Do I need academic or professional LORs for my MS in Engineering abroad?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Bhuvaneswari Gobinathan · 1 min read
Quick Answer
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For an MS in Engineering you will mostly need academic LORs, typically two or three, from a professor or teacher at the last college you attended. A few universities also ask for one professional LOR from your immediate supervisor. Check each university's requirements.
For an MS in Engineering, you will mostly be asked for academic LORs. These come from a professor or teacher at the last college you attended and highlight your accomplishments and academic excellence.
LOR Requirements for MS in Engineering
| LOR type | Typical expectation |
|---|---|
| Academic LOR | Mostly required; usually two or three from your last college |
| Professional LOR | Required by few universities; usually one, along with two academic LORs |
Who Should Write the Professional LOR
- Your immediate supervisor or a manager who has observed your work.
- They verify your skills in a professional environment.
- Only a few universities ask for it, so check the official university page.
My Advice
Start with your academic LORs, since those are the ones most programmes expect. If you have work experience and a target university asks for a professional letter, request it from someone who has directly watched your work.
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