Ausbildung

Everything you need to know about Ausbildung

Ausbildung in Germany is a unique system which allows students from non-EU countries to work and train in German companies as apprentices while learning a trade or profession in a training institute.

Ausbildung programmes in Germany have been developed historically out of the medieval guild system.

This is not new to young people in Germany, as many enter the working market through the apprenticeship system. 

Over 500,000 new apprenticeships (Ausbildung) contracts are concluded every year by various companies in Germany. 

Ausbildung in Germany

What is Ausbildung in Germany?

Ausbildung in Germany for foreigners is a vocational training program in Germany and is known as an Apprenticeship in the English language.

Once accepted as an Ausbildender by a German company, your Ausbildung training will be divided into two parts:

First, you will be contacted by a German employer/company where you’ll be in a work placement as an apprentice.

Secondly, you’ll be affiliated with a vocational training school, also known as Berufsschule in the German language, where you will attend training classes.

You need to attend both places, and you must divide your time for that based on your apprenticeship period.

For example, suppose you are in an Ausbildung in a hotel. In that case, you must work for three days in any assigned department to gain practical experience and the remaining days in the training institution.

Your assigned departments can change, as you’ll be asked to work for one month in housekeeping, one month in room service, and one month in the front office to get the overall experience in the hotel management job.

For the remaining two days of your week, you’ll participate in your vocational training school (Berufsschule), where you’ll study your assigned category and technicalities.

Your vocational training school will conduct your exams like midterms and final exams. 

Your final Ausbildung score will include grades from your company and vocational training school.

The company will give you grades according to your work and training school according to your exam performance.

Now, let’s discuss how long this training will last.

German Apprenticeship or Ausbildung

Duration of Ausbildung Program in Germany

Usually, the Ausbildung program lasts three years, but if your grades are reasonable based on your performance in the company and vocational training school, you can reduce this period.

But it doesn’t make any significant difference, as you can reduce three to 2.5 years, so it hardly matters.

Time duration usually depends on various factors, like which company you work for, which department you are assigned, and from which vocational training school you are studying.

But one crucial thing you badly require to be eligible for the Ausbildung program is German language skills.

Language Requirement For Ausbildung in Germany

The language used in the vocational training school is German. They conduct all exams in German. 

Also, your work placement and practical training in the company will be in German. 

Sometimes, there could be English-speaking people also participating in the training. But usually, the communication in the workplace is in the German language. 

The most important prerequisite that most companies check for hiring apprentices from other countries is German language knowledge and communication skills at the required level.

Over 90% of the companies (with apprenticeships) stated that language skills are necessary to complete a training course. (Source–DIHK survey)

So, you must have better German language skills to meet the language requirements for an Ausbildung programme in your desired field of occupation. That is a B2  level!

If you are fluent enough in the language, even a B1 will be perfect sometimes; because the requirement is one must have good communication skills to follow the programme. 

One of the critical questions that can arise in your mind after going through all these details may be:

Education Requirement For Ausbildung in Germany

If you are non-European, and from a country like India, you must have a 12th-grade (senior secondary) school examination pass certificate. This is the minimum academic qualification required for an Ausbildung programme in Germany.

Ausbildung qualification

Those with higher level qualifications achieved after the 12th-grade school education, e.g., diploma or degree, can apply.

Most companies and training institutions maintain 30 as the maximum age criteria and 17+ as the minimum age.

Immigration departments or German state governments set no stipulated maximum age. It depends on the hiring employer/company. 

How can a Non-EU citizen apply for Ausbildung in Germany?

Currently, around 330 occupations require formal training in Germany and businesses that participate in the dual training scheme consider vocational training the best form of personnel recruitment.

There is a growing awareness across Europe and worldwide that excellent work-based vocational education and training are vital for competitiveness and social participation.

Let’s go through some questions about how to apply for the Ausbildung program as a non-EU applicant.

Ausbildung in Germany Occupations and Industries

What documents are required for non-EU citizens to apply for an Ausbildung in Germany? (Requirements for Ausbildung in Germany)

You need two essential documents for applying for Ausbildung in Germany:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

This is your first requirement, and your CV should be brief. It should include precise education details, work experiences (only if applicable), etc.

  • A statement of purpose or a motivation letter

This is a significant opportunity to show you as a more suitable and motivated candidate.

  • Certified or attested work experience letter/s

If you have worked in the relevant field of your chosen occupation will influence your candidature for the career you are applying for.

  • School certificates, diplomas or/and Degrees

Some companies might ask you to provide a German-translated version of your certificates mentioned above.

A notary public could do the certifications in your country. 

Why do you need these documents?

Now you know you can start an Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) after 12th grade, depending on the requirements of the specific company you’re applying to.

