Recommendations
On September 1, 2009, the Lazarus Center for Career Development launched its partnership with Interfolio, the premier dossier, credentials and online portfolio service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Requesting Letters of Reference (PDF)
How does Interfolio work?
Will the Lazarus Center send out references on my behalf?
Can I transfer my references file to Interfolio?
What if I don't have letters at the Lazarus Center?
Do ALL graduate schools and organizations accept credentials from Interfolio?
How much does Interfolio cost?
Alternatives to Interfolio
Information for Letter Writers
Medical School applicants
Law School applicants
Transcripts
How does Interfolio work?
Interfolio gives you the power to collect, deliver and showcase your most important documents in an easy online system that YOU manage. You're able to store letters of recommendation, resumes, writing samples, evaluation forms, and much more. Learn more about Interfolio.
Will the Lazarus Center send out references on my behalf?
As of September 1st, 2009, the Lazarus Center will no longer fulfill reference requests. If you need confidential references sent, you must set up an Interfolio account.
Can I transfer my references file to Interfolio?
With your signed permission (see Interfolio Transfer form below), we will send all of your letters of reference to Interfolio, at no cost to you. Please note that you must have an established Interfolio account in order to request a file transfer. More info about transferring your files.
You can fax your signed, completed Interfolio Transfer Form to the Lazarus Center at 413-585-2596, or e-mail a scanned version to lazarus@smith.edu.
Once your original documents are transferred to Interfolio, your references file will be closed. All future reference requests must go through Interfolio.
Interfolio Transfer Form (PDF)
This form gives the Lazarus Center permission to transfer your entire references file to Interfolio. Please note that you must establish an Interfolio account before submitting this form to the Lazarus Center.
What if I don't have letters at the Lazarus Center?
If you do NOT already have an established references file at the Lazarus Center, you need to create an account directly with Interfolio. Getting started is easy - Click here to open your account.
Do ALL graduate schools and organizations accept credentials from Interfolio?
No. Although most graduate schools and organizations will accept letters from Interfolio, some do not. It's important that you read and adhere to all application instructions for the schools or programs to which you are applying.
How much does Interfolio cost?
Interfolio accounts can be set up for as little as $19 for one year, $39.90 for three years, and $57 for five years. Electronic deliveries start at $6. More information on the most current Interfolio Fees.
Alternatives to Interfolio
Carefully consider your personal reference needs. For instance, if you're applying to graduate school or a job, you may not need Interfolio at all. Your recommenders can send their letters directly to the graduate school or employer of your choice.
If you choose NOT to open an Interfolio account, you have the following options:
- Close your references file and have the confidential references shredded. (Non-confidential references can be sent to you at your request.)
- Transfer your entire references file to another institution (graduate school, for example).
- Both of these options require that you complete a
Non-Interfolio References File Consent Form (PDF)
Information for Letter Writers
Interfolio does not just benefit students and alumni. It also helps ease the burden of those faculty entrusted with composing letters of recommendation. Learn more about the FREE writer's account at Interfolio, which enables direct uploading of documents.
For more information, or to set up an Interfolio account, please visit www.interfolio.com
Questions about Interfolio? 1-877-77-FOLIO or e-mail help@interfolio.com
Medical School Applicants
All Health Professions school applicants MUST use Interfolio, so please plan accordingly. If you're planning on requesting a committee letter, select "Smith College Pre-Health" as your school affiliation when creating your account. Click here to read more about Interfolio for Medical School Applicants.
For more information on the Health Professions School Application Process, contact Katie Lipp, Program Director for Health Professions and Mentoring Programs at klipp@smith.edu or (413) 585-4296.
Law School Applicants
Law references should be sent directly to LSAC by your recommenders.
Transcripts
Transcripts are available through the Smith College Registrar's Office.
