Introduction to Reference Letters for College in Indonesia
A reference letter, or surat referensi in Indonesian, plays a crucial role in the college admission process. It provides insight into a student’s academic abilities, character, and potential for success. Colleges and universities in Indonesia often require these letters to assess applicants holistically. This guide provides 16 sample reference letters tailored for college applications in Indonesia, covering various scenarios and formats.
When writing a reference letter, it is essential to maintain professionalism and clarity. The letter should highlight the student’s strengths, achievements, and personal qualities. Whether you are an academic advisor, teacher, or employer, your recommendation can significantly influence a student’s admission prospects.
In this article, we present 16 distinct examples of reference letters for college applications in Indonesia. These samples cover academic references, character references, and employment references, providing a comprehensive guide for both recommenders and applicants.
1. Academic Reference Letter for College Admission
Ms. Rina Sari
Mathematics Teacher
SMA Negeri 1 Jakarta
Jl. Sudirman No. 12
Jakarta 10220
Jakarta, 15 October 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in strong support of Ms. Ayu Lestari’s application to your esteemed institution. As her mathematics teacher at SMA Negeri 1 Jakarta, I have had the pleasure of observing and guiding her academic journey over the past three years.
Ayu has consistently demonstrated exceptional mathematical aptitude and a keen interest in problem-solving. Her dedication to her studies is evident in her outstanding grades and active participation in class discussions. She is particularly skilled in calculus and statistics, areas that require both analytical thinking and creativity.
One of Ayu’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to collaborate with her peers. She frequently leads study groups and mentors younger students, showcasing her leadership skills and commitment to academic excellence. Her positive attitude and perseverance in overcoming challenges make her an ideal candidate for your college program.
Please feel free to contact me at (021) 1234-5678 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Ayu will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Rina Sari
2. Character Reference Letter for College Scholarship
Mr. Budi Hartono
Principal
SMA Kristen 3 Surabaya
Jl. Gubeng No. 45
Surabaya 60250
Surabaya, 20 November 2023
To the Scholarship Committee,
I am honored to write this character reference for Mr. Adi Wijaya, a graduating student of SMA Kristen 3 Surabaya, in support of his application for the prestigious National Scholarship Program.
During his time at our school, Adi has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to community service. As the president of the student council, he successfully organized several charity events, including a fundraiser that collected over Rp 50 million for underprivileged children. His ability to inspire and motivate others has made a significant impact on our school community.
Adi is also an outstanding athlete, captaining our school’s basketball team to victory in the provincial championship. His discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork have earned him the respect of both his peers and teachers. These qualities, combined with his academic achievements, make him an ideal candidate for your scholarship program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (031) 5678-9012 if you require further information. I am confident that Adi will use this opportunity to achieve great things and give back to society.
Sincerely,
Mr. Budi Hartono
3. Employment Reference Letter for College Transfer
Ms. Lestari Wibowo
Human Resources Manager
PT. Indomobil Sukses Internasional
Jl. MH. Thamrin No. 15
Jakarta 10340
Jakarta, 10 December 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Andika Prasetya, who has been an intern at PT. Indomobil Sukses Internasional since June 2023. During his time with us, Andika has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
As an intern in our marketing department, Andika was responsible for assisting in the development of digital marketing campaigns, conducting market research, and analyzing consumer trends. He consistently delivered high-quality work and showed a keen interest in learning and improving his skills. His ability to work independently and as part of a team has been impressive.
One of Andika’s most notable contributions was his role in the successful launch of our new product line. His creative ideas and attention to detail were instrumental in the campaign’s success. His positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made him a valuable member of our team.
Please feel free to contact me at (021) 2345-6789 if you require any further information. I am confident that Andika will excel in your college program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Lestari Wibowo
4. Academic Reference Letter for International College
Dr. Sri Wahyuni
Head of Chemistry Department
SMA Lab School Kebayoran
Jl. Bintaro Raya No. 50
Jakarta 12345
Jakarta, 25 January 2024
To the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Nadia Putri, who is applying to your esteemed institution. As the Head of the Chemistry Department at SMA Lab School Kebayoran, I have had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring Nadia over the past three years.
