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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) Guidance

For international dental graduates (IDGs) aspiring to study or practice dentistry in the United States, a strong Letter of Recommendation (LOR) can make a significant difference in the success of their application. U.S. dental schools highly value recommendations that reflect an applicant’s professional competence, clinical skills, academic achievements, and personal character. However, many applicants face challenges in selecting the right recommenders, structuring the letters effectively, and ensuring they meet U.S. admission standards. The Letter of Recommendation (LOR) Guidance Course is designed to help international dentists prepare high-quality, impactful recommendation letters that strengthen their overall CAAPID and dental school applications.

What is the LOR Guidance Course?

The LOR Guidance Course provides comprehensive training and personalized support to international dental graduates in understanding, requesting, and drafting effective Letters of Recommendation for U.S. dental schools. It helps participants choose appropriate recommenders, structure the content professionally, and ensure that each LOR authentically reflects their strengths, experience, and readiness for advanced dental education.

Key Course Features:

1. Understanding the Purpose of an LOR : The course begins by explaining the importance of LORs in the U.S. admissions process. Students learn how these letters add credibility to their application by validating their clinical, academic, and interpersonal abilities through credible third-party perspectives.
2. Selecting the Right Recommenders : Choosing who writes your LOR is just as important as the letter itself. The course guides participants in identifying ideal recommenders — such as professors, clinical supervisors, or employers — who can provide detailed, personalized insights about their qualifications and performance.
3. Structuring and Formatting LORs : Participants are trained to understand the ideal structure, tone, and length of a strong LOR. The course includes sample templates and successful examples from previous applicants, emphasizing how to present achievements, work ethic, and professionalism in a U.S.-accepted format.
4. Drafting and Review Assistance : Many recommenders may request the applicant’s input in drafting the letter. The course offers detailed support in creating professional and authentic drafts that highlight key strengths while maintaining integrity and originality. Multiple reviews ensure that every LOR is concise, well-organized, and error-free.
5. Customization for Different Universities : Since each dental school may have different requirements, students are guided on how to tailor LORs for specific programs without losing authenticity. This includes understanding institutional preferences, formatting standards, and submission protocols through CAAPID.
6. Professional Language and Tone Enhancement : The course provides editing and proofreading assistance to ensure every LOR maintains a professional tone, uses precise language, and avoids generic statements. Mentors ensure the final version meets U.S. academic and cultural expectations.
7. Ethical and Cultural Guidance : Applicants also receive advice on LOR ethics — understanding what should and shouldn’t be included, ensuring consent and transparency, and following proper communication etiquette with recommenders.