Apply for an Education Voucher in Germany: A Detailed Guide

What if you could break out of unemployment or an unstable job and retrain for something better, without paying a cent?

In Germany, you can. The Bildungsgutschein, or education voucher, covers the full cost of vocational training, approved language courses, and other certified programs that boost your chances on the job market. If you’ve been laid off, are stuck in a dead-end job, or want to return to work after a break, this program can give you the support you need to start fresh and finish strong.

Here’s how it works, who it’s for, and how to get one.

What Is the Bildungsgutschein?

The Bildungsgutschein (literally “education voucher”) is a funding measure issued by the German Federal Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter). It’s designed to help people get back into the job market by subsidizing certified training programs that build in-demand skills. The Bildungsgutschein covers the full cost of the training or education program you choose. 

There are a few main types of training the Bildungsgutschein supports:

• Weiterbildung (continuing education). Short- to mid-term courses that sharpen skills in areas like data, coding, marketing, or project management.
• Umschulung (retraining). Longer, qualification-based programs (often 1–2 years) to switch careers — for example, becoming an IT specialist or office admin.
• Job-specific certificate programs. Fast, focused bootcamps that help you land a job quickly in high-demand fields.

Training programs must be AZAV-certified to qualify, which ensures that the education provider meets government standards. Popular tracks include data and AI, logistics, software development, project management, and healthcare — sectors with real demand and strong job placement rates.

What Costs Does a Bildungsgutschein Cover?

When studying with a Bildungsgutschein, the following costs may be reimbursed:

• Education course fees and assessment/exam fees
• Any travel expenses related to your course
• Costs for accommodation and meals away from home (if necessary as part of your studies)
• Childcare expenses incurred as a result of the course

You can find more information about the maximum reimbursement for each of these costs on the official Bundesagentur für Arbeit website.

It’s important to note: not everyone qualifies. So first of all, let’s make sure you’re actually eligible to apply for an education voucher.

Who Is Eligible for a Bildungsgutschein?

The Bildungsgutschein is meant for people who are unemployed or at risk of losing their job. To qualify, you need to meet specific criteria and make a strong case for why training is necessary for your employment situation.

You may receive an education voucher if you:

• Live in Germany
• Are looking for a job and registered as a job seeker
• Have received a termination notice 
• Are in short-time work (Kurzarbeit) or a job that’s clearly unstable
• Are returning to the workforce after a break (e.g. parental leave)
• Are in a role with outdated qualifications, and continuing education would help you stay employable

If you’re securely employed with no sign of job loss, you won’t be eligible. But if your role is on shaky ground, outdated, or blocking you from moving forward, you may have a strong case, especially if the training clearly improves your job prospects. Keep in mind that you must have worked and paid into the German social insurance system for at least 12 months within the last 30 months to be eligible for the Bildungsgutschein.

The most important thing is to demonstrate that the training is necessary for you to re-enter or stay in the workforce. That’s what your career advisor will evaluate when deciding whether to issue a voucher.

Which Education Program Is Right for You?

Further training and retraining can be the path to professional fulfillment and an exciting new career. Regular professional development is also key for people who want to remain successful in their field.

However, not every further training course that sounds good is really suitable for you and your career. Before choosing a Bildungsgutschein-funded program, you should always ask yourself first:

• Do you need new skills that you lack for your work?
• Does further training improve your chances on the job market or in your existing job in the long term?
• Are there many job openings in the profession for which you want to qualify?
• Does the training really provide you with the in-depth, specialized knowledge you need?
• Is the training provider of your choice accredited by the state and does it offer subsidized further training?

How to Apply for a Bildungsgutschein

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for your education voucher. Here's how to approach the process with a clear plan and improve your chances of getting approved.

1. Choose a Certified Course

Have a particular course in mind when you ask the employment agency to subsidize it. The more prepared you are, the easier it is to show how the course connects to real job opportunities and why you should receive a training voucher to fund it.

Your chosen course must accept educational vouchers and be AZAV-certified to qualify for funding. You can browse eligible programs on the KURSNET (Mein Now) portal. Here’s what to check before you decide:

• Is the course online or in person?
• How long does it take?
• Is there career coaching?
• Are there start dates that fit your situation?

If you're unemployed, most programs are full-time. If you're working and want to continue your education as someone at risk, you'll need to find part-time or flexible options and be ready to explain how you’ll balance work and study.

