School Certificates
For an application for a vocational training position (Ausbildungsplatz), the latest school certificates are of great importance. They reflect the current level of achievement and are used by the potential training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb) as proof of academic qualifications. Generally, the last one or two transcripts should be included. Graduation certificates or reports from the most recently attended school are particularly important, as they verify the qualification for the training (Ausbildung).
Internship Certificates
Certificates of completed internships can supplement the attachments. These documents demonstrate practical experience and show that the applicant has already worked in the desired industry or a similar field. Such evidence is especially valuable when it aligns with the intended training (Ausbildung). They provide training companies (Ausbildungsbetriebe) with an overview of the applicant’s existing practical skills and experiences.
Certificates and Certifications
Additional attestations and certifications from language courses, further education, or acquired skills like computer or craft abilities can enhance the application. However, these documents should only be included if they are relevant to the desired training (Ausbildung). For some apprenticeship positions (Ausbildungsplätze), language skills or certificates in areas like information technology or manual skills can be advantageous.
Work Samples
In creative or manual professions, work samples can be beneficial. They demonstrate to the potential training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb) what practical skills the applicant already possesses. Work samples should only be included if they directly relate to the apprenticeship profession (Ausbildungsberuf). Typically, these are examples of projects or tasks created during internships or leisure activities.
Motivation Letter
An optional motivation letter can be added as an attachment to the application. In this letter, the applicant can delve deeper into their motivation for the training (Ausbildung) and highlight particular strengths or interests. It should clearly explain why the applicant has chosen the specific apprenticeship profession (Ausbildungsberuf) and what personal goals they associate with it. A motivation letter is especially useful if it is explicitly requested in the application process or if the applicant wishes to explain special backgrounds or motivations.
References
References, such as recommendations from teachers, employers, or supervisors from internships, can enhance the attachments. They provide the training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb) with an external assessment of the applicant’s abilities and behavior. References should only be included if they are explicitly requested by the training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb). In many cases, references are only requested in later stages of the application process.
Formal Requirements
All attachments should be of high quality. School certificates, attestations, and work samples must be submitted as clean copies. It is advisable to compile all attachments into a single PDF document to ensure an orderly and structured application. Digital attachments should not exceed a file size of 5 MB to guarantee seamless transmission. Additionally, all documents should be clear and legible to avoid hindering the application process.