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Student Credentials Guide

Your Credentials File

Letters of recommendation (also called references) are the major component of your credentials folder. Recommendations may be written by faculty, administrative staff or employers. There are two types:

  1. Confidential recommendations:
    The candidate waives the right to read these letters at any time.
  2. Non-confidential recommendations:
    The candidate may request to read these references any time.

Careful thought should be given to the type of recommendations you choose; graduate/professional schools prefer "confidential" letters. Questions regarding this decision may be discussed with the director of Career Counseling.

Letters of reference from employers, volunteer or internship supervisors, etc. can be written on their professional stationery and are considered non-confidential.

It is suggested that you include three to five letters covering academic performance and work experience. Ask for references only from people who have a thorough knowledge of your academic or professional abilities. Students are encouraged to seek a conference with the person who is being asked to write a recommendation. Determine if that individual feels qualified to recommend you and is willing to do so. Bring your résumé to the conference and also provide a résumé for your file at Career Counseling.

Procedure

  1. Review the tips below. As a courtesy, be sure to include the reference request cover sheet with each recommendation request you make.
  2. Download the forms below.
  3. Complete the Authorization Form and drop it off or send it to the Office of Career Counseling.
  4. Give each reference writer an official recommendation form, which indicates the type of recommendation to be written. If it is confidential, the student must sign the waiver section before giving it to the writer.
  5. Confidential letters of recommendation should be mailed directly to the Office of Career Counseling and not hand carried by the student.
  6. Be sure to check with the Office of Career Counseling frequently to make sure your recommendations have arrived. It is your responsibility to see that your Credentials File is complete.
  7. Requests for letters from your file must be in writing. They can be faxed to us at (914) 395-2666.

Tips for Requesting Recommendations

Most faculty are more than pleased when asked to write a recommendation on a student's behalf. However, it’s important to remember that professors are busy people with several simultaneous demands made on their time by many students. Considering how a positive detailed reference customized to the prospective graduate program can enhance your application, you would be wise to follow the tips we recommend below. After all, you have everything to gain by being considerate of your reference writer's time.

  • Allow plenty of lead-time—at least one month if possible—and indicate the program deadline.
  • Schedule an appointment in person to discuss your request and overall plans for continued study. If this is not possible, write a detailed letter or e-mail, followed up by a phone call. Remember, you are making a request. The person in question has not yet agreed to write on your behalf, so do not assume anything.
  • Bring a copy of your personal statement (or draft), résumé, unofficial transcript and supporting materials related to the type of program for which you are applying to your personal interview. If you are unable to meet, send the materials.
  • If the admissions programs do not include a return envelope, provide stamped envelopes addressed to the individual programs.
  • Use the Reference Request Cover Sheet provided to organize the paperwork as a courtesy to your professor.

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