Nadia has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for chemistry and a natural aptitude for scientific inquiry. Her ability to think critically and solve complex problems has been evident in her outstanding performance in both theoretical and practical examinations. She is particularly skilled in organic chemistry and has shown a keen interest in research and innovation.
One of Nadia’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to balance academic excellence with extracurricular activities. She is an active member of our school’s science club and has won several awards in national science competitions. Her dedication to learning and her enthusiasm for chemistry make her an ideal candidate for your college program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (021) 4567-8901 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Nadia will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sri Wahyuni
5. Character Reference Letter for College Admission
Mr. Agus Salim
School Counselor
SMA Negeri 2 Bandung
Jl. Ciumbuleuit No. 17
Bandung 40141
Bandung, 5 February 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Liza Amelia, a senior student at SMA Negeri 2 Bandung, in support of her application to your college program. As her school counselor, I have had the opportunity to observe and guide her personal and academic growth over the past four years.
Liza is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. She has maintained a high GPA while actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including the school choir, debate team, and community service club. Her ability to manage her time effectively and balance multiple responsibilities is truly impressive.
One of Liza’s most notable qualities is her compassion and empathy towards others. She has been actively involved in several community service projects, including organizing charity events for underprivileged children and volunteering at a local orphanage. Her kindness, humility, and dedication to helping others make her an exceptional individual.
Please feel free to contact me at (022) 5678-9012 if you require any further information. I am confident that Liza will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Mr. Agus Salim
6. Academic Reference Letter for Scholarship Application
Ms. Dewi Kusumawardhani
English Teacher
SMA Negeri 3 Yogyakarta
Jl. Kaliurang No. 23
Yogyakarta 50251
Yogyakarta, 10 March 2024
To the Scholarship Committee,
I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Mr. Arif Rahman, a senior student at SMA Negeri 3 Yogyakarta, in support of his application for the National Merit Scholarship. As his English teacher, I have had the pleasure of observing and guiding his academic growth over the past three years.
Arif has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for literature and a natural talent for writing. His ability to analyze complex texts and express his ideas clearly and persuasively has been evident in his outstanding performance in class discussions and written assignments. He is particularly skilled in critical thinking and has a keen interest in contemporary issues.
One of Arif’s most remarkable qualities is his ability to inspire and motivate his peers. As the editor of our school’s literary magazine, he has encouraged students to express their creativity and share their perspectives on various social issues. His leadership skills and commitment to fostering a love for literature have made a significant impact on our school community.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0274) 1234-5678 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Arif will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Dewi Kusumawardhani
7. Employment Reference Letter for College Application
Mr. Heru Susanto
General Manager
PT. Surya Maju Jaya
Jl. Gatot Subroto No. 33
Semarang 50134
Semarang, 15 April 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Dwi Anggraeni, who has been an intern at PT. Surya Maju Jaya since January 2024. During her time with us, Dwi has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
As an intern in our marketing department, Dwi was responsible for assisting in the development of digital marketing campaigns, conducting market research, and analyzing consumer trends. She consistently delivered high-quality work and showed a keen interest in learning and improving her skills. Her ability to work independently and as part of a team has been impressive.
One of Dwi’s most notable contributions was her role in the successful launch of our new product line. Her creative ideas and attention to detail were instrumental in the campaign’s success. Her positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made her a valuable member of our team.
Please feel free to contact me at (024) 4567-8901 if you require any further information. I am confident that Dwi will excel in your college program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Mr. Heru Susanto
8. Academic Reference Letter for College Transfer
Dr. Bambang Sutrisno
Head of Physics Department
SMA Negeri 1 Malang
Jl. Besuki No. 12
Malang 65112
Malang, 20 May 2024
To the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Rina Fitriani, who is applying for a transfer to your esteemed institution. As the Head of the Physics Department at SMA Negeri 1 Malang, I have had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring Rina over the past three years.
Rina has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for physics and a natural aptitude for scientific inquiry. Her ability to think critically and solve complex problems has been evident in her outstanding performance in both theoretical and practical examinations. She is particularly skilled in mechanics and has shown a keen interest in research and innovation.
