When should I start asking for letters of recommendation?

Hey friends, I'm a junior in high school and I'm starting to think about college applications. I know letters of recommendation are important, but I'm not sure when the best time to ask for them is. Should I start asking now or wait until senior year? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi there! It's great that you're already thinking about college applications and letters of recommendation. In my experience, it's a good idea to start asking for letters of recommendation towards the end of your junior year or during the summer before your senior year. This way, you give your teachers or other recommenders enough time to write thoughtful letters, and they can reflect on your work and accomplishments throughout your junior year. Additionally, asking early can be beneficial as teachers often have multiple requests, and you want to make sure they have enough time to focus on your letter. Remember to provide them with any necessary information about the colleges you're applying to, your accomplishments, and any specific points you'd like them to highlight. Good luck with your college application process!