LOR (Letter of Recommendation) — Who to Ask, What It Contains and How It's Submitted

বাংলায় পড়ুন

An LOR is an assessment written by a teacher or work manager. Most master's need 2 and PhDs 2–3. Many universities email the referee a link to submit online themselves — so give the referee's official email and ask permission early.

A good LOR includes

How long and in what role the referee has known you
Specific examples — projects, research, problem-solving
Your standing among peers (e.g. "top 5% of the class")
Institutional letterhead, signature and contact details

Academic or professional?

Fresh graduates or research programmes: academic referees (teacher/supervisor)
After some years of work or for MBA/professional courses: at least one professional referee

Caution

Writing it yourself and submitting under the referee's name, or posing as the referee with a personal email, is fraud — admission is cancelled if caught.

Choose referees who have seen your work or study closely
Ask at least 4–6 weeks ahead
Give them your CV, transcript, SOP draft and list of courses
Enter the referee's official (institutional) email on the portal
Remind them politely before the deadline and check the portal for submission

FAQ

How many LORs do I need?

Usually 2 for master's and 2–3 for PhD. Some courses need only one — check the requirements.

Can I give my referee's personal Gmail?

Use the institutional email where possible — it's more credible. Many universities check personal emails more closely.

NagorikSheba is an independent information platform, not a government website. Rules, fees and dates change — always confirm on the official source. We never ask for your passwords or OTPs.