Number of LOR Help

[triplem]

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Hey Everyone-

I have a general question (already searched the threads and couldn't find a definite answer), but what is the rule of thumb for the number of recs (science/ non science)? Seems like 3 science and 3 non science would be safe? I found an excel document for the requirements (might be outdated) and it seems like the most schools require for science recs is 2. Is that correct? Thanks

 

[terp720]

Hey Everyone-

I have a general question (already searched the threads and couldn't find a definite answer), but what is the rule of thumb for the number of recs (science/ non science)? Seems like 3 science and 3 non science would be safe? I found an excel document for the requirements (might be outdated) and it seems like the most schools require for science recs is 2. Is that correct? Thanks

you should check some of the requirements of the schools you're interested in..

6 LORs just from professors is a lot...

 

[triplem]

Thanks for the reply terp720, yeah i looked at the requirements of some schools I'm interested in and it looks like 2 science recs are required. I'm not sure exactly which set of schools I'm applying to yet so I wanted to know if theres a general rule of thumb. Also, does it look poorly on the applicant to have less than the maximum number of recs...?

 

[Oso]

Most people acquire 2 science letters, 1 non-science, and 1-2 'additional' letters from PI's, volunteer coordinators, physicians, etc.

As long as you have what's generally required (the 3 prof letters), then you should be fine. You won't be looked down upon, but you may not stand out as much as someone with glowing/unique 'additional' letters that speak to their performance outside of the classroom.