Letter of Recommendation (LOR) Format from Faculty

Before we begin, we must know that the LOR full form is a Letter of Recommendation. This application document, written in a seamless flow, consists of 400-500 words, divided into 4-5 paragraphs. The LOR format from faculty consists of an introductory paragraph, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The format for an academic or professional LOR remains the same, but the content differs. Some universities demand a question-and-answer LOR format but this is rare and usually asked for by business schools for MBA courses.

LOR Format

Here is an LOR for student from professor format with a proper explanation of what is required in each paragraph:

• Introduction: The introductory section has the details of the recommender and the applicant. It introduces the recommender, including his/her designation, institution name, and department. The introduction discusses the relationship between the applicant and the recommender, how they know each other and the duration of their association. If the recommender is your professor/teacher at college, mention the subject he/she taught or teaches you, and in which semesters.
• Body Paragraph 1: After properly introducing the recommender and the applicant, go on to describe one characteristic, or significant quality of the candidate, such as research skills, and provide a substantial instance where the recommender witnessed that quality. If, for example, the instance is regarding the applicant’s involvement in a certain academic project, then showcase the applicant’s role in the project and the impact of the applicant’s effort in making the project successful.
• Body Paragraph 2: In this part of the LOR format, the recommender needs to elucidate another capability or aptitude of the applicant, such as sincerity or dedication toward academics. Provide a notable example in the classroom or on the university campus where the recommender observed the quality of the applicant. It can be anything within an academic environment noticed by the recommender.
• Body Paragraph 3: Here, explain yet another quality of the applicant, such as communication or management skills, with an impactful and impressive example to support the statements of recommender. The process remains the same for all three body paragraphs of the LOR format.
• Conclusion: In the concluding paragraph, provide an outline of the applicant’s impressive qualities, focusing on the strengths, and recommend the applicant for the course at the concerned university.

End the LOR with basic information about the recommender like his/her full name, designation, department, institution name, location, Email ID, and Contact Number. 

Do’s and Don’ts of LOR Writing

To make your LOR effective and credible, follow this etiquette table:

Also, refer to some lor samples from professor to get a clearer idea of how and what to include. Learn to write LORs with the help of videos by university experts.

Every detail of the LOR for student from professor, as mentioned in the format, is equally significant. Hence, remember all the points while drafting the letter. The LOR full form is a Letter of Recommendation; thus, as the name suggests, this is a letter to the Admissions Committee recommending the applicant by highlighting his/her remarkable qualities with substantial proof. Also, make sure that all three LORs are unique in terms of content, for example, the anecdote given to base the claim of the recommender in one LOR cannot be used in any other LOR. Adhere to the format and the points made in this article to make your LOR valuable.

LOR Timeline Planner:

Here is a simple timeline to follow to establish ideal LOR prep schedules:

Types of Evidence/Anecdotes/Qualities to Include in LORs

To guide your recommender better, share examples they can write about. These make your letter unique, credible, and admissions-friendly:

• Academic project success: Describe your role, contribution, and impact in a classroom or capstone project.
• Research paper co-authorship: Co-developing a research paper or article, showing collaboration, innovation, or discipline-specific skills.
• Classroom engagement: Standing out in discussions, curiosity, or consistent performance in assignments/exams.
• Campus leadership/volunteering: Active involvement in clubs, NGOs, or university events, displaying initiative and responsibility.
• Peer mentorship/lab assistance: Supporting fellow students in labs or guiding juniors, reflecting teamwork and empathy.

Who Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?

Your LOR is only as strong as the person writing it. LOR samples from professor should be as strong as your application. Here is who qualifies as a strong recommender:

• Professors/teachers who taught you core or relevant subjects.
• Faculty you’ve done research or projects
• Department heads or senior lecturers who know your work ethic and growth.
• Avoid asking distant contacts or professors who don’t remember you clearly.

Ensure the recommender can recall specific examples about your academic journey. If they seem unsure or too busy, it is okay to ask someone else.

Other Useful Links

• Recommendation Letter Sample
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in a LOR
• How to Choose a Right Recommender