A Bildungsgutschein is an official funding voucher issued by the Agentur für Arbeit or the Jobcenter in Germany. It can cover the costs of training or vocational upskilling—and sometimes also a preparatory internship (Vorbereitungspraktikum) before starting an Ausbildung or Weiterbildung.
Who is eligible for a Bildungsgutschein?
You may qualify if you are:
| Situation | Details |
|---|---|
| Registered as job-seeking (arbeitsuchend) | Through the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit |
| Unemployed (arbeitslos) and officially registered | And you have a plan to return to the labor market |
| At risk of job loss (termination, insolvency) | Considered a funding-eligible person |
| In need of extra labor-market integration support | e.g., refugees, mothers returning to work, older applicants, people without qualifications |
| Preparing for Ausbildung or Weiterbildung | When you must prove abilities or close knowledge gaps before entry |
Can a Praktikum be funded via the Bildungsgutschein?
Yes—but only under two key conditions:
It must be part of an official training measure (e.g., preparation for Ausbildung, an EQ program, or an activation measure).
It must be provided through an AZAV-certified provider (AZAV-Träger)—i.e., a provider officially approved by the employment agency.
What does the Bildungsgutschein cover?
| Item | Covered? |
|---|---|
| Training/measure fees | Yes |
| Exam fees or certificates | Yes |
| Learning materials | Yes |
| Travel costs | Possibly, usually via a separate request |
| Living costs (Unterhalt) | No—however, it can be combined with Bürgergeld or ALG I/II |
How to get it
Book an appointment with your advisor at the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit.
Prepare a motivation letter (Motivationsschreiben) explaining why you need the measure.
Show clearly how it will help you enter an Ausbildung or the job market.
Obtain approval for the Bildungsgutschein.
Enroll in the suitable program and start.
Practical example:
A refugee woman completed B2 and wants to start an Ausbildung in nursing, but she needs a 3-month practical preparation first. The company won’t pay. She received a Bildungsgutschein from the Jobcenter to fund the preparation and started a nursing preparation program.
— Disclaimer —
The editorial team aims to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors or unconfirmed details may occur. Please treat this content as initial guidance and consult the relevant authorities for confirmed information.
