Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship Applications | Complete Guide, Structure & Sample Template

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is an important document required for many scholarship, university, fellowship, Master's and PhD applications. It is written by someone who knows the applicant academically, professionally or personally and can provide an independent assessment of the applicant's academic ability, character, achievements, leadership potential and suitability for the opportunity.

A strong recommendation letter should not simply say that the applicant is "hardworking" or "excellent." It should provide specific evidence showing why the applicant deserves the scholarship.

The template provided for this guide follows a clear structure: identifying the applicant and scholarship, explaining the relationship between the recommender and student, matching the student's qualities with scholarship criteria, giving specific examples, discussing personal character, addressing financial need where applicable, and ending with a strong recommendation and contact information.

Letter of Recommendation Summary

• Document: Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship
• Purpose: To recommend a student for a scholarship
• Written By: Lecturer, professor, teacher, supervisor, employer, academic adviser or other appropriate referee
• Main Focus: Academic ability, character, achievements, experience and potential
• Target Applicants: Undergraduate, Master's, PhD, fellowship and scholarship applicants
• Recommended Format: Formal business/academic letter
• Signature: Required where applicable
• Referee Contact: Official institutional email and relevant contact details
• Customization: Must be tailored to the specific scholarship

What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

A Letter of Recommendation is a formal letter in which a qualified person recommends an applicant for a particular opportunity.

For a scholarship application, the recommender explains why they believe the applicant is a strong candidate.

The letter should answer questions such as:

• Who is the applicant?
• How does the recommender know the applicant?
• For how long have they known the applicant?
• What academic qualities does the applicant possess?
• What achievements demonstrate these qualities?
• What personal characteristics make the applicant suitable?
• What challenges has the applicant overcome?
• Why does the applicant deserve the scholarship?
• What contribution could the applicant make in the future?

The supplied template begins by stating the recommender's relationship with the student and how long they have known the applicant.

Who Should Write Your Recommendation Letter?

The best recommender is someone who actually knows your work and can provide specific evidence about your abilities.

Depending on the scholarship, suitable referees may include:

1. University Lecturer

A lecturer can discuss:

• Academic performance
• Research ability
• Class participation
• Intellectual ability
• Academic discipline
• Research potential

2. Professor or Academic Supervisor

This is particularly useful for:

• Master's scholarships
• PhD scholarships
• Research programmes
• Graduate research positions

A supervisor can discuss your:

• Thesis
• Research project
• Research methodology
• Analytical ability
• Scientific writing
• Research potential

3. Head of Department

A Head of Department may provide a broader assessment of:

• Academic performance
• Professional conduct
• Leadership
• Departmental participation
• Overall potential

4. Employer or Professional Supervisor

This can be useful when the scholarship values:

• Work experience
• Leadership
• Professional achievements
• Community involvement
• Career development

5. Internship Supervisor

If you performed an important internship, the supervisor can provide evidence of:

• Practical skills
• Professionalism
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability

Who Should Not Write Your Recommendation?

Avoid asking someone simply because they have an impressive title if they do not know you well.

For example, a senior official who has never taught or supervised you may provide a weaker letter than a lecturer who has worked closely with you for several years.

A strong letter is based on knowledge and evidence, not only the status of the recommender.

What Makes a Strong Recommendation Letter?

A strong scholarship recommendation letter should be:

Specific

Instead of:

John is hardworking.

Write:

During his final-year research project, John consistently completed laboratory procedures ahead of schedule and demonstrated careful attention to experimental accuracy.

Evidence-Based

Give examples of achievements and behaviour.

Relevant

Connect the applicant's qualities to the scholarship requirements.

Personal

The letter should sound like it was written specifically for the applicant.

Professional

Use formal language and an appropriate structure.

Honest

The recommender should only mention achievements they can genuinely support.

Recommended Structure of a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

A strong recommendation letter can follow this structure:

1. Recommender's contact information
2. Date
3. Recipient's information
4. Formal greeting
5. Introduction and recommendation
6. Relationship with applicant
7. Academic achievements
8. Specific evidence
9. Personal character
10. Leadership and other qualities
11. Financial need, if relevant
12. Overall recommendation
13. Contact offer
14. Closing and signature

The supplied template follows essentially this structure.

1. Recommender's Contact Information

At the top of the letter, include appropriate contact information.

