Duales System
The dual vocational training (Ausbildung) system is the most common form of vocational training (Ausbildung) in Germany. It combines theoretical content taught in vocational schools with practical experience in businesses. Apprentices usually spend 3 to 4 days a week in the training company and 1 to 2 days in the vocational school. The training typically lasts between two and three and a half years and ends with a final exam before the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or the Chamber of Crafts (HWK).
Schulische Ausbildung
School-based training primarily takes place in vocational or technical schools. It is especially aimed at professions in health and social sectors, commercial fields, or technical occupations. Examples of professions learned through school-based training include educators, physiotherapists, or pharmaceutical-technical assistants (PTA). This type of training is mostly full-time, sometimes with internships in companies, and often concludes with a state examination. The duration varies depending on the profession and can be up to three years.
Überbetriebliche Ausbildung
Inter-company training is often offered in trades where companies cannot convey all necessary training content. This training combines company-based and inter-company training units in specialized training centers. The apprentices mainly work in the company, but regularly attend training in external facilities to acquire specific knowledge not covered by the company. This type of training is mainly applied in smaller companies that do not have sufficient resources.
Teilzeitausbildung
Part-time training is designed for individuals who, due to family commitments or health reasons, cannot complete full-time training. The content and completion of the training are identical to full-time training, but the daily or weekly working hours are reduced. This extends the total duration of the training accordingly.
Duale Studiengänge
Dual study programs combine company training with university education. They offer both an academic degree and a professional qualification. This form of training is becoming increasingly popular, especially in technical and economic professions. The duration varies by program but usually ranges between three and four years. Dual study programs are particularly attractive for people who wish to acquire theoretical and practical skills simultaneously.
Berufsvorbereitende Bildungsmaßnahmen (BvB)
Preparatory vocational education measures are aimed at young people and young adults who have not yet found a training position or are not sufficiently prepared for training. In these measures, fundamental professional skills can be acquired, and career fields explored. These measures are usually offered by educational providers and supported by the Employment Agency.