Letters of recommendation

<p>Of the people that have been accepted, rejected, or postponed who has sent in letters of recommendation? I know that it's optional, but I was wondering if there was a correlation between sending a letter of recommendation and getting in. I've already applied and have the average stats that people who get in but I'm OOS. I also sent in to letters of recommendation. Would letters of recommendation be a deciding factor? </p>

<p>From what I understand, they say the letters are “optional” but really are necessary. If you do not send in the letters, they will look for some sort of reasoning for not doing so (like sometimes it is hard for international students to provide) and if they cannot find one they may assume that you’re not trying very hard and therefore do not really want to attend their school. </p>

<p>That’s what I thought as well. I’m also curious about from those who have gotten a decision who had sent letters of recommendation? </p>