Frequently Asked Questions - References

• Do you accept references before I have submitted my application?
• Can referees write reference letters in their own language? 
• Can I give a professional reference from my employer instead of an academic reference?
• Can I provide extra references?
• Does the EUI contact referees directly to ask for references? 
• What happens if the reference letters arrive after the deadline?
• What happens to my application if reference letters are missing? 
• Can I access the reference letters submitted by my referees?

Do you accept references before I have submitted my application?

Your referees will be allowed to submit the reference only after you have completed and registered the first step of the online application form including the names and contact details of referees: an automatic e-mail is created and sent to your referees. In order to receive the references in time by the deadline 31 January, you should register the referee details as soon as possible and ensure that your referees receive the request. This is possible any time and you do not yet need to submit the final version of your application at that time.

Can referees write reference letters in their own language? 

Yes, but references in English or French guarantee the widest possible reading.

Can I give a professional reference from my employer instead of an academic reference? 

No. Academic reference letters must be submitted by academic referees (ie: Professors, lecturers etc.) who are in a position to give an academic evaluation of your research, intellectual qualities, ability and potential.

Can I provide extra references?

Only two letters are required (three for Economics). The references must correspond to the referees reported in your application. Additional reference letters cannot be accepted.

Does the EUI contact referees directly to ask for references? 

When you register your referees' contact details in the online application form, an email requesting a reference on your behalf is automatically sent to the referees you have nominated.

Nevertheless, it is your responsibility to contact referees directly to inform them of your request and to ensure that they have received it, and submit the reference by the deadline. 

What happens if the reference letters arrive after the deadline?

References must arrive by the deadline for applications on 31 January (24:00 CET). References arriving after the deadline may not be considered. 

What happens to my application if reference letters are missing?

Your application can be considered without references, but remember that references play an important part in the selection process. Please note that reference letters can be submitted by the registered referees (before the deadline) even after you have submitted your application.

Can I access the reference letters submitted by my referees?

No. reference letters, provided directly by the referees, are confidential and not accessible to candidates.