<p>I've been searching around for how to access previously written letters of recommendation, but I can't seem to find the answer. I know it's advised to waive access, however it's already been done and I'm just wondering what was written. Does anyone know? I'm beginning to think the answer is blatantly obvious and I'm being stupid...</p>
<p>You can’t access them. Ask the person who wrote the letter if you can see it.</p>
<p>So when you waive your right to see the letter, it just means you can’t ask your teacher for the letter? There’s nothing like an academic record?</p>
<p>When you waive the right, it simply means the teacher/school/college is not obligated to show it to you.</p>
<p>If your teacher wants to show it to you, fine. But I’d recommend not asking (at least until you’re already in to college…).</p>
<p>I don’t think I was clear with my question. I did not waive my right to see a letter or rec, and need to see it. However I am not able to contact my teacher. I am wondering how I can access it since I did not waive my right, as in maybe an online database, a service I can call, etc.</p>
<p>Why didn’t you waive the right? That’s extremely suspect…</p>
<p>Technically, I think the law states that you can call up colleges and request the letter. Or high schools. (Hence, why you have to waive the right.)</p>
<p>I’m not really sure why you didn’t waive your right, the recommender probably found that to be a bit unsavory…</p>
<p>And as far as I know, you can access your documents after the school’s decision has been made. You would have to contact either the admissions or student services department to talk to someone who can help you. </p>
<p>Also, why do you want to see it? Do you suspect a bad recommendation led to your rejection?</p>
<p>haha nah it’s nothing like that. It was the first time I got a letter or rec, and it was from a teacher that I was interested in, as in I wanted to know what she thought about me(she’s not direct). I figured out later that they know about the waiving thing…but what’s done is done right? Plus I’m wondering if I should get another letter from her for college admissions, since this was for the Columbia summer program.</p>