Dear UCwannabe,

Most schools have a recommendation form they want your recommenders to complete which asks specific questions. Many, but not all, will also provide recommenders the opportunity to submit a letter in addition to the form. Basically, the schools want your recommender to provide information on your skills and abilities in the workplace which demonstrate your leadership potential, communication skills, teamwork, and managerial potential. It is also helpful to give your recommenders information on why you want your MBA and what you plan to do post-MBA.

Best of luck,
Lisa

Dear chipjet,

You ask a good question as this is a common concern for a large number of applicants. It is not mandatory to have your current supervisor write a recommendation, but you should disclose to the school why your current supervisor has not written a recommendation (either in the optional essay or in an additional information section). If you cannot ask your current supervisor, then you will want to ask a former supervisor. Schools do want an evaluation from someone who has been your boss. Other potential recommenders are current/former co-workers and people you have worked with on community service/volunteer projects.

Regards,
Lisa