Hi, Yes, addressing a rector as “Dear Professor [Last Name]” or “Dear Rector [Last Name]” is the most appropriate and respectful form in a business letter. Avoid using “Dear First Name Last Name” — it sounds too informal and can be seen as disrespectful in formal or academic contexts. If you’re unsure of their title, “Dear Professor [Last Name]” is generally safe.

No, you would not address the rector by their first name

For a business letter to a rector, it’s best to be formal and respectful. Do NOT use “Dear First name, Second name” — that sounds too informal and can come across as rude. The correct and polite way is: “Dear Professor [Last name]” or “Dear Rector [Last name]” If you’re unsure of their exact title, “Dear Professor [Last name]” is usually safe and respectful. Using titles plus last name shows professionalism and respect in formal correspondence. Here are some polite and professional alternatives for addressing a rector in a business letter: • Dear Professor [Last Name], • Dear Rector [Last Name], • Dear Dr [Last Name], (if they have a doctorate) • Dear Professor [First Name] [Last Name], (more formal, but usually last name alone is enough) • Dear Sir or Madam, (if you don’t know the name or title) • To the Rector, (formal, less personal but still respectful) Avoid first names alone in formal letters, especially for academic or official figures. If you know their full title (e.g. “Professor of Linguistics”), you can include that in the address line too.