Vocational training (Ausbildung)
Germany is one of those few countries which have successfully implemented the Vocational training program to fit the major working community of the country. Normally, students 16-18 years old who wish to enter the working pool at the earliest or those who are good at ”Handwerk” opt for an Ausbildung.
This is an apprenticeship wherein the students get practical training directly from the company/ shops (Backer, Metzger (butcher), automotive workshops, etc) and technical knowledge is taught at the school. Depending on the profession chosen, the duration of an Ausbildung covers 3-4 years. For their practical work during this period, the students are paid a salary (which ranges anywhere between 500-1100€ depending on the profession chosen and the number of years completed).
So if I am over 20 years of age, with years of work experience in one sector but not interested to pursue it any further, can’t I wish to pursue a different profession?
Yes, you indeed can. If you have a sound knowledge of the German language (all examinations are conducted in German), if you are not currently registered as a student in one of the German Universities and if you are ready to survive on a meager salary, you are eligible to take up an Ausbildung. While one could approach the Arbeitsamt (Federal Employment agency) to help find the profession suitable for you, it should be considered that,
- They represent the Federal Government and they will advise you to take up a profession that they need most.
- Many of us “Foreigners” come to Germany “Educationally qualified” (with degrees from recognized Universities) and when we turn to pursue a totally different career direction, it could not be always “Welcomed” by all.
Types of Vocational training
So, now that one has decided to pursue a Vocational training, it is very important to know that there are 3 main types of Ausbildung.
- Dual vocational training (“Duale Berufsausbildung”) - typically taught at a Berufsschule with practical experience obtained from companies. This is the most sought out form as it pays the student a minimum salary and has the most job vacancies in the job market. (duration: 2-3.5 years)
- School-based vocational training (“Schulische Ausbildung”) – regular school based training provided at “Berufsfachschule” or “Berufskolleg” with practical on-the-job training being provided only on a complementary and extended basis. Salary is not paid (exception: nursing courses- salary is paid only for the on-the-job training period. (duration: 3-5 years including on-the-job training period)
- Dual vocational degree (“Ausbildungsorientiertes duales Studium”) – this Dual degree is taught by Universities or “Berufsakademie”. It requires German University entrance qualification (completion of Abitur; the German Board examination for Gymnasium students or equivalent). Students receive a certified degree and on-the job-training/work experience (limited to 2 years) certificate. A trainee level salary is paid during training period. (duration: 3-5 years including on-the job-training period)
Kindly note that studies listed here are different and not to be confused with those studied at the German Universities. They are known as Universitäts Studium, and a University degree holder is eligible for higher salary and managerial posts (only to be competed against by a Dual vocational degree (“Ausbildungsorientiertes duales Studium”) holder who has a degree + experience).
Choosing your Professions
The Ausbildung covers a wide range of professions. The website Ausbildung.de actually lists over 600 different courses that aspirants can chose from covering all the 3 different types of Ausbildung described above. The website provides a comprehensive list of different professions and has classified them based on themes, top paid and most chosen categories. If you are certain which line of profession you are willing to pursue, all it takes is choosing where and what course you wish to apply to. If however you are not certain there are professional advisors whose can provide assistance and numerous questionnaires online to help decide.
Application process
Open vocational training positions (ausbildungsplätze) are advertised by companies in a number of websites like Ausbildung.de, indeed.de, stepstone.de, etc, other than the company’s own websites. Mostly, the companies are linked to specific schools and once your application is approved, the companies help you complete the process.