I applied for a M.Res that required two written, sealed references to be supplied with the application. It took me ages to be able to muster up my referee's to supply these written referecnes - they are quite used to being cited as a reference however. Now I am considering applying elsewhere, due to my lack of success with my first application, but between I don't think I can really push these people again for references. I am considering just putting their names as citations on the application form and just risk a straight up refusal! Bloody hassle! :(