how to write a motivation letter for university admission in germany

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How to write a motivational letter for university admission in Germany

The motivation letter (also knowne as “statement of purpose”) is a document where you describe your professional competence and personal motivation about choosing to study a particular study field at a particular university.

It’s the most personalized and important document you can create to send to a university during the application process. Very often the motivation letter will make the biggest difference between getting admission and getting rejected at the university you’re applying for.

How To Write Your Motivation Letter

In the letter, you can write relevant and interesting details about yourself which can prove to the admission officers that you are the right candidate to be selected to participate in their programme. That’s why it’s important to first choose a study programme that is a good fit for your academic background.

The motivation letter plays a decisive role in determining whether you will be accepted or not. It can be very challenging to present yourself in a way that would convince the study institution. Even if you are an outstanding student with the highest grades, many accomplishments, and are very motivated you may not secure your admission because of writing your motivational letter in a poor way.

It does not have to be personal in a way that makes you appear non-serious, rather focus on your intellectual personality . Be careful to not indulge a lot in your deficit side; always focus on your strengths and reasons why you are the right person for the university.

*Suggestion: plan ahead before attempting your final draft writings. Firstly, plan the concept, then the layout, the structure and fine-tuning.

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• The concept should contain all your thoughts on why you want to pursue the specific degree, the qualities you can bring to the programme, why the specific university is the best option for you. Then, bring these ideas to a draft.
• The layout is the way your document is formatted, and it should show your professionalism. If there are no specifications in the university’s description of the motivational letter, you should attempt at keeping it to a maximum length of two pages.
• The structure defines the flow of the letter, with a bright introduction leading smoothly to an intense body and a summary of the content. The conclusion should once more indicate to your personal advantages.
• Fine-tuning is about the word usage you have selected. You should avoid using complex words and constructions as they can a turn-off or irritating to the admission officers.Use rather eloquent, persuasive, smooth language, where you show why you are outstanding instead of telling. And, check grammar, spelling, and also get feedback from close people whose opinions you value.

Things to keep in mind when writing your motivation letter

• Do not repeat what is already written in the application form or CV – this one is very important to keep in mind as the admission officers will receive many motivational letters from many candidates and if you repeat yourself it will become tiresome.Try to place yourself in their position! You might notice that you need to be either more creative, interesting, or bold in your motivational letter.
• Write based on university specifics – while you are constructing your motivational letter be careful to prioritize interests that correlate with the programmes provided by the university. Think of how you will benefit from the programmes you are going after and why you are motivated to attend those courses. Usually, universities have very clear and informative requirements on their websites, as well as what qualities and qualifications in candidates they are looking forward to.
• Making a flat introduction – your introduction is the most important part of your letter. It will determine whether the admission officers will engage and continue reading through the whole letter.This is where they will decide if they are going to proceed with your file or dismiss it completely. Think of a way to not sound cliché and yet at the same time intelligent and engaging.
• Do not try to make too many points – another thing is that you might get very excited and wanting to show many of your important assets, and somehow on the road make a mess in the connection between interests.You may seem as if you are trying to say a lot in order to make them like you. You wouldn’t want to seem desperate or a show-off, in both cases you will not be a very attractive candidate, so be consistent!
• Share something about yourself – share your interests and your feelings when you take part in activities that correlate with the programme in question. Think of ways how it has manifested in your thought-patterns and motivation. Share a moment or a story where you understood the importance of the subject.
• Do not force the letter towards humor – sounding positive is very important, but trying to be very humorous in the motivational letter can turn out the wrong way, as you for one, cannot know the kind of things people find funny.What can be funny and interesting to you may not be the same for another person and the case may be that you are not on the same frequency as the personnel.Instead, try to keep humor on the side while all the time keeping positive and interesting. Humor can be overdone and it can be the one thing that will set you away from your dream programme.
• Do not be someone else – always bring forward your own voice, tone, and self. Do not try to be someone you are not and in this way cause yourself to fall out of selection. Tell them things that are true to you and in your truest voice! These things are easy to spot for the admission officers and you wouldn’t want to be spotted pretending you’re someone you’re not! You have very interesting things that have happened to you and your life is important and you surely have unique qualities, so think of those things and present them.If you think hard enough, you will see you are enough. There is no need to pretend. Sometimes, being very involved in our own lives may make us not believe we are interesting enough!
• Answer all questions – pay attention to answering all the questions that are asked of you. Do not neglect them since having been written in prospects, they must be important! Keep that in mind and try not to think less of any.
• Do not write your personal statement/motivational letter at the last minute – this one is very, very important. Give yourself enough time to write many drafts until you bring to life your personality. If you do it within a matter of a few or in the last days, you may forget valuable things and it will not have the consistency required. Start writing your motivational letter, at least, a month ahead. Be clear about your goals!
• Do your proofreading – proofreading is a must. When it’s time to proofread, after correcting all grammatical or punctuation, or line structuring mistakes, give your motivational letter to someone whose opinion you value and listen to their suggestions. Do not give it to a lot of people as you might lose your voice completely. After reading it too many times you may become unwary of the little mistakes. Also, because in your head you know exactly what you mean, you may not see the sentence inaccuracies. That’s why it is important that someone with a fresh sight gives it a good look!

What’s the difference between a cover letter and a motivational letter?

Both are pretty similar in terms of structure but have different purposes. The motivation letter is used mainly in education, therefore there are various motivation letters.

For example, you may need a letter of motivation for a scholarship, a letter of motivation for university admission, and so forth. Whereas, the cover letter is used mainly to apply for jobs.

This letter is supposed to come as a complimentary item to your CV where you only display your qualifications. On a motivation letter, you support the CV by offering additional reasons and experiences that make your qualifications worthy. Therefore, the motivation letter is a little bit more personal communication between you and the other party, at least in the way it is delivered.

To a certain degree, the motivation letter is the third most important document in your application behind your degree and your grades from your previous education. Naturally, when applying to a University there are numerous students with the same qualifications and grades as you and the only point that helps the admission committee filter out the best candidates is by looking at your motivation letter.

Universities are highly interested in selecting candidates who other than having higher qualifications, also have accompanying strengths. Most of the time they look for students who show great competency in leadership and communicative skills and know-how they are planning to use their university degree for the betterment of themselves and the community.

As such, never underestimate the role of the motivation letter in your application. But, while writing a common motivation letter may not be hard, writing an exceptional one (which is surely what you should aim for) is way harder. If you follow the above-mentioned strategies and tips it this won’t be the case for you.

There’s no standard format for letter of motivation

First, don’t expect to find a letter of motivation format where you will only have to type some common information for yourself and you’re good to go. There’s not a universal standard form of the motivation letter.

Otherwise, how you would be able to tell the university admission committee exactly what to hear from you? However, these tips and strategies you read above are some major points that make up the basic framework of every motivation letter.

Before leaving here are two other pieces of advice you should never neglect when writing a motivation letter.

1. Know who you’re writing to

When writing a motivation letter, your starting point is to know to whom you’re writing to. By having in mind this, right at the beginning, you can adjust your writing accordingly and the flow of your writing will be just as required.

Writing a motivation letter for Bachelor’s degree is different from writing a motivation letter for PhD . Writing a motivation letter for a bachelor degree is academically less competent than the motivation letter for a Master’s degree and even less competent compared to motivation letter for a PhD degree.

Let say you’re applying for a Master’s degree program . From the very first sentence of your motivation letter you may have put a larger focus on the experiences that you had, trying to sound much more competent than you’re, you may forget to explain properly how these experiences make you the right candidate for the place you’re applying for.

If you would be writing a motivation letter for PhD , the admission committee would expect you to show more experiences that you had and is much more specific about what are your future plans after taking that degree. In other words, you will fail to adjust your writing to what is required from the admission committee and therefore you won’t take your place at the university.

