How long can I keep using the same recommendation letter for university applications abroad?
A letter of recommendation has no universal expiry date, and rules vary by university. Some, such as Stanford, advise refreshing it after a year. An older letter may be accepted if the university allows it, though a recent one is better because it reflects your latest skills, achievements and growth.
A letter of recommendation does not come with a universal expiry date; rules vary by university, and Stanford advises refreshing it after a year. If it does not show your recent achievements, a fresh letter will usually serve you better.
Old Letter or New Letter
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there a fixed expiry? | No universal expiry; it varies by university, and some see it as dated after about 1 to 2 years |
| Can I reuse an old LOR? | Only if the university allows it |
| Which is better? | A recent letter, since it shows your latest skills, achievements and growth |
Practical Checks
- Check whether your university asks for recent recommendation letters
- Universities may verify LORs by contacting the recommender or confirming through the portal, so keep recommender details accurate
- Ask for an update if your work or academic profile has changed a lot since the original letter
My Advice
If your letter is older than a year or two, request a refreshed version from the same recommender with your latest projects and results included. Confirm the university's rules first, so you do not spend effort on a letter that will not be accepted.
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