Credential Files
Managing a Credentials File
Students and alumni have two available options to choose from when managing a credentials file, self-manage or elect a professional and reliable organization to handle all requests (ex. Interfolio, Inc).
Self managing allows candidates to have 100% control of managing the file. Candidates must collect, organize, and mail the desired documents. Cost of managing the file is minimal (envelope, paper, shipping, etc).
UM-St. Louis Career Services partners with Interfolio, Inc. to manage credentials files. Interfolio is the premier choice for many universities to manage such files. All requests for creating or sending a credentials file will be submitted from the student using Interfolio. To begin using Interfolio, visit www.Interfolio.com to create your account profile. Once the account is established; upon request, Interfolio will send the application materials for a small fee to the address you provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Interfolio?
Interfolio is an online credentials management service that is available to University of Missouri – St. Louis students and alumni. It allows individuals to create and electronically-manage a portfolio of their credentials, including confidential and non-confidential letters of recommendation, writing samples, and evaluations.
What is a credentials file?
A credentials file holds current documents that are typically required when applying for a position or medical school. Common documents held in a credentials file:
- Resume*
- Unofficial Transcript*
- Copy of Teacher Certification (if education major)
- 3 letters of recommendation* (either confidential or open)
- Cover letter
*Strongly Recommended
What is a confidential letter of recommendation?
Confidential letters of recommendation are letters from others that you have waived your right to review. Many graduate and professional schools require this type of recommendation letter. In creating your credentials file, you can chose as to whether your letters/documents are "Confidential" or not. If you are applying to graduate or pre-professional schools, we highly recommend that all letters be confidential.
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, Interfolio maintains the confidentiality of all closed letters of recommendation stored by our file holders. Interfolio follows strict guidelines for receiving and mailing all closed letters of recommendation to ensure that the confidentiality of letters of recommendation is preserved. Confidential letters may be included in deliveries to potential schools or employers; however, the account holder may not view the letter at any point.
Who uses credentials files?
Anyone! Traditionally, education majors and students applying for graduate school utilize credentials files.
How do I create a credentials file?
Using Self-Manage: Begin by storing all desired documents in a safe, reliable, and convenient place, preferably an electronic storage (strongly suggested to have an additional storage for back-up). Print documents when needed to prepare for shipping.
Using Interfolio: The first step to begin a credentials file is to create an account with Interfolio. To do so, visit www.Interfolio.com (an annual fee is required). Next, begin adding the necessary documents to your Interfolio account. Once the desired documents have been uploaded or scanned, select the documents to send and enter the delivery address.
Contact Interfolio, Inc. directly at: help@interfolio.com or Toll-free: 877-773-6546
If you have questions regarding credentials files previously managed by Career Services,
please call Kristin Wilke @ 314-516-5114