Check Who Can Provide the Reference
Read the course rules for the number and type of referees. Cambridge’s requirements depend partly on how recently you left higher education, and some courses differ. Choose people who can discuss relevant work directly, such as a dissertation, substantial project or academic performance, rather than relying on a senior title alone.
Ask Before Entering Their Details
Contact the person before naming them. Explain the opportunity, why you are applying and what the reference process involves. Offer a concise packet: current CV, course link, proposal or statement, deadline and a reminder of the work they know. Avoid asking them to attest to experience they have not observed.
Build a Submission Plan
Keep a small table with the course, referee, request date, deadline and submission status. Cambridge requires references by the relevant application deadline, so completing your own form is only part of readiness. Agree on a reasonable reminder with the referee and monitor the institution’s portal where possible. If someone cannot help, use the course rules to choose an alternative promptly.
Your Next-Step Checklist
- Confirm the required type and number of referees.
- Ask for agreement and provide a focused briefing packet.
- Track reference submission as well as your own application.
Official Reading
Read the official school, university, funder or government sources below.
Cambridge: References to Support Your Application