Writing a motivation letter for study abroad may require you to ask yourself other questions. You must try to convince your university that your degree in your home country (for whom they may not have any idea at all) will add value to their community. Similar to this, if you are writing a motivation letter for exchange programmes they’re usually interested to know what qualities you think you can bring alongside.

If you’re not aware of these at the beginning you may fall off the course and miss the target of your motivation letter. In other words, the quality of your CV is equal to how well you deliver it.

2. Read many motivation letter examples

There is a saying:

“Example is the best definition”.

The final version of your motivation letter for university admission cannot (and should not) be done with your first shot.

You need to practice a lot in order to write a motivation letter that will make an effect on your application. The best strategy for practicing is by looking at different examples of motivational letters that are proven to be successful.

By looking at different examples you will get a general picture upon which major elements your motivation letter should be based on. Also, it will help you envision how you want to write down your motivation level.

Here’s a step-by-step editing guide on this strategy:

• First, write a raw version of your motivation letter
• Do a fast scanning
• Compare it with the motivation letter examples you have read
• Identify missing pieces and how you can improve
• Repeat the whole process until you see don’t see what you can change further.

Don’t look at too many motivation letter examples because you may end up trying to match every minor element and therefore remove the originality, which is a necessity. And, be patient. Practice as much as you can.

Don’t wait three days or a week before the deadline to write a motivation letter. Start way earlier than a week. A month would be just OK.

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Home » Best Letter Of Motivation For German Universities: 07+ Samples

Best Letter Of Motivation For German Universities: 07+ Samples

Unlocking the doors to German universities isn’t just about grades; it’s about the art of crafting a compelling motivation letter. In the fiercely competitive landscape of academic pursuits, your words hold the power to resonate and leave an indelible mark on the admissions committee. Imagine your motivation letter as the key that not only opens doors but sets you apart in a sea of applicants.

In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of crafting a powerful Letter of Motivation for German universities. From showcasing your unique strengths to aligning your aspirations with the program’s ethos, we’ll guide you through a transformative journey of self-expression. So, gear up to move beyond the mundane and infuse your motivations with a touch of brilliance.

The secret to success lies in your ability to weave a narrative that not only reflects your dreams but inspires those who hold the keys to your academic future. Let’s embark on this journey together—your extraordinary motivation letter awaits creation. Ready to make an impact? Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Key Components of a Strong Letter Of Motivation For German Universities

• Convincing Introduction: Initiate with a compelling opening that grabs attention, showcasing your enthusiasm and setting a positive tone.
• Personalized Statement of Purpose: Clearly articulate your academic and career goals, aligning them with the specific program and emphasizing your passion.
• Unique Selling Points (USPs): Highlight distinctive qualities, skills, or experiences that make you stand out from other applicants.
• Tailored Connection to the Program: Demonstrate a deep understanding of the chosen program, detailing how your skills and aspirations align with its values and offerings.
• Future Vision and Impact: Conclude by outlining your future objectives, emphasizing the positive impact you aim to make with the acquired knowledge and experiences.
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Letter Of Motivation For German Universities:

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Letter of Motivation Sample for German University:

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• Creative Motivation Letter Example: 7+ Samples [Free]

Do’s and Don’ts of Writing Impactful Letters of Motivation for German Universities:

Do’s:

• Tailor Your Content: Craft a letter specifically addressing the unique qualities and values of the chosen German university and program.
• Showcase Your Individuality: Highlight personal experiences, skills, or achievements that make you stand out from other applicants.
• 3Align with Program Values: Demonstrate a clear understanding of how your academic and career goals align with the ethos of the German university’s program.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Generic Statements: Steer clear of generic phrases; instead, provide concrete examples and unique insights into your experiences.
• Overuse Clichés: Refrain from relying on clichés or overused expressions; focus on authentic and genuine language.
• Neglect Proofreading: Never submit without thoroughly proofreading; errors can undermine the professionalism of your motivation letter.

Final Thoughts:

In crafting the perfect motivation letter for German universities or any professional opportunity, remember that it’s more than just words on paper—it’s your narrative, your unique story that can captivate the decision-makers. Throughout this journey, we’ve explored the art of tailoring your letter, showcasing your individuality. And aligning with the values of the institution or position. A well-crafted motivation letter acts as a key, unlocking doors to academic pursuits or career advancements, making you not just an applicant but a compelling candidate.

As you embark on the next step in your academic or professional voyage, keep in mind that a meticulously written letter can be a game-changer. It’s not merely a formality; it’s your chance to persuade and impress. So, don’t just tell; show them who you are, what sets you apart, and how your aspirations align seamlessly with the opportunity at hand. Remember, in the world of motivation letters. One size doesn’t fit all—tailor, personalize, and let your authenticity shine through.

Now, armed with insights and examples, it’s your turn to take action. Grab that virtual pen, revisit your motivation letter, and infuse it with the unique qualities that define you. Your dream job or academic pursuit awaits, and your motivation letter is the beacon that can lead you there. Revise, refine, and let your story resonate—your future self will thank you for it. Go ahead, make those words count. And watch as the doors swing open to your next adventure. Best of luck!

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Letter of Motivation [Complete Guide]

When you apply to study at a good university, it's only reasonable to expect the institution to ask for evidence that you are keen to learn. In Germany, students are expected to prove to universities that they have the energy and drive to succeed, and the most common way to do so is a letter of motivation. 

This blog looks at what the motivation letter has to contain, and how to write one that will give you the best chance of securing admission.

Letter of Motivation for Masters in Germany

Learning how to write a letter of motivation is a key part of applying to study in Germany

In some countries, it might be called a  personal statement . But it amounts to the same thing: a written testament that you are ready and able to try your hardest in a specific course.

What do you write in a motivational letter?

Before we start, it's important to note that there's  no single motivational letter example . The exact format varies from person to person and course to course. In fact, suggesting a typical format can often be counter-productive. That's because writing a motivational letter is a completely personal task.

It contains  a record of what motivates you to study , the skills and passions you possess, and what you want to achieve. How well you write this letter can determine whether or not admission is successful, so it's a big deal.

Is a motivation letter the same as a cover letter?

If you have applied for paid work, you may well have written a cover letter as part of the application process. In that case, you'll be familiar with what writing a motivation letter for university entails.

Don't treat a motivational letter as just another cover letter.  It needs to be tailored to the requirements of your course and university, and generic content isn't going to work.

No repetitive content

Try to keep things concise and clear, and cut out any repetitive content. Remember your audience, stay disciplined, and you're sure to write a letter that gets the right result.

How to Write a Letter of Motivation

Writing a motivational letter shouldn't be taken lightly

Don't assume that you can write a compelling letter in a single afternoon, and forget about it until the acceptance letter arrives.

Instead,  take the letter as seriously as you can.  Research the requirements of your master degree down to the  smallest details . Investigate any recommended reading, and  get to know the university  as much as possible.

The more you learn and know, the more details you can use to make your letter interesting. Remember, admissions staff will be deluged with similar letters during application periods. You need to  stand out from the crowd , and  in-depth knowledge is a good start .

Take your written style seriously as well. You don't need to come across like a robot, but try to  limit the amount of light-hearted or humorous language  in your letter. Mention your personal goals and passions, but keep focused on the course you are applying for.

Planning a letter of motivation can be extremely helpful . Ideally, you should set aside a few hours to lay out a structure and decide what to include. Don't just start writing immediately. Know how the letter will fit together before writing the first words.

Also, don't be afraid to have someone read through your letter. A fresh pair of eyes can  detect errors in style and grammar , and suggest additions that you may have missed.

Follow the Steps:

Inform yourself.

The more you learn and know, the more details you can use to make your letter interesting.

Instead of waiting for the deadline, plan in advance.

Read and coorect

Take some time to re-read your letter and accept help from your friends.

