Are you enthusiastic about picking up real-world working experience rather than theoretical knowledge? Do you want to work and study simultaneously in one of the foremost developed nations within the world? Then there’s no superior alternative for you than choosing Germany.

Germany has a special system known as Ausbildung, which permits students from both EU or non-EU nations to work in German companies as apprentices, while they get trained. Companies that have apprenticeship positions give this training to youthful individuals, and it does not only save on recruitment costs but avoids the hazard of enlisting half-baked workers for the job.

In this post, everything you need to know about Ausbildung will be highlighted. You should keep reading.

What is Ausbildung?

Ausbildung is a German term for “apprenticeship” or “vocational training” in the English language. It is a training program with various professions which allows you to work and study at the same time. It is not the high education level, but vocational like; craft, cleaner, carpentry, nurse, butcher, IT professions, secretary, or train driver – this basically means that it is an active job where you work with your hands. You may click here to see over 330 other professions.

This training helps you get a state-controlled degree as a talented worker, giving huge viewpoints for living and working in Germany even if you’re a citizen of a non-EU-country. An Ausbildung begins each year in August or September.

How does Ausbildung work?

Once acknowledged to this program as an Azubi (trainee) or Ausbildender (trainer) by any of the German companies, your training under Ausbildung will automatically be partitioned into two parts:

First, you will be attached to a German company to work as an apprentice.

Secondly, you will be attached to a vocational school called Berufsschule in German, where your training classes would hold.

After these have been done, you proceed to divide your time, approximately 50% each based on your apprenticeship period to attend both locations – For example, If you have applied for Ausbildung in a hospital, you may have to work in several assigned departments in that hospital to garner practical knowledge and experience. Your assigned departments can change in a month so that you can get the overall experience in the nursing job. The remaining days of your week will be spent in your vocational training school (Berufsschule) for studying your assigned category and technicalities. The vocational training school conducts your exams; midterms and finals, and your overall Ausbildung score will include grades from your employer and training school. By the end of the program, you receive a certificate that allows you to work only in the concrete occupation you were trained for. This certificate is also recognized in many other countries, including the EU, so you won’t be limited to Germany.

What is the Duration of the Ausbildung Program in Germany?

Ordinarily, the Ausbildung program lasts for 3-4 years, but in case your grades are great based on your performance within the company and vocational training school, then this time period can be decreased. Time duration usually depends on various factors like the company you are working for, the department you are assigned to, the vocational training school you are studying. This being said, the most important thing you require to be eligible for the Ausbildung program, is proficiency in the German language.

Language Requirement For Ausbildung in Germany

The language used in a Vocation training school is German, including all examinations. In addition, your practical training in your company will also be in German. Sometimes, it can vary because there might be English-speaking people. But usually, the communication will be in the German language.

So, you need to fulfil the basic requirement or level for the German language, i.e. be able to prove that your level is at least B1. But, if you are fluent enough in German-speaking, it’ll be very good for you because to complete the Ausbildung program one must have good proficiency in the German language.

Also, the most important prerequisite that most companies check for hiring apprentices from other countries is a good knowledge of German. You may want to click here for tips on how to learn German in no time.

I know one of the questions running through your mind at the moment may be:

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

Foreigners from all nations within the world can begin vocational training in Germany. Ausbildung graduates have exceptionally great career openings in Germany based on the current government: after the training, foreigners can remain in Germany to work in this profession. Once you have decided what area you want to get an apprenticeship in, then you look for companies offering such and apply accordingly. This might be necessary on paper, by e-mail, or on a special application website. You should make yourself familiar with German standards for applications, like the German language skills because it is basically a must. Most of the companies offering apprenticeships won’t have enough time nor personnel to interpret for you. There are two main ways one can find a place for Ausbildung in Germany.

• To apply from your home country and pass the interviews via Skype

• Come to Germany on a special visa to seek an Ausbildung and find a desirable place.

You may want to click here, for more information on how to apply.

What documents are required to apply for Ausbildung as a Non-EU citizen?

As a foreigner, you have to plan months if you are looking to apply for Ausbildung in Germany. Most employers and companies look for trainees as early as a year before the program kick-starts. However, as stated earlier, every session begins in August or September yearly.

There are two important documents needed, namely:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

This is the first and important requirement that you need to fulfil. Your CV should be brief. It should include information about precise education details, work experiences (only if applicable), etc. Here is an example of a German CV format you may download and use. You need to adjust it accordingly to fit your data.

Cover letter if required.

Certified/attested work experience letters (only if applicable)

• School certificates, diplomas or/and Degrees

You need to provide your above-mentioned certificates (certified copies) in the German language.

The recognition process happens in Germany, you will be required to send your documents to one of the departments in the region you want to live in. Click here to learn more about the process.

What are the financial requirements and benefits of Ausbildung in Germany?

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

• A written confirmation or a contract by the training company

• Sufficient amount of money (863 Euros per month) to maintain the cost of living in Germany for the duration of your stay before the start of your Ausbildung.

• A valid health insurance for at least for the first year or before the start of your vocational training

Monthly stipend

Participants of Ausbildung are paid a monthly stipend by the company where they work every week as part of the program. Generally, they are entitled to a minimum amount of 850.EUR per month. It could be more according to the skills, productivity of each participant, and the number of hours of work per week.

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

Being a foreigner or a Non-EU citizen, you have to follow these steps to join the vocational training in Germany:

• Get your first school-leaving and other certificates recognized and translated

• Apply for the desired and relevant vocational training

• Apply for a vocational training (Ausbildung) visa

What are the advantages of Ausbildung Vocational Training?

Vocational training has some advantages over the studies in Germany. You can study and earn money at the same time is, probably, the biggest one. Also, you don’t need to prove funds when applying for a visa, in comparison with university programs – 10,000 EUR must be on your banking account.

Other advantages include:

• Learn and practice at the same time – The program covers practical and theoretical parts, which helps trainees have a wider understanding of the role and helps in their professional growth.
• Financial independence – Trainees don’t have to depend on their parents for their living expenses or education. They earn enough to support themselves.
• Career opportunities – The program gives Trainees a straightforward way to the right job upon completion.

Wishing you good-luck as you begin your Vocational Training! Also, do not forget to share this post and leave a comment. I’d love to read your feedback 🙂