Suggested number of LOR's?

[pw2]

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I'm a bit confused because I've seen conflicting numbers on how many LOR's are needed during the application process, including secondaries. Are only 3 letters of recommendation needed or used during the process, or are more encouraged? Is there a suggested breakdown on who each letter should come from (e.g. one from your academic major, one from a health care provider, etc.)?

I'm sure this has been answered elsewhere but I'm having a tough time finding a dependable figure. Any pointers would be much appreciated...

 

[Pinkertinkle]

Some schools at least would like you to submit more than three. UCSF, for example, recommends you send the max of five letters. You need two science and one humanities letters at least. Some schools freakishly ask for a letter from bio, chem, physics, and humanities, or two from your major but they are usually flexible. I would recommend also having a healthcare and research letter if possible.

 

[Jeffy]

If your school has a medical sciences committee or some other office that sends a letter based on the LOR's you've received from professors and junk, get as many good recommendations as you can. They use them all to assess you and write their final letter based on whatever you send them.