2. Register with the employment agency 

If you haven’t already, the first step is to officially register as unemployed or at risk of unemployment. You can do this online or by visiting your local Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter. Without registration, you’re not eligible for the Bildungsgutschein, so don’t skip this step.

Once registered, book a consultation (Beratungstermin) to discuss your options:

• Log in to your Agentur für Arbeit account
• Go to “Meine eServices” → “Weiterbildung”→ “Bildungsgutschein anfragen”
• Or call the service hotline: 0800 4 555500

3. Meet Your Career Advisor

This appointment at the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit is where your case will be made or denied, so come prepared. You’ll have to clearly explain your career plan: why your current job is no longer viable, why you have the need for further training, what kind of job you’re aiming for, and how the course will help you get there.

Bring the following:

• ID and proof of residence
• Your CV
• Proof of employment status (or termination notice)
• Any degrees, certificates, or prior qualifications
• Details about the training program you want to attend
• Evidence of job market demand (e.g. job listings)

This interview is about showing you’ve done your homework. Be direct. Show a clear plan. The advisor wants to help, but they need to justify why funding your training makes sense. Make it easy for them to say yes.

4. Receive Your Voucher and Enroll

Once you get your education voucher approved, you’ll need to present it to the provider, sign your enrollment paperwork, and start on the agreed date.

Keep an eye on the clock — the education voucher has an expiration date (usually three months). That means your course must begin within that window, or the funding expires and you’ll have to go through the process again.

Tips for a Successful Application

Getting a Bildungsgutschein isn’t guaranteed, but a strong case increases your odds.

• Focus on employability. Show how the training connects to real jobs. What roles are you aiming for, and how will this course help you get there?
• Back it up with evidence. Bring job ads, salary data, or labor market reports that support your need for the training and prove there’s demand for the skills you want to learn.
• Be honest about your situation. If your current role is fading out, or you’ve been struggling to find work, say so. Explain how this training moves you forward.
• Write a motivation letter. It doesn’t have to be long — just clear. Why this course? Why now? What’s your end goal?

Your chances are strongest when the training or retraining builds on your existing skills or fits within your professional background. Training courses in fields like data, tech, AI, and digitalization are a smart bet — they touch nearly every industry and open up many new job opportunities.

Need support? Many certified training providers offer free pre-application help. Use it — it can make a real difference.

What Happens After You Get the Voucher?

Once you have received your education voucher, you can officially enroll in your chosen program. Most Bildungsgutschein-funded programs:

• Run between 3 to 24 months
• Lead to industry-recognized certification
• Include career coaching or exam preparation 
• Expect full attendance and regular progress updates

Keep in mind that attendance matters. You’re expected to treat the training like a job, because that’s the ultimate goal.

If you complete the program, you’ll come out with a marketable skill set, a government-recognized certificate, and a real shot at a better career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose any training provider?

No. The provider must be AZAV-certified to be eligible for funding. Always double-check before you commit.

Can I apply if I’m still employed?

Yes, but only if your job is at risk. That could mean a pending layoff, short-time work, or being in a role with no long-term future.

Can I get more than one voucher?

Not usually. The Bildungsgutschein is meant to fund one complete path to employment, not multiple courses.

Is the Bildungsgutschein taxable?

No — it’s a government subsidy, not income. You don’t have to report it as earnings.

Do I have to pay anything back?

No, training with an education voucher doesn’t cost you anything. It covers your costs entirely. 

Final Thoughts: Is the Bildungsgutschein Program Worth It?

Yes, but only if you take it seriously.

Getting an education voucher in Germany is a rare opportunity: a chance to completely reinvent your professional life without going into debt. It’s not automatic. You have to show initiative, do your research, and prove you’re ready to commit.

But once approved, you’ll have state-backed support, access to quality education, and a clear path to a stronger position in the job market in Germany. Whether you want to become a software developer, data analyst, AI engineer, or logistics planner, this is one of the best ways to make that leap.

Want Help Finding a Program?

If you're ready to get started, Turing College offers AZAV-approved training programs in data analytics, AI engineering, and software & AI engineering. They're fully funded with the education voucher and built to help you land a job in the industries of the future.

For more information, connect with our admissions team — we’ll walk you through the application process and help you make a strong case for your Bildungsgutschein.