“Please note that all applications must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation.”

English Lesson: Please note that all applications must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation.

You're going to apply to a school in the U.S. You're reading the rules for applying on the school's website. This sentence is on the page.

Please note that all applications must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation.

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Please note that (sentence)

This is a formal way to direct people's attention to some information. For example, if you're selling something on the internet that has to be mailed, your site might have this sentence:

Please note that delivery may take up to three weeks.

One reason to use "Please note that..." is because it can sometimes seem rude if you say or write things directly without any introduction. For example, if you're making a short introduction at the beginning of a conference, you might announce:

Food and drinks are not allowed in the auditorium.

But that could sound a little too strict. This sounds nicer:

Please note that food and drinks are not allowed in the auditorium.

(something is) accompanied by (something)

The word "accompany" means to go somewhere together with. For example, one of the most common uses of this word is in this sentence:

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

You can see this on signs at places that are dangerous for kids, like swimming pools.

It can also be used to talk about documents that need to be sent together:

Please note that all applications must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation.

The word "accompany" is quite formal, so it's mostly used in writing.

letters of recommendation

When you apply for a school, you often need to get "letters of recommendation". These are letters written by a teacher, boss, coach, or some other authority. They're supposed to be about how great you are. The letters are usually sealed in a closed envelope and sent along with the application.

Letters of recommendation are commonly needed for getting into college, graduate school, getting a scholarship, or for winning certain awards. They're not usually needed in the U.S. for getting most jobs.

(something) must be (done)

This is a form that people use for giving formal instructions. It means that everyone has to do this. For example:

Seat backs and tray tables must be placed in their upright and locked positions.

All reimbursement requests must be submitted by Dec. 8th.