How to Write a UCAS Reference Letter | Amber

As the academic year progresses, many students find themselves in the midst of preparing their applications for higher education. One crucial component of these applications is the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) reference letter. This document provides universities with valuable insights into the applicant's abilities, achievements, and potential. 

By effectively showcasing your capabilities, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a place at your desired university. Throughout this guide, we will delve into various strategies and tips to help you articulate the student's potential in a concise yet impactful manner. From highlighting academic achievements to showcasing personal qualities and commitment to a chosen field, we will cover the essential points that can make a reference letter stand out. Writing a UCAS reference letter is not only an opportunity to support a student's application but also a chance to reflect on their growth and achievements. So, let's dive in and explore the key elements of how to write a UCAS reference that highlights a student's potential and sets them on the path to success!

What is a UCAS Reference Letter? Why is it Important?

A UCAS Reference letter gives a birds-eye view of your character sketch written by your academic tutors who are backing up your application for any undergraduate programme. There are several reasons why the addition of a UCAS recommendation letter is mandatory as a part of your application process. 

1. It is the best resource to validate or verify the applicant's claims in their personal statement. In short, the admissions team verifies the candidate's credibility. 

2. Reference letters can help differentiate two candidates who share a similar profile.

3. A Reference letter for UCAS helps the admissions team look at a candidate's profile beyond their academic and test scores. 

4. A UCAS reference letter also gives some space to shed some light on the candidate's individual context and background about how they have gotten to the position they are in and their academic achievements.

What are the UCAS Reference Letter Requirements

Undergraduate applicants must submit one reference letter through UCAS. While postgraduate applicants are not required to submit a reference letter with UCAS, they may need to provide one if their chosen school requests it. Including a reference letter is highly recommended, as it can significantly enhance your application, particularly for highly competitive programs such as medical schools in the UK. If you are applying to medical school in the UK through UCAS, it is also advisable to read UK medicine personal statement examples, as your reference letter and personal statement will be crucial and complementary parts of your application.

Who Can Write a UCAS Reference Letter?

Usually, one can ask their teachers, mentors or any relevant authoritative figure to write their UCAS reference letter. Those coming from abroad can get their UCAS reference letter international student. 

How to Write a UCAS Reference Letter?

A well-crafted UCAS recommendation letter is key for a student to display why they would be the right fit for the institutions they are applying for. While a letter of recommendation UCAS is important, one must also devote their energy to explaining to officials what you offer outside of academics and score!

1. Personal Insight

Elevate your letter more than what your reference letter for UCAS would say. Personal anecdotes, as well as additional information on your interests and deep dive into your extracurriculars.

2. Academic Endorsement 

Your letter of recommendation UCAS would usually talk about your academics. Back up your insights with your strong background in academics. Such as grades, attendance record, extracurriculars and work experience

3. Course Choice

Talk about why you're choosing the specific course. Answer questions revolving around what you aim to get out of it and what you can contribute.

4. Development and Progression

Highlight how you have grown and developed throughout your formal education as well as life. You can state that you are an individual who is willing to learn more and evolve. 

5. Global Focus

Perhaps more relevant to those arriving from abroad, someone who must already need a UCAS reference letter international student. In addition to your UCAS recommendation letter, highlight why your global perspective and emphasis can help elevate the course to a new level.

6. career aspirations and goals

Highlight the applicant's career ambitions and how their chosen course aligns with their future goals, demonstrating their commitment and direction.

7. Writing ability

Comment on the applicant's proficiency in writing, including their ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively, which is essential for academic success.

8. Time management and organizational skills 

Describe the applicant's ability to manage their time efficiently and stay organized, ensuring they can handle the demands of their course.

9. Reliability, ability to meet deadlines

Emphasize the applicant's dependability and consistent ability to meet deadlines, which indicates their readiness for university-level work.

