LOR ensuing nightmare - need advice with looming deadline

[Kalmar]

So, one of my LORs still hasn't come through. I'm not sure whether I am partly to blame (I probably am!), but here's the status:

 

I have an app deadline this coming Monday (15 Dec)

My referee agreed to write a LOR over a month ago.

I specified that the deadline was 15 Dec a week ago (yes, should've said initially, but only found out now that I need to upload the LOR myself BEFORE the deadline, and that he doesn't have to upload anything)

How do I ask him for the LOR now, given the deadline coming up very soon? Do I basically order him to write it asap (I suspect he hasn't written anything yet) or what?

[eragon]

Before spending anytime thinking, just go ahead and tell your referee that you need to upload the LOR and not him and again send a gentle reminder of the deadline.

 

Since you have to upload you have a weeks time and I think it will work out well.

[Kalmar]

Before spending anytime thinking, just go ahead and tell your referee that you need to upload the LOR and not him and again send a gentle reminder of the deadline.

 

Since you have to upload you have a weeks time and I think it will work out well.

Thanks, I've done that now!

Fingers crossed it will work out. Just in case, do you think it would be possible to send off the application without the LOR before the deadline and perhaps add the LOR a few days later? The website doesn't specify and I'd rather not ask.

[eragon]

AS far as I know, if the LORs had to be done online by the referee they give some additional time for them to complete say like a week extra. But since you have to upload the LOR, I am not sure. There is no harm in asking the grad office regarding that.

[Kalmar]

AS far as I know, if the LORs had to be done online by the referee they give some additional time for them to complete say like a week extra. But since you have to upload the LOR, I am not sure. There is no harm in asking the grad office regarding that.

 

Before spending anytime thinking, just go ahead and tell your referee that you need to upload the LOR and not him and again send a gentle reminder of the deadline.

 

Since you have to upload you have a weeks time and I think it will work out well.

Just checked with the grad office, they said they need them by the deadline. Prof still hasn't written back. What to do? Shall I pester him with another email? FWIW the deadline I told him is in two days, but seems like he is dodging my emails

[jipq6175]

Just some suggestions if they can apply to your situation.

 

1. Call his/ her office directly. 

    Professors are always busy especially it's near the end of the semester. They might not have time to check the email in person. 

 

2. Knock the door or arrange an appointment.

    This is the best way to show your sincere. If email works, that's good. But usually, meeting face to face will always work. 

 

If they said they are willing to write the recommendation letter for you, it will be fine.

 

I am still waiting for recommendation letters. : ) 

 

Good luck.

[eragon]

I agree with jipq6175. If you can meet him in person that's the best way to tell about the deadline. Getting recommendations in time is a big process and it has to be handled carefully.