What Are the Requirements for an Ausbildung in Germany? (The Complete Guide)
- gluck global
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
To qualify for an Ausbildung (Vocational Training) in Germany, you generally need a minimum educational qualification equivalent to 10-12 years of schooling (O-Levels or A-Levels depending on the trade), and a German language proficiency of Level B2. You do not need a blocked account if your training salary covers your living costs. The program combines classroom learning with paid work experience.
Introduction: The "Earn While You Learn" Pathway
Germany is facing a massive shortage of skilled workers, and they aren't looking for just university graduates, they need hands-on specialists. This is where the Ausbildung program comes in. It is Germany’s world-famous dual vocational training system that allows you to study a profession while working and earning a salary at the same time.
But is it hard to get in? What paperwork do you need? And most importantly, is it the right path for you?
In this guide, we break down every single requirement, from language skills to financial rules, so you can start your German career with confidence.
1. What is the Program Structure?
The most unique feature of an Ausbildung is the Dual System. Unlike a traditional degree where you sit in a lecture hall for four years, an Ausbildung splits your week into two parts:
Practical Work (70%): You spend 3–4 days a week working at a German company. You are treated like an employee, learning real skills on the job.
Theory (30%): You spend 1–2 days a week at a vocational school (Berufsschule), learning the technical and theoretical side of your trade.
This structure ensures that by the time you graduate, you aren't just "book smart" , you are "job ready."
2. How Long Does it Take to Complete?
The duration of an Ausbildung typically ranges from 2 to 3.5 years, depending on your chosen profession and your performance.
Standard Duration: 3 years for most professions (like Nursing or IT).
Fast Track: If you have excellent grades or prior experience in the field, you can sometimes shorten the training period to 2 or 2.5 years.
3. Language Requirements for Ausbildung in Germany? (The Critical Step)
This is the most important requirement. Since your training involves working in a German company and attending classes taught entirely in German, you cannot survive with English alone.
The Requirement: Most employers and vocational schools require a certified German Level B2. Some technical trades might accept B1, but for Nursing and client-facing roles, B2 is non-negotiable.
How We Help You Succeed: At Gluck Global, we don't just teach you grammar; we prepare you for the job.
Flexible Digitalized Online Classes: Whether you are working or studying, our schedule fits yours.
Intensive Training: We take you from A1 to B2 efficiently, focusing on the vocabulary you actually need for your job.
Certified Teachers: Learn from the best who understand the Goethe and Telc exam structures.
Interview & Employer Prep: We have direct connections with German employers. Our course includes specific interview preparation so you can pass employer interviews easily and confidently.
4. What Fields Can I Apply For?
The Ausbildung program is vast, covering over 320 different professions. However, for international applicants (especially from Sri Lanka or the UAE), the highest demand fields are:
Nursing & Healthcare (Pflegefachkraft): The most in-demand job. High acceptance rates for foreign students.
IT Specialist: Software development and system integration.
Hospitality: Chefs, hotel specialists, and restaurant management.
Technical Trades: Mechatronics, electronics, and construction.
Logistics: Warehouse management and supply chain roles.
5. How Much Can I Earn? (The Stipend)
One of the biggest advantages of an Ausbildung is that you do not pay tuition fees, in fact, you get paid!
You will receive a monthly training allowance (Ausbildungsvergütung). The amount depends on your field and the region, but generally:
1st Year: €900 – €1,150 per month.
2nd Year: €1,000 – €1,250 per month.
3rd Year: €1,100 – €1,350 per month.
Note: Nursing students often earn the highest stipends, sometimes starting above €1,200.
6. Can I Do a Part-Time Job in Germany?
Yes! Even though you are already working as part of your training, you are allowed to take up additional part-time work to boost your income.
Limit: You can work up to 10 hours per week on the side.
Condition: It must not interfere with your training or school grades.
Many students do mini-jobs on weekends (like delivery or catering) to earn an extra €400–€500 for pocket money.
7. Is Accommodation Provided?
In most cases, accommodation is NOT automatically provided by the employer. You are responsible for finding your own apartment or shared room (WG).
However: Some large employers (especially hospitals and hotel chains) own dormitories and offer low-cost housing to their apprentices.
Cost: If you rent a room in a shared apartment, expect to pay between €300 and €500 depending on the city.
8. Is a Blocked Account Required?
This is a common confusion.
For University Students: A Blocked Account (~€11,000) is mandatory.
For Ausbildung Students: Ideally, NO.
If your gross monthly salary is sufficient to cover your living costs (generally considered around €900–€950 net), you do not need to show extra funds in a blocked account. Your salary serves as your financial guarantee for the visa.
Exception: If your salary is very low (e.g., €700), you may need a blocked account to cover the "gap" between your salary and the government's minimum cost-of-living requirement.
9. After Ausbildung: What is the Pathway?
Completing an Ausbildung opens the door to a permanent life in Germany.
Guaranteed Job: Most companies hire their apprentices permanently after graduation.
Permanent Residency (PR): As a skilled worker, you can apply for PR much faster than others (often after just 2 years of full-time work).
Further Studies: You can pursue a "Master Craftsperson" (Meister) certification or even go to university later to get a Bachelor's degree while working.
Conclusion: Your One-Stop Solution to Germany
The path to an Ausbildung is rewarding, but Requirements for Ausbildung in Germany like the paperwork, language barriers, and employer interviews can be overwhelming. You don't have to do it alone.
Gluck Global is your One-Stop Solution. We are a fully SLBFE Approved Foreign Employment Agency, meaning your journey with us is 100% legal, transparent, and secure. From teaching you German A1-B2 to securing your interview and handling your visa documentation, we manage the entire process.
Ready to start your German dream?
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