Most DI programs require 3 letters of recommendation to be completed on DICAS. An example is included below (this is NOT uploaded, but a similar form is completed online).

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DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS:

Spring Match February 15 deadline:

1. Letters of recommendation should be requested by the end of finals week of Fall Quarter.

2. Form A (DI or MS/DI) is due the first day of Winter Quarter. 

   1. Form A is due for letter writers, along with unofficial transcripts, resume, and one personal statement. Submit via email to the Advising Dept. per Form A instructions; they will be forwarded to your letter writers.

   2. Form B is due to the Advising Dept. per Form B instructions.

3. NOTE: be aware that some programs have early deadlines so plan accordingly.

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Fall Match September 25 deadline: 

Letters of recommendation should be requested at least one month prior to due dates. See requirements above for Forms A and B.

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GRADUATE SCHOOL:

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Graduate School and other requests (not related to Dietetic Internships): 

Letters of recommendation should be requested at least one month prior to the due date using Form B. Submit via email to the Advising Dept. per Form B instructions; they will be forwarded to your letter writers.

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IMPORTANT: Only complete one form, A or B; not both.

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ASKING FOR LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION:

 

1. When & How to Ask:

• Attend office hours to get to know your professors.

• Get to know your supervisors at work, internships, and volunteer sites.

• Explain what you are applying for and then simply ask if they can provide a "strong recommendation."

• If you haven't seen someone in awhile, send an email with a bit of background info reminding them as to who you are, attach a resume, and a sample of your work.

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2. Who to Ask:

• Typically 2 academic and one supervisor recommendation; see individual program websites for more information.

• At least one recommender should be a dietitian if applying to DIs.

• Think of who knows you best, can attest to your capabilities, and will write a strong letter.

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3. If the recommender is new to the process, what should they write?

• Provide the letter writer with the DICAS Letter of Recommendation sample form (see below). This is NOT uploaded but is a sample of what is completed within the DICAS website.

• Any of the areas on the form's check box (see below) could be expanded upon. For example, if they rank you high for leadership, they could provide examples of your leadership experience and skills on-the-job, internship, or volunteer position.

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4. Health Professions Advising has excellent tips on requesting letters of recommendation.

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5. AAMC Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Evaluation. Even though this is for medical schools, it's excellent information for letter writers!​