The purpose of a reference form in a job application is to collect information and feedback from individuals who have worked closely with the applicant in the past. The information gained from reference forms allows recipients to assess an applicant's personal qualities and qualifications, providing additional insights beyond what is available from the applicant's resume or interview. Reference forms help employers, educational institutions, and volunteer coordinators make better-informed, more well-rounded decisions and mitigate risks by obtaining feedback from trusted sources who can provide valuable perspectives on the applicant's abilities and suitability for the role.