10. Attendance record/punctuality

Provide information on the applicant's attendance and punctuality, reflecting their dedication and responsibility as a student.

11. Leadership and Teamwork skills

Discuss the applicant's experience and success in leading and working within teams, showcasing their ability to collaborate and guide others.

12. Communication skills

Mention the applicant's communication skills, both written and verbal, highlighting their capacity to effectively convey ideas and engage with others.

‍

‍

Points to Consider on How To Write a UCAS Reference Letter

Writing an academic reference UCAS requires a lot of precision. Certain standards need to be met on how to write a university reference letter UCAS. Adhering to these standards is very important, as this can make or break your application. Here are some of the few pointers that should be on the top of your mind while writing a UCAS reference letter:

• Correct Grammar

The UCAS reference letter should be grammatically written in UK English. The use of US English is unacceptable.

• Check  Word Count

While UCAS officially does not have a rigid structure or format that should be followed while drafting a reference letter, they do expect that all the important elements concerned with the candidate's ability should be conveyed within the word limit of 4,000 characters, which accounts for up to 500 words. Don't write too less or more in your reference. 

• Style and Presentation

Style and presentation matter while crafting a strong UCAS reference document. Each reference should be well-organised & professional. It is recommended not to use any fancy styling effects like bold, italics, or underlining.

• Hyperlinks

You cannot add any hyperlinks in your letter to other pieces of information. In case you feel compelled to link some relevant information, you should insert the full URL instead.

• Balance 

"Balance is the key to unlocking opportunities." This is valid for your UCAS recommendation letter as well. Give equal weightage between academic and personal qualities. 

• Accuracy

The best way to write a reference letter for UCAS is to be honest, constructive, fair, & well-informed.

Things to Avoid while Writing a UCAS Reference Letter 

When writing a UCAS reference letter for your university application, it's important to provide an accurate and supportive assessment of your abilities and achievements. To ensure your reference is effective and well-received, here are some things you should avoid:

• Personal Bias

Avoid letting personal opinions or biases influence your UCAS recommendation letter. It should be objective and based on the student's merits and accomplishments.

• Generalisations

Refrain from making sweeping statements or generalisations without providing specific examples or evidence to support your claims. Be specific and provide concrete examples of the student’s achievements and strengths.

• Unsupported Claims

Avoid making unsubstantiated claims about the student's abilities or skills. Ensure that you can back up any statements you make with evidence or examples.

• Vague Language

Stay away from using vague or ambiguous language in your reference. Be clear and concise in your descriptions, and avoid using overly flowery or poetic language that may not provide substantial information.

• Irrelevant Information

Focus on including information that is relevant to the student’s application. Avoid including unrelated or unnecessary details that may distract from the student’s qualifications.

• Negative Language

While it's important to provide an honest assessment, try to avoid overly negative or critical language that may harm the student’s chances. Instead, provide constructive feedback and highlight areas for improvement.

• Exaggeration or Hyperbole

It's important to present an accurate and honest evaluation of the student. Avoid exaggerating their achievements or using hyperbolic language that may come across as insincere or misleading.

• Grammatical and Spelling Errors

Proofread your reference carefully to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling mistakes. Errors can undermine the professionalism and credibility of your reference.

• Inappropriate or Unprofessional Language 

Use professional and appropriate language throughout your reference. Avoid slang, jargon, or any language that could be considered offensive or inappropriate.

How to Write a UCAS Reference Letter as a Referee 

As a referee, you should follow the below guidelines while writing your UCAS reference letter:

1. Complement the Personal Statement

A good reference letter compliments the candidate's personal statement. So, it is very crucial to read and skim through your student’s personal statement in order to understand their overall aspirations, challenges and reasons for picking a particular course. 

Accuracy and relevancy are essential, so make sure the reference you write exactly mirrors & reflects the student themselves and correlates to what they have written in their personal statement. 

