Etiquette Tips for 4+1 MBA Recommendation Letters

Choose Well

Request a recommendation from an LSBE faculty member who can speak to how you are as a student (e.g., your accomplishments, experiences, strengths, and any obstacles overcome). 

When first approaching the potential recommender—instead of asking "Can you write me a recommendation letter?"—ask them, "Do you feel you know me well enough to write a recommendation letter for the Labovitz 4+1 MBA program?" This approach allows the conversation to start more naturally. 

Start Early

With an application due date of March 1, it works best to reach out to the LSBE faculty member in January if possible. Make sure you give them at least three to four weeks to complete the recommendation letter. 

Some faculty are approached by many students, but they are only able to write a certain number of letters. So be sure to approach them early on, especially if you end up needing to approach a different LSBE faculty member with your request.  

Information to Provide

  • Deadline for letter submission: March 1 (end of day)
  • Purpose: For application to the Labovitz MBA 4+1 Program
  • Addressee: Labovitz MBA Program Admission Committee
  • Current Resume
  • Statement of Purpose (from your 4+1 MBA application)
  • The reason why you picked this particular recommender

Application System

The recommendation letter is submitted via the University of Minnesota Graduate School application system. There will be a section where you enter in your recommender's name and email address. Make sure your potential recommender has agreed to write a letter for you prior to filling out this portion of the application. Also, make sure you have the correct UMD email address listed without any typos—this has caused delays in the past. 

Once entered, the application system will email the LSBE faculty member with instructions for submitting their letter. You will be able to see the letter's status when you pull up your application. You can also request that the LSBE faculty member notifies you after they have submitted the letter. 

If you have concerns about the status of your letter, follow up with the LSBE faculty member, in person or via email, at least one week before the letter is due to see if they need any additional information from you.

What To Do After

  • Send a personalized thank you note. 
  • Once an admission decision has been made, inform your recommender of the decision.

Other Tips

Start now in creating familiarity with your professors. You can:

  • Attend office hours
  • Take advantage of the Take Your Professor to Lunch program
  • Get involved in research
  • Take multiple courses with the faculty member
  • Keep in contact