A motivation letter (used for Master's applications, universities, NGOs, public sector) differs from a cover letter in focus and tone. Cover letter: Sales pitch -- why I am the best candidate for THIS position. Motivation letter: Authenticity -- why I want exactly THIS institution and what drives me. Structure following OPM principles: Three-act structure: (1) A concrete experience that sparked your interest (not 'fascinated since childhood'). (2) What you have specifically done since then. (3) What you want to achieve through this position/institution -- specific, not generic. IAB and Cedefop: In academic and social fields, the quality of motivation is weighted more heavily than formal qualifications. Most common mistakes: Self-focus instead of institution-focus, repeating the CV, using 'passionate' and 'motivated' without evidence.
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