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How to Write a German-Style CV and Cover Letter

  • Writer: Nikhilesh Dhure
    Nikhilesh Dhure
  • Apr 2
  • 3 min read

If you're applying for jobs in Germany—whether you're on a Chancenkarte, a job-seeker visa, or planning to move—the first step to success is having a strong German-style CV and cover letter (Anschreiben).

Unlike many other countries, Germany has specific expectations for how job applications should be structured. A well-written CV (Lebenslauf) and a customized cover letter can make the difference between landing an interview or getting ignored.

In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to write a perfect German CV and cover letter with real-world tips, format examples, and tools.


📄 1. What Makes a CV in Germany Unique?

German CVs are:

  • Concise (usually 1–2 pages)

  • Chronological (most recent experience first)

  • Fact-focused (no fluff or vague statements)

  • Often include a professional photo and signature


✅ German CV Structure (Lebenslauf)

Here’s the standard structure followed in Germany:

1. Personal Information (Persönliche Daten)

  • Full name

  • Date of birth

  • Nationality

  • Address in Germany (if available)

  • Contact number

  • Email

  • LinkedIn (optional)

  • Photo (optional but recommended)

2. Professional Summary (Kurzprofil) – Optional but powerful

A 3–5 line intro summarizing your key qualifications, experience, and career goals.

3. Work Experience (Berufserfahrung)

List in reverse chronological order:

  • Job title

  • Employer name

  • Dates of employment (MM/YYYY)

  • Location

  • Key responsibilities and achievements (bullet points)

4. Education (Ausbildung)

Include:

  • Degree

  • University/Institute

  • Duration

  • Grades (if relevant)

  • Thesis topic (if applicable)

5. Skills (Kenntnisse und Fähigkeiten)

  • Technical skills (e.g. Excel, Python, SAP)

  • Soft skills (e.g. Communication, Teamwork)

  • Language skills with levels (A1–C2)

6. Certificates & Trainings

Mention any certifications, courses, or licenses relevant to the job.

7. Interests (Optional)

Briefly mention hobbies that show character (e.g., hiking, chess, volunteering)

8. Signature & Date

Add your name, date, and digital or handwritten signature at the bottom.


📧 How to Write a German Cover Letter (Anschreiben)

The cover letter is not a summary of your CV—it's a motivation letter tailored to one job, at one company.

🔹 Format:

  • Length: 1 page

  • Font: Arial or Calibri, 11–12 pt

  • Structure: 3–5 paragraphs

📌 Cover Letter Structure:

1. Header

Include your address and the company’s address, along with the date.

2. Subject Line (Betreff)

Clearly state the position you're applying for:“Application for the position of Marketing Manager – Ref: 2025/MM45”

3. Opening Paragraph

Capture attention:

  • Why this company?

  • Why this role?

4. Middle Paragraph(s)

Highlight:

  • Your key qualifications

  • Relevant experience and achievements

  • Soft skills or cultural fit

5. Closing Paragraph

Mention:

  • Your interest in an interview

  • Your availability

  • Gratitude for their time

6. Signature

Write:Mit freundlichen Grüßen,Your Name(Signature optional if digital)


🛠 Tools to Create a German CV and Cover Letter

  • Canva – CV templates with German formatting

  • Europass – For international-style resumes

  • Zety – Customizable CV builder

  • Lebenslauf.com – Templates in German language


⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a US-style CV with personal statements and too much design

  • Not customizing the cover letter for each job

  • Poor translations—always proofread if you're using tools like DeepL or ChatGPT

  • Not including specific results in your work experience

  • Skipping the photo—while optional, it’s still expected in Germany


🔍 Keywords Used in This Blog:

  • German-style CV

  • Cover letter format Germany

  • How to write CV for jobs in Germany

  • Anschreiben example

  • Lebenslauf structure

  • Chancenkarte job application

  • German job application template

  • Apply for jobs in Germany 2025

  • CV with photo Germany

  • Bewerbungsschreiben tips


✨ Final Advice

Your German CV and cover letter are your first impression—and often your only shot at landing an interview. Don’t treat them as just paperwork. Treat them as your personal brand in document form.

If you're not sure where to start, Nikshala’s team can help with:

  • CV formatting (German-style)

  • Cover letter drafting and translation

  • Job matching and interview preparation

Explore more at Chancenkarte.in – your one-stop solution for everything from job hunting to relocation support in Germany.


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