IMPORTANT: We strongly recommend applicants follow-up with referees to ensure the e-reference links were received and reference letters are submitted by the application deadline. Unfortunately, given the large number of applications we receive, we are unable to notify applicants of missing letter(s).
You need to arrange for submission of a minimum of two academic reference letters. These must be from professors or instructors who have taught and graded you in a university setting. Supervisors of undergraduate honours or graduate theses are considered as academic referees. Academic references do not include references written by practicum supervisors, volunteer supervisors, or employers. You may have one additional letter from a non-academic referee (e.g., practicum, volunteer, or work supervisor) if you choose.
Applicants who have not been enrolled in an academic program for five years or more may obtain two letters of reference from employers/supervisors, rather than from academic referees. However, we encourage these applicants to still submit academic references if possible.
Reference letters must be sent using the e-reference submission within the online Dalhousie Graduate Application. Your referees will be contacted with a link to the e-reference site after your online application has been completed, submitted and your application fee has been paid. You will need to have the email addresses of your referees to complete the online application.
Please allow five business days for your referee(s) to be contacted by the e-reference system after you have completed your application. If you have questions related to the e-reference system, including technical issues, please contact eref@dal.ca.
