Vocational Preparation Training Measures (BvB)
The Federal Employment Agency offers Vocational Preparation Training Measures (BvB) specifically designed for young people without a school-leaving certificate. These measures prepare participants for an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) by providing basic knowledge and enabling internships in various companies. At the end of the program, participants can obtain a school-leaving certificate.
Support from the Employment Agency
The career counseling service of the Employment Agency helps young people without a school-leaving certificate find apprenticeship (Ausbildung) positions. Through individual counseling sessions and placement into suitable programs or measures, they strive to find appropriate training opportunities. Additionally, the agency offers financial support in the form of Vocational Training Allowance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe, BAB).
Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) in Craft Trades
Many craft professions place less emphasis on formal school qualifications and more on practical skills and motivation. In these industries, there are often opportunities to begin an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) even without a school-leaving certificate. Internships or a preliminary interview with the training company are particularly important here to demonstrate interest and abilities.
Support Programs of the Chambers
Chambers of Crafts and Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK) offer special programs and projects that facilitate entry into an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) for young people without a school-leaving certificate. These programs provide support in career orientation, arrange internships, and often offer the possibility to obtain a school-leaving certificate during the apprenticeship (Ausbildung).
Internships as Entry Points
Internships are a good way to find an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) position despite lacking a school-leaving certificate. They offer the opportunity to prove oneself directly in the company and convince the employer of one’s motivation and performance capability. In many cases, an internship can lead to an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) position.
Career Entry Year (BEJ) and Basic Vocational Training Year (BGJ)
Some federal states offer the Career Entry Year (BEJ) or the Basic Vocational Training Year (BGJ), which facilitate entry into an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) for young people without a school-leaving certificate. During these one-year programs, participants receive both classroom instruction and practical experience in various professional fields. At the end of these programs, there is often the possibility to obtain a secondary school certificate.
Youth Vocational Assistance
Youth vocational assistance institutions support young people without a school-leaving certificate through targeted counseling, career orientation, and practical assistance. These institutions help find apprenticeship (Ausbildung) positions, write applications, and often offer training to impart fundamental knowledge.
Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) Preparation Programs (AV) at Vocational Schools
Many vocational schools offer special Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) Preparation Programs (AV) for young people without a school-leaving certificate. These programs combine theoretical instruction with practical experiences and aim to prepare young people for an apprenticeship (Ausbildung). At the same time, it is possible to catch up on a school-leaving certificate within these programs.