Recommendation letters can serve as powerful testimonials ... the basketball player also starred in the school musical are examples that provide deep context, Jones says.

Letters of recommendation are the most important component to an application, next to the essays written by the candidates. Referees are advised to provide as much relevant detail as possible.

These documents can include letters of recommendation, curriculum vitae, writing samples, graduate school forms, dissertation abstracts, teaching certifications, student evaluations and more.

If you are applying to more than one graduate program, we highly suggest you contact your recommendation providers and encourage them to write all-inclusive letters of recommendation that support your ...