Introduction to Scholarship Recommendation Letters
A scholarship recommendation letter is a crucial document that highlights a student’s academic, personal, and professional qualities. It serves as a testament to their potential and suitability for a scholarship. Whether you’re a student seeking financial aid or an educator writing on behalf of a deserving candidate, understanding how to craft or request a compelling scholarship recommendation letter is essential.
This guide provides 16 sample scholarship recommendation letters, each tailored to different scenarios and purposes. These examples demonstrate the key elements of an effective recommendation letter, including tone, structure, and content.
Use these samples as templates to craft your own unique scholarship recommendation letters, ensuring that each letter aligns with the specific requirements and goals of the scholarship opportunity.
1. Academic Excellence Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Emily Johnson
Department of Physics
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA 02138
October 15, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Sarah Thompson for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. As her academic advisor, I have witnessed her exceptional dedication to her studies and her remarkable ability to excel in challenging courses.
Ms. Thompson’s academic achievements are truly outstanding. She maintains a GPA of 3.9, ranking her among the top 5% of her class. Her ability to grasp complex concepts and apply them to real-world problems is unparalleled.
Her commitment to academic excellence is matched by her passion for research. She has already published two papers in reputable journals, showcasing her ability to contribute meaningfully to her field.
Sincerely,
Dr. Emily Johnson
2. Leadership Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Mr. Michael Davis
Student Affairs Office
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305
November 2, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Mr. David Martinez for the Leadership Scholarship. As the Dean of Student Affairs, I have had the pleasure of observing and guiding David in his various leadership roles on campus.
David has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. He has served as the president of the Student Council, leading initiatives that have positively impacted the entire student body. His ability to inspire and motivate others is remarkable.
Under his leadership, the Student Council successfully organized a university-wide community service program, which engaged over 1,000 students and contributed significantly to local charities.
Sincerely,
Mr. Michael Davis
3. Athletic Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Coach Laura Bennett
Athletics Department
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA 90095
September 28, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Ms. Jessica Wilson for the Athletic Scholarship. As her coach, I have had the privilege of witnessing her dedication, talent, and perseverance on the field.
Ms. Wilson is an outstanding athlete who has consistently demonstrated a high level of skill and commitment to her sport. She has been an integral part of our women’s soccer team, leading us to two consecutive championship titles.
Her leadership on the field is matched by her dedication to her academic studies. She maintains a GPA of 3.5 while balancing her athletic responsibilities, showcasing her ability to excel in multiple areas.
Sincerely,
Coach Laura Bennett
4. Community Service Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Rev. James Smith
Community Outreach Program
St. Mary’s Church
Chicago, IL 60611
October 22, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Ms. Emily Carter for the Community Service Scholarship. As the director of our church’s outreach program, I have had the privilege of working closely with Emily on various community service initiatives.
Ms. Carter has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to serving others. She has volunteered over 500 hours in the past year, leading programs that have positively impacted countless individuals in our community.
Her dedication to helping others is truly inspiring. She has organized food drives, mentorship programs, and health awareness campaigns, all of which have made a significant difference in the lives of those she has served.
Sincerely,
Rev. James Smith
5. Merit-Based Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Robert Brown
Department of Computer Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA 02142
November 5, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Kevin White for the Merit-Based Scholarship. As his professor and academic advisor, I have had the pleasure of witnessing his exceptional academic abilities and intellectual curiosity.
Mr. White has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex concepts in computer science. His ability to think critically and approach problems creatively is truly remarkable.
He has excelled in his coursework, earning top grades in some of the most challenging courses offered by our department. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and intellectual prowess.
Sincerely,
Dr. Robert Brown
6. Need-Based Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Ms. Susan Green
Financial Aid Office
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
October 10, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Ms. Laura Harris for the Need-Based Scholarship. As her academic advisor, I have had the opportunity to work closely with her and understand her financial situation.
Ms. Harris is an exceptional student who has faced significant financial challenges throughout her academic career. Despite these obstacles, she has maintained a GPA of 3.7 and has been actively involved in various extracurricular activities.
Her determination and resilience are truly inspiring. This scholarship would provide her with the financial support she needs to continue her education and achieve her goals.
Sincerely,
Ms. Susan Green
7. Graduate School Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Margaret Lee
Department of Biology
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA 94720
November 12, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Ms. Sophia Patel for the Graduate School Scholarship. As her thesis advisor, I have had the pleasure of guiding her through her undergraduate research and witnessing her growth as a scholar.
Ms. Patel has demonstrated an extraordinary passion for scientific research. Her thesis on cellular biology has been of the highest quality, showcasing her ability to conduct independent research and contribute meaningfully to her field.
Her academic achievements and research experience make her an ideal candidate for graduate studies. I have no doubt that she will excel in her future academic pursuits and make valuable contributions to the scientific community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Margaret Lee
8. International Student Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. David Kim
International Student Office
New York University
New York, NY 10003
October 25, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Ahmed Ali for the International Student Scholarship. As the director of our international student program, I have had the pleasure of working with Ahmed and witnessing his academic and personal growth.
Mr. Ali has demonstrated exceptional academic ability and a strong commitment to his studies. He has maintained a GPA of 3.8 while adapting to a new cultural and academic environment.
His ability to excel in a diverse and challenging setting is truly commendable. This scholarship will provide him with the support he needs to continue his education and achieve his goals.
