Reference classification

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.

Watson27

Full Member
7+ Year Member
Joined
Jun 17, 2014
Messages
213
Reaction score
170
How are you guys classifying your references if they fulfill more than one requirement, and two programs require different types of references?

Example: Some schools require an "academic" and others a "professor in your major."

And I don't particularly want to have two separate people write letters to fulfill both requirements for different schools. Mainly because my non-PT reference is both an academic and a professor in my major. We are very close and I know he will write me a stellar letter. I want all schools to see this letter. I am going to classify him as an academic, because that is what most schools require. But a single school I am applying to wants a professor in your major instead. Can I let this school know that I want them to refer to this letter even though on PTCAS he is classified as an academic?

Yes, I know that I can upload 4 references. Two will be PTs, and one will be this professor. And I am considering applying to a program that requires a supervisor/employer. So I wouldn't have room for an additional professor.

I just worry that the PTCAS system will tell this school that I do not meet their requirements unless I have a separate letter from a different professor in my major.

I'm beginning to think PTCAS Paranoia is a legitimate medical condition.
 
PTCAS is frustrating, but they are generally fairly good about responding. I'd ask a school's admissions person or PTCAS. They know more than us.
 
I don't think PTCAS determines whether or not you meet the requirements for a specific school. Just call/email the school that requires the letter to be from a "professor in your major" and ask them. Chances are they can see that your major is X and the person is a professor in X and be able to put two and two together.
 
Yeah, this should definitely not be a problem. Just contact the school, like everyone else mentioned. It'll work out fine! 🙂
 
Top