Quick answer
Ask for a scholarship recommendation letter early, choose someone who can speak about your work clearly, send your CV, transcript, scholarship details, deadline and achievements, and follow up politely before the due date.
This guide is written for Nigerians who need a practical next step. It gives the direct answer first, then shows what to verify, what to prepare, what mistakes to avoid and which related Explainer.NG pages can help.
Choose the right referee
The best referee is not always the most senior person. Choose someone who knows your work, character, leadership or academic ability well enough to give specific examples.
For academic scholarships, lecturers, project supervisors or department staff may be stronger. For leadership or professional awards, an employer, mentor or organisation leader may fit better.
What to send the referee
Make the referee's work easy. Send a short note explaining the scholarship, why you are applying and what evidence they can mention. Attach your CV, transcript or result summary, achievements and submission instructions.
If the scholarship asks the referee to submit directly, do not ask to write and upload it yourself unless the rules allow it.
- Scholarship name and link
- Deadline and time zone
- Your CV
- Transcript or result summary
- Key achievements
- Submission email or portal instructions
Follow-up without pressure
A polite reminder one week before the deadline is reasonable. Another reminder closer to the deadline may be necessary if there is no confirmation.
After submission, thank the referee and update them if you win or progress. It helps future requests.
Checklist
- Ask early
- Choose someone specific
- Send CV and achievements
- Share deadline
- Explain submission route
- Send polite reminders
People also ask
Can a pastor write my recommendation?
Only if the scholarship accepts character or community references and the person knows you well.
Should I draft the letter myself?
Some referees ask for notes, but the final letter should be honest and follow scholarship rules.
How early should I ask?
Two to four weeks is better when possible.
Can an employer write it?
Yes, especially for professional, leadership or work-related scholarships.
What if the referee is late?
Send a polite reminder and have a backup referee if possible.