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How do I find vocational training?

In Germany, there are almost 350 dual vocational training occupations: here, you will find several tips on how to find the vocational training programme which suits your expectations and wishes.

Visa, school-leaving certificates or language skills – there are certain requirements you need to meet before being admitted to a vocational training course in Germany. More detailed information on the requirements can be found in the “Do I qualify for vocational training?” section.

Which profession suits me?

The choice is yours: at the moment, you can choose from around 350 occupations that require vocational training in Germany. Firstly, you should think about what you enjoy doing the most and what you are good at: What subjects did you like at school? Do you like working with people? Do you like working on a computer or would you rather operate larger machinery or work with tools? As soon as you are aware of your own preferences, you can look for a suitable vocational training programme. The websites Planet Beruf and Beroobi are designed to help you with your decision. However, these two sites are only available in German. You can find further information about four occupations in our "Vocational training profiles at a glance" section. Lastly, you might also be able to get some information and career advice in your country of origin.

Looking for a place as a trainee

You have worked out which occupation is best for you? Then the next step is looking for a place as a trainee and applying for it. Depending on which occupation you have chosen, you can find a place for your apprenticeship using one of the various online job markets for apprenticeships. Apprenticeships for a large range of occupations can be found in the Federal Employment Agency’s job listings. Select “Ausbildung” in the “Sie suchen” drop-down menu and start your search. A list of places for apprenticeships for different occupations in companies around Germany will be displayed. If you are looking for vocational training in crafts, we recommend that you use the “Lehrstellenradar” (online search tool for vocational training positions; only available in German) of the German Chamber of Crafts. Simply click on a flag on the map and then select “Lehrstellenangebote”. This will take you to the regional job listings where you can search for apprenticeships, e.g. in mechatronics or electronic engineering. If you are looking for vocational training in the trade or commercial sector, we recommend the job site of the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK).

Another option for finding the right vocational training programme can be specific job and vocational training fairs. You can get in touch with educational experts to find out which vocational training programme is the most suitable for you. The Planet-Beruf.de website provides you with an overview on current and upcoming fairs.

Please beware

Make sure that you submit your application for an apprenticeship in good time. Many companies advertise vacancies for apprenticeships as early as one year in advance. Vocational training usually starts in August or September.

Admission requirements

Do you have remaining questions about finding a vocational training place? You are welcome to use the personal counselling service of the Federal Employment Agency (BA). Contact us directly via chat or send an e-mail to the following e-mail address: make-it-in-germany@arbeitsagentur.de. Moreover, you can get advice via the “Working and Living in Germany” Hotline in German and English by calling the following phone number: +49 30 1815 - 1111.   

How to apply correctly

When you have found a vacancy you are interested in, do not hesitate to apply. At Planet-Beruf.de you will find a step-by-step guide to writing applications for apprenticeships. The website also tells you how to prepare for a job interview and what should be included in your employment contract. Further information on application procedures in Germany is available in our website's “Applying for a job” section.

Language courses

Having a command of the German language will be a major advantage. After all, the working language at the company where you will train and your vocational school will be German. Some companies offer German language courses for young apprentices from abroad or support their efforts to improve their German skills in some way or another. Thus, when you apply for an apprenticeship, we suggest you inquire in what way the company will support you in improving your German. Or you can already learn German in your home country, for example at a Goethe-Institut. Addresses of Goethe-Instituts can be found on our interactive world map.

Further information on where else you can learn German can be found in our Learning German section.

Your rights and obligations

Vocational training in Germany is regulated by law. This has many advantages for you, as the law serves to protect your rights. For example, the company you work for as part of your dual vocational training programme has to pay you a monthly remuneration and provide all the equipment that you need for vocational training, such as tools or safety equipment. The law also stipulates that the tasks you are given at your company have to contribute to your vocational training, in other words, your company is obligated to teach the skills and expertise you require in your occupation.

The law also defines your obligations as an apprentice towards your company. Your most important obligation is to learn. What does that mean? When you follow vocational training, you are expected to make an effort to learn your trade. For example, you have to attend classes at your vocational school on a regular basis, make sure to call in sick at your company and provide a doctor’s note when you fall ill.

Are you from a non-EU country and are unable to complete your vocational training, e.g. due to illness? According to Section 16a (4) of the Residence Act (AufenthG), you will then be given the opportunity to stay in Germany for another 6 months to find another vocational training position.

Further information on your rights and obligations during vocational training is can be found on the Federal Employment Agency's website.

Moving and settling in

In order to really feel at home in Germany, there are a number of basics to sort out first. First, you need to find a place to live. Some companies provide accommodation for apprentices from abroad. Others may help you find a suitable flat. The best thing to do is to ask your employer for help. If you would rather look for a flat yourself, you can find some useful tips in our Housing & Mobility section.

Going out with friends, doing sports or going shopping – Germany offers plenty of opportunities for leisure activities that you can enjoy with your friends. Further information on this topic can be found in our Living in Germany section.

Information on the web

  1. Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) Info paper: The dual vocational training system in Germany
  2. Federal Employment Agency (BA) Tips for writing job applications
  3. Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) Profiles of several occupations requiring vocational training
  4. Planet Beruf Find out which profession is best for you
  5. Youth migration services The advice portal for your life in Germany

Do you have any questions?

Let us advise you on your opportunities to work and live in Germany. Our experts will support you with questions regarding job search, visa, recognition and learning German. 

You can find out more about the various contact options by clicking on one of the icons in the bar below.

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