Recommendation Service

Learn how to open a recommendation file, who and how to ask for letters, specific recommendation information for different programs, and more.

Find out how to use the service, get tips on how to get recommendation letters, and more.

There are two Guides to the Recommendation Service: one for Prelaw Students, and another for all Medical and Health Profession School Applicants.

If you are a PRELAW STUDENT, click here for your Guide.

If you will be applying to Medical or another Health Profession School, click here.

Get the forms that you need online.

About the Recommendation Service

PLEASE NOTE: ALL COMMUNICATIONS concerning recommendations and questions about the Recommendation Service are to be sent to recserve@indiana.edu.

The HPPLC Recommendation Service provides a safe repository for all letters that students obtain over time from their recommenders. During the application process, and upon notification by you, our recommendation secretary sends them in a timely manner, to the proper address, in the correct format, with all required signatures, and with the correct forms. This can be a big convenience to applicants. HPPLC retains the original letters for safekeeping.

Asking for letters at IU can be daunting, especially given the prevalence of large classes. HPPLC's Recommendation Service helps take the pain and frustration out of obtaining (and later disseminating) great letters.

Opening a file is easy. You don't need an appointment-just drop by Maxwell Hall 010 and ask the receptionist. It takes about ten minutes. We keep the file for ten (10) years, longer if requested.

A "Recommendation File" is used to hold "Faculty" and "Professional/Personal" recommendations that the student has obtained while at Indiana University. Our HPPLC advisors highly suggest that a student obtain a recommendation from their instructor as soon as possible after having that instructor for a class, while their memory is freshest. The HPPLC file is optional for preprofessional students; it is not required. If you have questions as to whether such a file would benefit you, consult a HPPLC advisor or email recserve@indiana.edu.