Among the topmost essential constituents of a master's application in Germany is a LOR, standing for a Letter of Recommendation. It is a formal document from a professor, an employer, or a mentor who has had a chance to know an applicant well and attests to the academic abilities, professional accomplishments, and personal qualities of the same.
The significance of the recommendations is high in assessing whether the candidate is appropriate or not for the particular program. They give the committee an idea of the applicant's past performance, character, and potential for future success in academic or professional settings.
LORs should ideally be written by professors, academic advisors, or employers who know you well and can comment on your academic abilities, professional skills, and personal qualities relevant to your field of study.
Typically, German universities require two to three LORs. However, it's essential to check the specific requirements of each program you're applying to, as they may vary.
Some universities may accept additional LORs, but it's essential to check their policies first. Submitting more than the required number of LORs without clear justification may not necessarily strengthen your application.
LORs generally do not have a strict expiration date, but they should ideally be recent (within one to two years) to reflect your current academic and professional abilities accurately.