Your school leaving certificates are compared to the German equivalent, i.e. Hauptschule or Realschule. 

What monies and documents are required for a visa for Ausbildung in Germany?

If you apply for the Ausbildung visa, you need to have:

  • A written confirmation or a contract by the training company/employer
  • Sufficient money to maintain the cost of living in Germany for your stay until the Ausbildung and start receiving monthly stipends.
  • Valid health insurance until the start of your vocational training.

Monthly stipend

Participants of Ausbildung are paid a monthly stipend by the company where they work and are trained. The allowance varies from 650 to 1400 EUR depending on the occupation one chooses. 

Ausbildung in Germany

How to apply for a visa application for Ausbildung in Germany?

Suppose you are serious about getting trained in your desired occupation and excited to be in one of the best countries in the world. In that case, you need to have a good grasp of German and all the necessary documents to get your Ausbildung visa approved.

So, if we sum it up, being a non-EU citizen, you have to follow these steps for joining the vocational training in Germany:

  • Get school-leaving and other certificates recognised and translated
  • Learn the German language and achieve B1/B2 level
  • Attend interviews with the Employers/companies interested in your application
  • Receive an offer and training contract 
  • Apply for a visa 

What can you expect from us? 

We at KCR Consultants can help you with all these crucial requirements once you get in touch with our team members. 

If you are searching for a list of Ausbildung courses in Germany, the best Ausbildung courses in Germany, Ausbildung list in Germany or Ausbildung in Germany courses, please read Ausbildung in Germany occupation list.

How to Apply for Ausbildung

FAQ

You will need a school passing certificate/diploma/degree to be eligible for Ausbildung in Germany.

Yes! You get a monthly stipend during your Ausbildung programme in Germany.

You can start working in the occupation you trained immediately after completing your training or apply for a ‘job seeker’s visa’, stay back, and look for jobs.

Once got a job and have worked for two years, you will be considered eligible for a PR.

Ausbildung is a vocational diploma added with work experience.

No tuition fees are required for any Ausbildung program.

The minimum age limit to enrol is 17+. The German state Governments have not set the highest age limit for Ausbildung. Hence, it depends on the participating employer and the vocational training institution to decide on it.

B2 level is required for Ausbildung. 

Still, it’s up to the employer to decide, as many are accepted with the B1 level. 

A B1 level is mandatory for the consulates to accept a visa application from an Ausbildung trainee applicant for a visa.

You can attend a university after Ausbildung and gain a bachelor’s or master’s degree based on your current academic qualifications.

The answer to this question is a big NO! Every Ausbildung programme in Germany is German, and you need to know German.

You can put the answer in a way where, after you complete nursing Ausbildung in Germany, you become a Registered nurse (after clearing the exam). Once you are a registered nurse in Germany, you are qualified to work globally.

Nursing Ausbildung in Germany is officially the highest paid profession, with 1200 to 1300 euros during the first year of Ausbildung.

After Ausbildung in Germany, you can expect anywhere less than 2000 to 2400 euros per month, as Germany strictly follows a minimum wage policy.

  1. An Ausbildung programme will lead to a vocational qualification with hands-on experience.
  2. A dual degree Ausbildung programme will result in a degree with practical experience.

Yes! Non-EU citizens can participate in Ausbildung from the Skilled Immigration Act, 2020, introduced in March of the same year!

The occupation or programme that you are overly passionate about and heartfelt about is the best Ausbildung programme! 

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33 thoughts on “Ausbildung”

  1. I would like to apply for an apprenticeship as specialist in Food Technology. I have a bachelor’s degree in Food science and technology

    1. I am 39 years old with a minimum of O’Level and diploma equivalent certificate in french . Can I qualify for the ausbildung program?

    1. Hi, if you have a degree in accounting, please choose an Ausbildung in hotel management if you are interested or migrate on a master’s degree programme that starts with a German language course.

      1. Hello, my name is Temur. And I have a bachelor degree in English studies faculty. Now studying in master degree. I am interested in doing an Ausbildung in teaching and education. So how should I proceed?
        Thanks.

        1. Dear Temur,

          I can help you apply for an Ausbildung programme, but you must learn German at least at a B1 level.

          But my suggestion would be to consider a master’s degree in English literature or something like that, as that would be the better progression for you considering your academic background.

  2. Heloo, I’m Archana

    I’m a +12th std student. After 3 months i will complete my studies. I want to study a bsc nursing at germany.
    And i am a middle class girl,
    I want to know about the amount that wants to take a B2 level german language ima coaching centre and the pay ments of pass port and visa

    1. Dear Archana,

      Pursuing BSc in nursing in Germany is costlier than the vocation route for nursing studies.

