Don't Use A Reference Letter

[DrScrub]

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Hi guys,

I'm planning on emailing some profs for reference letters, but I'm not sure which ones will agree to write a letter.

But, If I get a lot of people agreeing to write them (e.g more than 5), and can't use all of them, is it possible for me to not submit those letters, and only submit a selection of them; or am I obligated to submit every letter written for/about me?


Thanks!!

 

[Chipster.]

Hi guys,

I'm planning on emailing some profs for reference letters, but I'm not sure which ones will agree to write a letter.

But, If I get a lot of people agreeing to write them (e.g more than 5), and can't use all of them, is it possible for me to not submit those letters, and only submit a selection of them; or am I obligated to submit every letter written for/about me?


Thanks!!

I think you have to use every letter written about you. I was forced to use a letter that my ex-girlfriend from 4th grade wrote about me when I applied. I was really worried too because I didn't know if MD programs were looking for 'stinking poopyheads'. Apparently they didn't mind all that much though....

Anyways, I hope that answers your question!

 

[supermintyfresh]

^ Chipster is just kidding

Of course you can choose which letters go to your schools -- you just can't read them. I recommend using a service such as Interfolio, where the letter writer can just submit the letter once, and you can keep on sending it to multiple schools.

Also if your school has a committee process, they will be able to take in all of your letters, and compile a committee packet (including the LORs) for you. This is the recommended path.

 

[moop]

Why don't you just go ahead and email them first? Some will probably ask for further information (resume, transcript, etc.) first before starting to write. You could also just let them know you don't need it anymore; hardly anyone would complain or mind. Seems a bit inconsiderate to have 6 people all write and not use half of them. Their time could be saved.

 

[DrScrub]

Thanks for the quick replies guys!

 

[chillaxbro]

I think you can have them submit to the AMCAS thing but you don't have to assign the letter if you don't want