By Correspondent: When applying for a graduate programme leading to Master’s
degree in Germany, applicants are requested to submit a letter of
motivation (sometimes also called “statement of purpose”).
These letters
of motivation play an important role in the selection process.
Regrettably, however, they often fail to convince any member of a
selection committee.
How do you write a successful letter of motivation?
1.
Take your time and start early. The letter of motivation is a crucial
document in your application. Never try to write it down in one
evening.
2. Do not start your letter of motivation by repeating your CV.
3. The letter of motivation should answer the following questions:
- What is your professional goal? In which sector would you like to work after obtaining your Master’s degree?
-
In which way do you intend to contribute to the social, political or
technical development of your home country once you are in a respective
position? (You may refer to knowledge from books and newspapers as well
as to your professional or personal experience. Some facts and figures
are highly welcome.)
- Why do you apply for the chosen Master’s
programme? Which of the courses offered in this programme are
particularly beneficial in pursuing your professional goals? (Make sure
you are well informed!)
- Why do you think you are the right person for this programme?
- What knowledge and skills gathered in your previous education will be useful?
- Have you already gathered any relevant professional experience?
-
Have you gathered any relevant experience as a member of any
organization? (Students association, NGO, political party, volunteer
service … If so, submit proof of your membership/your social
involvement.)
- How do you estimate your own personality? Do you
think you are a good leader? Are you somebody who can make a difference?
What makes you think so? (Emphasize your strong points, but be
realistic.)
- Why do you want to study in Germany?
- What do you know about the German university system and the specifics of studying in Germany? (Visit www.study-in.de
to learn more.) Do you expect it to be different form studying at your
home university? If so, in which way? (Gather more information and talk
to people who studied at a German university.)
- Is there anything in
Germany (society, political system, economy…) which you think could
serve as a model for your own country? Try to get some reading material
from German organizations, visit the website www.facts-about-Germany.de
(also make use of the links) or the website of the German Embassy in
your home country and try to make contact to Germans or people who have
lived in Germany.
- (For technical subjects) Is there any technology
developed in Germany which you would like to apply in your home
country? Which one exactly? Why?
- Are there any German organizations, institutions or companies you would like to visit or learn more about? Why?
4.
Make sure your letter of motivation is well composed. First reflect on
all the above questions, take notes, read more, discuss with friends.
Then write an outline. Then write the text. (Not all of the above
questions have to be addressed!) Do not include the outline or the
questions in your text.
5. Apply an appropriate style of writing:
- Avoid all kind of platitudes, flowery phrases and flattery.
- Deal with your topics in a reflective and factual way. Do not campaign for your beliefs.
6.
Proofread the text and delete all dispensable and redundant parts. At
the end, your letter of motivation should comprise not more than two or
three pages. Pay attention to grammar and spelling!
Keep in mind that your letter of motivation may be discussed with you during pre-selection interviews.
