Part-time Ausbildung (Teilzeit-Ausbildung): Requirements and benefits for mothers and fathers

In Germany, the state offers part-time vocational training (Teilzeit-Ausbildung) for people who find it difficult to work full-time—especially mothers and fathers, family caregivers, or those with health or social reasons. This model is flexible and legally supported under § 7a of the Vocational Training Act (BBiG).

Who is part-time Ausbildung suitable for?

• Mothers or fathers raising young children (up to school age)

• People caring for ill relatives (Pflegeverantwortung)

• People with disabilities or chronic illnesses

• Anyone with special circumstances that prevent full-time training

Legal requirements
Condition: Approval from the training company
Explanation: The company must agree to switch the training to part-time

Condition: Written contract
Explanation: The original contract must be amended or a new one signed, specifying the working hours

Condition: Minimum hours
Explanation: At least 25 hours per week (company + vocational school)

Condition: Flexible scheduling
Explanation: Daily working hours can be reduced or distributed as needed

Condition: Attendance at Berufsschule is mandatory
Explanation: Full attendance at vocational school must continue

Duration of part-time Ausbildung

• In principle, the training duration can remain the same.

• However, it is often extended proportionally to the reduced working hours.
  Example:
  If the Ausbildung normally lasts 3 years full-time and you reduce working hours by 25%, it may extend to 3 years and 9 months.

Salary in part-time Ausbildung

• Pay usually decreases according to the reduced hours.

• In some cases, the company may still pay the full salary to support the trainee.

• Additional support may be available, such as BAB, Wohngeld, or other benefits (e.g., Kinderzuschlag, partial Bürgergeld).

Benefits for mothers and fathers
Benefit: Flexible timing
Explanation: Training hours can be aligned with daycare and school schedules

Benefit: Childcare
Explanation: You can keep building your career without neglecting childcare responsibilities

Benefit: Continuity in your career path
Explanation: You don’t have to postpone training for years due to parenthood

Benefit: Additional financial support
Explanation: It may be possible to combine training with support from Jobcenter or Familienkasse

Benefit: Work–family balance
Explanation: Especially suitable for low-income families with young children

How to start a part-time Ausbildung

• Choose a suitable occupation

• Speak early with the training company (Betrieb) about part-time training

• Agree on a clear schedule and put it in the contract

• Contact IHK or HWK to review and document the agreement legally

• Don’t forget to apply for relevant financial support (BAB, Kinderzuschlag …)

Important notes

• Vocational school (Berufsschule) hours cannot be reduced—they remain full.

• Part-time Ausbildung is available at any age, not only for young people.

• Switching from full-time to part-time during training is possible if both sides agree.

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ـ* The website’s writers and editors aim 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 guidance.