The Federal Employment Agency’s vocational training allowance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe, BAB) supports initial company-based or external training under certain conditions. The amount depends on assessed need, your own income and, where applicable, the income of your parents or partner. Living away from home, distance, age, and family circumstances may affect the calculation. School-based training is generally not covered by vocational training allowance; depending on the type of school and your circumstances, student BAföG may be available instead. Dual training is generally not funded through BAföG. Any possible housing benefit entitlement must also be checked separately: a person living alone who is entitled in principle to vocational training allowance or BAföG is usually excluded from housing benefit, even if they do not actually receive the funding. Special checks apply to households with other people. The time of application and the specific requirements also matter; vocational training allowance is generally counted from the month you apply. Before training begins, clarify which funding fits the type of training and apply early to the responsible body.
Training situation before vocational training in Germany
Whether training in Germany can be supported through vocational training allowance, BAföG, or another form of assistance depends mainly on the type of training and personal circumstances. Vocational training allowance may be available under certain conditions for company-based or external training; school-based training may qualify for BAföG depending on the type of school.
Tip
First check whether your training is company-based or school-based, because that determines which funding may be available. Apply for the appropriate support early: for vocational training allowance, the application month counts, and a late application may cost you funding.