Application documents check

Kick-start your career: A job application guideline

You might already have found a variety of templates and received plenty of contradicting advice which left you a tiny bit confused.

Don’t worry about it. We will help you to create an application you can confidently send out into the world. With this brochure, we provide you with examples on how to shape your documents with just the right information and design. Additionally, you will find background knowledge to understand what recruiters in Germany are looking for and how to avoid common mistakes.

For all that you can access our PDF. Enjoy reading and best of luck with your applications.

View the PDF online

If you can’t access the file within your browser, you can also download it here: to the application brochure (file size approximately 7,3 MB)

Appointments
When you have worked in all the suggestions into your documents and want someone to review them you can send them to us or arrange a consultation appointment.

Short & sweet.

1. When is the right time to apply?
   You should apply around 3 months before you graduate or before you would like to start your intended internship. It is important that you start reading up on job offers and the company’s requirements before that. We recommend visiting Career Service events or career/specialized fairs.


2. Which documents do I need for my application?
   
   • Cover sheet (optional)
   • Cover letter
   • Curriculum vitae (CV)
   • Current performance overview
   • Your latest examination documents/diploma
   • Certificate of employment/job reference (if existing)
   • Certificates of relevant further training
   Please read the job offer properly/closely and pay attention to the documents required by the company.


3. I created an application with Europass.
   The design of Europass has limitations and emphasizes different content than is expected by many recipients in Germany. In addition, you cannot really stand out from the competition when using Europass: Application documents designed with Europass all look the same. We therefore recommend that you create individual documents. This way, your application will stand out positively and will not give recruiters the impression that you have invested little time in your application.


4. Do I need a photo for my application?
   An application photo is not a formal requirement in Germany. However, based on our experience from discussions with representatives of companies and institutions, we nevertheless recommend it. Companies and institutions like to emphasize that university graduates almost always have contact with customers and partners (this distinguishes them, for example, from purely manufacturing employees who primarily operate machines as part of their job and ultimately justifies a higher monthly income). With this in mind, they value applicants who make a good first impression. Therefore, an application photo is expected by most recipients. In addition to the general photo quality, pay attention to the right outfit and a friendly facial expression.


5. My German is not very good. Is it always possible to apply in English?
   Pay attention to the language of the job advertisement or ask the company if necessary: Applications are usually expected in the language in which the job advertisement is written. Even if knowledge of English is required, this does not automatically mean that the application must also be written in English. The vast majority of companies and institutions in Germany expect university graduates to be able to speak to customers, partners and other employees in German. One of the reasons for this is that certain customers do not want to conduct discussions or negotiations in English due to a lack of legal certainty; on the other hand, there are employees and colleagues in every company who only speak German (e.g. in production-related areas). Due to this, we generally recommend you apply in German if you have German B1 or better. This will improve your chances as you demonstrate your skill and willingness to communicate in German.
   Applying in German does not, however, automatically result in an employer expecting perfect German from you (e.g. in a job interview). Usually, application documents are read very carefully and they'll notice you are not a native. But we recommend that you prepare yourself appropiately so you are able to communicate in German as much as possible. This will make a good first impression.


6. How long does it take until I get a reply to my application?
   This varies a lot and depends on the urgency of filling of the job, the number of applicants, and the closing date for applications. Many companies firstly collect all applications and then make a selection. Two weeks after the closing date for the applications, you can ask for the status of your application.


7. How do I prepare for a job interview?
   
   • Check the responsible contact person and the best way to get to the company. Take your invitation and the telephone number with you.
   • Plan your arrival so that you arrive around 10 minutes before your appointment.
   • Read up properly/closely on the company.
   • Prepare a self-presentation (about five minutes).
   • Prepare yourself for frequently asked questions (e.g. your motivation, strengths, weaknesses, …).
   • Dress appropriately.


8. What documents do I need to work in Germany after graduating?
   After graduating at a German university your residence permit can be extended up to 18 months. During this period, you can work without any restrictions. For this, you need the following documents:
   • Passport
   • Diploma
   • Proof of health insurance
   • Proof of ability to earn a living (e.g. account extracts)


9. What do I have to do when I found a job?
   If you found a job which matches your degree, you can apply for the residence permit for the purpose of employment. You have the opportunity to apply for the “EU Blue Card”, too. Further information: sachsen.de


10. How do I search/look for suitable jobs?
    Check the Career Service job portal regulary. Would you like to work in another region? There will also be universities with career services or career centers with similar job portals. You can also find job vacancies in the job exchange of the employment agency, on the websites of business development agencies (e.g. Fachkräfteportal Chemnitz zieht an) or directly on the websites of companies. Social media is also a good place to search - either in real business networks such as XING or LinkedIn (there are also exciting groups here - depending on which region you are interested in), but companies also search on Facebook, X, Instagram & Co.