Eligible School Types for the Second Educational Path
Eligible school types that belong to the second educational path include:
- Evening Gymnasiums: Schools where working individuals can complete their Abitur part-time.
- Colleges: Full-time schools that prepare students for the Abitur, allowing those with work experience to achieve a higher school diploma.
- Vocational Secondary Schools and Technical Secondary Schools: Schools that lead to a Fachhochschulreife or Abitur.
- Evening Realschulen: Institutions where employed individuals can catch up on their intermediate certificate part-time.
Requirements for Funding
To receive BAföG during the second educational path, certain requirements must be met:
- The applicant must be enrolled in an eligible school type.
- The vocational training must be undertaken in full-time format, as part-time training is usually not funded.
- The applicant must not have exceeded the age of 30 at the start of the training. For colleges, the age limit is 35 years.
- The personal and financial criteria, such as income and asset limits, must be complied with.
Amount of Funding
The amount of BAföG funding for the second educational path is based on the same need rates as other training forms. This includes the basic needs, possible housing allowances, and additional for health and long-term care insurance. Individuals who manage their own household during the training typically receive higher funding than applicants living with their parents.
Special Regulations for the Second Educational Path
In contrast to the funding of initial training, BAföG for the second educational path is usually independent of parental income. This means that the parents’ income is not counted in the calculation of the funding amount. This regulation particularly applies to colleges, evening gymnasiums, and evening secondary schools, as it is assumed that applicants already possess a certain level of independence and work experience.
Required Documents for Application
The following documents are required for applying for BAföG in the second educational path:
- Proof of enrollment at the school of the second educational path.
- If applicable, proof of prior work experience or already obtained qualifications.
- Proof of personal income and assets.
Funding Duration
The funding in the second educational path is granted for the regular duration of vocational training (Ausbildung). If the training extends for valid reasons, such as illness or child care, funding can be granted beyond the standard period under certain conditions.
Application Process
The application for BAföG in the second educational path is submitted to the responsible office for educational funding at the applicant’s place of residence. Since the funding is usually independent of parental income, income verification of the parents often does not need to be submitted. It is advisable to submit the application in a timely manner before the training begins to ensure continuous funding.
Objection in Case of Rejection
If the application for BAföG in the second educational path is denied, there is an option to file an objection. The objection must be submitted in writing to the responsible office for educational funding and should be supported by additional documentation.