Are letters of recommendation required for university applications in Germany for a Master's?

25 Aug 2026 · Answered by Honnappa Chandrannavar · 2 min read

Quick Answer verified

Letters of recommendation are generally not required for standard master's applications at public German universities, since admissions run on GPA, credit match, and language scores. However, competitive programs at top universities, private business schools, and DAAD scholarship applications do strictly require one or two LORs from professors or employers.

Honnappa Chandrannavar Verified

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You do not need to prepare letters of recommendation for most standard German master's applications, since public universities admit largely on objective criteria. Whether you actually need one comes down to the specific program type you are targeting, not a blanket national rule.

When you do and do not need an LOR

Application Type	LOR Requirement
Standard public university master's	Generally not required
Competitive programs at top universities	1 to 2 LORs often required
Private universities and business schools	1 to 2 LORs almost always required
DAAD scholarship applications	LORs strictly mandatory

If your program does require one

You typically need one or two letters, ideally from professors or thesis supervisors, or from employers if you are applying to an MBA
Letters must be on official letterhead, signed and stamped, and focus on objective facts like your technical competency and class ranking rather than generic praise
Check your specific program's checklist on the Uni-Assist or university portal; if LORs are not listed, do not send unrequested documents

My Advice

Visit the exact course page for every university you are shortlisting and confirm the document checklist before you approach any professor, since requirements vary program by program in Germany. If you do need letters, give your recommender four to six weeks and hand them your CV and SOP so they can write something specific rather than generic.

More expert answers

Abhishek Mehta Verified

Leap Scholar's Counsellor

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It depends on the university and program in Germany - many require one or two letters of recommendation (LORs), but some may not ask for them at all.

If LORs are needed, they should be from someone familiar with your academic or professional work, such as a professor or internship supervisor. Strong LORs highlight your skills, achievements, and potential for success.

LORs are usually submitted directly by the recommender or uploaded with your application. Requirements vary, so check each university’s guidelines.

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