Academic Reference Letter/ Testimonial for Bursary Applications
A bursary is a fantastic way for many students to fund their studies and achieve their academic and career goals. Applying for a bursary can be a lengthy process but must be done correctly to ensure the right and the deserving candidate receives the award. Whilst there are many important documents and forms needed to accompany a bursary application, an integral one is an academic letter of recommendation (it is also known as a testimonial or letter of reference).
What is an academic reference letter?
An academic letter of recommendation is a formal statement testifying to someone’s character and qualifications. Testimonials are a very specific type of reference letter that is often written by a high school teacher, counselor, vocational instructor, or even college professor. These individuals stand as authoritative and trusted referees for the student or recent graduate as they were present in the students learning process and achievements.
Why and when do I need an academic reference letter?
Reference letters are often required when students apply for scholarships, special college programmes, internship/training programmes, fellowships, or even entry-level job positions.
These letters can be extremely influential, especially when the job or opportunity the student is applying for aligns with their academic experience.
ALSO READ: how to write a Career Goals essay for your bursary application
What does an Academic Letter of Recommendation look like?
An academic letter is usually two pages long and highlights a student’s entire academic history, career goals, and personal character. The letter aims to further highlight the student’s transcript or report card by explaining how the candidate was as a student and how that will transpire into them becoming an employee.
Some recommendation letters may be required to be in a sealed envelope, with the author’s signature over the seal- this ensures that the reference is authentic and accurately portrays the candidate. Alternatively, the candidate could also ask their referee to send the reference letter directly or complete an online application form, if applicable.
Who should I ask for a Testimonial letter?
The best person to get an academic letter from is a trusted superior or leader who you are confident will write what you want your future hiring or academic institution to hear.
As a student, it is your job to think before you ask someone to be your reference. Take time to weigh out which superior you want to write your letter as you want to be portrayed in the most positive light.
In addition to the above-mentioned list, students can also ask administrators, guidance counselors, and supervisors who have witnessed their academic achievements to stand as reputable referees for academic letters.
While a reference letter is very important, a bad reference letter can mean the difference between securing the bursary, scholarship, job offer or other opportunity, or not. The person you are requesting the letter from may choose to decline to write the testimonial and it is important for you to give them an “out”. You may say something along the lines of “it’s been 3 years since you taught me, so if you don’t feel comfortable speaking to someone about my academics, please let me know.”
ALSO READ: how to write an essay on “Why do you deserve the Bursary or Scholarship?”
What should my request letter include?
To get a reference letter, the first step you will need to take will be to formally contact your referee, tell them about the opportunity you are applying for, and politely ask them if they will write you a letter of recommendation. Whilst most students will choose a trusted advisor who they have a close relationship with (and therefore skip the formalities), it is important and more professional if you write a letter of request.
When writing your letter of request, be sure to include the following aspects:
- A friendly greeting
- A line stating that you require a letter of recommendation from them
- Why you chose them as a referee
- The position you are applying for
- What letter format do you require (i.e. email, printed and sealed in an envelope, online reference, etc.)
- Your contact details
- Gratitude
- A friendly sign-off
In doing this, the student will ensure that all aspects they need for the Letter of Recommendation is covered and that they have formally and professionally asked their referee for a reference. This professionalism could also further impress the referee, ensuring an even better referral!
Lastly, did you know that you can also ask for letters of recommendation before you graduate? In doing this, you can already have a few letters ready that you can easily attach to your Curriculum Vitae or application. However, be sure that letters written ahead of time are more general so that they work for more than one application. Be sure that you also get formal and informal copies of your academic transcripts; in doing this, you will have a fully-loaded folder ready for when you apply to your very first job!
Sample request letter for an academic letter of reference
To help you ask a referee for a testimonial, we have provided a sample for you to use (please note that this is only a sample and you should personalise it as much as possible):
** TIPS & ARTICLES **
Read about the University & University of Technology 2023 Application Deadlines.
Read our top tips on submitting your bursary application for the best chance of success.
Read our tips on how to write a bursary motivational letter here.
Read about how to prepare for a bursary interview here here.
Read about the various ways to get free education in South Africa.
Read about the Public vs Private Higher Education Institutions and which to choose.
Read about the National Benchmark Test (NBT) for University Entrance.
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