A future you can work towards
Train for a career in Germany and earn while you learn.
Ausbildung is Germany's job-training route. You learn in a real company, study at a vocational school, and usually receive a monthly training allowance. You do not need to understand every form today. Start by building your German.
Show me how to start320+different careers to explore through recognised trainingFederal Employment Agency
2-3.5 yrslearning at a company and vocational schoolFederal Employment Agency
B1the usual minimum German target for the training visaMake it in Germany
~1 yearbefore training is when many applications beginFederal Employment Agency
What does Ausbildung actually mean?
Learn a real job by doing it.
You join a company as a trainee and learn the work with experienced people. You also attend vocational school for theory and workplace knowledge. Most dual Ausbildung programmes pay a monthly training allowance, although the amount differs by career, place, and year.
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Your four-step plan
Start with German. Discover careers as you improve.
B1 is normally expected for the vocational training visa. B2 gives you a stronger base for interviews, workplace conversations, and learning at vocational school.
Start with A1
Never studied German? That is completely fine. Begin with everyday words, simple sentences, and speaking practice from your first level.
Grow to B1 or B2
Build the German you need for interviews, daily life, vocational school, and communicating confidently at work.
Explore real careers
As your German improves, discover Ausbildung options that suit your interests, education, and strengths.
Apply when you are ready
Prepare your German CV and interviews, apply to employers, and work through the contract and visa steps with the required official documents.
Careers you could explore
What kind of work sounds like you?
Germany has hundreds of recognised training occupations, from healthcare and technology to hospitality and skilled trades. Openings and requirements change, so use these as ideas to explore rather than guaranteed placements.
HealthcareIT and technologyMechatronicsHospitalityLogisticsSkilled trades
Where could you begin?
Three quick questions. One simple next step.
You do not need German, a chosen career, or a finished application to use this guide. It will help you see what to focus on first.
You have time to prepare. Many Ausbildung applications begin around a year before the training start date.
Step 1 of 3
Which stage are you at?
Use official information.
Requirements change and individual cases differ. These links are the primary references behind the facts on this page.