How to Apply

Applying for an Ausbildung usually means choosing a profession, finding openings, preparing your documents, applying, and attending an interview. This page gives you the overview. The detailed guides go through each step.

The application steps

1. Choose a profession. Compare careers on our Professions page.
2. Check the requirements. See what employers typically expect on our Eligibility page.
3. Check your German level. Employers set a minimum, so read our Language section.
4. Find openings. Look at the official job boards run by the Bundesagentur für Arbeit, the chambers of commerce (IHK) and the craft chambers (Handwerkskammer), and at the career pages of employers.
5. Prepare your documents. See the list below.
6. Apply. Follow each employer’s instructions. Some ask for an email application, others for a form on their website.
7. Interview and tests. Employers may invite shortlisted applicants to an interview, and some use aptitude tests.
8. Training contract. If an employer offers you a place, you receive a training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag). Read it carefully before you sign.

Documents you will usually need

• CV (Lebenslauf)
• Cover letter (Anschreiben) written for the specific employer and profession
• Copies of your school certificates, often with translations
• Language certificates, if you have them
• Proof of work experience or internships, if you have them

When to apply

Employers often recruit several months before training starts, and many programmes begin in late summer or autumn. Exact dates differ by employer and profession, so check each posting.

Protect yourself from fake offers

Legitimate employers and training providers do not ask applicants to pay a fee to secure a training place. If someone asks you for money, treat it as a warning sign and check the employer on its official website before sharing documents or personal data.

Detailed guides

Step-by-step guides on CVs, cover letters, interviews and finding openings will be listed here as they are published.

Last updated: Oct, 9th 2026. Requirements and procedures change, so confirm details with the employer or the official source before you apply.