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What Is German Ausbildung?
2026 Guide
Every detail of the German vocational training model that pays you a salary while you learn and opens doors to a job on graduation.
What Is Ausbildung?
Ausbildung is Germany’s vocational training model, known as the "dual education system" (duales Ausbildungssystem), combining classroom theory with on-the-job practice. Participants spend part of the week at a vocational school (Berufsschule) and the rest working at the company they’ve signed a contract with.
Programs last between 2 and 3.5 years depending on the field, and on graduation you earn a state-approved vocational diploma valid across Germany.
The Biggest Difference: A Salary Throughout Training
The feature that sets Ausbildung apart from conventional education is that you receive a regular monthly training salary (Ausbildungsvergütung) from the company throughout the program. The salary varies by field, city, and training year, and increases gradually each year — letting you sustain your education with your own income.
Who Can Apply?
- At least a high school graduate (the field you graduated in doesn’t matter)
- B1-level German (some fields such as healthcare require B2)
- Motivated candidates able to commit to a 2–3.5 year training process
There is no official upper age limit; applications in the 18–35 age range are the most common.
Which Fields Are Popular?
The fields that stand out in applications from Turkey are healthcare professions — especially nursing and elder care — hospitality and gastronomy, technical fields like electrical and mechatronics, and logistics and retail. The healthcare field offers the strongest employment guarantee due to Germany’s staffing shortage.
How Does the Process Work?
- Field selection: Identifying the field that fits your profile and goals
- Language prep: Bringing your German level to the target
- Employer matching: Finding the company you’ll sign a contract with
- Contract and visa: Signing your Ausbildung contract and applying for a visa
- Arrival in Germany: Housing and initial settling in
What Happens After Graduation?
Ausbildung graduates can continue working in Germany with their vocational diploma; they can strengthen their residence rights under certain conditions and advance their careers through further specialization training (Weiterbildung).
If you’re wondering whether Ausbildung is right for you, check out our Ausbildung service page or book a free consultation.