Reference Letter - General Information
What is a Reference File? What does it contain?
- A Reference File contains documents that may be used in support of a candidate's application for employment or for graduate/professional school admission (e.g. Letters of Recommendation).
- FYI - Transcripts and copies of UB diplomas may only be obtained through the University's Student Response Center, 232 Capen Hall, 645-2450.
How do I solicit references for my file?
- We recommend that you ask for letters of recommendation in person, and that you discuss the purpose of your letters (i.e., your career goals) with your letter writers. Your Reference File may contain as many letters as you like, pertaining to graduate/professional school applications, employment or both; we recommend having 3 - 5 references. Individuals writing letters should use letterhead of their organization. Some graduated schools require that letters be written on their specific forms.
How do I update my references?
- You may update your reference file by requesting references from additional letter writers or by asking those who have previously submitted letters to update them.
Under what circumstances are my letters considered confidential?
- If you sign an optional waiver of you right of access, you will have relinquished your right to see what is written in the reference, and your reference will be considered "Confidential."