The Erasmus+ program is not only for university students—it also includes trainees in Germany’s Ausbildung system. It offers them a great opportunity to gain vocational experience abroad for a short or medium period within EU countries and some partner countries.
What is Erasmus+ for vocational training?
It is part of Erasmus+ Mobility in Vocational Education and Training (VET) and allows trainees (Auszubildende) to travel abroad (for example, to Italy, Spain, France, etc.) in order to:
do practical training in a foreign company
learn international ways of working
improve language skills and personal competencies
Who can benefit from the program?
trainees enrolled in dual vocational training (Duale Ausbildung)
recent graduates (up to 1 year after graduation)
vocational school (Berufsschule) teachers and company trainers (for training purposes)
How long can the placement abroad last?
short placement: about 2 to 4 weeks
medium placement: about 1 to 3 months
in special cases: up to 12 months (maximum)
Is the placement paid?
Yes. The trainee receives full or partial financial support, which may include:
travel allowance (flight or train tickets)
accommodation support (housing and meals)
additional monthly allowance (personal expenses, depending on the country)
health and travel insurance (covered by the program or the host organization)
What are the goals of the program?
strengthen trainees’ international experience
develop language and intercultural skills
explore different professional environments and methods
improve employability in the European labor market
How can I find an Erasmus+ placement during Ausbildung?
Ask your Berufsschule or your company:
many vocational schools have Erasmus+ partnerships
or the company cooperates with supporting organizations
Contact intermediary organizations such as:
vocational schools with an Erasmus office
IJAB – Specialized Agency for International Youth Work
initiatives such as Berufsausbildung ohne Grenzen
Use websites:
www.erasmusplus.de
www.mobilitaetsberatung.de
Application steps:
talk to your teacher / company supervisor
find a host abroad (training company)
prepare your documents (CV, motivation letter)
join a pre-departure course (language, culture)
travel and start the placement
After returning, trainees receive the Europe-wide recognized Europass Mobility certificate.
Are there special requirements?
approval of the company and the school: coordination between all parties is required
ability to communicate: basic language level (German/English/host-country language)
serious commitment: you represent your country and your institution abroad
Real example:
A German trainee in mechatronics spent 3 weeks in an industrial company in Poland.
They received hands-on training on modern equipment.
They obtained the Europass certificate and a potential future job offer.
Conclusion:
Erasmus+ for VET is an outstanding opportunity for trainees in Germany to develop through a real international experience—gaining skills, friendships, and confidence in a new environment.
ـ* The website’s team of writers and editors strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consulting multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat the information as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