For example:

Dr. John Smith
Department of Biotechnology
University of Example
P.O. Box 000
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Email: john.smith@university.ac.tz
Phone: +255 XXX XXX XXX

The template includes the recommender's address, phone number and email address at the beginning.

2. Date

Include the date when the letter is written.

Example:

10 August 2026

If the scholarship provides a specific format, follow its instructions.

3. Recipient Information

If the scholarship identifies a specific recipient or organization, address the letter accordingly.

Example:

Scholarship Selection Committee
[University/Organization Name]

If no individual name is provided, you can use:

Dear Scholarship Selection Committee,

4. Opening Paragraph

The first paragraph should immediately state that the recommender strongly recommends the applicant.

The template opens with:

"It is my pleasure and honor to recommend [Name of Student] for the [Name of Scholarship]."

A customized version could be:

It is my pleasure to strongly recommend [Student's Full Name] for the [Scholarship Name]. I have had the opportunity to teach and supervise [Student's Name] for [number] years, and during this period I have been consistently impressed by their academic ability, dedication, character and commitment to professional development.

5. Explain Your Relationship With the Applicant

The scholarship committee needs to know why the recommender is qualified to evaluate the applicant.

Include:

• Your position.
• Institution.
• Relationship with the student.
• How long you have known them.
• Courses taught.
• Research supervised.
• Professional relationship.

Example

I have known [Student Name] for three years in my capacity as a lecturer in the Department of [Department] at [University]. I taught [Student Name] in [Course Name] and later supervised their undergraduate research project on [Research Topic].

The template specifically asks the recommender to state how long they have known the student and their relationship with the student.

6. Explain Why the Applicant Matches the Scholarship

This is one of the most important parts.

First understand what the scholarship is looking for.

For example, if the scholarship values:

• Academic excellence
• Leadership
• Community service
• Research
• Innovation

the recommendation should provide evidence of these qualities.

The supplied template recommends identifying the traits and achievements required by the scholarship and then demonstrating that the student has shown those qualities on multiple occasions.

7. Give Specific Academic Evidence

Do not simply say:

She is an excellent student.

Explain why.

Example

[Student Name] consistently demonstrated strong analytical ability throughout my course. She achieved one of the highest grades in the class and regularly contributed thoughtful observations during academic discussions. Her final research project further demonstrated her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems.

Possible evidence includes:

• Excellent grades
• Research project
• Thesis
• Academic award
• Class ranking
• Research presentation
• Publication
• Conference participation
• Independent study

8. Discuss Research Potential

For Master's and PhD scholarships, research potential can be extremely important.

A recommender can discuss:

• Research methodology
• Critical thinking
• Data analysis
• Scientific writing
• Problem-solving
• Laboratory skills
• Research independence
• Intellectual curiosity

Example

During her final-year research project, [Student Name] demonstrated considerable research potential. She independently reviewed relevant literature, participated actively in data collection and analysis, and presented her findings clearly. Her ability to identify research problems and approach them systematically makes me confident in her potential for postgraduate research.

9. Discuss Personal Character

Academic performance alone does not tell the entire story.

The template includes a separate paragraph describing the applicant's character and positive personal qualities.

Relevant qualities may include:

• Integrity
• Responsibility
• Leadership
• Resilience
• Teamwork
• Discipline
• Initiative
• Empathy
• Commitment
• Communication
• Adaptability

But choose only qualities that the recommender can demonstrate with evidence.

10. Use a Real Example

This is what makes a recommendation letter convincing.

Instead of:

He is an excellent leader.

Write:

During a departmental research project, he volunteered to coordinate the student team, organized the distribution of responsibilities and ensured that all members completed their assigned tasks before the deadline.

The template specifically encourages the recommender to describe a situation in which the student demonstrated the positive characteristics being claimed.

11. Mention Leadership

If leadership is important to the scholarship, explain how the applicant has demonstrated it.

Leadership can include:

• Student organizations
• Community projects
• Research teams
• Volunteer programmes
• Professional initiatives
• Youth programmes
• Academic groups

Example

[Student Name] has also demonstrated leadership beyond the classroom. As a member of [organization], she took responsibility for coordinating [activity], working effectively with other students and ensuring that the project achieved its intended objectives.

12. Mention Financial Need Only When Relevant

Some scholarships are based partly on financial need.

