Free Letter of Recommendation Template

Free template

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All states | 7 types

Updated Apr 7, 2025

~ 1 page

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A Recommendation Letter is a written statement between a recommender and a recipient endorsing someone’s skills, character, or qualifications. It is used to support job, academic, or professional applications by highlighting the candidate’s strengths.

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Written by Megan Thompson, LLB - Reviewed by Kate Adkham, LLB

Template Types

Character Reference Letter for Immigration

This letter helps highlight the applicant's character, supporting their immigration application.

Character Reference Letter for Court

This letter is used in court to provide a testament to the character of an individual.

Scholarship Recommendation Letter

This letter is written about a student’s abilities, talents, and educational objectives.

Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation

This document highlights a candidate's qualifications for Eagle Scout.

Landlord Recommendation Letter

This letter is used when a prospective tenant is looking to rent a property.

College Recommendation Letter

This letter is useful when a student is embarking on their path to higher education.

What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

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A letter of recommendation is a written statement that endorses a person's skills, character, and accomplishments. It is usually provided by someone in a position of authority, such as an employer, professor, or supervisor. It is used to support applications for jobs, academic programs, or professional opportunities.

When Do I Need a Letter of Recommendation?

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You need a recommendation letter when:

Applying for a new job or internship.
Submitting college, scholarship, or graduate school applications.
Seeking professional licenses or fellowships.
Requested during immigration or visa processes.

This letter adds credibility to your qualifications and helps decision-makers understand your strengths from a trusted perspective.

What Should Be Included in a Letter of Recommendation?

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A strong recommendation letter should include:

The recommender’s name, title, and relationship to the candidate.
An introduction that explains why the letter is being written.
Specific examples of the candidate’s skills, achievements, or character traits.
A summary statement that strongly recommends the candidate.
The recommender’s signature and contact information.

Providing clear, specific examples makes the letter more impactful and memorable.

A landlord recommendation letter is written by a previous or current landlord to show a tenant's reliability (ability to pay rent on time, take care of the property, etc.). It increases one’s chances to rent the property.

How To Fill in a Letter of Recommendation Template: Step-by-Step

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Step 1: Write the date

Put the current date of when you’re filling in the letter of recommendation sample.

Example:

Date of recommendation: March 1, 2024

Step 2: Add your personal details

Write your full name, job title, and contact information (address, email, and phone number) in the “Recommender” section.

Example:

John Anderson

123 Maple Street, Chicago, IL

High School Teacher, Harold Washington College

johnanderson@email.com

(089)2347589

Step 3: Add the recipient’s information (if known)

Include the name and position of the person or organization you are writing to.

Example:

Admissions Office, University of Michigan

515 East Jefferson Street

michiganuniversity@email.com

(734)7647433

Step 4: Name of the recommended person

Provide the name of the individual you’re recommending.
Explain how you know them.

Example:

I am writing this letter to provide a strong recommendation for Jacob Smith, my colleague, based on my professional experience and interactions with him.

Step 5: Describe the person’s role

Sample of a letter of recommendation draft

Write about the person’s position and professional duties.

Example:

Jacob has been associated with Harold Washington College for 3 years as my coworker; during that time, I have had the opportunity to closely observe his performance and qualities.

Jacob’s main responsibilities were to teach math to high school students, create lesson plans, grade tests, maintain classroom discipline, and attend staff meetings.

Step 6: Mention strong points

Talk about the person’s skills, accomplishments, and character. Provide examples to prove your statements.

Example:

I am pleased to affirm that Jacob possesses exceptional knowledge of math and teaching skills that make him an outstanding candidate for the role of Math teacher.

Step 7: Sign the letter

Part of a recommendation letter template

Add your name and electronic signature with Loio Sign.

While writing a letter of recommendation, be polite and truthful. It's better not to write it if you cannot speak honestly in favor of the person.
Keep a copy of the PDF letter of recommendation and give the original file to the individual or organization who requested it.

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