Asking for my LOR months before applying: poor decision?

[aczerniak]

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I know OTCAS prefers eLORs but I was wondering if I could just get my LOR from my current supervisor right now and save it until the 2013-2014 cycle opens? Do you guys think this is a poor decision? Should I just wait until it's closer to the opening of the application and then just ask about an eLOR then?

 

[mlc54]

I know that OTCAS will also accept paper LORs, but I think they just take longer to process. My opinion would be as long as you'll still be in touch with your current supervisor by the time you apply, then wait so they can submit an electronic LOR. That way it will cut down on the amount of time you have to wait before OTCAS says they have "received" the reference (and gives you peace of mind from wondering when they will actually get it).

That's just my personal opinion though, since I did all of mine electroncally and the 3 people I asked to do them said it was very easy. I would imagine that the paper one is very similar though, but then you don't have to ask them to mail them. Good luck!!

 

[aczerniak]

Thanks!

 

[otwa]

I agree with mlc54- wait if you can. Have you talked to your supervisor about needing a LOR? My letter writers also said the process was very easy online.