10 Tips for your Letter of Motivation

Now, let's move onto the really important aspect: how to actually write a successful letter of motivation

1. How do you start a motivational letter?

Kick-off your letter with a broad statement of purpose, stating who you are, and why you are qualified and motivated to study the course in question. Do not start your letter of motivation by repeating your CV or aspects of the application form. Admissions staff don't need to know about that, and they will have a copy of your CV as well.

2. Use a neutral writing style as much as possible

When writing, put yourself in the position of the reader. They want to know that applicants are professional, capable, stable, and keen to study. This usually means adopting a neutral style that communicates information and suggests that you are a serious applicant.

3. Get specific about what the university requires

Universities want to know that applicants understand what courses entail. They want students who are motivated to study their courses - not simply people who want to study abroad. So include details about the course and university in your text wherever possible.

4. Include personal details in the right place

While a neutral style is important, there is a place for personal details - if they are relevant to your application. So, if you have a special reason for wanting to study biology at Heidelberg, put that into words. Let the university know what drives you, and where your motivation comes from.

5. Be careful about exaggeration

While applicants need to promote themselves, there's a difference between selling yourself and going over the top. Don't just list your accomplishments and skills. Link anything you mention to aspects of the course you are applying for.

6. Check the text for consistency

Always try to keep a consistent flow throughout the body of the letter, and don't leave any details that seem out of place or irrelevant. If phrases or claims stand out, it gives the impression they have been forced into the text, and admissions staff may suspect that applicants are exaggerating.

7. How do you end a motivational letter?

The ending is almost as important as the introduction. Ideally, it will briefly summarize your reasons for studying and express your hope to be considered. Don't make a joke to close the letter. Just be polite and clear about your desire to study.

8. Be disciplined about proofreading

After you've written the first draft, it's essential to check the text for errors. Any spelling or grammar errors could prove fatal for your application and should be removed immediately.

At this stage, cross-reference the course requirements with your text to ensure you've covered every aspect.

9. Give yourself the time you need to write a great letter

When writing a motivational letter, don't leave it until close to the application deadline. Instead, make it one of the first things you do. That way, you can leave it for a few days and revisit the text. In that time, new ideas could have occurred to you, and they could be what makes your letter exceptional.

10. Keep these basics in mind

Finally, try to follow these basic structural themes when putting your letter together. There are no rules about length, but 2 pages are about right.

Use an introduction to set a positive tone, the main body to set out what makes you a suitable candidate, and what attracts you to the course, and the conclusion to round things off.

Motivation letter for Master's in Germany

A convincing letter of motivation is also essential when applying for a Master's program in Germany.

If you are preparing to apply for a Master's program, you have to look back to your academic career and initial experience from your studies. In your letter of motivation, you should make sure that you clearly elaborate on relevant stations and achievements during your studies and any professional experience.

You can use the following questions as a guideline:

• Why do you want to do a Master's in Germany?
• Why did you choose this field of study?
• What previous qualifications and/or practical/university experience can confirm you are suitable for this Masters?

Your motivation letter for the university in Germany should primarily highlight why you want to go to Germany, how you intend to carry out this plan, and where you see yourself afterward. Maybe you'd like to get a position at a German company? Be transparent about it all and how you want to make the most of your stay during a Masters's in Germany.

Motivation letter for German student visa

You may need to send a cover letter to the German embassy when applying for your student visa.

Just like your motivation letter for the German university, it should contain an introduction of yourself and include your academic record so far.

In your motivation letter for a German visa, you must also provide details about the university in Germany and why you are applying there.

Your application also needs to disclose your financial situation and explain where you will live if your visa application is successful.

🍀   We wish you good luck with your application and a great time in Germany!

What's the difference between a motivation letter for university and a cover letter?

A cover letter is what you send to the company of your choice when you respond to a job ad or when you are applying for a job. You should apply for the position by sending the cover letter and also your CV. In terms of content, your work experience counts because you want to get the job. If you are applying to a university, you have to emphasize your educational background and outline where you have studied so far (if you want to study at a higher education institution).

What documents do I need to include in my study application?

Do you have everything you need?

• University entrance qualification • ID • Letter of motivation • Letters of recommendation • Evidence of internships or aptitude tests (if you have any) • Proof of foreign language skills (if required)

What three parts should a letter of motivation for a university in Germany have?

The main part of your motivation letter to study in Germany should focus on the following topics:

• Your personal motivation/interest in the program • Your reasons for applying to this particular university • Your professional and personal qualifications

How to Draft a Perfect German Cover Letter [Format, Guide]

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Letter of Recommendation

How to write a Letter of Motivation (LOM) for a Master's Degree in Germany? A Guide for International Students (2024)

• Check out our Video Course (64 min.)
• Do Master’s Programs Require LOMs?
• How do I write an LOM for a Master's degree?

Video Course

Get Accepted into Your Dream German University — with the Perfect Letter of Motivation!

Let us make a guess: if you are reading this article, it means that you have already found out that one of the key documents that you would need for applying to a Master's program in Germany is the  Letter of Motivation (LOM) . If you did not know that, now you know it! 

The purpose of this article is to provide clear answers to the most crucial questions about the LOM writing with regard to the German Master's degree context (if you are interested in LOMs for DAAD or Visa, please check the other LOM articles in regard). We know that writing a Letter of Motivation for a German Master's program is one of the most (if not the most) challenging application tasks for students. That is why we decided to make your life easier and put the answers to the central questions in one place.

Check out our Video Course (64 min.) on "How to write a Letter of Motivation"

22 videos plus checklist and template

The basics that you need to know about the Master's LOMs for Germany

What is a Letter of Motivation for Master's in Germany?

Generally speaking, a Letter of Motivation (LOM) is a (mandatory) application document requested by most of the German Universities, where you need to demonstrate your motivation to get into the given study program and explain why you are the best fit/candidate. To put it differently, it is through the LOM that you can "advertise" yourself in the best possible ways (i.e., showing your strengths, your determination, your qualifications and so on) and make a formal request for placement. The same is true for the rationale behind the Letter of Motivation when it comes to the Master's degree program in Germany.

Letter of Motivation vs SOP vs Motivation Letter vs Personal Statement - What are the differences?

Do not be confused or surprised if while surfing through the different study programs listed in our Studyfinder you find out that some of them do not mention "Letter of Motivation", but instead use terms like "Statement of Purpose (SOP)", "Personal Statement" or "Cover Letter". Usually, German Master's programs use these terms interchangeably - so do not worry about that! Depending on the cultural and linguistic background of the people that administer the given study program, they will use one of the following expressions for what is called in German “Motivationsschreiben''.

Table 1: Different wordings of the Letter of Motivation (LOM)

Do Master’s in Germany Require Motivation Letters?

Yes, German Master's degree programs do require Letters of Motivation for application! According to our research, around 90% of Master's programs in Germany require you to submit a Motivation Letter in order to be considered as a candidate. This includes both English-taught and German-taught study programs. And again, do not forget various wordings that you might come across! Let's have a look at some examples.

Letter of Motivation for Master's in Computer Science offered by the University of Freiburg.

Letter of Motivation for Master's in Electrical Engineering offered by Ravensburg-Weingarten University of Applied Sciences

Letter of Motivation for Master's in Automotive Engineering offered by RWTH Aachen University.

Letter of Motivation for Master's in Mechanical Engineering offered by Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences.

How important is a Letter of Motivation when applying for a Master’s in Germany?

