You can modify this template to ask someone to provide you with a reference. Make sure you only use this resource as a guide and to modify it for your use – do NOT just copy and paste.
Depending on the nature of your relationship with the potential referee, you could make the email less formal. Any follow-up requests can also be friendlier. The templates below are relatively formal, so you want to personalize it for your referee. You want to be respectful when approaching a potential referee, but not too formal that it becomes impersonal.
To copy the text, hover your mouse over the box, and a copy button will appear in the top right corner.
Subject: Request for a Professional Reference - Scholarship Application
Dear [REFERENCE'S NAME],
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out because I am currently in the process of applying for the [SCHOLARSHIP NAME] offered by [ORGANIZATION NAME], and I was wondering if you would be willing to provide a letter of reference?
During my time at [YOUR SCHOOL NAME], I had the privilege of benefiting from your expertise and guidance in [YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH REFERENCE]. I understand that you work with many students, so I wanted to provide some information to help contextualize my experiences under your supervision.
[BRIEFLY LIST THE PROJECTS/TASKS AND THEIR OUTCOMES THAT YOU COMPLETED UNDER THEIR SUPERVISION, AS WELL AS YOUR TIME COMMITMENT. THIS WILL HELP TO REFRESH YOUR REFEREE'S MEMORY.]
In case it is beneficial, my unofficial transcript and resume are attached. I have also summarized some of my achievements outside of our work in case they can help you decide whether you are able to write me a letter. These include [LIST OR PROVIDE A SEPARATE DOCUMENT WITH MORE DETAILS ON THIS SECTION].
Your mentorship played a crucial role in shaping my academic and personal development, and I am deeply appreciative of the knowledge and skills I gained under your mentorship.
The application deadline is [APPLICATION DEADLINE], and I am aiming to submit my application by [YOUR DEADLINE FOR REFERENCE LETTER]. For more information on the scholarship application and reference instructions, please visit this link [LINK OR ATTACH A COPY OF THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION]. I understand that your time is valuable, and I truly appreciate your consideration of my request.
Thank you for your ongoing support throughout the pursuit of my academic and professional aspirations. Should you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to reach out to me.
Warm regards,
[YOUR NAME]
[PHONE NUMBER]
[EMAIL ADDRESS]
Subject: Request for Reference
Dear [REFERENCE NAME],
I hope this message finds you well.
I am currently in the process of pursuing new job opportunities, and I was wondering if you would be willing to be a professional reference. I believe your insights into my [RELEVANT SKILLS/EXPERIENCE] would provide valuable context to potential employers.
If you are comfortable providing a reference, I would be happy to forward you more information about the role to which I am applying. Your support has been instrumental in my professional development, and I'm grateful for your ongoing guidance.
Please let me know if you have any questions or if there is additional information you require.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and assistance.
Best regards,
[YOUR FULL NAME]
[YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION]