The most important document of the file to be submitted is the motivation letter. It gives you the opportunity to present your personality and, above all, your motivation to apply for a Deutschlandstipendium. The letter of motivation, together with the information in the curriculum vitae and the previous school and study achievements round off the overall picture, which the members of the selection committee make themselves about the applicants and base their decision on.

First, briefly describe your personality – what characterises you, what do you value in your life, what are your hobbies? Here you can also explain why you have decided exactly for the chosen course of studies at TU Dresden, what expectations you have in it and what goals you will pursue in the future.

Furthermore, you should justify why you are a suitable candidate for a Deutschlandstipendium. What kind of achievements have you shown in school, during an apprenticeship or in your studies? Where and how did you engage in social or societal activities? Have you assumed responsibility in a club, organisation or your family? Are there special features such as a migration background or family characteristics such as the care of a relative or the education of children?

You can optionally provide information about a desired sponsor meeting your interests and whose orientation will fit the content of your course of studies. Refer to the list of sponsors.

In the motivation letter for the extension application, please refer to the past scholarship year. Report how the scholarship has influenced your studies and your daily life at the university and whether you have contact with your sponsor. Tell about your activities in the network of scholarship holders and about your further commitment that was made possible by the scholarship.

* For students of medicine: If you are already working on your doctoral thesis, please provide detailed information on the status of your work.

A classic letterhead is not necessary - just insert your name in the header. You can use "Dear Ladies and Gentlemen," or "Dear Members of the Selection Board," as a form of address.

Please make the letter of motivation as anonymous as possible. It is sufficient if your name is written on it. You should leave out the address, telephone number, e-mail address, Matrikelnummer and date of birth.

The motivation letter should not exceed one A4 page. So please write precisely and with high information density. And above all – be authentic.

The Career Service of TU Dresden during its open consultation hour gives advice on  motivation letters.