Sample · Email · English

Email asking a professor for a recommendation

A short, polite email asking a professor for a letter of recommendation, with everything they need attached.

Who writes it: You, to a professor or manager who knows your work.

Subject: Request for a letter of recommendation: M.Sc. applications to Germany

Dear Dr [Name],

I hope you are well. I was in your Control Systems class in 2022–23, and you guided my final-year project on vibration monitoring for the workshop pump.

I am applying for Master’s programmes in [field] in Germany for the winter semester [year], and I would be grateful if you could write a letter of recommendation for me. You know my project work better than anyone, and the programmes ask for a referee who can speak about it.

The first deadline is [date]. Most universities ask for a signed letter on letterhead as a PDF, which I upload with my application; two ask referees to upload it themselves through a link I would send you. I have attached my CV, the list of programmes with deadlines, and my draft motivation letter.

I would be happy to meet you at a time that suits you. Thank you very much for considering this.

Kind regards,Ananya RaoB.Tech Mechanical Engineering, batch of 2024+91 98xxx xxxxx

Make it your own

Ask at least four to six weeks before the first deadline, and say when and how the letter is needed.
Remind them what you did with them, and attach your CV, the programme list and your draft motivation letter.
Offer to meet; thank them whatever they decide.
Do not copy it: replace every detail with your own and write it in your own words.

Follows: DAAD: application documents

Feedback on your own draft

The Ambiful Abroad app reviews your letter paragraph by paragraph and drafts a German-style CV from what you type. Free on iPhone and Android.

A sample for reference, not legal or visa advice. Universities, employers and the German missions set their own requirements.