What Reviewers Look For in the NSF GRFP Reference Letter
This rubric looks for a clear, evidence-based case that addresses both Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. It also checks whether the letter shows what the candidate personally did, explains how the writer knows them, offers grounded comparison when used, and makes a supported case for the candidate's future potential.
What We Check
Whether the letter does identifiable work for both of NSF's merit-review criteria.
Whether research potential is proven by described incidents of inquiry in which the candidate's own action is visible.
Whether the letter establishes the writer's basis for judgment - the role, duration, and setting in which the writer observed the candidate - whether every judged quality stays inside that vantage…
Whether comparative claims name their reference class and window.
The letter's forward commitment: whether it argues the candidate's potential - the thing the fellowship funds - and closes with an endorsement whose strength a panelist can quote.
Mistakes We Flag
- Addressing research ability but not broader impact
- A letter should address both Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts. Naming a criterion without showing relevant actions or benefits does not give the panel useful evidence.
- Using praise without examples
- Lists of traits such as hardworking or brilliant are less useful than a specific incident that shows the candidate's actions, thinking, and contribution.
- Focusing on the lab or project instead of the candidate
- The letter needs to distinguish the candidate's own role from the work of a team, lab, or project.
- Leaving the relationship unclear
- The writer should state how long they have known the candidate and in what capacity. Claims about the candidate should fit what the writer has actually observed.
- Making vague comparisons or ending with a hedge
- Comparisons need a clear peer group and time frame, without naming other students. The closing should clearly endorse the candidate and connect future potential to demonstrated capacities.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use the phrases “Intellectual Merit” and “Broader Impacts”?
No. The letter does not need to use those exact phrases, but it should provide content that addresses both criteria.
What kind of research evidence is most helpful?
Describe specific incidents of inquiry in which the candidate's own actions and contributions are visible. Explain prior research experiences and academic potential rather than relying on grades, course difficulty, or general praise.
What should I say about my relationship with the candidate?
State your department and institution, how long you have known the candidate, and in what capacity. If you supervised or advised the proposed research, explain your role while keeping the candidate's own voice and vision clear.
Can I compare the candidate with peers?
Yes. Identify the relevant comparison group and time frame, but do not name other students. Avoid broad superlatives that go beyond your firsthand vantage.
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