When a Follow-up Application is Necessary
A follow-up application must always be submitted when the current approval period expires. The duration of an approval period is typically twelve months. To ensure continuous funding, the application should be submitted in a timely manner before the expiration of this period.
Required Documents for the Follow-up Application
Compared to the initial application, fewer documents are usually required for the follow-up application. However, some basic documents must still be submitted to review the continuation of funding. The most important documents include:
- Current Certificate from the Vocational Institution: This confirms that the applicant is still in vocational training.
- Income Statements of Parents: Typically, the latest tax assessment from the penultimate calendar year is required, provided the income situation of the parents has changed.
- Proof of Own Income: If the applicant earns their own income, current payslips or proof of other income must be submitted.
- Asset Proof: A current proof of the applicant’s assets is required if there have been changes in the assets.
Application Forms for the Follow-up Application
Generally, fewer forms need to be completed for the follow-up application than for the initial application. The required forms include:
- Form 1: Application for Vocational Training Funding (Follow-up Application)
- Form 2: Certificate from the Vocational Institution
- Form 3: Declaration of Parents’ Income (only required if the income has changed)
These forms can be collected at the responsible BAföG office or downloaded and filled out online via the portal BAföG-Digital.
Submission Methods
The follow-up application can be submitted in the same ways as the initial application:
- Personally: Direct submission at the responsible BAföG office.
- By Mail: Sending the complete documents by post.
- Online: Submission via the BAföG-Digital portal, which allows for digital processing.
Changes Compared to the Initial Application
If there are significant changes compared to the initial application, such as a change of residence, change of marital status, or changes in personal income, these changes must be indicated in the follow-up application and substantiated with corresponding proof. The Office for Vocational Training Funding considers these changes when calculating the new amount of funding.
Important Notes for the Application Process
To avoid delays in the continuation of funding, the follow-up application should be submitted in a timely manner and fully completed. In particular, proof of any changes in income from the parents and own income should be current. Consulting the responsible BAföG office can be helpful if there are uncertainties about the necessary documents.
Appeal in Case of Rejection of the Follow-up Application
If the follow-up application is rejected, there is the option to file an appeal. The appeal must be made in writing and should be well justified. If necessary, additional proof can be submitted to substantiate the claim for continued funding.