How to Write a German Style CV for Ausbildung

Thinking about applying for an Ausbildung in Germany? Then your CV, or as Germans call it Lebenslauf, is something which will play a huge role in your application process. Contrary to traditional resumes, German style CV has its own specific format. And if you know how to do it right – you immediately stand out as a competent applicant. In this blog post BCES Admissions Abroad gives an insight on how to write a German CV for Ausbildung in Germany.

Main Differences Between German CV and Others

German CV or tabellarischer Lebenslauf differs from traditional CVs due to a more structured and complete nature. It contains a photo of the person, some basic personal information and educational/experience history arranged in reverse chronological order. German employers highly appreciate such qualities as neatness, accuracy and integrity; therefore your CV must correspond to these principles in the first place.

Key sections to include in your CV

1. Personal Information

Your full name, date of birth, nationality, address, phone number, and email should be mentioned in this section. Please note that many German employers prefer to see a professional photograph in the top left corner of the CV.

2. Career Objective/Profile

Include one paragraph on why you chose this particular Ausbildung program and what you aim to accomplish by doing so. Talk about your interests, strengths, and career objectives in an honest and concise way. This paragraph shouldn’t exceed three-four lines of text.

3. Education Background

List all of your academic credentials starting from the latest ones. The name of the university, years spent there, and major subjects should be mentioned. Note whether you participated in any language courses, particularly German language courses leading to obtaining A1, A2, and B1 certificates since language proficiency is one of the main criteria for successful Ausbildung application.

4. Work Experience or Internships

Here, even small internships or part time job experiences count. Include the name of the organization, the designation and duration along with your responsibilities there. This section will let the employer know that you already know how it feels like to be a part of a professional environment.

5. Skills

Devote a separate section to both your technical and soft skills. It can include skills like computer skills, communication skills, teamwork, etc. Make sure that you include skills relevant to your Ausbildung field.

6. Language Skills

Being conducted in German language, the Ausbildung program requires special emphasis on your language skills. Mention your proficiency in German language along with English and any kind of certification that you hold.

7. Additional Information

It includes your hobbies, interests or any voluntary work done by you. Although not mandatory, it gives the employer a chance to understand more about you as a person besides being a good student and worker.

Tips on Formatting to Make Your CV Look Professional

Keep it neat, structured, and easy to read. Pick up a legible font, consistent margins, and use headings for each section. Try to avoid writing long paragraphs. Instead of them, use bullet points while providing information. Remember to stay on one or two pages maximum and proofread carefully before submitting.

It is important to keep in mind that German employers are very attentive to the way documents are formatted. This is why making even minor mistakes will have a negative impact on your application.

Mistakes to Watch Out For

Students often copy the international CV template without adapting it to requirements of German employers. Do not leave gaps in your experience and studies as they will surely ask for a reason for each gap. As for the content, remember not to put down the information that is irrelevant to your application.

Conclusion

Writing a German-style CV for Ausbildung might seem strange initially, but once you get familiar with the format, it will be much easier to develop an effective CV. Writing a well-developed CV helps not only show your past achievements, but it also conveys your commitment towards your future in Germany.

In BCES Admissions Abroad, we make sure that all the elements of your application for Ausbildung are professionally developed, from the CVs up to cover letters and motivation letters. Should you need any assistance with your CV while applying for your Ausbildung, our consultants will be glad to assist you throughout the process. Contact us at +91 9319996330.