2. Show Evidence

Back up your statements with specific examples and evidence of the student's accomplishments, skills, and qualities. This will add credibility to your reference and help the admissions team get a clear picture of the student's abilities. Academic performance is where you can mention specific courses, subjects, or assignments where the student excelled. You can provide evidence by citing their high grades, exceptional projects, research papers, or awards received. For example, you could say, "In their final year, the student achieved an overall average of 95%, earning the top position in their class. Their research project on environmental sustainability was recognised with a regional science award."

3. Describe your Student's Potential 

Admissions tutors will be looking at a student's potential in a university setting, so it's crucial to include this in any given reference. It's important to talk about why you think they'll thrive in that chosen university environment and in that particular program of study. 

Major Change in the UCAS Reference Letters in 2024

Tailoring a convincing & well-worded UCAS reference letter has been quite a task for many students and referees. With no familiar structure & regular inconsistencies, the pressure of drafting & wording a good reference letter and selecting the best references has dawned a lot of confusion amongst everyone. Here is a list of the major changes in the UCAS reference that will be in effect for the 2024 entry:    

Structure

With an increase in the number of students and college administration concerns, the UCAS board has scrapped the free writing approach of any references. Instead of allowing the referee to pen down the references as per their will, the UCAS committee has developed a standardised structure that should be followed in all undergraduate references. ‘Structure’ gives a systematic flow & clarity to your words, thoughts, and ideas, which is an integral part of writing a UCAS recommendation letter. The three main key stages that should be a part of the UCAS reference letter include: 

A Statement about your School 

This section is dedicated to a little overview of your current school. As a referee, you can detail the important details of your school, including: 

1. School type (Community, Foundation, & Grammar school)

2. School performance

3. Elaboration on core courses taught at the school

4. Any significant achievement/award to the school 

5. Student body 

6. Geographic context

7. Information about internal assessments & predicted grade

8. Socio-economic context 

9. A-level courses 

10. Diverse instructional program

11. Student support

12. Success support 

Highlight any Hindrance to your Client's Progress

This is an optional section in the UCAS reference letter; it is only supposed to be filled when the student has been through a circumstance or situation like illness, disruption in personal life, family problems, and school transfer that has had a considerable effect on their academic or educational achievement. When evaluating situations, justifying or explaining such mitigating circumstances will help the admissions officer have a fairer judgement and understanding of the applicant's situation. 

Include all Relevant Information

This section is a fair chance to familiarise the university with the candidate's potential ability, academic & sports achievements, extracurriculars, and volunteering programs. Try including only relevant information & skills that will help the admission officer answer the question, "Why are they a good fit for the course at the university?" Moreover, include any evidence, instances, or history of progression that will solidify any claims. 

A compelling UCAS reference letter has a well-strategised character count for each section. By maintaining a word count for each part of the reference letter, you are preparing yourself to give emphasis & importance to the right points. Hopefully, this change is a sigh of relief for many referees on how to write a reference letter. This new structure has cut some time, energy, & weight off the referee's shoulders. UCAS has been taking many steps to streamline the application process for many students. With major changes like discontinuing the use of personal statements and building a common structure for references, the board has lent an ear to all the roadblocks students face while applying.

How to Choose a Referee?

Now, another important question is how to choose a referee. So, if you’ve recently been in education, you can get your UCAS reference letter from a person who can share relevant information about you and your skills. If you’ve been in education for a while, then universities might ask for an employment reference. Also, keep in mind that your referee might not know about your application or courses, so discuss all the information about why you chose a specific course and university with them beforehand.

UCAS Reference letter samples

Not every teacher will be familiar with the UCAS application process and reference letter criteria, nor will they have written a reference letter previously. It's possible that some students are unaware of the format of a standard reference letter or the kinds of things that are assessed throughout their academic careers. Three samples of UCAS reference letters are provided below to help you understand the type of information that should be included.

