The Federal Employment Agency pays BAB monthly in advance in most cases. Eligibility and the amount depend, among other things, on whether the training qualifies for support, where you live and how far away the training location is. Your age and family situation may also play a role. The agency takes your income and, where applicable, your parents’ or partner’s income into account. The payment therefore does not automatically equal the full amount of recognized need. BAB is intended mainly for initial in-company and non-company-based training; depending on the type of school, student BAföG may be more relevant for school-based training. Apply as early as possible: BAB is generally paid no earlier than the month in which your application is received. Check the approval notice for the support period, monthly amount and income taken into account. You should report changes in income, living arrangements or training to the Federal Employment Agency.
Monthly payments before vocational training in Germany
Vocational training assistance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe, BAB) is paid monthly and can help cover the costs of in-company or non-company-based training. The amount depends on recognized need and is reduced by your own income and, where applicable, the income of your parents or partner.
Tip
Plan around the BAB amount approved for you rather than an assumed maximum, so that rent and regular expenses remain manageable. Since the application month determines the earliest possible start of support, applying early can make a difference.