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If you are planning to move to Germany for your master’s, Letter of Motivation (LOM) is one of the key document you would need for your application. Some students find it challenging to write a Letter of Motivation for Germany. This article will help you with tips and sample letters to make your job easier.
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What is LOM for Germany?
Letter of motivation is a mandatory document required when applying for a Master’s program in Germany. This includes both English-taught and German-taught study programs. This is a document to show your strength, qualifications and achievements.
It should include details about your academic career and initial experience from your studies. You should clearly elaborate all the achievements during your studies and any professional experience.
You should be very transparent with your letter of motivation. The letter should highlight why you want to go to Germany, how you intend to carry out this plan, and where you see yourself afterward.
What is the Format of LOM for Germany?
LOM is key document required for applying to German universities for master’s program. It is the second most important document after the average grade (Gross Point Average, or GPA). Universities give around 10% to 40% weightage to LOM. Hence, you should be extremely careful when framing the letter.
Your Letter of Motivation should include the following:
- Professional and personal qualifications
- Reasons for applying to this particular university
- Your personal interest in the program
Structure of LOM
Your LOM for Germany should include the following:
- 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
Format of LOM
Check the university guidelines to make sure that your LOM is exactly the way they want it. If it is not mentioned, then 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).
Length of LOM
The length of the Letter of Motivation depends upon the requirement of the university you are applying to. It is usually between to 500 to 800 words. Some Master’s programs might even require you to have more than 800 words.
Writing Tips for LOM for Germany
There are no hard and fast rules to be followed while writing LOM for Germany, but it is good to keep certain things in mind before going about with it.
- Research the university you are planning to apply to and the requirements of your master degree. Try to gather as much information as you can. These details will help you make your letter more interesting.
- The letter should be formal and professional. Avoid humor and do not exaggerate your skills and accomplishments.
- As mentioned earlier, the LOM carries a lot of weightage, so take your time to plan and decide the structure and content of your letter.
- Start the motivation letter by introducing yourself. Include your academic and professional achievements.
- Through this letter, you should convincingly demonstrate why you are the best candidate and why the given study program is the best fit for you.
- Demonstrate that you have researched the program and the university and why you believe the program and university are a good fit for you.
- Keep things concise and clear. Avoid repetition.
- End your letter by summarizing the reasons for choosing that particular university and program.
- If you could get someone to check your letter and point out the errors, that would be very beneficial.
LOM for Germany Samples
The content of Letter of Motivation varies from person to person. Before writing your LOM, it is ideal to go through some sample letters to get a clear picture about the structure and purpose of the letter. You should just use it as a guideline and not copy it as it is.
Sample Letter 1
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my strong interest in pursuing a Master’s degree in [Program Name] at [University Name] in Germany. As an ambitious and highly motivated individual, I am excited about the opportunity to study in Germany and gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in my future career.
I completed my undergraduate degree in [Field of Study] at [University Name] in [Country]. During my undergraduate studies, I gained a strong foundation in [Field of Study] and developed a keen interest in [Specific area of interest]. My academic achievements during this time included [Academic Achievements].
After completing my undergraduate degree, I gained practical experience in the field by working as a [Job Title] at [Company Name] in [Country]. My work involved [Description of work responsibilities] and allowed me to develop skills in [Skills developed]. This experience has reinforced my passion for [Field of Study] and has motivated me to pursue a Master’s degree in the field.
I am specifically interested in studying at [University Name] because of its excellent reputation for providing high-quality education and research opportunities in [Field of Study]. I have been impressed by the curriculum, which covers a range of advanced topics in the field, including [Specific courses]. I am also excited about the opportunity to engage in research projects and work with esteemed faculty members who are leaders in the field.
Moreover, I am enthusiastic about studying in Germany because of its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and renowned higher education system. I believe that studying in Germany will provide me with a unique perspective on [Field of Study] and will allow me to develop valuable skills and competencies that are highly sought after in the global job market.
