How many letters to ask for?

[pcarter38]

Im currently in my first semester a graduate program, and looking to transfer. I'm looking to move between two states, and I dont want to have a big gap in between getting into a graduate program after I leave, and stopping my current graduate  program. I would like to ask for my letters of recommendation now, so I can get into a program for the Fall. Would it look bad to ask for maybe 3-4 letters from each writer, with maybe one being from a different state than the other 2. What are the rules when dealing with multiple letters, and how do recommenders look at you for applying to multiple places?

[uromastyx]

That is really not that many. Should be fine.

What do you mean by 'rules?'

[TakeruK]

For most programs, the letter writer has to submit the letter directly to the school you are applying for. So it's not like you can physically get the letters now and then hold onto them so they are ready to be submitted at the next application season. You could let your letter writers know that you intend to apply for graduate programs this fall and that you would be asking them for letters later this year. Usually people phrase it as "would you be willing to write me a letter" although the answer is almost always yes (if you have picked your letter writers correctly).

 

But I'm confused -- you're already in a graduate program now you say, so didn't you get letters for this program too? Anyways, most profs expect their students to apply to more than just one program and 4 letters really isn't a lot. Most people apply to something like 8-15 programs. 

 

I normally would say that you probably don't need to start talking to people about writing letters until the fall but I guess it could be worth it to let your letter writers know ahead of time that you plan to transfer schools, since I think that might not be something they would expect. Of course, it might also not be a good idea to let them know too early, but I assume you know what you are doing if you are asking about letters now!

 

But I wouldn't expect them to actually write the letter until it's time to submit the application. You will probably never see the letter either, unless your writer gives you a copy, and when you submit the application, make sure you check the box that says you waive your right to see the letter. Those are the main "unwritten rules"!