Getting strong reference letters is a crucial component of your Ontario medical school application through OMSAS (Ontario Medical School Application Service). Your referees provide admissions committees with valuable third-party perspectives on your abilities, character, and potential as a future physician. This guide will walk you through the entire process of securing excellent references, from choosing the right referees to crafting the perfect request.
Medical schools in Ontario require multiple references because they want to see how you perform in different contexts. Your referees help paint a picture of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. They can speak to your:
The best referees are those who:
Timing is crucial when requesting references. Here's a recommended timeline:
Remember that your referees are busy professionals. Giving them ample time shows respect and increases the likelihood of receiving a thoughtful, detailed reference.
Before sending a formal request, consider having a brief conversation with your potential referee. This can be in person, over the phone, or via video call. Use this opportunity to:
After your initial conversation (or as your first point of contact if a conversation isn't feasible), send a well-crafted email request. Here's a template you can customize:
Subject: Reference Request for OMSAS Medical School Application
Dear [Dr./Professor/Name],
I hope you're doing well! I'm currently in the process of applying to medical school through OMSAS and was wondering if you would be willing to serve as one of my referees?
The reference involves answering a few standardized Likert-style questions and providing short written elaborations on my abilities such as communication, professionalism, and advocacy. If you agree to be a reference, you will be sent an email containing a link to complete the referee form. It does not have to be completed in one sitting; you can complete it in parts and save it. Once you finish, you will simply submit it directly through the application system. The deadline for you to submit the form is [insert OMSAS deadline date and time].
I really valued the experience of working with you on [brief mention of the project, job, or role that you know the reference through and briefly highlight any achievements in that role], and I believe your perspective on my abilities and character would be very meaningful to the medical school admissions committee.
Please let me know if you'd be comfortable supporting me in this way. I'd also be happy to send more information you may require.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
While the template above provides a solid foundation, personalization is key. Consider these modifications:
Mention specific courses, projects, or research experiences. For example:
Highlight specific accomplishments or responsibilities:
Acknowledge the duration and depth of your relationship:
Once your referee agrees, make their job easier by providing:
Immediately after someone agrees to be your referee, send a brief thank you email with the supplementary materials.
If you haven't received confirmation of submission:
Always send a heartfelt thank you note after submission, and keep your referees updated on your application outcomes.
The OMSAS reference system has specific requirements:
If a potential referee declines or seems hesitant:
Start building meaningful relationships early in your undergraduate career:
Requesting references can feel daunting, but remember that most supervisors and mentors are happy to support students pursuing their dreams. By being professional, providing adequate time and information, and showing genuine appreciation, you'll likely receive strong references that enhance your medical school application.
The key is to make the process as easy as possible for your referees while ensuring they have everything they need to advocate effectively for your candidacy. Your thoughtful approach to requesting references reflects the same professionalism and consideration you'll bring to your future medical career.
Good luck with your applications, and remember – the people you're asking for references have likely been in your shoes before. They understand the importance of this step in your journey to becoming a physician and want to see you succeed.
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