How do I write an application for the public sector in Germany?

Applications for the public sector follow different rules than the private sector. Article 33 of the German Basic Law and civil service law: selection by suitability, aptitude, and professional achievement — this makes formal requirements a mandatory criterion, not a wish list. What matters in the public sector: (1) Mirror exact wording from the requirements list in the posting. (2) Attach certificates and evidence for every stated requirement. (3) Treat the cover letter as a 'motivation letter' — with reference to the authority/institution. (4) AGG: the public sector is heavily AGG-regulated — discrimination-free processes are standard. BA: the public sector is Germany's largest employer — positions on interamt.de, bund.de, and state portals. Objection: processes take 8–20 weeks — patience is essential.