Scholarships can make higher education accessible to deserving students, especially when financial constraints threaten their academic ambitions. Among the most critical elements in a successful scholarship application is the recommendation letter. While grades, personal statements, and test scores offer a snapshot of a student’s capabilities, a well-written recommendation letter adds a personal and credible narrative to their achievements and character.
For teachers, mentors, counselors, or employers tasked with writing one, understanding what to include in a scholarship recommendation letter is essential. This guide outlines the core components that make a recommendation letter powerful, persuasive, and effective.
1. A Strong Opening: Identity and Purpose
Begin the letter by stating who you are, your professional relationship with the applicant, and how long you’ve known them. This helps the scholarship committee understand your perspective and credibility.
Example Opening:
"It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Sarah Ahmed for the [Name of Scholarship]. As her English teacher for the past two years at West Valley High School, I have witnessed her academic dedication, leadership potential, and remarkable work ethic firsthand."
Make the introduction concise but impactful. The reader should immediately know why your opinion matters.
2. Explanation of the Scholarship's Relevance
Before diving into the student's traits, it’s helpful to briefly mention the nature of the scholarship (if known) and how the student aligns with its mission or values.
Example:
"The [Name of Scholarship] seeks individuals who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service—qualities Sarah embodies in abundance."
Tailoring the letter to the specific scholarship can elevate the recommendation by showing that it wasn’t written generically.
3. Academic Performance and Intellectual Curiosity
Scholarship committees often look for candidates who perform well academically. However, it's not just about grades. Discuss the student’s intellectual curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills.
What to Include:
-
Top class rankings or GPA (if known)
-
Consistency across subjects or strength in specific fields
-
Initiative in learning beyond the curriculum
Example:
"In my AP Literature class, Sarah consistently scored in the top 5% of students and frequently led discussions with deep, analytical insights. Her essays reflected not only comprehension but an eagerness to explore themes independently."
4. Personal Qualities and Character
Beyond academics, recommendation letters should paint a picture of the student's personality, values, and integrity. This section demonstrates how the student behaves when not being graded—how they treat peers, respond to challenges, and contribute to the environment around them.
Key Traits to Discuss:
-
Leadership
-
Empathy
-
Reliability
-
Honesty
-
Motivation
-
Resilience
Example:
"What sets Sarah apart is her empathy. As president of the school’s Peer Mentoring Club, she has spent countless hours helping freshmen transition into high school life, always approaching others with patience and compassion."
Try to support each quality with a real example. Concrete evidence gives credibility to your claims.
5. Extracurricular Involvement and Leadership
Scholarship providers frequently seek well-rounded individuals. Highlight the student’s involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, jobs, or other extracurriculars. Discuss leadership roles and how these experiences have shaped the student.
Example:
"Sarah organized our school's first-ever sustainability initiative, partnering with local businesses to implement a recycling program. Her ability to coordinate volunteers and gain community support reflects her natural leadership and project management skills."
You can also mention any awards or recognitions the student has received in these areas.
6. Unique Contributions or Background
This is especially important when the scholarship prioritizes diversity, first-generation students, or those overcoming adversity. If applicable—and with sensitivity—mention any challenges the student has faced and how they’ve persevered.
Example:
"Coming from a refugee family, Sarah’s journey to academic excellence has not been easy. Balancing school, part-time work, and family responsibilities, she has shown maturity beyond her years."
Only include personal or sensitive information if you're sure the student is comfortable with it being shared.
7. Future Potential and Goals
A strong letter should also express confidence in the student’s future success. Provide insight into how you believe the student will continue to excel, both in their academic and professional life.
Example:
"Sarah aspires to become a human rights lawyer—a goal for which she is exceptionally well-suited. Her commitment to justice, articulate expression, and compassion will serve her well in the years ahead."
This helps the scholarship committee envision the long-term impact of their investment.
8. A Persuasive Conclusion
Wrap up your letter with a clear endorsement of the student’s qualifications and a call to action for the committee.
Example Closing:
"For these reasons and many more, I wholeheartedly recommend Sarah Ahmed for the [Name of Scholarship]. She is an exceptional candidate who will not only benefit from your support but represent your organization with honor."
Don’t forget to include your full name, title, contact information, and signature (if required).
Additional Tips for Writing an Effective Letter
-
Keep it concise: Aim for one page—about 400–500 words. Scholarship reviewers often read dozens of letters.
-
Use a professional tone: Maintain a respectful and formal tone throughout.
-
Avoid vague praise: Specific examples always carry more weight than general statements like “She’s great” or “He works hard.”
-
Proofread: Spelling or grammatical errors can diminish the credibility of your recommendation.
-
Ask for information: Request a copy of the student’s resume, personal statement, or list of achievements to make your letter more comprehensive.