‘The knowledge you’re partially responsible for a student’s university success can be daunting,’ says Charlie. ‘How do you condense everything an admissions officer needs to know in just 4,000 characters or 47 lines?’
‘Whether you’re new to the job or a veteran, these top tips will help you crack the art of reference writing. Want more? Here’s a checklist of the specific 
things you must include in a reference (526.78 KB). You can also watch our 'how to write a reference’ video.’
TIP – talk to the student
A ten-minute chat about a student’s experiences and aspirations will help bring the reference to life. Don’t forget to read their personal statement too, and familiarise yourself with their application.
TIP – give real-life examples
‘Real and concrete examples of how the student has performed are the most powerful thing to put in a reference,’ says David Winstanley, Head of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Sussex. ‘Avoid bland terms like “this student was good at chemistry”. Tell us how and why they have excelled.’
TIP – include special circumstances
Explain any discrepancies between a student’s predicted grades and what they achieved. Admissions officers should be aware of circumstances like illness and bereavement, or any contextual information which might warrant special consideration.
TIP – reveal their potential
‘Talk about the student’s potential. Universities want to hear about their enthusiasm and self-motivation, as well as academic grades,’ advises Steve McArdle, Head of Sixth Form at Durham Johnston School.
TIP – save space
Don’t waste valuable space on your school’ or college’s qualification provision or how you determine predicted grades. Instead, find the information on your centre’s website and link to it in the reference.
TIP – take your time
‘References are an important part of all applications but in marginal cases they are vital,’ says Bob Savill, Head of Admissions at the University of Chichester. ‘They can make the difference between getting an offer or not.’ Remember this as you’re writing, and take the time to get it right.
TIP – aim for a Booker Prize-winning last line
A final sentence which reflects on the student’s potential is a powerful way to end. Leave the admissions officer with an idea about how the student will thrive on their degree course.
And finally…
Admissions officers have developed special powers to sniff out ‘cut and paste’ paragraphs. Make sure everything you write is relevant to the individual student.