Should You Submit a Letter of Recommendation for Ashoka University? A Complete Guide

Ashoka University’s application form includes an optional section for a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) — and while many applicants are unsure whether to submit one, the truth is: if used correctly, a LOR can significantly enrich your application.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What role a LOR plays in Ashoka’s holistic process

• Who should write it

• How to request it (and what to avoid)

• When it’s most useful

• Submission steps and technical details

Is a Letter of Recommendation Required for Ashoka University?

No — submitting a LOR is completely optional.

Ashoka does not penalize applicants who don’t submit one. However, a well-written, insightful LOR can:

• Add a new perspective on your personality and potential

• Strengthen your application if your grades are average or essays feel modest

• Highlight leadership, curiosity, or integrity from someone else’s viewpoint

In a competitive applicant pool, a LOR can serve as a tie-breaker or an additional layer of context.

When Should You Consider Submitting a LOR?

You should strongly consider submitting one if:

• You have a teacher, mentor, or supervisor who knows you well

• You’re coming from a non-traditional academic background

• Your board grades are inconsistent and need context

• You want to highlight your intellectual depth, maturity, or leadership through someone else’s words

You may choose not to submit a LOR if:

• You’re unsure who to ask or can’t find someone who truly knows you well

• You fear the recommender may write something generic or unhelpful

• You’ve already provided strong essays, a portfolio, or test scores

Who Can Write a LOR for Ashoka University?

Ashoka allows flexibility in the choice of recommender. Appropriate options include:

• A school teacher (especially from Grade 11 or 12)

• A subject teacher related to your intended major (e.g., Econ, CS, History)

• A school principal or academic coordinator

• A coach, project mentor, internship supervisor, or NGO coordinator

• A mentor from a research program or summer school

The recommender must not be:

• A family member or relative

• A friend

• Someone who hasn’t worked with you closely

The best recommendations come from people who have seen you think, struggle, lead, learn, or persevere.

What Makes a Great Letter of Recommendation?

A good LOR:

• Provides specific examples (projects, class moments, leadership situations)

• Discusses your intellectual style, not just achievements

• Shows your evolution over time (growth, challenges overcome)

• Aligns with the themes in your essays (but not copy-pasted)

• Uses a personal tone, not just a template

For example, “I taught Rhea for two years in Political Science and was consistently impressed by her ability to connect classroom theory to real-world civic issues…” is more valuable than “Rhea is a hardworking student who is good in class.”

How to Request a LOR (The Right Way)

1. Ask Early: Give your recommender at least 2–3 weeks of notice.

2. Explain the Purpose: Let them know why you’re applying to Ashoka and what it values.

3. Share Your Application Story: Send them your essays, resume, or the activities you’re highlighting.

4. Keep It Confidential: You won’t see what they write — this protects authenticity.

5. Send the Link From the Application Portal: You’ll enter their name, designation, and email in the Ashoka form. The system then emails them a submission link.

Technical Details: How It Works

Step	What Happens
1	You fill in recommender details (name, title, organization, email) in the LOR section of the form
2	They receive an automated email with a submission link
3	They write and upload their letter directly through that portal
4	You receive a confirmation when it’s submitted
5	You can submit your application even if the LOR is pending

Recommenders can upload a typed letter in PDF or write directly in the text box.

Can a LOR Make Up for Low Marks?

Not exactly — but it can explain gaps, demonstrate effort, or validate traits like resilience and leadership that aren’t captured in your grades.

Ashoka’s admissions committee reads your application as a whole. A strong LOR reinforces your profile — it doesn’t override other weak sections, but it adds weight and dimension.

Final Thoughts

If someone has seen you think, lead, or grow — and is willing to write honestly about it — a LOR can elevate your Ashoka University application.

It’s not required. But when done right, it’s a powerful story from someone who’s witnessed your potential firsthand.