Recommendation letters

When you complete Ohio State's application for admission, we'll ask you to provide references, and we'll invite these individuals to submit a letter of recommendation for you.

• Most programs require three references. Find your program to read about program-specific criteria, and see below for further details regarding the timeline and submission process.
• Your references should be acquainted with your academic program, scholastic ability or professional performance.
• Ohio State doesn't accept letters of recommendations submitted from third parties.

Timeline and submission process

In the final steps section of your online application, we'll ask you to list the names and contact details for each of your references. Once your application is processed, we'll email your references with a link to an online recommendation form.

Note: It can take up to 6 days to process your application and send these invitations. That's why we highly recommend that you submit your application well before the deadline to allow sufficient time for all steps.

The steps of this process:

1. You submit your application.
2. Over the next 2 to 4 days, we process your application.
3. 1 to 2 days after your application is processed, we email your references an invitation with a link to an online form.
4. Each of your references completes the form and attaches a letter of recommendation.
5. 1 to 2 days after a reference submits the form and letter, the checklist item in your To Do List (found by logging into your Applicant Center) changes from incomplete to complete.

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Who should I select as a reference?

Choose faculty members or others familiar with your qualifications and potential for graduate study. Contact your program if you're not sure if a reference you have in mind is suitable.

How do I manage and remind my references?

Manage (edit, add, delete, remind) your references by logging in to the Application References Summary. You'll need your Ohio State username and password to log in. If you haven't activated your username and set up your password, begin at my.osu.edu by clicking "Activate Now."

Should I waive access to my letters?

In the References section of the application, you have the option of selecting "Waive access," waiving your right to view your letters of recommendation. Be aware of these considerations: According to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), students have the right to inspect their records, including letters of recommendation. Some of your references may believe that letters written in confidence are the most honest assessment of a student's readiness for graduate study. Some will not provide a letter unless an applicant waives their right to access it. Ask their preference before completing the References section.

What if my reference is having trouble with the online form?

The preferred method of submission is outlined above — this method will ensure that your recommendation letters are connected to your application in the most seamless and efficient way. Submitting via alternative methods may result in significantly longer processing times.

However, if your reference is having trouble submitting the letter, here are two options:

• Ask your reference to provide you with a copy of their signed letter and a completed Graduate School Reference Form. You may submit these documents using the Admissions Uploader. Note that your program reserves the right to contact your recommender directly to confirm authenticity of the submitted materials.
• Alternatively, your recommender may email their signed letter, along with a completed Graduate School Reference Form, to gpadocs@osu.edu.

If you or your references have questions, reach out to Graduate and Professional Admissions at 614-292-9444 or gpadmissions@osu.edu.