Most German master's programs do not require recommendation letters at all. The ones that do — typically research-oriented programs and DAAD scholarship applications — treat them seriously. A generic letter from someone who barely knows you is actively harmful.
Who to Ask
Your thesis supervisor or the professor who taught your most advanced relevant course. Not your department head. Not someone whose lecture you attended once. The letter should come from someone who can speak to your ability to work independently at graduate level.
How Much Lead Time to Give
Six weeks minimum. German professors are more responsive than their reputation suggests, but they keep their own schedules. Sending a request with "I need this by next week" is a reliable way to get no reply.
What Your Email Needs
Keep it under 200 words. Name the specific program (TU Berlin M.Sc. Computer Engineering) and the exact deadline. Attach your transcript and a one-page briefing note explaining what you want them to highlight. Ask whether they're available — don't assume.
Subject: Recommendation Letter Request — TU Berlin M.Sc. Computer Engineering, Deadline 15 Jan
Dear Prof. [Name],
I am applying to [program] at [university] for the intake starting [date]. The deadline is [date]. Given our collaboration during [course / project], I believe you are well placed to speak to my abilities in [specific area].
Would you be willing to write a letter? I have attached my transcript and a short note on what I think would be most relevant to include. Please let me know if this works for your schedule.
What to Include in the Briefing Note
A one-page summary: the program name, the deadline, and three or four concrete examples from your shared work that you would like them to reference. Professors are not mind readers. Specific material produces a specific letter.
If They Say No
Thank them and ask whether they would suggest someone better positioned. A reluctant referee writes a weak letter. A strong letter from a second-choice professor beats a cautious one from your first choice.
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