A Letter of Reference (LOR) is an important document required for university applications. It supports the applicant’s profile by providing an independent assessment of their academic or professional abilities.
First Letter of Reference Requirement
Applicants must upload a first Letter of Reference that:
- Is dated within the last 12 months from the application date
- Is written specifically for the applicant
- Is signed by the referee
Who Can Write the Reference?
The referee should be someone who can comment on the applicant’s:
- Academic performance
- Skills and capabilities
- Suitability for the chosen programme
Recommended referees:
- Current or former tutor / lecturer / academic supervisor
- University professor
If Academic Reference is Not Available
If academic reference is not possible, applicants may use a professional referee such as:
- Line manager
- Work supervisor
- Employer
They must be able to describe the applicant’s performance and work attitude.
Referee Contact Details Required
The Letter of Reference must include complete referee information:
- Full name of referee
- Position / job title
- Institution or company name
- Institution or company address
- Email address
- Phone number
These details are required for verification purposes.
Important Notes
- The reference must be signed by the referee
- Preferably written on official letterhead
- Must be honest, accurate, and relevant
- The referee should be someone who knows the applicant well
Final Advice
A strong Letter of Reference strengthens the application by confirming the applicant’s academic or professional quality. Choose a referee who can provide clear, detailed, and credible support for your study application.