The supplied template includes an optional paragraph for scholarships based on financial need.

If financial need is part of the scholarship criteria, the recommender can explain the situation respectfully.

Example

In addition to her academic strengths, [Student Name] has faced significant financial limitations that may make it difficult to pursue postgraduate education without scholarship support. Despite these challenges, she has remained committed to her academic and professional goals and has consistently demonstrated determination and resilience.

However, the recommender should not disclose sensitive financial or personal information unnecessarily.

13. Explain Why the Scholarship Will Matter

The letter can explain why receiving the scholarship would be valuable for the applicant.

For example:

This scholarship would provide [Student Name] with an opportunity to access advanced training and research facilities that would significantly strengthen her professional development.

14. State Your Overall Recommendation Clearly

Do not finish with a weak statement.

The template uses a strong recommendation and states that the recommender has no reservations about recommending the student.

Example:

I strongly recommend [Student Name] for the [Scholarship Name] and have no hesitation in supporting her application. I am confident that she will approach her studies with the same commitment, integrity and determination that she has demonstrated throughout her academic career.

15. Offer to Provide Additional Information

The recommender can invite the selection committee to contact them.

The template specifically includes an offer to answer questions regarding the student's character, academic work and other qualifications.

Example:

Please feel free to contact me at [official email] should you require any additional information regarding [Student Name]'s academic performance, character or qualifications.

16. Closing and Signature

End formally.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

[Full Name]
[Academic/Professional Title]
[Department]
[University/Organization]
Official Email: [email]

The supplied template ends with the recommender's signature, name, title and school/university.

Complete Letter of Recommendation Template

[RECOMMENDER'S FULL NAME]
[Academic/Professional Title]
[Department]
[University/Organization]
[Address]
[City, Country]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Official Email Address]

[Date]

Scholarship Selection Committee
[Scholarship/University Name]
[Address if required]

Dear Scholarship Selection Committee,

It is my pleasure to recommend [Student's Full Name] for the [Scholarship Name]. I have known [Student's Name] for [number] years in my capacity as [lecturer/professor/supervisor/employer/adviser] at [Institution Name]. During this period, I have had the opportunity to observe [his/her/their] academic development, personal character and professional potential.

[Student's Name] is a highly motivated and capable [student/professional] with a strong interest in [field of study]. During my time working with [him/her/them], [Student's Name] demonstrated particular strength in [academic quality/skill], [second quality] and [third quality].

One example that demonstrates these qualities was [specific project/course/research/work experience]. During this experience, [Student's Name] [describe what the student did]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] ability to [skill/quality] and confirmed [his/her/their] potential for further academic and professional development.

Academically, [Student's Name] has demonstrated strong ability in [relevant subjects/field]. [He/She/They] has shown particular competence in [specific area] through [research project/thesis/coursework/academic achievement]. I believe these qualities will enable [him/her/them] to perform successfully in the proposed [Master's/PhD/degree] programme.

On a personal level, [Student's Name] is a person of strong character. [He/She/They] has consistently demonstrated [integrity/resilience/leadership/teamwork/discipline/etc.]. For example, when [describe situation or challenge], [Student's Name] [describe action], demonstrating [specific quality].

In addition to [his/her/their] academic abilities, [Student's Name] has developed experience in [research/work/internship/community service/leadership]. These experiences have strengthened [his/her/their] ability to [relevant skills] and have given [him/her/them] a clear understanding of [field/problem].

I believe that the [Scholarship Name] would provide [Student's Name] with an important opportunity to develop advanced knowledge and skills in [field]. [He/She/They] has the academic preparation, motivation and determination required to make effective use of this opportunity.

I therefore strongly recommend [Student's Full Name] for the [Scholarship Name]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will uphold the standards of your institution and make a positive contribution to your academic community.

Please feel free to contact me at [official email address] if you require any additional information regarding [Student's Name]'s academic performance, character or qualifications.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

[Recommender's Full Name]
[Title/Position]
[Department]
[University/Organization]
[Official Email Address]
[Phone Number]

Sample Letter of Recommendation for a Master's Scholarship

Dr. Michael John
Senior Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences
University of Example
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Email: michael.john@university.ac.tz
Phone: +255 XXX XXX XXX

10 August 2026

Scholarship Selection Committee
[University Name]

Dear Scholarship Selection Committee,

It is my pleasure to strongly recommend Jane A. Mushi for the [Scholarship Name]. I have known Jane for more than three years in my capacity as a lecturer and academic supervisor at the University of Example. During this period, I have observed her academic development, research ability, professional conduct and commitment to her field.