      BSc nursing demands a foundation course completed before considering to start attending the course.

      Therefore it works like this; you will migrate to Germany, learn the German language up to the C1 level, and attend a Medical Foundation/preparatory/Studienkolleg.

      The A1-C1 level German language course is for nine months and costs 8700.EUR ( but on your arrival, if you have some communication levels, for each level, you know, e.g., A1/A2 level, 900.EUR per level is refunded.

      The Foundation course costs 6500.EUR.

      All the monies mentioned above are for tuition fees alone.

      You must have another 11208.EUR to cover your cost of living.

      But the vocational route is cheaper regarding the overall cost and the total duration of the course.

      It starts like you learn German in India up to B1/B2.

      You should receive your training contract and apply for a visa.

      Arrive in Germany, and start the apprenticeship training to become a nurse specialist.

      The course duration is three years.

      In this programme, you will receive a monthly stipend for the entire duration.

      Since the stipend is good enough to meet your living expenses, you don’t need to have the 11208.EUR money with you while applying for a visa.

      If you ask how much it will cost you, you must have an estimate of INR.6 lakhs maximum, which will cover at least 1000.EUR you have in your position while arriving in Germany for the language learning, visa, documentation, consultancy fees, post-arrival fees in Germany etc.

      I hope it helps, and if you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.

      1. Hi I wanted to find out how much does it cost for me to study a vocational course in Nursing with a C1 German level acquired in South Africa. I want to find out the cost of the visas and how much will be needed for me to have before migrating there.

  3. HI,
    how can start applying the frontend Developer(programming) situation in Ausbildung?
    how can I get the list of education and institute(or company)?
    and I am about 31 years old, is it suitable for my age?

    and totally what shod I do for the best Result?
    thanks a lot…

    1. Hi, there is no upper age limit specified anywhere, but the concept of Ausbildung is to get young high school levers trained in the chosen occupation. Many companies look for applicants aged 17-25, and a few accept until 30.

    2. Hai,
      I am an Audio engineer. I successfully completed my deploma in Audio Engineering. Also I have a degree in Eng Lit. So what all are the ausbildung courses that can i choose.

      1. Hi, the best option would be migrating to Germany on a study programme, learning the German language in the German atmosphere, preparing yourself for the German business, industries and workplaces and looking for a suitable Ausbildung professional and applying after achieving a B2 level communication skills in the German language.

  4. Hi, if you have a senior secondary school education pass certificate with at least 50% marks obtained to provide, are motivated and passionate about referred occupation and are ready to learn the German language unto a B2 level, please scan your qualifications to us along with your passport and a recently updated CV to info@kcrconsultants.com.

  5. Hallo
    I am 47 years old I want to work as primary teacher or as early childhood educator. My qualifications B.A, Diploma in business management. Advanced diploma in computer software technology.I want to know can I get admission in such Ausbildung and can I get work permit or residence permit if my age would not be a problem.

    1. Hi, age does matter, but you still can try.

      But you need to start learning the German language and continue until you achieve a B1/B2 level communication.

      As a consultant, I can help prepare your application, search and identify the programme providers, and apply for you.

  6. Hello,
    I am Amila Prasanna ,from Sri Lanka. I got some question about the requirements and eligibility
    for Ausbildung in Germany, I have been sited for GCE A/L(Advanced Level) and I got 2 subject passes but I study until Grade 13. Afterward, I have been followed the NVQ(National Vocational Training) Level 4 Advanced level certificate of Commercial Cookery, therefore, may I know if can I apply for Ausbildung in Germany as a Non-EU Citizen?

  7. Hi I’m 38 years old, I have level 6 diploma in pre-primary education. Do you know where I perhaps can learn the German language for free or on a cheaper price?

  8. can someone taking English taught masters degree in Germany change to ausbildung,if yes what happens to his blocked account with government, finally will he be permitted to do part time job

  9. Naita Chamberlain

    Good night

    I am 39 years old with an interest in the culinary arts. I studied architecture looking to make a career change.
    Is there a way I can pursue my interest in Germany?

  10. Hi, I’m 31y/o graduated of Bsc in Hospitality Management. I’m planning to apply for an Ausbildung program in Nursing, Can you help me to find a school and company? And how much is the cost for your service? Thanks!

    1. Hello Joseph, Ausbildung in hotel management would be ideal for you considering your educational background. However, if you wish to change your occupation to nursing and you are interested for an Ausbildung nursing specialist based on your 12th grade school education. You must have passed it with at least 50% overall marks to apply for an Ausbildung nursing.

      Please email the scanned copies of your qualifications to info@kcrconsultants.com

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