What is Aufstiegs-BAföG?
Aufstiegs-BAföG is a government funding program for people who want to obtain an advanced vocational qualification (Aufstiegsfortbildung), such as:

• A Meister certificate in skilled trades (Handwerk)

• A Technician qualification in technical fields

• A Fachwirt qualification in business and administration

• Educator (Erzieher) or Heilerziehungspfleger in the social sector

Its former full name was: Meister-BAföG.
It covers course fees, living costs, and childcare support.

Who can receive Aufstiegs-BAföG?

• Completed initial qualification: a completed vocational training (Ausbildung) or an officially recognized professional certificate

• Approved advanced training: a Weiterbildung under the AFBG, leading to a higher qualification (for example, Meister)

• Age and nationality: no age limit – includes Germans and certain foreign residents with permanent or temporary residence under conditions

• Part-time or full-time: you can apply for both – the amount differs

What does the funding include?

• Course fees (Lehrgangskosten): up to €15,000 – 40% grant, the remainder as a low-interest KfW loan

• Exam costs: covered within the funding

• Living support (full-time): monthly support up to around €963 per person, plus rent allowance and childcare

• Childcare support: €150 per month for each child under 14

• Rent allowance: up to €360 per month for singles (more for married people / with children)

• Success bonus: 50% of the loan can be forgiven after passing the final exam

How to apply

1. Choose a recognized Weiterbildung
   The program must lead to an officially recognized qualification under the AFBG.
   Examples: Meister school, technical college (Fachschule für Technik), Wirtschaftsfachwirt IHK …

2. Apply via the official portal:
   https://www.aufstiegs-bafoeg.de

3. Required documents may include:

• Official application form

• Proof of admission/enrolment in the training program

• Proof of your previous vocational qualification

• Proof of residence and income (if applicable)

4. Responsible authority:
   The local Amt für Ausbildungsförderung (often within the Jobcenter or town hall/Rathaus)

Important points

• Duration: usually 2 years, depending on the type of Weiterbildung

• Deadline: submit the application before the course starts

• No financial guarantee required: the KfW loan is facilitated and backed by the state

• You can apply more than once: if you pursue a new qualification at a higher level

Example funding calculation

• Course fees: €7,000

• Grant 40% = €2,800 (non-repayable)

• Loan 60% = €4,200 (partly forgivable after final success)

• Living support: €963/month × 24 months = €23,112

• Support for two children: €150 × 2 × 24 = €7,200

Possible total: more than €30,000 in direct funding + grants + childcare support

When is it recommended to apply?

• If you finished an Ausbildung and are working, and you want a higher qualification

• If you are unemployed and want stronger career prospects in an in-demand field (for example, Fachwirt im Gesundheitswesen)

• If you want to study full-time without major personal financing

ـ* The website’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by 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 relevant authorities for confirmed information.