You might be wondering now how vital this document might be for your application, and you are on the right track if you are asking this question! It might be surprising, but overall the LOM is the second-most important application document after the average grade (Gross Point Average, or GPA). Interestingly, different Master's study programs usually assign the LOM 10%-40% weight of your total applicant score during the selection process. For instance:

The (German-taught) M.Sc. Geographie: Ressourcenanalyse und -management program at the University of Göttingen assigns the Letter of Motivation 10% of the total applicant score. (source)

The (German-taught) M.A. Journalistik und Kommunikationswissenschaft at the University of Hamburg assigns the Letter of Motivation 25% of the total application score. (source)  

The M.A. Political Science program at the University of Mannheim assigns the Letter of Motivation 30% of the total applicant score. (source)

Geeky Stuff Box

You can find the LOM weights for various programs in the document called "Examination and Study Regulations" (in German, it is called "Zulassungsordnung"), which is mandatorily provided by Master's study programs in Germany.

In other words, you should take the LOM seriously and invest enough time in writing it if you want your application to be of high quality!

Do not forget that the Motivation Letter is where students can stand apart from the crowd. This document is not set in stone, meaning that it gives you a great chance to improve the quality of your application, hence increasing your admission chances. For instance, if you are applying for a Master's program and your desired program requires you to have a Bachelor's degree from a related field, a specific minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) and a Letter of Motivation, the latter is the only document which gives you an opportunity to strengthen your application , as the other two are more or less fixed.

How do I write a Motivation Letter for a Master's degree in Germany?

This is a very popular yet very broad question to answer compactly. Hence, let us break it down into five frequent questions that we get at MyGermanUniversity.

What is the structure for the Letter of Motivation?

Luckily, there is a standardized structure for the LOM available for you, which you should always follow:

Introduction and Salutation.

Main body. This is supposed to be the longest part because here you elaborate on why you are a very good fit for the program and vice versa.

Conclusion and Valediction.

What is the format for the Letter of Motivation?

Keep in mind that your desired Master's program may have some specific guidelines regarding the format. If it is not the case, follow the standard recommendations:

Margins: 2.5 cm, or one inch, on all sides.

Font size: 11- or 12-point of a standard script like Times New Roman or Arial.

Line spacing: 1.5-point.

Text alignment: justified (text is aligned with both margins).

How long should the Letter of Motivation be?

Usually, it should be between 500 and 800 words. In pages, this means between one and two pages of text if you follow the standard format. For example,

The M.Sc. Economics program at the University of Hamburg asks you to write max. 500 words .

The M.Sc. Economics program at the FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg asks you to write no more than 800 words .

However, some Master's programs might require you to have even more than 800 words. Therefore, we suggest you to follow the specific requirements set by the individual program. If the program of your choice does not provide any details, go for the standard "formula".   

How do you start a Motivation Letter for a Master's Program in Germany?

You start a Motivation Letter for a Master's program by jumping straight into the point:

Introduce yourself;

State what this letter is for;

Briefly present your most important details;

Briefly describe why the program is the best fit for you and vice versa.

What to cover?

Basically, the last point of the previous paragraph is the answer to this question. To be more precise, in the Letter of Motivation, you should convincingly demonstrate why you are the best candidate and why the given study program is the best fit for you. To put it simply, you can do this by showing that you are very well aware of the specifics of the program, which perfectly fit your profile with respect to your education, experience etc.

Guidelines provided by Master's programs in Germany

In general, German Master's programs do not provide any specific guidelines for writing a Letter of Motivation (intentionally - it’s supposed to be an open-ended task). In fact, sometimes it seems impossible to find any. But do not worry - we did that for you! Our team managed to find some examples, which you can explore in the table below.

Table 2: Guidelines by German Master's Programs

Sample: Letter of Motivation for Master's in Germany

Actually, before writing their own LOM, students often try to find a Letter of Motivation Example online (especially in the pdf format) so that to have a hands-on guideline. In general, we do not recommend you to use any samples. It is fine to use a sample as long as you want to use it just as a guideline. However, beware that the Internet is full of low-quality samples, meaning that even if you use it as a guideline, you are at high risk of ending up with a bad Letter of Motivation. Find out more about the Letter of Motivation sample here .

Further Reading

WARNING: PLEASE, DO NOT COPY IT! Just use our sample  for the purpose of getting an overall idea of what the LOM should look like. In general, if you plagiarize or copy anything directly from any source, you will not be able to get away with it. The study program will find out about that, and your application will be, at best, rejected.

Summary Box

Letter of Motivation is a document that has to be written by YOU! It is worth investing time into writing the LOM because:

It is required by most of the German Master's programs;

It is crucial . LOM is one of the key documents you need to apply to the study program, with the weight reaching 40% (sometimes even more!); 

It is doable . As long as you invest enough time into preparing it, it is Mission Possible!

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Sample: LOM for Master's in Germany (2024)

Write a Letter of Motivation That Will Get You into German Universities

What is a letter of motivation (lom).

When you apply for a degree programme at a good German university, you will certainly be asked to write a letter of motivation, also called a letter of intent, to express your interest in the programme. Regardless of whether it is a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, this is one of the most important requirements for your application process.

A letter of motivation usually describes your previous education and professional competences, as well as your personal motivation for your desired field of study and the chosen university. A good letter of motivation usually makes the biggest difference between a successful admission or a rejection by the admission committee of the university where you have applied.

German universities do not provide samples for the Letter of Motivation, as they strongly advise and even require that you write it yourself. A few universities, such as the Technical University of Munich, have formulated the requirements quite clearly, but most other German universities only provide applicants with general guidelines for the LOM, such as length in pages or word count.

How to create a good Letter of Motivation?

Create a concept for your Letter of Motivation, then decide on the layout and structure, and finally fine-tune it to fulfil all the requirements.

• Why: In your motivation letter, you should justify why you want to study, how you qualify for your chosen degree programme, and why the university is the best choice for you. Bring these ideas to the point in a way that someone can identify with them and be inspired by you in their thoughts.
• Layout:  This is the way your document is formatted and it should show your professionalism. If the university you are applying to does not specify the requirements for LOM, you should limit the document to maximum two pages.
• Structure: This relates to the definition and flow of the letter. An LOM should usually start with a catchy but brief introduction to capture the reader’s attention and lead smoothly into the main content. Do not hesitate to point out your personal advantages in the closing paragraph.
• Fine tuning: Pay particular attention to the use of selected words. Avoid the use of boastful words or complex phrases, as they may distract the admissions officer. Use easy to follow language, be effective and convincing when you present yourself as a stand-out candidate. Please have another person proofread your final draft to eliminate grammatical and spelling errors. This person can also help you add to your merits from a different angle.

9 tips to improve your Letter of Motivation

• Do not just repeat information already given in your CV – This is very important because admissions officers have to read many LOMs from different applicants, which can be repetitive and tiring. You need to be creative, interesting, or bold in your motivation letter to stand out.
• Write based on your chosen degree programme – When writing your motivation letter, make sure that you refer to the program to which you are applying.
• Make a clear and catchy introduction – The introduction of a letter of motivation is the most important part, as this is where you gain the reader’s attention. This is where it is decided whether the admission officer will read you letter all the way through.
• Do not exaggerate – You do not want to come across as desperate or too boastful, as neither will make you a more attractive applicant. You may be excited to share many of your important assets, however in the excitement you may lose focus and mix your various interests. This creates a bad flow for the overall letter.
• Share genuine information about yourself – Do not hesitate to share your interest and feelings about the activities you have done in relation to the programme you are applying for. This shows how sincere and honest you are towards the programme and the university, but also that you identify yourself strongly with the programme.
• Be yourself – Bring out your own voice and self. Do not try to pretend to be someone you are not. These things are easy to see through, and you don’t want the admissions officer to see you as arrogant. You have experienced many interesting things, and you certainly have unique qualities, so think about them and present them accordingly.
• Answer all questions – Make sure you answer any questions you are asked in the guidelines for the LOM from the university. Do not ignore any, because if they are in the prospectus, they must be important to the administration.
• No last-minute work – This point is very important. Take the time to write many drafts until you have brought your own personality to life on paper. If you write your LOM at the last minute, it will probably not be convincing because you forgot important points. It will not have the consistency you need. At least 2 weeks are recommended to create multiple drafts and reach your final version.
• Proofreading – Proofreading is very important. Do not submit your motivation letter until you or a friend has proofread it. After you have corrected the grammatical mistakes, punctuation, or layout issued, give your document to another person to read through. This person may be able to give you a fresh opinion on how to improve what you have written further, and you will have immediate feedback that you can act on if necessary.