Jane is a highly motivated graduate with a strong academic background in Biotechnology and Laboratory Science and a particular interest in molecular biology and public health research. Throughout her studies, she demonstrated strong analytical ability, intellectual curiosity and commitment to academic excellence.

I was particularly impressed by her performance during her final-year research project. She demonstrated the ability to review scientific literature, follow research procedures, analyze information and communicate scientific findings clearly. She also showed patience and attention to detail when dealing with complex research tasks.

Beyond academics, Jane has demonstrated strong interpersonal and professional qualities. She works effectively with colleagues, accepts responsibility for assigned tasks and approaches challenges with determination. During group activities, she regularly contributed ideas while also supporting other members of the team.

Her academic preparation and practical experience have given her a strong foundation for postgraduate study. I believe that a Master's programme in molecular biology and related biomedical sciences would provide her with the advanced research training required to achieve her professional goals.

The scholarship would provide Jane with an opportunity to access advanced academic training and research facilities and to develop skills that she can apply to scientific and healthcare challenges in Tanzania. I am confident that she will use this opportunity responsibly and contribute positively to her academic community.

I have no hesitation in recommending Jane for this scholarship. I believe she possesses the academic ability, motivation, integrity and determination required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Please feel free to contact me at michael.john@university.ac.tz if you require any additional information regarding Jane's academic performance, character or qualifications.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Dr. Michael John
Senior Lecturer
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Example
Email: michael.john@university.ac.tz

Sample Letter for a PhD Scholarship

A PhD recommendation should place greater emphasis on research potential.

The recommender should discuss:

• Research experience
• Master's thesis
• Research methodology
• Publications
• Academic writing
• Critical thinking
• Research independence
• Potential contribution to the field
• Ability to work with supervisors
• Proposed research area

Example Opening

I am pleased to strongly recommend [Student Name] for admission and scholarship support for the PhD programme in [Field] at [University]. I have known [Student Name] for [X years] as [his/her/their] lecturer and research supervisor, and I have had the opportunity to closely evaluate [his/her/their] research ability, academic performance and potential for advanced study.

Sample Recommendation for a Financial-Need Scholarship

If the scholarship specifically considers financial circumstances, the recommender can include a carefully written paragraph.

In addition to [Student Name]'s academic strengths, I understand that financial circumstances may create significant challenges in financing advanced study. Despite these circumstances, [Student Name] has remained committed to academic and professional development and has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination. Scholarship support would provide an important opportunity for [him/her/them] to pursue [his/her/their] academic goals.

Only include financial information that is relevant, accurate and appropriate.

Recommendation Letter for International Scholarships

When applying for scholarships abroad, the recommendation letter should ideally demonstrate more than academic ability.

International scholarship committees may want to understand:

• Academic excellence
• Leadership
• Research potential
• Professional experience
• Community involvement
• Adaptability
• Communication
• Integrity
• International outlook
• Future potential

The recommender should connect these qualities to the applicant's future goals.

Recommendation Letter for Tanzanian and African Students

Students from Tanzania and other African countries applying for international scholarships should choose referees who can provide strong evidence of their academic and professional development.

Depending on the scholarship, a good combination may include:

Academic Referee

A lecturer, professor or academic supervisor who knows your academic work.

Professional Referee

An employer or supervisor who can discuss your professional experience.

Research Referee

A research supervisor who can discuss your research potential.

Always check the scholarship's instructions because some scholarships specify exactly who can provide references.

How Many Recommendation Letters Do You Need?

There is no universal number.

Some scholarships request:

• One recommendation letter.
• Two references.
• Three references.
• Academic and professional references.
• Specific referee categories.

Always follow the scholarship's instructions.

Do not submit extra recommendation letters if the scholarship specifically requests a particular number.

What Should the Referee's Email Be?

For scholarship applications, an official institutional email address is generally preferable where available.

For example:

Preferred:

lecturer@university.ac.tz

Less preferable where an institutional address is available:

example@gmail.com

The reason is that an institutional email can help establish the referee's professional or academic affiliation.

However, always follow the scholarship's specific instructions.

