Start vocational training: check support
2 tasks in suggested order
1. Conclude and check the apprenticeship contract
Before a dual vocational training programme starts, an apprenticeship contract must be concluded and recorded in writing. It covers items such as start, duration, pay, working time, leave, probation and termination rules.
Before the training starts.
With the training company; the competent chamber (e.g. IHK/HWK) checks/registers the contract under the applicable process.
Personal details and onboarding documents requested by the company; minors also need a guardian’s signature.
Before signing, check pay, working time, leave, probation and training objective.
Official source: Bundesagentur für Arbeit
2. Check entitlement to vocational training allowance (BAB)
If applicable: If your training pay and other available funds are not enough to cover your living costs.
For in-company or external vocational training, Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe (BAB) can help with living costs if certain conditions are met.
Check and apply as early as possible before training starts; BAB is paid at the earliest from the month of application and not before the training begins.
Federal Employment Agency, via the official BAB application or the responsible Agentur für Arbeit.
Training contract, information about training pay and any income evidence requested in the application.
Purely school-based vocational training is not covered by the same BAB rules; other forms of support may be available instead.
Official source: Bundesagentur für Arbeit