In addition to my academic and professional achievements, I have also been involved in various extracurricular activities that have helped me develop my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. For instance, I have been an active member of [Club or Association Name] where I have organized [Activities organized] and contributed to the development of the club.
Finally, I would like to express my gratitude for considering my application. I am committed to working hard and contributing positively to the academic and social community at [University Name]. I believe that my academic background, professional experience, extracurricular activities, and motivation for pursuing a Master’s degree in [Field of Study] make me a strong candidate for the program.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]Sample Letter 2
Ever since I was a little girl, I have dreamt of becoming an Electrical Engineer. From a very early age, I used to disintegrate electrical gadgets and try to figure out how they work. Being an engineer himself, my father taught me the beauty of electronics and physics. He’s my motivation behind working hard and doing whatever it takes to achieve success. I intend to pursue a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering degree at [Applied University’s Name] in order to build my research skills and gain extensive knowledge with the help of your dynamic curriculum. Your world-class faculty can teach me how new innovations take place and contribute to my goal of becoming an able electrical engineer.
My specific areas of interest are in the field of electronics, thermal power generation, and electromagnetism. I’m very much eager to learn more about these technologies and skills. Your training and research programs will help me serve the technical industries and learn the practical aspects of being an engineer. I’ve completed a project in thermal power generation during my undergraduate studies under [Professor’s Name] and received the best project award which has made me more interested in the field.
I’ve always been academically excellent. I’ve scored 97% in 12th standard and have been a merit student while pursuing my undergraduate degree at [present institution’s name] too. My undergraduate studies helped me explore various fields of electrical engineering and instilled an irresistible inclination towards research. I’ve always been a curious kid and my teachers have helped me in every way possible. They have cleared innumerable doubts that I used to have and they gave me opportunities to grow and develop my academic skills. This has allowed me to understand how the latest technologies have developed. The well-structured curriculum at [present institution’s name] is the main reason for my strong foundation in the fundamentals and basics of electrical engineering. I’ve participated in a plethora of competitions and bagged a number of awards. I’ve qualified for national and international Olympiads and represented my country on a global level in mathematics and physics olympiads and quiz. I was also the class representative and thus was an active part of the programs and college festivals.
Recently, I’ve successfully completed a paid internship with [Name of the Company] where I worked with the research and technical team for three months. The work included power generation and distribution, maintenance of lift systems, and electrical control systems. This internship also taught me any professional skills that will help me further in life such as team spirit, leadership abilities, and development of organizational skills. I’ve also been a part of my college’s robotics club which has assisted me in gaining skills in technology, engineering, and mathematics. I’ve also developed my social skills and cooperation skills through this club.
I am enthusiastic about Electrical Engineering and determined to make a significant impact in the industry. In the short term, I aim to acquire practical expertise in diverse electrical systems and technologies. However, my ultimate aspiration is to work for a leading company in the field of electrical engineering. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, I strive to contribute my skills and knowledge to drive positive change and advance cutting-edge technologies that benefit society.
The master’s program at [university’s name you’re applying to]complements my career aspirations. I’m very excited about the research labs at your university and I assure you that I can serve your community and research team. My capabilities and aspirations are suitable for your university’s master’s program requirements. I’ll be glad to be a student at your university. I’ll be honored to pursue my degree in your esteemed university.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SOP and LOM?
LOM (Letter of Motivation) is a personal letter where you explain your reasons for wanting to study in Germany. You also include your academic and career achievements and aspirations in this letter. You should also mention how the specific program at the German university aligns with these objectives. It is more personal.
SOP (Statement of Purpose) is a letter to outline your academic background, research interests, and professional aspirations. It is more academic.
What are the advantages of LOM?
LOM helps the university understand your abilities and aspirations and also gives them an understanding as to why you have chosen that university.
Is motivation letter important in German student visa interview?
Motivation letter is a compulsory document in the student visa application process for Germany