Should the Letter Be Signed?

If the scholarship requests a signed recommendation letter, the referee should sign it.

Depending on the application system, the letter may be:

• Signed manually and scanned.
• Digitally signed.
• Uploaded directly by the referee.
• Submitted through an online reference system.

Follow the scholarship's instructions.

Should the Letter Be on Official Letterhead?

Where appropriate, an academic or professional recommendation letter should be prepared using the institution's official letterhead.

This can include:

• University logo.
• Institution name.
• Department.
• Official address.
• Official email.
• Phone number.

However, applicants should not create or fake institutional letterheads. The referee or institution should provide the authentic document.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Writing the Letter Yourself and Asking the Referee to Sign It

A referee should provide an honest assessment based on their own knowledge of the applicant.

2. Using the Same Letter for Every Scholarship

A strong recommendation should be tailored to the opportunity.

3. Making Generic Claims

Avoid:

She is very hardworking and intelligent.

Without evidence, such statements are weak.

4. No Relationship With the Student

The letter should explain how the recommender knows the applicant.

5. No Examples

Specific examples make the recommendation more credible.

6. Using a Personal Email Without Reason

Where possible, use an official institutional email.

7. Incorrect Scholarship Name

Never submit a letter mentioning the wrong university or scholarship.

8. Exaggerated Claims

The referee should not claim achievements they cannot verify.

9. Very Short Letter

A recommendation consisting of only a few sentences may fail to provide sufficient evidence.

10. Repeating the CV

The letter should provide the committee with a referee's perspective, not simply reproduce the applicant's CV.

How to Ask a Lecturer or Professor for a Recommendation Letter

Send a professional request.

Example Email

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship Application

Dear Dr. [Name],

I hope you are doing well.

I am applying for the [Scholarship Name] to pursue [Programme Name] at [University Name], and I would be honoured if you could provide me with a letter of recommendation.

I took your [Course Name] course during [Year], and you also [supervised/taught/advised] me during [project/research/activity].

The scholarship deadline is [Date].

I have attached/provided my:

• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Scholarship information
• Programme information
• Draft statement of purpose
• Scholarship recommendation requirements

Please let me know if you require any additional information.

Thank you very much for considering my request.

Kind regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]

Information You Should Give Your Referee

Make it easy for your referee to write a strong letter.

Provide:

• Your full name.
• CV.
• Academic transcript.
• Degree certificate.
• Scholarship name.
• Scholarship website.
• Programme name.
• University name.
• Scholarship requirements.
• Deadline.
• Your SOP.
• Important achievements.
• Research project details.
• Relevant work experience.
• Leadership activities.
• Community involvement.

This gives the referee enough information to write a specific and relevant recommendation.

Final Checklist for a Scholarship Recommendation Letter

Before submitting the letter, check:

• [ ] Applicant's full name is correct.
• [ ] Scholarship name is correct.
• [ ] University/organization name is correct.
• [ ] Referee's name is correct.
• [ ] Referee's position is included.
• [ ] Relationship with the applicant is explained.
• [ ] Length of relationship is stated.
• [ ] Academic strengths are discussed.
• [ ] Specific examples are included.
• [ ] Relevant personal qualities are demonstrated.
• [ ] Research experience is included where relevant.
• [ ] Leadership is included where relevant.
• [ ] Financial need is discussed only when relevant.
• [ ] Future potential is explained.
• [ ] Official contact details are included.
• [ ] Letter is signed where required.
• [ ] Official letterhead is used where appropriate.
• [ ] Correct scholarship name is used throughout.
• [ ] Grammar and spelling have been checked.
• [ ] The letter follows the scholarship's instructions.

Final Advice

A strong scholarship recommendation letter should answer one central question:

"Why should the scholarship committee select this applicant?"

The answer should come from evidence, not empty praise.

A good referee should explain the relationship with the applicant, identify the applicant's strongest academic and personal qualities, provide specific examples demonstrating those qualities, explain why the applicant fits the scholarship and finish with a clear recommendation. This reflects the structure of the supplied recommendation-letter template.

For scholarships abroad, especially Master's and PhD opportunities, the strongest letters are those that show a clear connection between the applicant's past achievements, current abilities and future potential.

Most importantly, the recommendation should be truthful, specific, personalized and written by someone who genuinely knows the applicant's work.

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