When to ask for reference letters

[MCATism]

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Hey!

(Merry Christmas).

Okay so, I have just completed a research project at my exchange school and will be leaving the country soon. I would like a reference letter from the supervisors of this project. I don't know much about the AMCAS submission of reference letters, and won't be applying to MD for another 1.5 years or longer. When and how should I ask for my reference letter? It is advantageous I think, to ask now rather than later while my work is still fresh in their mind, but does AMCAS need something recent and/or submitted directly from my supervisor?

Thanks for advice/ no trolling on Christmas. 🙂

 

[Richardh]

Let your supervisors know now that you would like to receive a LOR from them (that means have everything ready for them: your personal statement, transcript, c.v./resume, a waiver signed by you stating that you won't be reading the letter).

They can then start working on the letter. Once they complete it, you can ask them to submit the letter to your school's pre-med committeee or advisor that handles LOR. If your school doesn't have letter service managed by a pre-med committee then ask the supervisor to hold onto the letter. When you apply, they can then use an interfolio system or letter submission service done by electronically to submit it to AMCAS (or each school that you apply).