One of Rina’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to balance academic excellence with extracurricular activities. She is an active member of our school’s science club and has won several awards in national physics competitions. Her dedication to learning and her enthusiasm for physics make her an ideal candidate for your college program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0341) 5678-9012 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Rina will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bambang Sutrisno
9. Character Reference Letter for College Admission
Ms. Yanti Setiawan
School Counselor
SMA Negeri 4 Medan
Jl. Pemuda No. 45
Medan 20234
Medan, 25 June 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Rendi Pratama, a senior student at SMA Negeri 4 Medan, in support of his application to your college program. As his school counselor, I have had the opportunity to observe and guide his personal and academic growth over the past four years.
Rendi is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. He has maintained a high GPA while actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including the school basketball team, debate team, and community service club. His ability to manage his time effectively and balance multiple responsibilities is truly impressive.
One of Rendi’s most notable qualities is his leadership and initiative. As the captain of the basketball team, he led his team to victory in the regional championship, showcasing his strategic thinking and teamwork skills. His positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made him a respected and admired member of our school community.
Please feel free to contact me at (061) 1234-5678 if you require any further information. I am confident that Rendi will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Yanti Setiawan
10. Academic Reference Letter for College Scholarship
Mr. Tono Sutono
Mathematics Teacher
SMA Negeri 5 Makassar
Jl. Sungai Sadang No. 67
Makassar 90234
Makassar, 10 July 2024
To the Scholarship Committee,
I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Sri Wahyuni, a senior student at SMA Negeri 5 Makassar, in support of her application for the prestigious National Scholarship Program. As her mathematics teacher, I have had the pleasure of observing and guiding her academic growth over the past three years.
Sri has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for mathematics and a natural aptitude for problem-solving. Her ability to think critically and solve complex problems has been evident in her outstanding performance in both theoretical and practical examinations. She is particularly skilled in algebra and has shown a keen interest in research and innovation.
One of Sri’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to inspire and motivate her peers. As the leader of our school’s mathematics club, she has encouraged students to explore their potential and participate in national competitions. Her leadership skills and commitment to academic excellence have made a significant impact on our school community.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0411) 4567-8901 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Sri will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Mr. Tono Sutono
11. Employment Reference Letter for College Application
Ms. Lestari Purwaningsih
Human Resources Manager
PT. Maju Bersama Jaya
Jl. Teuku Umar No. 89
Denpasar 80114
Denpasar, 15 August 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Aditya Wijaya, who has been an intern at PT. Maju Bersama Jaya since June 2024. During his time with us, Aditya has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
As an intern in our marketing department, Aditya was responsible for assisting in the development of digital marketing campaigns, conducting market research, and analyzing consumer trends. He consistently delivered high-quality work and showed a keen interest in learning and improving his skills. His ability to work independently and as part of a team has been impressive.
One of Aditya’s most notable contributions was his role in the successful launch of our new product line. His creative ideas and attention to detail were instrumental in the campaign’s success. His positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made him a valuable member of our team.
Please feel free to contact me at (0361) 5678-9012 if you require any further information. I am confident that Aditya will excel in your college program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Lestari Purwaningsih
12. Academic Reference Letter for College Admission
Dr. Sri Hartati
Head of Biology Department
SMA Negeri 1 Palembang
Jl. Jenderal Sudirman No. 78
Palembang 30111
Palembang, 20 September 2024
To the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Dwi Ambarwati, who is applying to your esteemed institution. As the Head of the Biology Department at SMA Negeri 1 Palembang, I have had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring Dwi over the past three years.
Dwi has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for biology and a natural aptitude for scientific inquiry. Her ability to think critically and solve complex problems has been evident in her outstanding performance in both theoretical and practical examinations. She is particularly skilled in genetics and has shown a keen interest in research and innovation.
One of Dwi’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to balance academic excellence with extracurricular activities. She is an active member of our school’s science club and has won several awards in national biology competitions. Her dedication to learning and her enthusiasm for biology make her an ideal candidate for your college program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0711) 1234-5678 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Dwi will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sri Hartati
13. Character Reference Letter for College Scholarship
Mr. Andi Setiawan
School Counselor
SMA Negeri 2 Manado
Jl. Sam Ratulangi No. 34
Manado 95115
Manado, 25 October 2024
To the Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Liza Sari, a senior student at SMA Negeri 2 Manado, in support of her application for the prestigious National Scholarship Program. As her school counselor, I have had the opportunity to observe and guide her personal and academic growth over the past four years.
