How to Properly Upload Letters of Recommendation in ERAS
A Guide for International Medical Graduates Letter Writers
Key Takeaways
All letters must be uploaded as PDFs under 1MB, using professional letterhead with full contact details.
Never address a letter to a specific program
Once uploaded, LoRs cannot be deleted, but another version can upload.
Understanding how to submit Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) properly is a critical—but often the overlooked part of the residency application process. One mistake in file formatting, salutation, or the portal upload process could delay your application or reflect poorly on your professionalism. For international medical graduates (IMGs), these small errors can create significant disadvantages.
This guide breaks down the essentials of LoR submission using the AAMC Letter of Recommendation Portal (LoRP), including common pitfalls and key strategies.
📌 What Is the ERAS Letter Request Form?
When you request a letter, the ERAS system will generate a Letter Request Form (LRF) for each recommender. This form includes:
Your name and AAMC ID
A unique Letter ID to track the submission
Whether you’ve waived your right to view the letter
Step-by-step access instructions for your writer
Provide this form to every person writing a letter on your behalf.
🧾 Use Professional Letterhead — No Exceptions
All LoRs must be written on professional letterhead. This includes the physician's name, institutional address, email, and phone number.
Why does this matter?
Because program directors do contact recommenders—especially when they want to verify authenticity or ask clarifying questions. A letter without contact details lacks credibility and may raise red flags.
💬 Who Should the Letter Be Addressed To?
Use a general salutation:
"Dear Program Director" or "To Whom It May Concern" are both acceptable.
Do not address letters to specific institutions. For example, if a letter says "Dear Johns Hopkins Internal Medicine Program" and you accidentally send it to a different program, it reflects poor attention to detail—and it could cost you an interview.
📁 File Format Requirements
Format: PDF only
Maximum file size: 1 MB (1,000 KB)
Reduce size by: using black & white letterhead, removing hyperlinks, compressing images, or scanning at lower resolution.
🚫 What If the Wrong Letter Is Uploaded?
If your recommender uploads the wrong file or an outdated version, it cannot be deleted—but a new version can be uploaded.
Important:
Programs only see the most recent version
Letter writers see the full upload history, including the date and uploader’s name
This makes it critical to communicate clearly and follow up with your writers to ensure correct and timely submissions.
🧩 What Program Directors Can and Can’t See
PDs do not have access to your personal AAMC profile or contact information
They can only see what’s included in the letter and file header
📞 Need Technical Support?
If your recommender has issues accessing the portal, they should contact the AAMC directly at: 📞 (202) 862-6298
📚 Next Steps: Strengthen Your Application
Want to know who you should ask for letters and how to make sure they write you a strong one?
📖 Read my full guide on choosing the right LoR writer →
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📬 Subscribe to Your Residency Advantage for weekly, high-yield residency strategies for IMGs.
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