What is an appropriate reason to ask a professor for a recommendation?

Requesting a recommendation from a professor because you plan to apply for a scholarship is appropriate because it reflects a genuine and serious academic pursuit. Professors typically appreciate when students are proactive about their education and future opportunities. A recommendation letter can highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and suitability for the scholarship, which is directly relevant to the professor’s knowledge of your academic work.

This context establishes the relationship between the student’s intentions and the professor's role in supporting that journey, reinforcing the idea that the recommendation is based on merit and academic performance. Asking for a recommendation due to a scholarship application also demonstrates situational awareness and respect for the professor's time, as it is a legitimate reason that connects to the academic environment.