When to ask for LORs?

[Shunsui]

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Currently a junior. Plan to take mcat at end of summer 2020 and apply after graduating in spring 2021. Should I ask prof(s) and PI to write LOR in the fall of 2020 and summer volunteer coordinator to write one this upcoming summer? A little confused on the “expiration date” of LORs.

Thanksj


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[southerndoc14]

Technically your LORs dont need to be in until you submit your secondaries. I would plan to have all letters ready to June just to be safe. The best time to get a letter if right after that class/lab/experience/etc. that way your letter writer remembers you. Theres no 'expiration' date. Use a service like Interfolio.com to save the LORs you accumulate throughout the year.

 

[allyallyoxenfree]

they don't expire and it's best to give yourself loooots of time before June to get them, and have backups as well in case any fall through! it's good to ask for letter or at least them know whenever you "wrap up" whatever activity, course, etc you did with the person. This is a good reference (no pun intended hehe) for how to ask for letters of recommendations: How to select the best verifiers and referees and ask for reference letters

 

[IsleyOfTheNorth]

Get them done very early and use Interfolio. 2 of my 7 recommenders flaked on me leaving me with a comfortable 5. Plus if they fail to sign it, etc. you'll have to resubmit it. Give them and yourself plenty of wiggle room.

 

[deleted849476]

If i remember correctly some secondaries wanted letters dated for the year I applied. I let profs know the fall before I applied, then reminded them in spring and asked them to date the letters on or around May of that year when I was getting my app ready

 

[Shunsui]

If i remember correctly some secondaries wanted letters dated for the year I applied. I let profs know the fall before I applied, then reminded them in spring and asked them to date the letters on or around May of that year when I was getting my app ready

I recall seeing a contingency on LORS similar to what you mentioned. Think I'm going to follow in your footsteps for my senior year. Thanks!

 

[Styrene]

Interfolio and get them as you go. Personally, I would have just not finished applying to any schools that required specific dates on LORs. Don't remember that coming up for me. Applied 2015-16.