I am not sure if I will be needing any teacher recommendations. I have not yet completely narrowed down my school list, as many of them depend on what score I receive on my SAT I that I just took today (Dec. 4). As of right now, I am realisticly applying to public schools in which recs are not required. If I have a considerably score jump, there is a decent chance that I will apply to a few more competitive privates that require teacher recs. I understand that it is customary to ask teachers two weeks in advanced. Do you think that I should request recs from teachers, even if there is not a very good chance that I will even use them? What is you’re opinion of what I should do? I need to make a decision quickly, as it is slightly under two weeks before the semester end. Any opinions would be great. Thanks.
ps-I do not have any extremely strong desire to attend any of the private schools that I stand a chance of getting into at this point, although a higher SAT would open up a few more possibilities that I might feel strongly about. I honestly have no feeling for how I did on today’s exam (positive or negative). It is relatively up in the air.
<p>If you think, even in the slightest, that you'd have some cause to use those recommendations, be it now or at some point: Ask for them.</p>
<p>Just under two weeks? That doesn't make much of a difference. If you ask a teacher who especially likes you or better yet (worked for me, anyway) owes you a favour, you can get respecatble letters back fairly quickly.</p>
<p>So basically, even if you're not sure: It can never hurt.</p>
<p>Good teacher's recs will always help. Most colleges will allow you to submit one or two recommendation letters, even though they do not specifically require that in the application instructions.</p>
<p>Great, thanks for the replies. I think that's what I need to hear. If I don't use them, are there any opportunities to use them in the future (used for admissions into certain programs, transferring schools etc.)?? </p>
<p>Also, do you suggest that I get one teacher rec and a counselor rec?? What is the average rec requirement at most schools?</p>
<p>Give your teachers a heads up and let them decide. Then if you need letters they had time to think about it, even if they haven't written a final version yet.</p>
<p>Thanks. How did you all approach it? Do you just talk to them and ask them straight out if they'll write you a letter? Is it safe to just get one teacher rec and one counselor rec? Thanks.</p>