Information Guide › Application
Motivation letter, recommendations, portfolio and entrance tests
What counts beyond your grade — and how these documents are actually read.
Reviewed by: Hazem Ibrahim (M. Sc.) · 2026-08-03 Reviewed
A motivation letter should set out your background, your skills and — above all — the concrete link between this specific programme and your goals, in no more than two pages.
- Write a separate version for each programme
- Ask for recommendations early and give your referee your full file
- Portfolio and aptitude-test deadlines are often earlier than the main deadline
On AI tools
The DAAD permits AI as an aid provided good academic practice, originality and the authenticity of your application are preserved.
Checklist
- Tailor the letter per programme
- Request recommendations early
- Check special deadlines
Official sources
- DAAD — Applying for scholarships and required documentsGerman Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) · 2026-08-03
- Hochschulkompass — Official directory of degree programmesGerman Rectors' Conference (HRK) · 2026-08-03
- uni-assist — Documentsuni-assist e.V. · 2026-08-03
General organisational information — not legal advice and not representation before authorities.