Your letters are like a jigsaw puzzle. When someone reads them all together, they should give a complete picture of who you are.
Letters are meant to provide details about any and all aspects of your candidacy, especially:
- your ability to navigate the rigorous professional school curriculum
- ways you will contribute to your class and school
- suitability for your chosen career.
If you're applying to medical or dental school with the HPA committee letter, you will request three to six letters of recommendation that will be sent to your schools with the committee letter. If you're applying to another health profession or are applying without the committee letter, research schools of interest to find out what they require.
Required Letters for Committee Letter Applicants
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One letter from someone who has taught you in a science class at Princeton.
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This writer should be able to comment on your science and thinking/reasoning competencies, your readiness for the professional school science curriculum, and your engagement with classmates. They should address questions like, "What will this applicant contribute to the classroom learning community?" and "How has this applicant prepared themself for the rigors of the professional school science curriculum?"
Common examples:
- Professor or preceptor from a small biology (EEB/NEU/MOL) or chemistry seminar or a class with group work where you demonstrated your teamwork and communication skills.
- Professor for whom you served as an Undergrad Course Assistant / TA.
- Professor or preceptor who you worked with to improve your performance over the course of the term.
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One letter from someone who can speak to your science competencies based on your performance in a work, lab, class, or other setting.
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This writer should be able to comment on your science and thinking/reasoning competencies, and on your readiness for the professional school science curriculum.
Common examples:
- Thesis adviser or mentor for science majors
- Summer research supervisor
- Princeton or Postbac course instructor or TA
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Two to four additional letters that speak to your competencies, skills, and potential for success in professional school and your chosen profession.
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These writers should cover other important core competencies, like communication skills, reliability, service orientation, cultural competence, and teamwork.
Common examples:
- Professors or preceptors
- Princeton supervisors for jobs or leadership positions (e.g., RCA, Peer Health Adviser, orientation leader).
- Internship or job supervisors
- Coaches
Letter Requirements for Other Cases
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Medical School (no HPA Committee Letter)
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If you aren't eligible for the committee letter, research schools of interest to find out what they require. Schools can vary, but they often seek 1-2 science letters. A few schools (especially DO schools) may require a letter of recommendation from a physician.
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Dental School (no HPA Committee Letter)
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If you aren't eligible for the committee letter, research schools of interest to find out what they require. Schools often seek 1-2 science letters and many require or recommend a letter of recommendation from a dentist.
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Veterinary School
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Veterinary programs do not require a committee letter of recommendation. Program requirements vary, but expect to have at least three letters of recommendation. Many schools require or recommend a letter of recommendation from a veterinarian.
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Other health professions
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Refer to the Exploring Careers section of the website for links and information for other health professions.