Liza is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. She has maintained a high GPA while actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including the school choir, debate team, and community service club. Her ability to manage her time effectively and balance multiple responsibilities is truly impressive.
One of Liza’s most notable qualities is her compassion and empathy towards others. She has been actively involved in several community service projects, including organizing charity events for underprivileged children and volunteering at a local orphanage. Her kindness, humility, and dedication to helping others make her an exceptional individual.
Please feel free to contact me at (0431) 4567-8901 if you require any further information. I am confident that Liza will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Mr. Andi Setiawan
14. Employment Reference Letter for College Transfer
Ms. Rina Marlina
General Manager
PT. Sukses Sejahtera
Jl. Pangeran Hidayatullah No. 56
Pekanbaru 28234
Pekanbaru, 10 November 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Rudi Hartono, who has been an intern at PT. Sukses Sejahtera since January 2024. During his time with us, Rudi has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
As an intern in our marketing department, Rudi was responsible for assisting in the development of digital marketing campaigns, conducting market research, and analyzing consumer trends. He consistently delivered high-quality work and showed a keen interest in learning and improving his skills. His ability to work independently and as part of a team has been impressive.
One of Rudi’s most notable contributions was his role in the successful launch of our new product line. His creative ideas and attention to detail were instrumental in the campaign’s success. His positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made him a valuable member of our team.
Please feel free to contact me at (0761) 5678-9012 if you require any further information. I am confident that Rudi will excel in your college program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Rina Marlina
15. Academic Reference Letter for College Admission
Dr. Bambang Wijaya
Head of Chemistry Department
SMA Negeri 1 Pontianak
Jl. Gajah Mada No. 78
Pontianak 78112
Pontianak, 15 December 2024
To the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Dwi Ratnasari, who is applying to your esteemed institution. As the Head of the Chemistry Department at SMA Negeri 1 Pontianak, I have had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring Dwi over the past three years.
Dwi has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for chemistry and a natural aptitude for scientific inquiry. Her ability to think critically and solve complex problems has been evident in her outstanding performance in both theoretical and practical examinations. She is particularly skilled in organic chemistry and has shown a keen interest in research and innovation.
One of Dwi’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to balance academic excellence with extracurricular activities. She is an active member of our school’s science club and has won several awards in national chemistry competitions. Her dedication to learning and her enthusiasm for chemistry make her an ideal candidate for your college program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (0561) 1234-5678 if you require any additional information. I am confident that Dwi will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bambang Wijaya
16. Character Reference Letter for College Admission
Ms. Yanti Sutrisno
School Counselor
SMA Negeri 3 Samarinda
Jl. Bhayangkara No. 45
Samarinda 75234
Samarinda, 25 January 2025
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Andika Prasetya, a senior student at SMA Negeri 3 Samarinda, in support of his application to your college program. As his school counselor, I have had the opportunity to observe and guide his personal and academic growth over the past four years.
Andika is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. He has maintained a high GPA while actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including the school basketball team, debate team, and community service club. His ability to manage his time effectively and balance multiple responsibilities is truly impressive.
One of Andika’s most notable qualities is his leadership and initiative. As the captain of the basketball team, he led his team to victory in the regional championship, showcasing his strategic thinking and teamwork skills. His positive attitude and willingness to take on additional responsibilities have made him a respected and admired member of our school community.
Please feel free to contact me at (0541) 4567-8901 if you require any further information. I am confident that Andika will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to your academic community.
Sincerely,
Ms. Yanti Sutrisno
Conclusion
These 16 sample reference letters provide a comprehensive guide for writing effective reference letters for college applications in Indonesia. Each letter is tailored to specific scenarios, demonstrating the principles of academic, character, and employment references. By following these examples, recommenders can create professional and impactful letters that highlight a student’s strengths and potential for success.
Remember to customize each letter according to the student’s unique qualities and achievements. A well-written reference letter can significantly enhance a student’s chances of admission to their desired college program.