Credentials are reference letters and other materials used to support applications for employment or graduate study. Establishing a credential file enables you to compile all of your resources in Career Services. Once this  file is created your credentials can be presented in a concise, professional format.

New - As a student, you can now access your credential file through NOVASIS, check your credentials on file, cancel Letters of Recommendation and request a credential package be sent to a school or employer. See FAQ below for more details.

Who should utilize the Credential Services?

Although the service is available to all Villanova University students and alumni, those who typically utilize this service are applicants for:

• Nursing
• Education
• Graduate and professional school

Getting started

Always ask potential references if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for you. Provide them with a copy of your resume to give them the information needed to write the best recommendation.

Stop by Career Services and fill out a File Registration form. You will be given a Credentials Starter Packet that will contain Recommendation and Request forms.

Policy information

• A file may be opened anytime during your matriculation and it can be maintained for up to 7 years after your graduation date.

Please log in to see the Letter of Recommendation Form

• There is no cost to start or maintain a file.
• There is a $3 fee to send a file, pick up a file or request a copy for yourself.
• Career Services will not "hold a request" until a file is complete.
• Requests will be completed within a week (in order received).
• Career Services does not do "on the spot" requests.
• Credential files follow the confidentiality rules under the Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

Frequently asked Questions

• What can I put in my file?
  That’s up to you. Common items include: letters of recommendation (2-5 is the norm), transcripts, professional certificates, resumes etc.
• Should I pick open v. confidential letters?
  Your choice. If you chose confidential, you waive your right to see the letter. It’s best to discuss this with the recommender, and the receiving organization.
• Who should I ask for letters of recommendation?
  Faculty and supervisors are your best bet. You may also include a character reference. Ask people who know you well and you feel will write you a strong letter.
• What is the approach when asking someone for a letter of recommendation?
  Inform the writer what it will be used for (employment/graduate school), supply a resume or related information that enables them to know more about you, and agree on a date when they will complete the letter and send it to Career Services. If your letters are not in your file when you expected and/or agreed upon, you should contact the person writing the recommendation.
• How do I get my transcripts in my file?
  Official Transcripts may be obtained by contacting the Registrar’s office and requesting they be sent to the Career Services Office by interoffice mail. Unofficial transcripts may be submitted by the student.
• Can I view my file?
  Yes, with the exception of any confidential letters.
• Who can request copies of my file?
  You are the only person authorized to request copies of your file and all requests require a signature. We cannot honor requests from employers, graduate programs, or parents.
• How are my files sent?
  Your files will be sent on Villanova letterhead in a professional manner. Copies will be made of your file contents (unless otherwise noted). If requested, Career Services can also include other materials provided by you (resumes, cover letters, applications, etc.) to be sent in addition to your file.
• How do I send my credentials to an organization?
  Option 1: Complete paper form and submit in person through the Career Services Office, located in Room 106, Corr Hall
  Option 2: Submit request through NOVASIS
  1. Type http://novasis.villanova.edu into your browser
  2. Enter secure NOVASIS area and login to view your personal information
  3. Choose student and financial aid from the list and choose Display Career Services Credentials
  4. Complete Form and press submit request button
  5. If you receive a confirmation page, your request was successfully submitted. Print the confirmation page and remit with payment.
• How can I track the status of my file?
  You can view the activity of your credentials file through NOVASIS.
  1. In NOVASIS repeat steps 1 through 3
• How do I remit payment?
  If paying by check, pay to:
  Villanova University
  Mail to: Career Services Office
  800 Lancaster Avenue, Corr hall
  Villanova, PA 19085 
  If paying by Visa or Master Card, call 610-519-4060 with your credit card information.