Definition of Vocational Training Assistance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe)
The Vocational Training Assistance (BAB) is a government benefit provided by the Employment Agency. It is directed at apprentices who are in a recognized dual vocational training (Ausbildung) program and whose own income, as well as that of their parents or spouse, is insufficient to cover living expenses during the training period. BAB aims to avoid financial bottlenecks and facilitate a successful vocational training (Ausbildung).
Purpose of Vocational Training Assistance
The primary purpose of the Vocational Training Assistance (BAB) is to promote the professional training of young individuals who require support due to their financial situation. The assistance is designed to enable apprentices to complete their training even if they live far from their parental home or if the vocational training compensation alone is not enough to cover their living costs.
Funding Goal
BAB contributes to reducing social inequalities by facilitating access to vocational training (Ausbildung) for apprentices regardless of their families’ financial situation. The financial support is intended to prevent apprentices from having to drop out of their training for financial reasons.
Target Group of Vocational Training Assistance
The Vocational Training Assistance is aimed at:
- Apprentices in a recognized dual vocational training (Ausbildung) program
- Participants in vocational preparatory measures
- Apprentices whose training company is located far from their parental home and therefore require their own accommodation
BAB is not intended for school-based training or university studies.
Scope of Benefits
The amount of the BAB benefit is calculated individually and is based on the apprentice’s needs. Eligible costs include:
- Rent and additional costs
- Food and living expenses
- Travel costs to the training company and vocational school
- Costs for work clothing
The exact need is assessed based on the personal and financial circumstances of the applicant.
Non-repayable Assistance
The Vocational Training Assistance (BAB) is granted as a grant and does not have to be repaid. This distinguishes it from other training supports like BAföG, where part of the benefit is granted as a loan.
Importance for Vocational Training (Ausbildung) Financing
BAB represents an important supplement to vocational training compensation (Ausbildungsvergütung) and enables many apprentices to successfully complete their training despite limited financial resources. The support is particularly helpful for apprentices who need to finance their own accommodation during training or whose parents are not financially able to support them adequately.