Requirements for the Initial Application
An initial application for Vocational Training Assistance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe) can be submitted if the trainee is completing a recognized dual Vocational Training (Ausbildung) and meets the financial requirements. This particularly includes that the income of the trainee and their parents is insufficient to cover living expenses during the training.
Submission of the Initial Application
The initial application must be submitted to the employment agency at the trainee’s place of residence. Alternatively, the application can be submitted online via the portal of the Federal Employment Agency. It is important that the application is fully completed and all required documents are attached.
Required Documents
The following documents are required for the application:
- Proof of the training position (e.g., training contract)
- Certificate of residence of the main residence
- Income statements of the parents or spouse
- Proof of Vocational Training Compensation (Ausbildungsvergütung)
- Rental agreement, if the trainee lives outside the parental home
Deadline for Application Submission
There is no legal deadline for submitting the application; however, the Vocational Training Assistance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe) is only paid retrospectively from the month of application. Therefore, the application should be submitted as early as possible, ideally before the start of the training.
Processing Time of the Initial Application
The processing time usually takes four to six weeks. To avoid delays, all documents should be submitted in full. If documents are missing, the employment agency sets a deadline for submission.
Approval Notice
After reviewing the application, the trainee will receive a written approval notice, in which the amount of the approved BAB benefit and the approval period are specified. The notice usually applies for twelve months.
Reporting Changes
While receiving BAB, the trainee is required to immediately inform the employment agency of any changes in their personal or financial circumstances. This includes, for example:
- Changes in living situation (e.g., moving)
- Changes in income situation
- Change or termination of the training
Important Notes
To ensure quick processing, trainees should submit the initial application early and provide all required proofs in full. If there are uncertainties regarding the application process or required documents, the employment agency offers comprehensive consultation services.