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How many LORs will my MS application need, and what types are there?

16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Arati Rai · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

A Letter of Recommendation is a formal letter by someone who can speak about your academic or work performance. You usually need 2 to 3 LORs, and they are either academic, from teachers or professors, or professional, from an employer or internship mentor. Check each university's requirement.

Arati Rai
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An LOR is a formal letter from a person who can speak to your academic or work performance, and it is among the most important documents for students going abroad for MS, MBA or other degrees.

Types of LOR

TypeWritten by
Academic LORTeachers or professors
Professional LORYour employer or internship mentor, if you have worked

How Many You Need

  • You usually need 2 to 3 LORs, though this varies by university.
  • Check the official university page for the exact mix of academic and professional letters.

My Advice

Choose recommenders who know your work well and can speak about it with specifics. Ask early so they have time, and confirm each university's latest LOR rules before you apply.

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