Tailor your LOM to your degree 

When writing your letter of motivation, you need to know who you want to address and what is the programme you are applying for. Once you have this in mind, you can adapt your letter accordingly.

• Writing a motivation letter for a bachelor’s degree is different from writing a LOM for a PhD . You need to frame your LOM based on the requirements of your specific programme and focus more on your extracurricular experience and academic goals.
• Applying for a master’s degree program . In the introduction, you need to look back at your academic career and first experiences from your previous studies. In your letter of motivation, you should clearly mention relevant achievements during your studies and any professional experience you may have.
• If you are writing a letter of motivation for a PhD programme , give a brief overview of your research work, if you have done any, as well as a summary of your master’s thesis and other relevant projects. You should also state why you chose this particular university and supervisor for your research, why you are interested in the topic and what you already know about it. This shows the supervisor that you have taken the time to research the background of the topic and that you are passionate about it.

To sum up, your letter of motivation should make it clear why you want to go to Germany and where you see yourself afterwards. Maybe you want to get a job in a German company? Be transparent and explain how you want to make the most of your undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Germany.

If you are curious to find out more about what universities expect to see in a good LOM and need step-by-step guidance to create your first draft – check our dedicated video course in the Fintiba Academy .

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How to Write Motivational Letter for Study in Germany

With thousands of people applying for Germany. The competition is getting harder and harder. You will need something to make you distinct among others. Those who want to study master’s program have to provide a lot of documents. You are supposed to write a motivational letter to study in Germany. In this article, we will study about the motivational letter and how to write it. [adinserter block=”1″]

Motivational letter

A motivational letter is also known as the statement of purpose. It is a short piece of writing about yourself. It includes your past, your life aims, your personality, and your interests, etc. So it is basically a document you write to explain yourself. The motivational letter serves as a purpose to define you and your goals.

Student motivational letter for German university

A motivational letter is one of the key documents required during your university application. Admission committees in Germany take motivational letter very seriously. So these letters should reflect your commitment and intentions to study in Germany. Your letter should reflect your character, goals, and ambitions. This is the most personalized document. So many times you are selected based on your motivational letter. The German officer could judge you based only on the motivational letter. Whether you are an eligible candidate or not. [adinserter block=”1″]

Things to do before writing a letter

There some things you should study about before writing a motivational letter to study in Germany. These are as follow:

• Search about Germany. Things that make Germany different. And find some Germany achievements.
• You should find about the university of your Master’s program and about the program.
• And Learn about their main projects, activities, philosophy, and interests will help you with motivation letter that what it should contain. 
• Work done by the University in your program.

How to Write Your Motivation Letter

When writing your letter, you must consider relevant and interesting details about yourself. You have to prove the admission committee that you are the right candidate to be selected for the program. Your letter should focus on your intellectual personality. And it should not make you appear non-serious. You must plan the concept and the structure.

Introduction

• An appropriate letter must have your goals and a short preview of the letter listed down properly.
• First, give respect like “Dear sir” to start. And then tell you to want to study at this University.
• Then you should write about Germany first. Write about how you can study better in Germany. That you would be able to achieve benefit from studying there. And also how it will be good for your home country and favourable for Germany.

You can look at the following example:

I have graduated in Computer Sciences from ( previous University Name), (Country name). I would like to pursue more advanced knowledge in this field apply it to IT industry as well as contribute to research and academia. Now I am applying for acceptance into your MS program, Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Information Engineering with the major focus on Intelligent Systems. Bachelor studies and industrial experience made me realised the importance of system development with artificial intelligence. The most appealing thing is even computer systems are being replaced by artificial intelligent systems. Following my passion and interest, I would like to resume higher education with the (German University name). It would be my honour to contribute to your research and gain invaluable experience in your group. DriveeGermany Tweet

• Then you should write about why you want to study at the chosen university. What made you choose this particular University? Only after good research can you write about this.
• And why you want to pursue the chosen program and the qualities you can bring to the program. If you have shifted field. Explain what encouraged you to change the field. If your previous studies were related to the current chosen program it will be favourable for you.
• You should show your professionalism when writing. Write about the benefits you will achieve. And how it will prosper your future.

You can look at the following example: [adinserter block=”1″]

The undergraduate curriculum in Computer Science from (previous University name) introduced me to a wide variety of Computer Science subjects like Artificial Intelligence, Data Structures, Database system, Operating System, Computer Networks, Software for Mobile Device, and Web Programming. These subjects helped me to understand core fundamentals of Computer Science. I learned different programming languages; some of them are C++, HTML, CSS, PHP, MYSQL, JAVA and Android DriveeGermany Tweet

• After this add some personal experience and achievements.
• Finally, conclude your topic. Write facts about why you would like to study this program. Give as many as possible.
• In the end, thank the reader. And offer that you can provide further information if they need.

Graduating from this university will be a major milestone in my career. I believe my passion for technology and ability to solve real-world problems combined with my desire to succeed will make me an excellent Computer Scientist, while the degree itself should equip me in invaluable skills that would take me to the forefront of research or an inspiring career. DriveeGermany Tweet

Things to consider when writing 

There are some things you should keep in mind when writing a motivational letter:

• Your letter should have a structure. Like, it should move from your introduction to your middle body (contains all details); and to a final conclusion.
• And you should have a wise selection of words. You should avoid the use of complex words. In fact, use persuasive and simple tone.
• Do not repeatedly say the same thing. Especially do not repeat what is written already in your Europass CV (i.e.  do not go into details about your academics and the schools/ colleges name)
• Your goals should provide benefit to Germany as well as your home country.
• Give time to writing a motivational letter. Your letters are very important.
• Repeatedly check your motivational letter for any mistake. And do your proofreading.
• Then match your letter with the available examples. If your looks to follow the basic method.
• If you believe your letter is good enough then send it.
• Your motivational letter should not exceed more than two pages.

Motivational letter vs Cover letter

[adinserter block=”1″] You should know that motivational letter is not the same as a cover letter:

• A cover letter is written when you are applying for a job.  You should submit it with your CV as it gives you extra credit.  You write this when you have found a vacancy. And want to apply for it. This is written to grab the reader’s attention toward you. So that you able to gain a certain job.
• In comparison, a motivational letter is written when you want to enrol in University, or a program, internship, etc. So this is basically for an educational purpose. With your CV it explains your motivation and passion for applying. It makes the officer understand you and your goals.

Motivational letter sample for master’s

If you are still confused, you can consult the sample letter:

We hope this article helps you write an effective motivational letter for your study in Germany.

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How to Write the Letter of Motivation

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Letter of motivation samples

Universities often ask applicants to write a letter of motivation (US) or a personal statement (UK). Selectors are looking for a well-prepared and structured text (of between one to two pages) to help them choose applicants in particularly popular subjects, e.g. Medicine. The focus of your writing should be to stress your motivation and passion for the course of study you are applying for.

• Letter of Motivation: Computer Sciences (Swansea) (223 KByte)
• Letter of Motivation: Erasmus (Ireland) (288 KByte)
• Letter of Motivation: Medical School (Uni of Manchester) (212 KByte)
• Letter of Motivation: Assistant Teacher Position (UK) (152 KByte)
• Letter of Motivation: Master's in Communication (University of Southern California) (200 KByte)
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Letter of Motivation for German University Admissions

Home » Blog » Letter of Motivation for German University Admissions

  846 Reads     Updated on: January 18, 2023

THIS BLOG INCLUDES:

1. How to Write a Motivational Letter For University Admission in Germany 2. Letter of Motivation – What it Entails? 3. How Do I Write a Letter of Motivation?

