10 Great Universities That Don’t Require Letters of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation is a common feature in many college application processes. Many people, however, wonder if there is a chance of finding colleges that do not require letters of recommendation. The good news is that some universities will accept applications without recommendation letters.

There are many options if you are looking for these schools, including online colleges that do not require recommendation letters. The only issue would be finding them among the thousands of college websites. So, to help you reach your goals faster and easier, we’ve compiled a list of in-person and online colleges that don’t require recommendation letters.

What Are Letters of Recommendation, and Why Are They Normally Required?

A letter of recommendation is a document written by someone who is credible for attesting to your character, achievements, and worthiness of admission into a school or for a professional position. Usually, a letter of recommendation is written by your high school teacher, professor, manager, or employer. This will require you to ask them for a recommendation letter.

Most universities require letters of recommendation, along with other documents, to consider an applicant eligible for an undergraduate program. In most cases, graduate school applicants must also submit letters of recommendation explaining why they should be admitted to the degree program.

Is It Easy to Find Universities That Don’t Require Letters of Recommendations

It is not easy to find universities that don’t require letters of recommendation. However, there are ways to make your search easier. One way is through lists like the one provided in this article. Another way is to comb through the admission requirements of different schools you’re interested in. 

How to Get Into a College That Doesn’t Require Letters of Recommendation

Universities that don’t require letters of recommendation from prospective students use other ways to assess if the prospects are the right fit for a program. Decisions by the admissions committees can be based on other criteria that directly assess a candidate’s qualification. So, meeting the requirements below might just be enough.

• Professional experience
• Internships
• Academic experience
• Personal statement
• Essay

Which Schools Do Not Require Letters of Recommendation for College Admissions?

Best Colleges That Don’t Require Letters of Recommendation

If you are looking for schools with a freshman admission policy that doesn’t include letters of recommendation, the following colleges are excellent options to consider. 

Florida State University 

Designated as a research-based university by the Florida legislation, Florida State University is one of the best public universities in the country. To apply for a program at the university, candidates have to submit an essay, resume, academic record, and SAT/ACT scores.

Indiana University Bloomington

According to US News & World Report, Indiana University Bloomington ranks 68th in best national universities, with over 500 academic programs that you can choose from. The university’s basic admission requirements include a brief essay, a $65 application fee, academic transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores. 

Colorado State University 

Colorado State University is a research-focused institution with many programs for undergraduates and graduate students. The university’s admission process is friendly to international students, with enough guidance to see them through the process. Colorado State University ties for 148th place for National Universities provided by US News & World Report. 

Delaware State University

Founded in 1891, Delaware State University offers courses for first-year students, transfer students, and international students. Admissions officers at the university require undergraduate applicants to have SAT scores of 800 or higher and ACT scores of 17 or higher. In addition to undergraduate programs, Delaware State University offers graduate degree programs.  

New York City College of Technology

New York City College of Technology offers a wide range of associate, bachelor’s, and postgraduate degree programs. The minimum requirements for acceptance into the programs include a high school diploma and proficiency in math and English. With a riveting campus life, students can access all the resources they need to excel. 

Online Colleges That Don’t Require Letters of Recommendations

The application requirements for online colleges aren’t very different from in-person colleges and universities. So, you should be prepared to provide standardized test scores, high school diplomas, and other documents specific to individual schools. 

Clemson University

Clemson University is a top research-focused university in South Carolina. The university assesses the applicant’s academics, community engagement, background, opportunities, and unique story Applicants who can demonstrate academic qualifications and career goals that align with the course objectives have a better place of being accepted. The university is ranked 75th in Best National Universities by US News & World Report. 

Arizona State University

Arizona State University is among the most innovative universities in the country. In addition to its many regular campus-based programs, the university offers approximately 300 online degree programs. Students benefit from flexibility as they pursue degrees and prepare for advanced careers.

Adams State University

Adam State University is one of the top public universities in Colorado. In addition to campus-based programs, it has several online programs you can pursue, depending on for your prior education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to one and a student-focused learning style, the learning experience is impressive. International applicants can join the applicant pool by setting up an applicant profile on the school’s website.

Southern New Hampshire University 

Southern New Hampshire University has several online programs. The application procedures are straightforward, allowing students to walk through the process quickly. High school students looking to get a place in the highly-competitive school will need to submit an application form, electronic attestation form, and transcript release form. 

North Central University

North Central University is an online school specially created to help busy professionals earn degrees. The university allows students to earn degrees in technology, education, business, psychology, and marriage and family therapy. Besides an undergraduate program, there are options available for students who want to earn a master’s or doctorate degree. 

Should You Still Submit Letters of Recommendation Even if It Is Not Required?

No, you don’t have to submit letters of recommendation if it’s not required. While a letter of recommendation can help demonstrate your knowledge and experience, colleges that don’t require letters of recommendation have other ways of assessing you in this regard. 

Submit Letters of Recommendation if

• It’s required
• You need to demonstrate your knowledge and experience
• You have working experience

Don’t Submit Letters of Recommendation if

• It’s not required

Should I Attend a College That Doesn’t Require Letters of Recommendation?

Yes, you should attend a college that doesn’t require letters of recommendation if obtaining letters of recommendation will be difficult for you. There’s absolutely nothing unusual about a university not requiring reference letters or recommendation letters. These schools often have other ways to ensure applicants qualify for their undergraduate or graduate degree programs. 

Colleges That Don’t Require Letters of Recommendation FAQ