Writing a Letter of Recommendation: Schwarzman Scholars Program

Thank you for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation for a nationally competitive scholarship application. Yours is a valuable contribution to this formative process and we appreciate your advocacy on behalf of the applicant.

Please be aware, it is a matter of NCS policy that applicants must waive their right to see your letter of recommendation. We also cannot accept letters authored by applicants; the endorsement must be from the letter-signer.

At any time in the process, from brainstorming the first draft to finalizing your letter, we are delighted to help. Please contact ncs-ousf@duke.edu if you would like to discuss further or for questions or concerns.

Guidelines
Criteria	Leadership Abilities Exemplary Character & Integrity Academic Aptitude & Intellectual Ability Empathy & Intercultural Competency Open Mindedness Entrepreneurial Spirit
Endorsement Required?	No
Number of Recommendation Letters	3
Application Deadline	September 20, 11:59 PM Eastern

FAQs

Where do I submit my letter?

You will receive a link by email from the national foundation (check your spam folder) and must submit the letter online by the application deadline. No exceptions are made for late materials. It should be a signed PDF on letterhead. NCS cannot submit the letter on your behalf.

Who do I address the letters to?

Please address your letter to the “Members of the Schwarzman Scholars Program Selection Committee”

What might the letter contain?

How does the applicant meet the Schwarzman criteria? What is outstanding about their scholarship, leadership, and/or character?
Why is China the best place for them to study?
How does their study plan fit into their future ambitions?
What examples can you share that illustrate your strong endorsement for the candidate?
How does this applicant compare to other people you have taught/supervised?