impression on the selection committee. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eng reiterates this sentiment, stressing the importance of accuracy in recommendations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cMisspelling the student\u2019s name or getting their details wrong is an absolute no-no \u2014 <\/em>double-check everything for accuracy.<\/em><\/strong>\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nYou don\u2019t have to do it alone, pouring countless hours into rereading your recommendation letter for a scholarship, word for word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To ensure all the details are in order, you could ask a colleague to take a look at the letter and provide feedback<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Give quick feedback to your coworkers over Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now that we\u2019ve gone through the step-by-step of writing a scholarship recommendation letter, what does the final product look like?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s see some concrete examples. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Letter of recommendation for scholarship samples<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A scholarship recommendation letter can go a long way in helping a student achieve their educational goals<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As we mentioned, you should be honest and highlight the student’s positive qualities. But before anything else, you should consider the type of scholarship they\u2019re applying for<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To give you a solid starting point and clear up any confusion, we\u2019ve provided 14 samples you can customize to suit specific scholarship requirements<\/strong>. These are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- A general scholarship recommendation letter,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A recommendation letter by a family member or friend,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A Rhodes Scholarship recommendation letter,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A Marshall Scholarship recommendation letter,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A scholarship sample letter highlighting artistic capabilities,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A leadership letter of recommendation,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A recommendation letter sample by a school principal,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A law school scholarship letter,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A scholarship letter for studying abroad,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A scholarship letter for financial aid,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A recommendation letter for STEM students,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A scholarship recommendation from a teacher,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A scholarship recommendation from an employer, <\/strong>and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- An athletic scholarship letter from a coach<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Remember to tailor the templates so that they align with the scholarship applicant\u2019s unique situation and capabilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
#1 General scholarship recommendation letter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This type of letter focuses primarily on a person\u2019s academic performance<\/strong>. The below sample may benefit teachers and educators<\/a> looking for a place to start. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cDear Mr. John Walters,<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m writing this letter to wholeheartedly recommend Anna Jones for the Crown Lake scholarship. <\/em>
<\/em>As her 11th-grade English teacher, I can personally vouch for her drive and commitment.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nDuring her time in my classes, Anna showed an impressive thirst for knowledge, which \u2014 I have no doubt \u2014 will help her achieve academic excellence at the collegiate level. As an educator, it is always an honor to teach such motivated students and help them uncover their full potential. I am proud to have been one of Anna\u2019s teachers and believe that she would make an exemplary representative of Crown Lake University .<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anna\u2019s receptiveness to feedback has allowed her to continuously surpass expectations, which is reflected in her exceptional grade point average. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Besides witnessing Anna\u2019s academic achievements, I\u2019m also impressed by her leadership skills and long-term educational goals. I believe this scholarship would greatly alleviate the financial strain she may face in her pursuit.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thus, I implore you to consider Miss Anna Jones for the scholarship, as I have met few students who would make more deserving candidates.<\/em> <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Feel free to reach out should you <\/em>have any questions or require additional information regarding Miss Jones.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best regards,<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tim Edwards<\/em>
<\/em>[Address]<\/em>
<\/em>[Phone Number]<\/em>
<\/em>[Email]\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nClick here to download and customize the General scholarship recommendation letter template<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
#2 Scholarship recommendation letter by a family member or friend<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Family members and close friends can submit recommendation letters to give more insight into someone\u2019s character.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, personal letters of recommendation can often veer into biased territory. So, take a look at our template to see how to balance enthusiasm and honesty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\u201cDear Mrs. Jemima Lawson,<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am writing to <\/em>enthusiastically recommend<\/em> Naomi Sloan as a deserving candidate for the Lift & Inspire scholarship at Quinton University.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the 15 years I\u2019ve known Naomi, I\u2019ve been continuously impressed by her <\/em>unwavering commitment<\/em> to learning and desire to<\/em> empower her communit<\/em>y. <\/em>Consequently, I can think of no better representative of your university as a recipient of this scholarship.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
As her classmate and friend, I\u2019ve had the privilege of watching <\/em>Naomi<\/em> grow into an individual <\/em>with a deep-rooted passion for education who strives to uplift others, encouraging everyone to become the best version of themselves. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The values behind this scholarship program are the ones I recognize in <\/em>Naomi<\/em>, and I am sure she will prove herself to be<\/em> a worthy recipient of this prestigious scholarship program.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any other questions or wish to gain more information, don\u2019t hesitate to contact me. You can reach me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind regards,<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Timothy Grant\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Click here to download and customize the Scholarship recommendation letter by a family member or friend template<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n\nFree communication tool for educators<\/h2>\n
Improve collaboration and cut down on emails by moving your team communication to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n Learn more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/pumble\/banners\/landing-1.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n#3 Rhodes Scholarship recommendation letter sample<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodes Scholarship allows students from the US to pursue graduate studies at the University of Oxford. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Compelling recommendations for a Rhodes Scholarship underscore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Leadership skills and potential,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Concrete examples of academic accomplishments<\/strong>
- A recommendation letter by a family member or friend,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Highlight the applicant\u2019s positive qualities and academic achievements,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/pumble\/banners\/features@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/pumble\/banners\/templates@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/pumble\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n