Letters of Recommendation

ERAS LoR Uploading Information

Guidelines for students 

Students should identify a minimum of four letter writers, and include one to two additional letter writers as back up. Letter writers should be selected by: 

  • How well do they know you and your work? 
  • The best letters of recommendation come from faculty who know you well. 
  • One to two letters should be from the specialty you are applying to — one from your home school. If you are doing an away rotation, consider having someone from the program write a letter for you. 
  • Ask to schedule a meeting with a potential letter writer. Be clear on when the letter needs to be submitted to ERAS and give the letter writer time to complete this. 

Be prepared with the following: 

  • CV 
  • Personal Statement 
  • Long-term goals 
  • Make it easy for your letter writer to get this letter written—don't make them seek you out for additional information. 
  • Ask if they require other information—some letter writers want your evaluation from the clerkship closest to their specialty; some want your USMLE scores, or unofficial transcript. 
  • Sign the waiver granting confidentiality to the letter writer. This is mentioned in all LoRs and is important to residency programs when they weigh the candor and realistic assessment provided by the letter writer. 
  • Letters should be received between July 1 – November 1. Priority deadline for LoRs is the last Tuesday in September. Please note letters can be included in your ERAS application after this date, but programs need to be notified that the letter is available for review, and it is best to have all your letters in when programs start their review. 
  • Preliminary Program LoRs: Generally, students can use their letter obtained for their advance program for their required preliminary or transitional year application. Check the websites for the preliminary programs you are applying to for any special requirements. 

Submitting your letter: 

  • Students will provide an individual link to the ERAS Letter of Recommendation portal (LoRP) 
  • Letter writers or their designees must upload letters in PDF format via the portal. 
  • Student Affairs can help you with troubleshooting but cannot upload the letter for you. 

Deadlines:

  • Priority Deadline: Last Tuesday in September.

Guidelines for letter writers

Faculty should consider the following before agreeing to write LoRs:

  • Relationship to the student
  • Adequate time
  • Faculty role and expertise

Preparing the letter:

  • Request materials: Obtain the student’s CV and personal statement.
  • Meet with the student: Discuss their goals, strengths, and any issues in their application.

Key elements of a strong letter:

  • Describe your relationship with the student, including the context (academic, clinical or research) and your professional role.
  • Assess the student’s strengths, potential as a resident, and what makes them stand out.
  • Include specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate their skills and professionalism.
  • Conclude with an overall recommendation, stating whether you would select the applicant for a residency program.

Writing and submission:

  • Address the letter to “Dear Program Director.”
  • Use letterhead and include your contact information.
  • Keep the letter 1–2 pages and proofread carefully.
  • Sign the letter (digital signatures are acceptable) and save as a PDF.
  • Upload the letter via the ERAS Letter of Recommendation Portal (LoRP) using the link provided by the student.

Deadlines:

  • Priority Deadline: Last Tuesday in September.