Sincerely,
Dr. David Kim
9. Transfer Student Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Ms. Karen Walker
Admissions Office
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX 78712
November 8, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Ms. Nicole Brown for the Transfer Student Scholarship. As her academic advisor, I have had the opportunity to work with her and understand her academic background and goals.
Ms. Brown has demonstrated a strong commitment to her education. She has maintained a GPA of 3.6 at her previous institution and has shown a keen interest in continuing her studies in a challenging academic environment.
Her determination and academic potential make her an excellent candidate for this scholarship. I have no doubt that she will excel in her studies and make valuable contributions to your institution.
Sincerely,
Ms. Karen Walker
10. STEM Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. James Wilson
Department of Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA 30332
October 30, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Emily Davis for the STEM Scholarship. As her professor and mentor, I have had the pleasure of witnessing her exceptional talent and dedication to the field of engineering.
Ms. Davis has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex engineering concepts. Her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems is truly impressive.
She has excelled in her coursework and has been actively involved in various research projects, showcasing her ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of engineering. This scholarship will provide her with the support she needs to continue her education and pursue her career goals.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Wilson
11. Nursing Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Linda Miller
School of Nursing
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA 19104
November 15, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Ms. Sarah Johnson for the Nursing Scholarship. As her clinical instructor, I have had the pleasure of observing and guiding her during her clinical rotations.
Ms. Johnson has demonstrated exceptional compassion and dedication to patient care. Her ability to connect with patients and provide high-quality care is truly inspiring.
She has consistently received positive evaluations from both faculty and patients, showcasing her ability to excel in the field of nursing. This scholarship will provide her with the support she needs to continue her education and pursue her career in nursing.
Sincerely,
Dr. Linda Miller
12. MBA Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Michael Clark
Business School
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL 60637
October 20, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Mr. Robert Martinez for the MBA Scholarship. As his professor and academic advisor, I have had the pleasure of witnessing his exceptional leadership skills and academic abilities.
Mr. Martinez has consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of business concepts and a keen ability to apply them to real-world problems. His leadership skills and entrepreneurial spirit make him an ideal candidate for this scholarship.
He has excelled in his coursework and has been actively involved in various business projects, showcasing his ability to contribute meaningfully to the business community. This scholarship will provide him with the support he needs to continue his education and achieve his career goals.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Clark
13. Law School Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Elizabeth Taylor
Pre-Law Program
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32611
November 10, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Ms. Jessica Martin for the Law School Scholarship. As her academic advisor, I have had the opportunity to work closely with her and understand her academic background and career aspirations.
Ms. Martin has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to her studies and a strong passion for the legal profession. She has maintained a GPA of 3.9 and has been actively involved in various extracurricular activities that have prepared her for a career in law.
Her ability to think critically and argue persuasively is truly impressive. This scholarship will provide her with the financial support she needs to pursue her legal education and achieve her career goals.
Sincerely,
Dr. Elizabeth Taylor
14. Art and Design Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. William Harris
School of Art and Design
Yale University
New Haven, CT 06520
October 28, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Ms. Emily Wilson for the Art and Design Scholarship. As her professor and mentor, I have had the pleasure of witnessing her exceptional talent and creativity in the field of art and design.
Ms. Wilson has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of artistic concepts and a keen ability to express her ideas through various mediums. Her portfolio is a testament to her creativity and technical skill.
She has excelled in her coursework and has been actively involved in various art projects, showcasing her ability to contribute meaningfully to the art and design community. This scholarship will provide her with the support she needs to continue her education and pursue her passion for art.
Sincerely,
Dr. William Harris
15. Music Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. Linda Davis
Music Department
Juilliard School
New York, NY 10023
November 18, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Ms. Sophia Rodriguez for the Music Scholarship. As her music instructor, I have had the pleasure of guiding her and witnessing her exceptional talent and dedication to music.
Ms. Rodriguez has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to perform and compose music. Her passion for music is evident in every performance, and her ability to connect with the audience is truly inspiring.
She has excelled in her studies and has been actively involved in various musical performances and competitions, showcasing her ability to contribute meaningfully to the music community. This scholarship will provide her with the support she needs to continue her education and pursue her musical aspirations.
Sincerely,
Dr. Linda Davis
16. Teaching Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dr. John Smith
Education Department
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI 53706
October 22, 2023
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Ms. Laura Garcia for the Teaching Scholarship. As her academic advisor, I have had the opportunity to work closely with her and understand her commitment to the teaching profession.
Ms. Garcia has demonstrated an exceptional passion for teaching and a strong commitment to her students’ success. She has excelled in her coursework and has been actively involved in various teaching-related activities, showcasing her ability to inspire and educate others.
Her ability to connect with students and create an engaging learning environment is truly commendable. This scholarship will provide her with the financial support she needs to continue her education and pursue her career in teaching.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Smith
Conclusion
These 16 sample scholarship recommendation letters provide a comprehensive guide for crafting compelling and effective recommendation letters. Each letter is tailored to a specific type of scholarship and highlights the unique qualities and achievements of the candidate. By following these examples, you can create personalized recommendation letters that showcase the strengths and potential of the applicant, increasing their chances of securing the scholarship.
Remember, the key to a successful scholarship recommendation letter is to provide specific examples and details that demonstrate the candidate’s qualifications and potential. Use these samples as a starting point and customize them to fit the specific needs and goals of the applicant.