Need one more LOR but already asked...

[PrettyLegitGator]

Hi all,

 

 

I’m currently applying for graduate school. Two of my professors have already written me letters for three other schools. I have submitted the applications and sent thank you cards.

 

But I just met with a professor from a really prestigious school, with a fantastic program and I am absolutely in love with it. I would truly be remiss if I did not apply. 

 

The school requires 2 academic recommendations. Should I ask the professors for one more letter? 

 

If so, how? How do I phrase it? I can’t go to them physically as I am in a different state. So if I ask, it’ll have to be by email or phone. 

 

 

I don't want to be annoying or bothersome.

 

Thank you for your advice!

[uromastyx]

I would simply email them and explain the situation and ask if they'd be willing to submit (the letter is already written) one more letter. Four total schools is really not very many. Chances are it would be fine. Good luck!

[zapster]

Yes - just email, explain that you have been encouraged by discussions with thi prof. and you believe it will be a fantastic fit etc., and hence need to add one more school to the list; show that you are aware that they will be busy and you respect their time, but you are only asking since this is so important to you and that a letter from them will be critical. As long as you come across as being appreciative of their time (and not take them for granted), I dont think they will mind submitting one mre letter - as uromastyx said, it aready written.

 

Best of Luck !!

[TakeruK]

It should be okay. Most profs will have electronic copies of their old letters and like your SOPs, they will just copy-paste the letter, change the name of the school and maybe fix up a paragraph to tailor it to the specific school!

[margarets]

Just ask nicely, like you did before. 

 

I've gathered from some university department secretaries that writing LoRs is just one of those things professors do, it's part of the job.  So it seems like a big request to you to but them it's just all in a day's work.