Can a university check whether my recommendation letters are genuine?
Some universities may verify letters of recommendation submitted for a Master's application. They may contact the recommender directly, check institutional information, or use submission systems that require the recommender to send the letter themselves. Give accurate recommender details and make sure every letter is genuine and professionally submitted.
Some universities may verify the recommendation letters you submit. They may reach out to your recommender, cross-check institutional details, or use portals where the letter must come straight from the recommender. Accurate details and genuine letters protect your application.
How Verification Can Work
| Verification route | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Contacting the recommender | Share correct contact details so the university can reach them if needed |
| Checking institutional information | Name, designation and institution should be accurate and consistent |
| Direct submission systems | The recommender uploads the letter themselves instead of handing it to you |
What a Genuine Letter Contains
- The recommender's details, the date and a formal salutation.
- A short introduction and how the recommender knows you.
- An assessment of your academic or professional strengths with specific examples.
- A closing recommendation, plus the recommender's name, designation, institution and contact information.
My Advice
Never write a letter yourself and ask a professor to sign it, and never use fake recommender details. Talk to your recommender, hand over your CV and programme details, and let them write in their own words. A genuine, specific letter holds up well if anyone checks.
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