What is Ausbildung? 

Ausbildung is a vocational training program in Germany that combines both theoretical and practical learning. Anyone interested in Ausbildung, whether German, an EU citizen, or a non-EU citizen, can participate. The duration ranges from 2 to 3.5 years. It is a direct path to employment and is a backbone for developing a skilled workforce. 

Benefits of Ausbildung in Germany:

Learn while you earn: In vocational training in Germany, you don’t sit in class all day focusing on lectures. From the beginning, you will get practical experience along. You will attend lectures a few days a week, and apply them simultaneously. Also, you get paid monthly without the burden of financing your entire education. This combination of learning and practical experience prepares you for future employment.

Get ready for your job: Many people are hired after training. About two-thirds of trainees start work immediately. You will be more qualified, you will earn and know the workplace culture.

Diverse options: Many companies want to train young professionals like you. In September 2023, there were still over 70,000 training places available.

Prepare for a bright future: Vocational training prepares you for professional success. Companies value professionals like you, sometimes even more than those with a college degree. Germany warmly welcomes you to build your future here.

Specialization: You can choose to specialize after Ausbildung. Mostly, employers finance further training.

Permanent residence: After completing your training and working in Germany for two years, you can apply for permanent residency. And maybe you’ll even become a German citizen later.

Types of Ausbildung: 

 Germany offers two types of Ausbildung: dual education and school-based training. The most popular among German youth is the dual education system: In this system, theoretical and practical learning go hand in hand, with trainees gaining theoretical knowledge in school and hands-on practical experience in a company. Moreover, trainees also receive a training allowance. However, in school-based training, theoretical and practical learning occurs at school, followed by practical training in a company without getting paid. Please view the summary of school-based training and training-oriented studies below.  

1. Learn the German language at least B1 level. For some Ausbildung, a B2 level is required, for example, nurse training. The medium of instruction for Ausbildung in Germany is mostly German so having a decent level of German before arriving is essential. Check out language institutes that offer German courses in your city, such as Goethe Institute, and enroll. It usually takes around 1 and a half years to achieve the B2 level. But if you are hard-working, you can achieve it in just a year.
2. Translate your school leaving certificate into German. You must also get your school certificates legalized at the German embassy in your home country. Finally, make official copies of your certificates.
3. Recognize or evaluate your school certificate in Germany. To do this, apply to the certificate recognition office in the federal state in Germany where you plan to live and train and send them the translated and authenticated copies. The recognition fees range from 100 to 200 euros. The entire process usually takes around three months.
4. Create a good CV, Motivation letter, and other required documents in German.
5. Explore and apply online to Ausbildung programs in your desired state and preferred fields.
6. Participate in online interviews with representatives of companies offering training programs in Germany. After clearing the interview, wait for your training offer letter.
7. Schedule an appointment at the German embassy of your country and submit a visa application.
8. After getting the visa, book a flight and come to Germany. Find accommodation, and register your address at Rathaus.
9. Your visa is valid for 6 months during which you have to apply for a residence permit at Ausländerbehörde (local immigration office) as soon as possible. Moreover, open a bank account in your area and start your Ausbildung

Requirements for Ausbildung in Germany:

• You must have finished 12 years of education and be recognized in Germany
• You must not be older than 25 years
• Academic Certificates and documents must be  recognized and certified by an official body
• Good proficiency in the German language (B1 certificate minimum)
• Well-prepared CV in the German language
• Passport and valid visa
• Job references
• Internship certificates
• Recommendation letter from teacher (one or two)
• Training course certificates
• A health certificate from a German employer, valid from the start date of employment, if required.

Requirements for Visa Application:

• Biometric passport photos
• Curriculum vitae (CV) in the German language
• Motivation letter in the German language
• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport
• Visa fee (approximately 75 euros)
• B1 or B2 language certificates
•  A training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag) with a company in Germany.
• Training plan (“Ausbildungsplan”) 
  
• Approval by the Federal Employment Agency (Not obligatory)
• Enrollment confirmation from the vocational school
• Proof of valid health insurance for Germany (if applicable)
• A police clearance certificate (if applicable)
• You should have sufficient financial means, for example at least 903 euros per month. You can use a blocked account or a declaration of commitment for school training. If you are training in a company, your salary can prove you have enough funds. If your training allowance is insufficient, you can close the gap with a blocked account or declaration of commitment.

1. Personality Type:  Knowing your personality type will help you identify careers that are perfect for you. Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert? Do you prefer structured tasks or creative freedom?

2. Individual preferences and abilities: First think about what you enjoy and what you are particularly good at: What subjects did you like at school? Do you prefer working with people or on computers? Would you rather operate large machines or work with tools? Think about what you enjoy and what you are good at. Assess your strengths and how they align with potential careers.

3. Working Environment: Consider the environment in which you work best. Do you prefer an office environment, working outdoors, or a dynamic and changing workplace? The right environment can have a significant impact on your job satisfaction.

4. Tasks: Think about tasks you enjoy and excel at. Do you enjoy work, solving problems, or helping others? Identifying the tasks you perform will help you pursue a career that keeps you engaged and motivated.

Once you understand your preferences, you can find the right Ausbildung that matches your interests and skills.

How do I find an Ausbildung in Germany?

Like many students, you might be wondering where to begin. Typically, companies select candidates for an Ausbildung, so apply just like for any other job. You can find these opportunities online, either by visiting the hiring company’s website or using online job portals. Here are some websites and job portals to help you:

• Federal Employment Agency: A big job portal with Ausbildung positions across Germany.
• Chamber of Crafts’ Training Radar: Find Ausbildung opportunities in skilled trades.
• Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHK): Ideal for finding commercial and industrial Ausbildung.
• Career and Training Fairs: Visit these to talk directly with experts and find out what training fits you best. For example, check planet-beruf.de for fair dates.
• Online Job Platforms:
  • Stepstone: Find many Ausbildung listings here.
  • Ausbildung.de: A site dedicated to Ausbildung in Germany.
  • Indeed: Another job search engine with many opportunities.
  • Aubi-plus.de and azubiplus.de: Sites focused on Ausbildung positions.
  • finest-jobs.com and studyflix.de: More platforms to find Ausbildung opportunities.

What happens after Ausbildung?

After completing Ausbildung, non-EU citizens are allowed to stay in Germany for a year to look for jobs. but first, you must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office (Auslanderbehörde). You can then apply to companies offering relevant jobs. Mostly, the company where you completed your Ausbildung offers you a job. Once you secure a job you can change your visa status and apply for a skilled work residence permit. Moreover, you can gain further qualifications, such as specialization if you want.

Popular Ausbildung courses in Germany

• IT specialist
• Engineer
• Physiotherapy
• Nursing
• Medical technical radiological assistant
• Anesthesia technical assistant
• Dental assistant
• Medical Assistant
• Automotive technician
• Electrician
• Office management clerk

Conclusion

In summary, Ausbildung in Germany offers a unique combination of practical and theoretical training, creating a strong foundation for a successful career. You will have access to a diverse range of careers, excellent job prospects, and opportunities to immerse yourself in German culture. This route is particularly attractive to young people worldwide, especially foreigners. We have provided detailed information about the requirements, application process, and available resources so you can begin a rewarding professional journey. Whether you want to gain practical experience, further your studies, or find a long-term job in Germany, the Ausbildung path opens up endless opportunities and a bright future for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)