Vocational Training System in Germany

Vocational training is aimed at school leavers who want to learn in a practical setting and start their working life as early as possible. It is also an attractive option for international applicants, offering the chance to gain a recognised qualification, practical work experience and long-term prospects in Germany.

Company-based training is at the heart of the German training system. Trainees work in a training company and attend a vocational school one or two days a week. This dual education enables trainees to learn in a practical setting while also acquiring theoretical knowledge.

Organisation and structure of company-based training

• Introduction and induction into the company: At the start of their training, dual trainees receive a comprehensive introduction to the company, its tasks and processes. The trainer is responsible for answering any questions the trainees may have. 
• Theory lessons at vocational school: Trainees attend vocational school alongside their work at the company. The lessons cover specialist theory, economics and social studies, as well as general subjects such as English and mathematics. The vocational school supports the trainees in acquiring the theoretical knowledge they need for their everyday work.
• Practical implementation in the company: During the phases in the company, the trainees put what they have learned directly into practice. They take on tasks at the company and learn from experienced colleagues.
• Final examination: At the end of the training programme, there is a final examination. It consists of a practical part at the company and a written examination at the vocational school. Upon successful completion, the trainees receive a recognised vocational qualification.

Duration and Qualification

• Usually three years
• Qualification with a state examination and a recognised vocational qualification

Remuneration

• Monthly training salary between €200 and €750, depending on the industry and year
• Possibility of financial assistance through the vocational training allowance (BAB)

Typical Vocational Training Occupations

• Office management assistant
• Mechatronics engineer
• Industrial clerk

In school-based training, trainees learn at a vocational school, technical college or vocational college. Practical experience is gained through longer internships in companies. School-based training combines intensive theoretical instruction with practical phases that help trainees apply what they have learned.

Organisation and Structure of School-Based Training

• Vocational school lessons: At the beginning of school-based training, the focus is on lessons at a vocational school. Here, both job-related specialist knowledge and general education subjects are taught. 
• Internships: Longer internships in the company complement the school-based training and offer trainees the opportunity to apply theory in practice and gain valuable professional experience. 
• Final examination: At the end of the training, there is an examination, which can vary in structure depending on the profession and educational institution. It comprises both theoretical and practical components and leads to a state-recognised certificate. 

Duration and Qualification 

• two to four years, depending on the profession and school
• Qualification with a state-recognised certificate

Costs and Financing

• Generally, no remuneration
• Public schools are usually free of charge, and private schools may charge fees
• Possibility of financial assistance through BAföG training grants

Typical school-based Training Occupations:

• Educator
• Geriatric nurse
• Graphic designer

• Chambers of industry and commerce and chambers of crafts are responsible for organising and monitoring in-company training. They ensure that training content complies with legal requirements, offer advisory services and conduct examinations at the end of training.
• Vocational schools teach the theoretical basics and provide technical training for trainees. They ensure that the theory aligns with the company's practical work, and that trainees learn all the topics relevant to their vocational qualification.
• Each training programme is regulated by training regulations that specify the exact requirements, training content, duration and examinations. This ensures that training in Germany is uniform and of high quality.