Table of Contents

How to Write a Motivational Letter For University Admission in Germany

If you are browsing the meaning of, samples for, and structure of a motivation letter or letter of motivation, it is safe to assume that you have already made your decision to apply for higher education at a German institute . But you may be wondering what the letter of motivation or the motivation letter (as often used interchangeably) is and what value it holds for the entire admission process to a German institute of higher education. Well, you have landed on the perfect page to find answers to all your questions pertaining to the letter of motivation for admission to German schools.

Often used interchangeably, the letter of motivation or the motivation letter is a crucial part of all your applications to German schools of higher education. It is almost the same as the statement of purpose and/or the personal statement (as required by the USA or UK schools). The letter of motivation is a statement or a letter that helps you to advertise yourself to the Admission Committee. Your application form, test scores, transcripts, recommendation letters , and resume – each of these documents play a significant role in putting forth crucial aspects of your profile as a whole. The letter of motivation also has a similar and more important role to play in the application decision. Depending on the weightage asserted to the letter of motivation by each school, which usually varies between 10 – 40%, a strong, impactful statement can definitely secure your spot for your program of choice.

Letter of Motivation – What it Entails?

The letter of motivation has three distinct parts – the introduction, body, and conclusion. However, it is not a summary of your resume. The letter of motivation is supposed to give the Admissions Committee a glimpse into you as a person – your strengths and weaknesses, your passions, your skills, your choice of the program, and your plans for the future. It analyzes every decision that you have taken and what has propelled you to decide on this program and to pursue the same from this school at this given point in your life.

Often specific programs will define the exact information that they want you to include in the letter of motivation – follow that or you will risk cancellation of your application. If no formatting specifics are mentioned, try to stick to the following general rules:

• Standard or narrow margin – do not customize the margins
• Lien spacing of 1 – 1.5
• Standard font of 11 or 12 in Arial or Times New Roman
• Standard font color of black
• You may italicize quotations or names of books, if important
• Justified alignment (same on both sides)
• Always convert your document into a PDF format prior to uploading the same
• You may add your name, program name, and application number in the header of the document
• Usually, letters of motivation are asked to be 500 – 800 words or 2000 – 4000 characters. If no such specification is mentioned, simply ensure that your letter is about a page long (depending on the font size, line spacing, and margins used) or at least 750 – 900 words.

How Do I Write a Letter of Motivation?

To begin with, decide on what you wish to be the focal point of your document. Is it any particular skill set that you want to highlight? This can be anything from your cognitive and non-cognitive background. You can opt to highlight your intellectual curiosity, your ability to take initiative, think out-of-the-box, take ownership, your imaginative prowess, your team-working skills, anything. But however you choose to begin, make sure that it relates to your conclusion to make the letter one complete, holistic document of interest.

Try to open with a catchy, different statement – quotations from famous persons are oft-used; try something different, be genuine, be you. The letter should be your story, in your voice. Tell the Admissions Committee your story. Remember, the Admissions Committee receives thousands of applications for each program and they should be hooked on your letter to read it end-to-end.

Divide the body into related, comprehensible paragraphs. Do not simply explain the projects that you have worked on – always avoid technical jargon because the Admissions Committee member reading your document may not be from a technical background. Your technical proficiency has been justly highlighted in your resume, focus on you, and your skills in the letter of motivation. Remember, each paragraph should logically flow into the next one.

Add a paragraph on why you are applying to the given program at the particular school. This is an important piece of information. The school wants to see what motivated you to apply to their school only. Why being admitted to their program is important for you. Justify that with proper examples – do your research. Do not copy-paste from the website to say because the school is ranked such and such. Say what motivates you about their program –What do you like about their curriculum? How is it going to help you attain your learning goals? What other resources do the school offer in terms of research, internship, hands-on learning, and networking that you like? Why are these important to you? How are you going to use these resources to meet your goals? What about the faculty excites you? Is any of their research interests or specialization related to your field of interest? What about the beyond-classroom opportunities?

Next, mention what you bring to the table – both within and beyond the classroom.

Last but not the least, include a definite plan for your career goals – what you will do immediately after completion of the program. This should be a realistic, attainable goal. And where you wish to see yourself 5 – 10 years down the line post-completion of the program, or the long-term goal.

• Avoid exaggeration
• Keep the language as formal and neutral as possible
• Make your letter stand out
• Use personal details sparingly and only to the extent that it is related to the letter
• Each school and program will have specific requirements; do your research and tailor your letter to meet the needs accordingly.
• Proofread – always!

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Is the letter of motivation and statement of purpose the same?

Yes, often used interchangeably, the terms denote the similar document that you need to submit. Usually, German schools ask for a letter of motivation while the USA schools ask for a statement of purpose.

Is the letter of motivation the same as a cover letter?

 No. A cover letter is more formal and usually used for job applications or for networking. It is a brief 1-page document, highlighting your skills and motivation for the role or the program. A letter of motivation, instead, is a more detailed story about you as a person and your motivation to study the given program, complete with related examples and justifications to make your cause.

Is the letter of motivation a mandatory part of the application?

Mostly, yes. For every application to programs of higher education in Germany, you will be needed to submit a letter of motivation.

How long will it take me to write the letter of motivation?

This is a crucial part of your application, sometimes carrying almost 40% weightage of the admission decision. Hence, instead of rushing with the document – take your time to plan, research, and write your story for presentation to the Admissions Committee.

What are the three crucial parts that must be included in the letter of motivation?

Your interest to study this program and from this school; your background – your strengths and weaknesses – and how you are fit for this program – your academic/professional goals.

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Letter of Motivation for Germany – A Complete Writing Guide for 2024

If you happen to read this blog, you are either planning to do higher education in Germany or struggling to write your letter of motivation for Germany. LOM or Letter of Motivation for Germany is an integral document in the application to German universities and colleges. But for most students from abroad, the term ‘letter of motivation’ is confusing. In this blog, we give you:

• A straightforward definition of a motivation letter for German university
• A clear overview of letter of motivation for masters in Germany expectations
• Sample letter of motivation for masters in Germany for quick reference

Table of Contents

What Is a Motivation Letter for Masters in Germany?

How to Write Letter of Motivation for Masters in Germany – Basic Guidelines

Sample Letter of Motivation for Germany Visa

How to Format a Letter of Motivation for Germany?

LOM Requirements of Top Universities in Germany

A letter of motivation for masters in Germany is an academic document you will be asked to submit along with other documents while applying for postgraduate-level higher education in German colleges and universities. Through this document, you will try to convince the admission officers of a German institute why you are a good fit for their program.

Who Requires a Letter of Motivation for Germany?

You will require a letter of motivation for Germany in a variety of contexts.

• When you apply for a Postgraduate program in Germany (E.g.: motivation letter for masters in computer science in Germany)
• When you apply for an undergraduate program in Germany
• When you apply for a student visa in Germany (motivation letter for visa application Germany)
• When you apply for a scholarship in Germany
• When you apply for PhD in Germany
• When you apply for internship from a German organization

Importance of Letter of Motivation for Germany

• LOM for Germany benefits the applicants and the institutes alike.
• Institutes can distinguish between genuine applicants and those who apply for higher studies for timepass.
• Motivation letter for German university helps the applicants show why they are the best fit for a certain higher study program.
• LOM serves as proof of the applicants’ English language proficiency as it is mandatory for admission to German institutes.

Are Letter of Motivation, Motivation Letter, SOP and Personal Statement the Same?

