London Business School MBA Recommendation Questions

The London Business School application for the MBA program requires one professional reference, preferably from a current or former supervisor. It should be someone who knows you well in a work context, for example, a former employer or long-standing client. If you don’t want to ask your employer to be a referee, a colleague is acceptable. Referees must submit their reference via our online system, and LBS does not accept pre-written or general letters of recommendation.

The London Business School recommendation questions for the current admission season are available below.

2025-2026 London Business School MBA Recommendation Questions

Confirm contact details

Are you an alumna/alumnus of London Business School or connected with the institution in any way? If so please tell us which class or who you are connected with.

Recommender Comments

Please answer the following questions regarding the applicant, making sure to save your work regularly.

As a guideline for completing the reference form you should aim to write no more than 500 words per question. Please note that 500 words is the maximum amount and not a requirement.

1. How do you know the applicant? How long have you known them for?
2. What would you say are the applicant’s key strengths and talents?
3. What would you say are the applicant’s key weaknesses or areas for improvement?
4. How do the applicant’s performance, potential and personal qualities compare to those of other individuals in similar roles?
5. What do you think this person might be doing in ten years’ time? Why?

Recommender Rating

Please rate the applicant, comparing them with other members of his or her peer group, on the qualities listed below using the following scoring system: 1 = High, 3 = Average, 5 = Low.

• Intellectual or academic ability
• Quantitative skills
• Initiative/ability to make decisions
• Problem-solving skills
• Organisational skills
• Leadership skills
• Team skills
• Impact/charisma
• Self confidence
• Self motivation
• Spoken English communication skills
• Written English communication skills

Please indicate your overall recommendation on a five point score from (1) Highly Recommended to (5) Not Recommended

Please feel free to elaborate on your recommendation. (Note: if you prefer to submit additional comments in a separate letter, please email this to [email protected]).