UCAS reference letter sample #1

[Student] is an ideal candidate for a degree in business management. He consistently demonstrates strong leadership skills, a team-oriented mindset, effective communication abilities, and a passion for business management.

As a student, he has maintained an excellent attendance record and actively participates in class. He is respectful, pleasant, and shows a willingness to work hard, along with a curious mind for new subjects. As he completes his final year at [School], his teachers expect him to maintain his high grades.

[Student] has received two awards for academic excellence from [School] over the past two years, as well as an award for sportsmanship. He is heavily involved in the [School] senior boys’ lacrosse team as a team captain and volunteer coach for younger grades. He dedicates a significant amount of his after-school time and weekends to coaching and mentoring younger players, serving as a role model for good behavior and strong leadership. Under his leadership, the lacrosse team has consistently excelled, making [School] proud with their athletic performance and respectful conduct. As team captain, [Student] promotes good behavior, corrects any misconduct, encourages his teammates, and ensures fair play for all players.

[Student] is also a member of the school’s computer science club, often helping other club members solve problems and teaching younger members his knowledge. He exhibits excellent communication skills, patience, and generosity with his time.

During the summers, [Student] has sought part-time work to explore potential career opportunities. He is forward-thinking and open to possibilities in business management. He secured a summer position as a page at the local library, where he has been learning about working for a non-profit organization and municipal bodies. He has also shown an interest in municipal management by attending local council meetings and being mentored by city councilors on the business of running a city. As always, [Student] is eager to learn what it takes to be a leader and manager in various sectors.

As [Student’s] guidance counselor, I believe he will be an excellent fit at [University], which values leadership, commitment, and a passion for business. He is a superior role model, mentor, and teammate, and will undoubtedly be a proud graduate of [School]. I am confident that his strengths and talents will serve him well in business management, regardless of the sector or industry he chooses for his postgraduate career. Here are a few UCAS reference examples. 

UCAS reference letter sample #2

As an applicant for [School’s] undergraduate program in media and communication, [Student] will excel. She is an outstanding candidate for this program and has a bright future in the media and communication field.

As [Student’s] social studies teacher and guidance counselor, we believe she has chosen a profession well-suited to her skills and interests. We have known her for the past four years and have had the pleasure of watching her develop academically and grow into a mature and thoughtful young adult. Throughout her time with us, she has proven to be a dedicated and intelligent student.

[Student] has an excellent work ethic, especially evident during group projects and assignments, where she demonstrates exemplary leadership qualities by motivating her peers and delivering top-notch work. In class, she is respectful, punctual, and organized, actively participating in discussions and asking questions.

Most notably, [Student] excels in writing. Her essays reflect critical thinking and an analytical mind, particularly on social topics and current events. She often cites current event examples in class discussions, drawing insightful parallels between course topics and contemporary issues.

As her guidance counselor, I encouraged her to submit her writing to creative writing contests, and she excelled, placing second. This experience helped her expand her skills and understanding as a creative writer.

In her extracurricular activities, she has shown a keen interest in media through her internship at a local radio station covering local and regional news. As an intern, she is gaining valuable insights into the industry, learning about professionalism, ethics, creativity, and critical thinking. Her supervisors have praised her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, even as a high school student.

We believe [Student] will be a valuable addition to the media and communication program. She has demonstrated a passion for the subject, a strong work ethic, and an endless willingness to learn, all of which will serve her well in a post-secondary setting.

Reference Letter for UCAS Examples

Are you still absorbing all the information on how to write a UCAS reference? The good news is that the UCAS official website has collated a few examples of how to write a UCAS Reference letter for 2024 applicants. This guide will help you understand the content & information that will answer your question about how to write reference letter. 

In conclusion, it is very important to meticulously plan, structure, and understand how to write a UCAS reference letter, as these references are very different from the commonly seen academic and job referrals. Now, you are fully equipped to accept any UCAS referral requests from your students! Also, ensure to equip yourself with the UCAS tariff points.