What is an LOR? What are the types of LOR?

An LOR, or Letter of Recommendation, is a formal document written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your abilities, character, and achievements. LORs are commonly required as part of applications for educational programs, scholarships, jobs, internships, and other opportunities.

There are several types of LORs, each serving a specific purpose and written by different individuals. Here are some common types of LORs:

1. Academic LOR: This type of LOR is typically written by a teacher, professor, or academic advisor who has taught or supervised you in an academic setting. Academic LORs often highlight your academic performance, intellectual abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in further studies.
2. Professional LOR: A professional LOR is written by a current or former employer, supervisor, or colleague who can speak to your work experience, skills, professionalism, and contributions in a professional setting. Professional LORs are often required for job applications, internships, and graduate programs with a focus on practical experience.
3. Personal LOR: Personal LORs are written by someone who knows you well on a personal level, such as a family friend, mentor, or community leader. These letters may focus on your character, personal qualities, values, and contributions to your community or extracurricular activities.
4. Character LOR: Similar to personal LORs, character LORs emphasize your personal qualities, integrity, ethics, and moral character. These letters are often written by individuals who can attest to your character and integrity, such as a religious leader, community service supervisor, or mentor.
5. Research LOR: For academic or research-focused programs, a research LOR may be required. This type of letter is typically written by a faculty member, research supervisor, or mentor who can evaluate your research abilities, academic potential, and contributions to research projects.
6. Admissions LOR: Admissions LORs are specifically tailored for college or university admissions applications. These letters may combine elements of academic, personal, and character references to provide a comprehensive assessment of your suitability for the program.