Electronic Credentials Service

Interfolio

Since 2000, the University of Virginia has contracted with Interfolio, a highly secure electronic credentials management company, to manage credentials for all U.Va. students and alumni.  For a fee, Interfolio creates files, collects letters of recommendation and other materials, and expeditiously transmits them to destinations at the file holder’s written request.

For electronic letters of recommendation to be credible, they should be written on departmental letterhead and signed, including the letter writer’s title.  Interfolio will not process an unsigned letter.

Advantages

• 24- hour access to view a list of file contents, to make mailing requests and to view mailing history anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via computer.  Recommenders may also electronically submit and update letters via an easy-to-use and secure website.
• Quick turnaround on mailing requests: 1 business day processing with no added rush fee, multiple mailing options include Priority Mail and fax versus the 3-5 business day turnaround time of manually processed requested mailings.  Instantaneous, electronic delivery is also available if the receiving institution has an account with Interfolio.  This option costs the file holder the least.
• Flexibility.  Credit card payments are accepted.  Files may contain documents other than recommendation letters (writing samples, articles, test scores, unofficial transcripts, etc.). File holders may self-manage their file content while still maintaining the confidentiality of letters.  Files may contain both confidential and non-confidential letters instead of requiring the whole file to be confidential or non-confidential.  Online usage options are offered for 1-year or 5-year renewable contracts.
• Reliability.  This technology reduces the risk of human error, provides a website that offers security and privacy with instant data back-up.  All files are stored electronically for 20 years beyond the contract expiration.

Presentation

The Interfolio credentials packet sent for each file holder has a cover sheet that is co-branded with both the University of Virginia logo and the Interfolio logo.  The cover sheet lists each item that the file holder chooses to send in the order s/he requests. 

Tips for Faculty on Submitting Letters to Interfolio