Can I write about my school or childhood experiences in my Master's letter of motivation for Germany?
No. A Master's letter of motivation for Germany should not discuss childhood or school experiences, because they are too far back in time. Begin with a recent anecdote and start your academic story from your undergraduate degree. Follow each university's guidelines.
Leave out your childhood and school experiences, because they are too far back in time for a Master's level letter of motivation. Focus on your recent past and undergraduate onwards. The format varies for each university, so follow the guidelines each one gives.
What to Include Instead
| Section | What to cover |
|---|---|
| Opening | An anecdote from the recent past showing your motivation, with a convincing justification if you are changing fields |
| Academic background | Start from undergraduation: favourite subjects, projects and lessons learnt, internships, courses, paper presentations or research |
| Work experience | Organisation, city, designation, roles and responsibilities, lessons learned and any awards or recognition |
| Why this Master's and why now | Why you want the subject and why it is the right time |
Other Sections to Cover
- Career goals, both immediate and long-term, since this is the most important part.
- Reasons for choosing the university, such as electives, research, researchers, clubs and internship opportunities.
- Reasons for choosing Germany, such as the education system, industry tie-ups and a welcoming attitude to international students.
- An optional section on sports, arts, culture or community work, and a short, crisp conclusion.
My Advice
Read the letter requirements on each university page and shape your draft around them. Spend your words on recent projects, work and goals, because those show the admissions committee that you are ready for Master's-level study.
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