Number of LOR's

[mellowyellow]

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I saw someone else ask this in another forum but it didn't get much response. Most programs ask for 3 letters. I know you are allowed to send 4, but is it better to just send the # of letters that are requested? Does it look better to send in the extra letter or do programs prefer to have only what they request? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Also, does it matter if your letters are all from one school year? (all 3rd yr clerkship letters vs all 4th yr letters).

Thanks!

 

[NoodleIncident]

I have heard and been told different things. Personally, I only sent the required number of letters. If your first 3 letters are great, then the 4th will either add nothing or dilute them. If you're unsure of the 3 that you send, you may want to send the 4th. The dean of academic affairs at my school recommends only sending the required number. She said that residency programs have contacted her to tell her students not to send any extra. She said that sending more looks like you don't know how to follow directions.

 

[b&ierstiefel]

Most programs want 3 letters. Don't feel obligated to send a 4th letter unless it is just as strong as your other 3. Having 3 strong letters will take you very far whereas having 3 strong letters and an additional, but lukewarm, letter can screw you.

 

[deschutes]

I ended up being very glad that I sent my 4th in, because one of my 3 that I was counting on turned out to be not as strong as I had hoped.

Not sure if it really changed anything in the bigger scheme of things though.