Who sets the entry requirements for vocational training in Germany?

For dual training, companies select trainees according to their own criteria; additional proof of qualifications may be required for some occupations. For school-based training, the requirements are determined by the occupation, school and federal state.

Do trainees in Germany receive remuneration during every vocational training program?

No. Remuneration is customary for dual training, whereas many school-based programs are unpaid. Appropriate remuneration is required for nursing training.

How can you check whether independent vocational training is recognized in Germany?

For the specific program, check whether the occupation is state-recognized or regulated by law, which body is responsible, and what examination and qualification are planned. The label “independent training” alone does not prove that it is recognized.

Vocational Training in Germany

Q: Which training routes lead to a first vocational qualification in Germany?

Dual vocational training at a company and vocational school often leads to a qualification; there are also school-based programs, for example in nursing, healthcare and education. Off-the-job and civil service training are other routes, each governed by different rules.

Vocational training in Germany provides targeted knowledge and practical skills for an occupation or a defined occupational field. The largest training route is dual vocational training, which combines work at a company with vocational school; there are also primarily school-based programs, for example in nursing, healthcare and education. The duration, entry requirements, remuneration and qualification depend on the occupation and the training route.

byMila&Jonas

In dual vocational training, trainees learn at a company and at vocational school. They sign a training contract with a company; training usually lasts two to three and a half years. A responsible body, often a chamber, oversees the contract and administers the final examination. Some companies supplement training with inter-company courses or share training periods with other companies. School-based training takes place mainly at vocational schools or colleges and includes practical placements depending on the occupation. Entry requirements and duration depend on the occupation, school and federal state. Many school-based programs are unpaid; appropriate remuneration is provided for nursing training. State schools usually do not charge tuition, while private schools may charge fees. Off-the-job training programs offer a subsidized route into training when access to a company-based training place is difficult. In these programs, training providers teach course content and arrange practical periods at companies; a move to a company may be possible. Civil service training follows its own career regulations and leads to public service through preparatory service. Independent or English-language programs do not have a uniform legal status: recognition, examinations and qualifications must be checked for the specific program. Dual vocational training does not generally require a specific school-leaving qualification under the law, but companies select applicants themselves and some occupations may require proof of qualifications. Informal on-the-job orientation alone does not count as targeted initial training.

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Vocational Training in Germany

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