Wondering how and who you should ask to write your recommendation letter? Check out helpful tips from Admissions to keep in mind when selecting a recommender.
- By
- August 19, 2026
- Application Tips
MBA Application Tips: How to Ask for Your MBA Letter of Recommendation
As you begin working diligently on your application, it’s important to recognize that securing your letter of recommendation is an important part of the process. Your recommendation letter allows the admissions committee to view your candidacy through the unique perspective of a third-party point of view. Given how often we get asked about recommendations we thought we’d share answers to the most commonly asked questions so you can select the best recommender and submit your application.
The information below reflects the 2026-2027 admissions cycle.
How many letters of recommendation do I need to apply to Chicago Booth?
You are only required to submit one letter of recommendation with your application.
Who should I ask for my letter of recommendation?
We require every applicant to provide one letter of recommendation. This letter should come from a current supervisor, who can assess both your strengths and your areas for growth.
How should I ask for a letter of recommendation?
When asking, it is best to be courteous and briefly explain (1) your career goals, (2) why you want an MBA, and (3) why you value their perspective so that they can best convey why you would be a great fit for the program on your behalf. We also encourage you to share the application deadline with your recommender when asking, ideally at least four to six weeks in advance, to give them ample time to draft and upload your letter.
What if it’s not feasible to ask my current supervisor for a letter of recommendation?
Perhaps you’re in a new job, or you’re not ready to tell your boss you’re looking to do an MBA—that’s okay. Choose another professional contact with relevant knowledge of your strengths and weaknesses, such as a client, business partner, or prior supervisor. Just be sure to explain in your application why you are not selecting your current supervisor.
How can I best prepare my recommender?
Once you add them as recommender in your application, make sure to confirm that they have received the link. Use the weeks that you’ve allotted for them to write your letter to connect further and have conversations. Share your goals for pursuing an MBA, the reasons you’re selecting Chicago Booth in particular, and refresh their memory on your specific professional accomplishments and any challenges you’ve overcome. This will help your recommender to highlight your unique attributes and allow you to stand out.
What’s a common misstep we see in Admissions?
The biggest blunder we’ve seen is not giving your recommender enough runway before the deadline to think deeply about your candidacy and craft a thoughtful letter. Give your recommender a leg up by sending the invite through our application early on. Then there is more time to have conversations, process, and write—and ensure your application will be its strongest when you’re ready to submit.
We hope you found these tips useful and look forward to getting to know more about you through your recommendation letter!
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