Primarily, two main types of LORs can be sent to foreign universities for admission purposes. Wondering what they are? Read on to find out.
1. Academic LOR
An academic letter of recommendation (LOR) is written, addressed, and sent directly to the university by instructors, project supervisors, mentors, etc. It emphasizes the applicant's academic career, including their successes, failures, and general development. If the recommender has been a project supervisor, they need to discuss the project's status and the student's involvement in it. Recall that the letter of recommendation must reflect the recommender's good opinion of the applicant.
2. Professional LOR
An academic LOR and a professional LOR are nearly identical. The drafter - the applicant's boss, employer, team head, supervisor, or senior - is the only distinction. A formal LOR must emphasize the applicant's professional and/or working abilities.
It's crucial to remember that the recommender can only mention qualities pertinent to their encounters with the applicant. For instance, the employer might highlight the candidate's punctuality and diligence, but unless the candidate was directly involved in the project, it might be difficult to sufficiently explain how the applicant contributed to and collaborated with the team on the XYZ project.
A set of three sample LOR is typically required by universities offering an MS in electrical engineering. It is advised that they consist of both professional and academic LORs. Academic LORs are usually favored by universities when it comes to MS programs in electrical engineering. That does not, however, imply that a professional LOR is insignificant.
Suggested: Letter of Recommendation Guide for MS, MBA, and Others.
Now, let's dive into the details of how to write a LOR, tips to ace it, and LOR requirements by top universities!