Reapplicant LOR

[Lys726]

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I applied originally 2001 cycle...When speaking with schools about improving my application, the focus was on GPA and MCAT...I took postbacc, and will retake MCAT in 2 weeks...my LOR were not a problem...however, it is two years later...can I use the same LOR?? If not, how do I go about getting them updated if I have not been in contact with the professors in 2 years?? HELP!

 

[Cydney Foote]

If you're reapplying to the same schools, they probably have your LORs. You should call the schools individually to confirm this.

Even if you're applying to new schools, it doesn't matter too terribly much that the LORs are old -- they're speaking to courses or activities that are several years ago, and if you haven't been in touch there's nothing new the recommenders can say.

However, I strongly recommend that you get some new LORs that can speak to your activities over the past two years. Definitely get some of your postbac profs to write letters for you. If your school has a letter service, they can help you collect and send out the letters.

Good luck!

 

[BushBaby]

I doubt the schools you applied to last year will go dig up your old LORs. It's your responsibility to resend them (for the new application cycle).

I am not sure how it goes for re-applicants, but I don't think they hold your old file with your new one and compare notes regarding what you did in between time to kill time.

I am also a re-applicant. I went to my pre-med committe guy and gave him updates on what I have been up to since my last application. He will then tie that in with the old stuff and give me something updated.

One of the schools that I am applying to requires an undergrad LOR or committee letter ALONG with a LOR from a graduate faculty for those enrolled in a graduate program.

 

[Cydney Foote]

I believe our office just reopened the applicant's file and had all the past information right there. I am positive that they did have the applicant's information from past years and could refer to it during the reapplication. You should definitely call the individual schools to check on this, as they do vary. And no, we didn't go back and compare notes about what applicants had done in between their applications. We did, however, note the timeline and if there were unexplained gaps it did raise questions. It's always a good idea to explain how you've spent your time -- and, most importantly, improved your application. If you can have your LORs do that for you as well, all the better.