How to Secure the Best Letters of Recommendation for Law & Med School
If you're applying to law or medical school, strong letters of recommendation aren’t optional—they’re essential.
Your GPA and test scores say what you’ve done. Your personal statement says who you are. But your letters? They speak to how others see you—as a learner, colleague, and future professional.
At GradMissions, we’ve helped many students secure compelling, authentic recommendations that truly elevate their applications. Here’s how you can do the same:
1. Choose Wisely—and Strategically
A great letter writer isn’t necessarily the most famous person you know. Aim for recommenders who:
Know you well
Can speak to your work ethic, growth, and character
Supervised or taught you in an academic or professional setting
Med school applicants: Most schools expect at least one letter from a science professor, and some require specific combinations.
Law school applicants: Choose writers who can speak to your critical thinking, writing, and judgment—often professors or internship supervisors.
A personal letter is fine, too (someone who knows you from volunteering or community involvement), but please don't ask your mom or another family member (yes, that happened when our team was working in admissions offices reviewing thousands of applications. You can guess how that went!)
2. Ask Early
Timing is everything. You should ask at least 6–8 weeks before you need the letter submitted. For spring classes or recent research experiences, May is the perfect time—your work is fresh in the recommender’s mind, and they still have time before summer break.
Pro tip: Ask in person or over Zoom when possible, and always follow up with a formal email summarizing your request.
3. Make It Easy for Them to Say Yes
Once they agree, send a helpful packet that includes:
Your résumé or CV (GradMissions can help you create and edit these to reflect you the best)
A draft of your personal statement (or a summary of your goals)
A reminder of your work together (class, project, internship)
The letter submission process and deadlines
This helps them write a specific, tailored letter—not a generic one.
4. Waive Your Right to Read It
When prompted on platforms like AMCAS or LSAC, always waive your right to view the letter. Admissions committees view confidential letters as more trustworthy and candid.
5. Follow Up—and Show Gratitude
Send a gentle reminder a week or two before the deadline if needed. And once it’s submitted, send a thank-you note—email is fine, handwritten is even better.
Let your recommenders know how your process goes. They’ve invested in your future and will be thrilled to hear about your success.
GradMissions Tip: We Help You Choose the Right Recommenders
Not sure who to ask? Need help wording your request or assembling a support packet? We coach our students through every step of the recommendation process to maximize impact.
Book a free 20-minute strategy session and we’ll help you craft a full application timeline—starting with who should write your letters and when to reach out.
On our call we can also discuss specific ways GradMissions can help you reach your medical or law school goals. Our Admissions Accelerator and Curated Application Experience are both tailored specifically for you to help you reach the school of your dreams, with clarity and confidence!
