A German CV (Lebenslauf) is usually short, factual and complete. Recruiters scan for clear dates, matching qualifications and proof that you can work in German or English. Here is how to give them that quickly.
Keep it in reverse order, with exact months
Put your most recent job first and write every date as month and year (for example 03/2021 – present). Gaps of more than a few months are often questioned, so add a short line for a career break, a course or job searching rather than leaving a hole.
Photo: common, but not required
Many German employers still expect a professional photo, but by law they cannot require one. If you add a photo, use a recent, front-facing picture with a plain background. In AdmitsFair you can switch the photo on or off with one click.
Show your German level with CEFR
Write your German level using the CEFR scale (A1–C2) for each skill, and name any certificate (for example Goethe-Zertifikat B1). Be honest: you may be tested in the interview. Our EU Standard template prints the full Europass-style language grid.
Translate your qualifications
Write your degree in a way a German reader understands (for example “Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering”) and give the level. Our builder lets you set each qualification's EQF level, which makes comparison across countries easier. For regulated professions such as nursing or engineering, mention if your recognition (Anerkennung) is in progress.
Headings in German
If you apply in German, switch the CV headings to German in the Design panel — “Berufserfahrung”, “Ausbildung” and so on. Your own text stays as you wrote it.
Checklist
- Two pages at most for most roles
- Exact month/year dates, most recent first
- German and English levels on the CEFR scale
- Certificates with issuing body and date
- Phone with country code and a professional email
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