Working instead of Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in Germany 2025

Self-employment or starting a business presents an interesting alternative to commencing Vocational Training (Ausbildung) and offers the opportunity to implement one's own business ideas and gain entrepreneurial experience. Especially for individuals who seek professional independence early on or wish to develop creative business ideas, self-employment can be an attractive path. However, it requires a high degree of personal responsibility, organizational talent, and entrepreneurial thinking. The path to self-employment comes with risks but also offers chances for personal and financial independence.

An internship in Germany offers the opportunity to gain practical insights into various career fields and to acquire initial professional experience. It serves as a sensible alternative to immediately beginning vocational training (Ausbildung), especially for individuals who wish to explore their professional interests or orient themselves in their careers. Internships can be undertaken before, during, or after graduation, and are often an important decision-making aid when choosing the right vocational training (Ausbildung) profession or field of study. They provide the chance to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience and help to build professional networks.

Direct entry into the labor market in Germany offers an alternative to traditional vocational training (Berufsausbildung). This option is primarily aimed at individuals who wish to enter the workforce quickly or already possess certain professional skills. Entry typically occurs through unskilled or skilled work, internships, trainee programs, or professional experience. Career changers are often found in professions with a high demand for labor, such as in the trades, healthcare, or the service sector.