Reference request email
Ask early, at least three weeks before the deadline, and make it easy for your referee to help. Adapt the wording below to your own relationship with the person. Fill the brackets with your details.
Email you can adapt
Subject: Reference request for [award name] — deadline [date] Dear [Professor / Dr / Name], I hope you are well. I am applying for the [award name], which funds [one line on what it is], and I would be grateful if you would act as a referee. You supervised me in [course / project / role], and I think you can speak to [the specific thing: my research ability, my work in your lab, etc.]. The deadline is [date]. The reference is submitted [by me as an upload / directly through a link the organisation sends you]. To make it easy, I have attached: - My CV - My draft personal statement - A short note on what the award looks for If you are able to help, thank you very much. If not, I completely understand, and would appreciate knowing soon so I can ask someone else in good time. With thanks, [Your full name] [Your programme / role]
Send these with it
- Your CV
- Your draft statement or a summary of what you are applying for
- The exact deadline and how the reference is submitted
- A reminder of how they know you and what to emphasise
Send a short, friendly reminder a week before the deadline if you have not heard back.
Put it to use
Browse scholarships open for application now, or read the advice guides for the detail behind each step.