Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are optional for undergraduate applicants. We strongly encourage you to submit one or two letters, but applicants who choose not to submit recommendations will not be penalized in our review process.

If you choose to submit recommendations, we suggest that at least one letter come from a college professor who has taught you in a course related to your academic major or field of study. In certain situations (for example, enrollment only in large lecture courses), a teaching assistant may be an acceptable alternative. A second letter may come from another professor, academic advisor, research mentor, or other individual who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.

If you have been out of college for several years and have been active in the workforce, you may submit a work reference in place of an academic recommendation. Similarly, if you have significant research or internship experience, you may submit a letter from your research advisor or internship supervisor.

Recommender Guidelines

Strong letters of recommendation provide specific examples that demonstrate your academic excellence, innovative thinking, and commitment to positive change. We encourage you to select recommenders who can speak to these qualities and provide meaningful insights about your academic achievements and personal character.

Please give your recommenders sufficient time to write their letters. It's considerate to provide them with at least 2-3 weeks notice before the application deadline.

Additional Optional Letter

You may submit up to two letters total. If you include a second letter, we recommend choosing someone who can provide a different perspective on your strengths, such as an employer, community service leader, or research supervisor. Please ask your recommender to note your full legal name, university name, and date of birth at the top of the letter.

How to Submit Letters of Recommendation

• Recommendation letters should be submitted online through the Lu Scholar Application portal whenever possible. This is the fastest method for materials to reach your file.
• If online submission is not possible, recommenders may send their letter as an email attachment to scholarship@lu-memorial.org. They should include your full legal name, university name, and date of birth at the top of the letter and in their email.
• Materials submitted by recommenders may take up to one week to process after we have received your submitted application. As a standard practice, we offer a grace period after the application deadline during which recommenders may submit their letters.
• You can check the status of your recommendation letters in your Lu Scholar Application portal after submitting your application.

Updated on February 7, 2026