No, they are not the same. Let us look at them one by one. The letter of motivation and motivation letter are the same. It is just that the latter has a different word order than the former.

Now when it comes to SOP and LOM, the SOP is longer, more detailed, and more formal in nature. On the other hand, an LOM is shorter. It is usually written in the range 500 to 800 words. Given the nature, similarities and differences among these documents, a personal statement would have more in common with a letter of motivation. However, all these terms are used interchangeably as equivalent to the German word ‘Motivationsschreiben.

How Important is the LOM for Germany in the Admission Process?

Letter of motivation is essential to get into more than 90 percent of the colleges and universities in Germany. According to a recent report, a good LOM like the letter of motivation samples for German university would contribute to between a 25% to 40% score of your college/university application in Germany.

What Is the Purpose of a Motivation Letter When Applying to Universities or Jobs in Germany?

A letter of motivation is asked by both higher study institutions and employers in Germany. In both scenarios, the selection panel gets to identify the best candidates through motivation letters for their admission or jobs from hundreds of applicants. When you apply for a job in Germany from a foreign country, you may also be required to write a motivation letter for job seeker visa Germany.

In How Many Words Should an LOM for Germany Be Written?

The generally accepted length for an LOM for Germany is approximately 700 to 800 words. We have seen that some institutes in Germany give specific guidelines to their applicants regarding the LOM. If you receive any such instruction from your institute, keep that in mind while composing your letter.

What to Include in an LOM for Germany?

Your letter of motivation for Germany should cover answers to the following questions.

Answer this question by listing your justifications for choosing Germany as your higher study destination. While answering this, compare a few countries with Germany and state why you were more attracted to Germany than those countries.

What motivated you to choose this field of study?

Describing your motivation for choosing a specific field or domain is an important step in your letter of motivation for Germany. Establish how passionate you are about the field you are taking up and what steps you have taken so far to enhance your knowledge in the said domain. Show your future roadmap to convince the selection officers.

Why do you think you are fit for this program?

Show that you are fit for the program by highlighting some of your relevant skills and strengths. Describe some of your achievements, for instance, any published works in the subject or any seminars or projects you have been part of.

From what point you highlight to what font style you use, there are a lot of things to be careful with while composing an LOM for German universities. Follow the below given basic guidelines.

Keep it short and concise:

Do not exceed or come short of the recommended word count (approximately 800 words) in your LOM for German Universities. Keep your points short, concise and straight.

Review university prompts:

Confirm whether you have to answer any specific university prompts while drafting the LOM. If so, incorporate them into your LOM. By keeping those prompts at the centre of your write-up, you can grab their attention.

Beware of line spacing:

How you space the lines in your letter of motivation is another area to give attention to. Be consistent with your spacing choices. 1.5 or double spacing are recommended options.

Use simple language:

Remember that the ultimate purpose of your LOM is to communicate how motivated you are about your choices to the selection committee. Use simple and unambiguous words so that your message gets properly communicated.

• LOM For Scholarship
• LOM For Volunteer
• LOM For Leadership
• LOM For MBA
• LOM For Germany
• LOM For PhD
• LOM For Job
• LOM For Learnership
• LOM For Stipendium Hungaricum

Here is a letter of motivation for Germany visa to help you get familiar with the requirements and expectations. Read it several times and brainstorm your points.

What Should Be the Structure of An LOM for Germany?

The basic structure of an LOM for Germany – be it a motivation letter for student visa Germany or motivation letter for masters in electrical engineering in Germany – will have the following components.

Introduction:

An introduction that clearly establishes the purpose of the write-up and why you want to study/work in Germany.

Background:

This paragraph will cover your academic and professional background and how they are connected to the advanced education program in Germany you plan to enrol in.

Motivation:

Here, you will emphasize your passion for the chosen subject and how taking up this program will contribute to your career growth.

Why Germany:

In this paragraph, you will speak about the advantages of studying your chosen subject in Germany. You can also say how closely you relate to German culture, language etc.

Here you speak about your career goals – what you want to become and how you will materialize your goals through this course and the roadmap of your growth after the course.

Conclusion:

Conclude your motivation letter reiterating all points you discussed in the above paragraphs and stressing that you will respect the values and culture of the institute and the country and contribute to the institute in your good capacity.

What Do German Institutes Expect in Your Letter of Motivation?

Here are a few things you are expected to achieve in your letter of motivation for Germany. Although some universities may be lenient with some of these, it is advisable to ensure maximum adherence to these qualities.

• Genuineness : The information you supply in the letter of motivation for Germany must be genuine.
• Accuracy : Your LOM must keep maximum accuracy with grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Supporting information : All points you write need to be supported with sufficient proof or evidence.
• Engagement : Your LOM must be able to keep the reader engaged from start to end.
• Originality: The letter must be written 100% unique and should not contain copied content from any other sources.
• Potential to contribute: Your LOM must show how you can contribute to their institute other than studies, say, leadership roles, extracurricular involvements, volunteering etc.
• Clear goals : The document should clearly specify your goals and objectives.
• Communication skills : From your LOM, the admission panel should make out that you have sound communication skills.

Using the right format for your letter of motivation will benefit you in multiple ways. One, it will help ensure that all your points are scanned by the admission officer. Two, it will improve the overall look and appeal of your document. So, the better the format you use, the more competitive edge it gets.

What are the differences between a cover letter and a motivational letter?

• A cover letter is asked when you apply for a job or internship in Germany. A letter of motivation is required when you apply for a higher education program.
• A cover letter goes with a resume and elaborates on the skills, qualities or strengths the candidate has highlighted in the resume to show that he is fit for the role being applied for.
• A letter of motivation focuses on establishing a candidate’s suitability for a higher study program and why he or she deserves admission.
• A cover letter is brief and will not exceed more than one page. A letter of motivation is more detailed and can go up to two to three pages or about 800 words.
• Both cover letter and letter of motivation need to be tailored to the job or higher study program.

Common Doubts About Motivation Letter for Germany

How should i write the introduction of a letter of motivation.

Answer : In the introduction for your letter of motivation, specify why you are writing the letter in the first place. Proceed by giving a background of how you got interested in the chosen subject and why you think doing the given program will help you broaden your horizons.

How should I conclude my Letter of Motivation?

Answer : The selection committee will take away what the conclusion leaves. So, conclude your motivation letter by reiterating your interest and summarizing your key points. Express your gratitude to the selection committee for reviewing your document.

How can I make my letter of motivation stand out?

Answer : To make your letter of motivation stand out, tailor it to the institute, program and country of your choice. Also, keep your letter engaging and filled with enthusiasm throughout.

7 Things to Keep in Mind While Writing Motivation Letter for Germany

• Start Early : Once you have clarity about the program, university and admission deadline, do not wait any more to start working on your letter of motivation.
• Address the recipient : Start the letter by addressing the recipient. You can either use the last name of the person or the title of the post he or she holds.
• Research : Do your own research about the course, institute and the scope of the program in Germany. These insights can help you tailor your LOM.
• Read samples: Read one or two LOM samples for Germany to get a rough idea about how it should be and what the expectations are.
• Prepare an outline : Do not start writing like you would write any other letter. Prepare an outline first and develop each point one by one.
• Proofread : After finishing the writing part of the LOM, proofread it several times. The letter must contain no mistakes whatsoever.
• Get feedback : Before submitting the letter, request a colleague or an expert to read your LOM and give you constructive feedback.

5 Mistakes to Avoid in Letter of Motivation for Masters in Germany

The following mistakes in your letter of motivation for Germany will cause you to lose the competitive edge or even get rejected.  So, beware of them.

