<p>So one of the teachers I used for a rec is a bit spacy, and said that she sent her rec around December 20th. However, it still hasn't showed up as received on the college's website and I'm nervous if she sent it late. What happens if a teacher sends a recommendation a few days late?</p>
<p>Generally, it is fine. Note, if sent it is likely at the college but they just haven't matched everything up with files yet -- understand that those with early January deadlines have probably received rec letters for most of their applicants since Dec 20 and it takes time to get everything into the files and designated as received on the website.</p>
<p>If you're really worried you can call and check with the college. Generally speaking, it's very much not a big deal (mine got there a few weeks late, they hadn't even touched my file yet)</p>
<p>what if my deadlines are january 15th, and i tell my teachers i need the rec sent by february 1? will that be okay?</p>
<p>Don't they have to be postmarked the day the day it's due?</p>
<p>not teacher recs. just your stuff - common app, supplement, etc.</p>
<p>technically they should be postmarked on the due date, but colleges are very lenient when it comes to teacher/counselor recommendations as they realize that there are always extenuating circumstances (and they aren't exactly going to deny your application right away just because a rec is a few days late).</p>