What to do when you have no academic references?

As has already been stated, you may be able to use a letter from a supervisor at your job (check the application instructions, or ask); and when you contact an instructor, share some work you did in the class. In addition: send an unofficial transcript to the instructor when you reach out.

What counts as an academic reference?

An academic reference is a teacher/professor who has taught you in an academic capacity before. The more that you have worked with the professor, the better the academic letter is since the teacher has more opportunities to formulate a well-rounded opinion of your skillset and acumen.

Do I need a reference for Cambridge?

Please note that there is no need to write a special/separate reference for Cambridge as we receive a copy of the UCAS reference you supply. Please ensure that the applicant’s name, course and UCAS Personal ID are clearly stated.

Do universities check referees?

Most universities will ask you to include the contact details of one or two ‘referees’ who can provide you with a reference to support your Masters application. Referencing requirements differ between institutions and programmes, so you should check the guidelines of your prospective university.

How do I get good academic references?

Tips for seeking academic references

1. Figure Out Who to Ask. Deciding who to ask is the first step, and often more difficult than students think.
2. Be Clear in Your Communications.
3. Don’t Ask at the Last Minute.
4. Read Between the Lines.
5. Don’t Forget to be Polite.

Who should I ask for an academic reference?

If possible, they should be someone who knows you academically and can talk about your work ethic, interaction with other students and your suitability for higher education or a future career. In a current or recent school or college, ask your tutor, teacher, principal or head teacher.

How do I apply to study at the University of Cambridge?

Please try again later. Applicants submit their application for admission and funding (Gates Cambridge and other funding) via the University’s Graduate Application Portal.

Do I need to write a special reference for Cambridge?

Please note that there is no need to write a special/separate reference for Cambridge as we receive a copy of the UCAS reference you supply.

Do I need a research proposal for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship?

Gates Cambridge requires PhD applicants only to submit a research proposal as part of their application for funding. Most PhD applicants will upload a research proposal as part of their application for admission, but where this is not the case a research proposal is required to apply for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

Who should write the Gates Cambridge Reference?

Some applicants ask one of their two academic referees to write the Gates Cambridge reference: this is fine as long as that person has a good understanding of your personal qualities and does not provide a third academic reference.