Pfoho Dossier Service

PLEASE NOTE: It has become much more common for programs that allow electronic submission of letters to require additional, qualitative information from the recommender. In these cases, as simply uploading the letter is not sufficient, our office is unable to complete the process. Be sure to leave enough time to ask your recommender to submit their letter directly if that becomes necessary.  

STEP 1: Get A WAIVER FORM
Download the waiver form or pick up a form from the Academic Coordinator in the House Office.

STEP 2: FILL IT OUT
Be sure to sign the form and indicate whether you waive your right to access the completed letter. 
Hint: It is customary to waive access. In our experience, this usually results in more honest and effective letters. 
 
STEP 3: GIVE IT TO YOUR LETTER WRITER
When you ask for a recommendation, give the letter writer the waiver form, and an envelope* pre-addressed and stamped to: 
Office of the Allston Burr Resident Dean,
Pforzheimer House
Attention: Academic Coordinator
56 Linnaean St
Cambridge, MA 02138
 *More often letter writers are choosing to submit their letter via email. However, it does not hurt to be prepared, and you do not want to be caught off-guard if they have to ask you for an envelope for submission!

 

STEP 4: WRITER SENDS LETTER TO HOUSE
The writer will return the waiver form to the House office with the letter of recommendation. The waiver and letter may be returned via mail, fax, or email (pforz@fas.harvard.edu). Only one for of submission is necessary! Please note that emailed documents must include signatures. The Academic Coordinator will always let you know as soon as possible when a letter has arrived for you.

STEP 5: LETTER STAYS ON FILE FOREVER
The letter will remain in your file until the end of time. Files for the last seven graduating classes are kept in the House. Files from earlier classes can be ordered from the University Archives in three to four weeks. 

STEP 6: TELL US WHERE TO SEND THE LETTER
When you would like a recommendation sent out, send an email to the Academic Coordinator at pforz@fas.harvard.edu. Be sure to include the name(s) of the recommenders whose letters you want sent, and the name and addresses of the location(s) to which the letters should be sent. If you would like the letters mailed please note that you must provide pre-addressed, pre-stamped envelopes. Letters can also be emailed or uploaded. Please review the FAQ regarding uploading letters before placing your request.