• Being too generic : Institutes expect a tailored letter of motivation from you.
• Irrelevant points : Including irrelevant points will make it lengthy and less focused.
• Overly formal : When the LOM is overly formal, it can be less engaging to the reader.
• Lack of enthusiasm : You must sound pleasant and enthusiastic to impress the reader.
• Noncompliance : Noncompliance with guidelines given by the institutes is a big mistake.

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Here is a list of top universities in Germany and their LOM requirements.

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)

• Write your motivation letter in about 700 words.
• Establish your motivation for choosing the subject.
• Show why you deserve admission and how you can contribute.

Humboldt University of Berlin

• Keep the letter short and concise
• Go through the university guidelines before starting to write
• Answer all prompts – why this course, why Germany and why this university

Technical University of Munich (TU Munich)

• Write your LOM in 1-2 pages.
• Talk about your research and project priorities
• Submit the LOM in PDF format

Heidelberg University

• Highlight how the opportunity of studying at Heidelberg University will benefit you.
• Show what you can bring to the program and the institute
• Discuss what certain unique aspects of the program mean to you.

Freie Universität Berlin

• Write your letter of motivation in 1-2 pages.
• Discuss what gives you the competitive edge
• Format your LOM as per the institute guidelines.

Documents Required for The Student Visa in Germany

• A valid passport
• Duly filled student visa application form
• Language proficiency certificate (IELTS or German)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Letter of motivation for Germany
• Conduct certificate
• Proof of fund

How Much Does a German Student Visa Cost?

You will need to pay €75 for the German Student visa application. Please note that all other costs – language proficiency tests, medical tests, etc. are in addition to this. 

Top 15 Universities to Study in Germany

• Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich)
• Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen
• University of Hamburg
• Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)
• Universität Freiburg
• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin)
• Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn
• Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
• Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
• Universität Mannheim
• Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

Note that you will need to tailor your motivation letter to each of these universities. You may refer to our letter of motivation for masters in Germany sample to have a deep outlook of the specifics.

An impressive letter of motivation for Germany will make your admission process to the best German university both simple and easy. Use the steps, strategies and tips shared in this blog to write your unique and winning LOM.

Do you have any questions regarding LOM for Germany? Do you need any help with writing it or finding the best German college or university? We are at your disposal at any time. Contact us right away or drop your questions and doubts in the comment below.

Should I submit my motivation letter in Word or PDF format?

Unless you have been specifically told, we recommend that you send the LOM to your respective college/university in PDF format.

Is it allowed to hire someone to write my LOM?

It is totally okay to hire an expert or a professional to write your LOM for Germany if you are not confident in writing it on your own. By hiring someone, you can get your LOM in perfect quality and in a very limited time.

Can I use the same LOM for applying to multiple universities in Germany?

No. LOM for each German university needs to be customized. When you use the same LOM for multiple universities, it would look generic and fail to impress the selection officers.

From whom should I request feedback on my motivation letter for Germany?

You can ask a colleague or a professor or an expert. The person whom you ask for the feedback must know about the LOM expectations.

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Important note

uni-assist e.V. does not cooperate with commercial agencies in or outside of Germany to mediate the placement of applicants at German universities. Some institutions claim to be connected to uni-assist. Official information on applying to uni-assist universities is available only on the websites of the universities and on  https://www.uni-assist.de/en/ .

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Letter of motivation

A letter explaining why you are applying for a specific course of study.

A letter explaining why you are applying to a specific university and for a specific course of study, and why you are especially qualified.

Letters of motivation are usually one or two pages long.

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Career Articles

How to write a motivation letter in Germany

Struggling to write your motivation letter? Novorésumé, the online resume builder and creator of stand-out motivation letter templates , share their top tips for creating a killer letter. Here’s how to show that you’re the right candidate for the position. 

Crafting a motivation letter to get yourself noticed can sometimes feel like an uphill struggle, even if you’re applying for a position you’re really excited about. You already know how passionate you are, and what qualities you have to offer, but there’s one big problem: you just can’t seem to find the right words to structure your letter. 

But don’t worry. We’ve all been there - and the good news is that there’s an easy way to get through this. In this article we’ll look at how you should structure your motivation letter in Germany, and exactly what you should include in it. So, let’s get started. 

Why does a motivation letter matter? What is it?

A motivation letter is one of the most important things you’ll write in an application process. It consists of just one page and it’s usually attached to your resume . Most importantly, it’s going to show the reader why you’re the perfect candidate for the position being offered. 

There are four specific situations in which you’ll need to write a motivation letter - for instance if you are applying for:

• An educational programme at a university or college
• Work at a non-profit organisation
• An internship at a company
• A volunteer position at an organisation

Motivation letter vs. Cover letter

Now, you shouldn’t confuse a motivation letter with a cover letter, which clearly highlights any relevant information on your resume that matches a job’s specific requirements. A cover letter is more of an introduction to your resume for the hiring manager, whereas a motivation letter is seen as an influential, closing sales pitch for a non-profit or university position. 

Whereas a cover letter mostly focuses on your skills and experience, the motivation letter - as the name suggests - describes your motives for applying.

So, does a motivation letter actually matter? After all, you’ve painstakingly listed everything there is to know about you on your resume. Surely that’s enough, right? Wrong! 

Organisations want to know that you genuinely want to work with them and that you’re excited and passionate about what the company does. The intent should be your driving motivation. A good motivation letter has the potential to be a game-changer. It can give your resume a further boost, as well as potentially helping you make up for any relevant skills you’re lacking - with sheer enthusiasm! 

Structuring your motivation letter

A good motivation letter fits on just one page and consists of three important sections: 

Introduction

Here’s an overview of what information you should include in each one. 

Think of the introduction as a short and engaging pitch about yourself. You need to also state why you’re applying. Include:

• Your personal information: What you are and what you do
• The position you are applying for
• A short introduction: Why you are applying, in general terms

Remember: don’t forget to write your contact information at the top. 

Body of a motivation letter

This section is the real meat of your motivation letter. This is where you have to sell yourself. Use stories to highlight your passion, achievements and skills. 

Stick to the facts. People who read motivation letters can tell a made-up story from a real one a mile off. If you can, use metrics to back up your qualifications. 

Finally, it’s time to wrap up your motivation letter, ready to send it in. For this section, you should:

• Summarise all your main points, briefly
• Refer to your overarching goal
• End by thanking the reader and conclude with an appropriate closing (e.g. “Yours sincerely”)

Now that you know how to structure a motivational letter, let’s move on to the contents! 

Writing a motivation letter  

If your application is going to be successful, you need your motivation letter to stand out from all the others. But how to achieve this? As a general rule, you should first avoid generalisations and, second, add greater depth to your motivation letter by tailoring it to the specific organisation and programme / position you are applying for:

• Make sure you know what and where you’re applying to. Find out who’s in charge of your fate and address your letter directly to them, (e.g. “Dear Mrs. Jones” rather than “Dear Hiring Manager”).
• Research the programme / position requirements and the institution’s website. What are the top three requirements for the position? How do you meet those requirements?
• Demonstrate that you really want to be there. But don’t plead - show intelligent interest as you sell yourself. Show your passion. Demonstrate your in-depth knowledge but steer clear of showing off - they’ll see right through you. 
• Never lie! Don’t fabricate the truth - ever. You’ll be found out. If you write anything remotely untrue, your reader will find it out, sooner or later. And if that happens, your application will be rejected and assigned to the bin. 

Now you’ve learned the basics of motivation letter writing, you’ll be able to use that knowledge for your next application. Good luck! 

Do you want to stand out from the crowd? No more run-of-the-mill motivation letters but one that’s going to clearly express why you’re the best fit. With Novorésumé - the market leader in Europe for generating motivation letters - you’re in safe hands. Head over to Novorésumé and select a template for your motivation letter , fill in the details, and you’re good to go! 

Andrei Kurtuy

Andrei Kurtuy is one of the co-founders and CCO of Novorésumé and an expert in the job searching process.

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