The German you need to start an Ausbildung in Germany
An Ausbildung is Germany's vocational training program — it combines work and study, and opens the door to residency and employment in Germany. Here you'll find out what level you need, how long the path takes, and how Lerniyo gets you there.
Start your path freeWhat is an Ausbildung?
An Ausbildung is an official vocational training program in Germany that lasts 2 to 3 years — you work and study at the same time, and get a monthly wage from day one. It exists across many fields: nursing, mechanics, hospitality, cooking, and electrical work, among others. Once you finish, you have a strong chance of staying to work in Germany.
What level do you need?
Most Ausbildung programs require at least B1 in German — the official requirement to follow the training and communicate on the job. Some fields (like nursing) may ask for B2.
How long does the path take?
At 15-20 minutes a day, you can reach B1 in about 18 weeks (roughly 4.5 months) — even starting from zero without knowing a single word of German.
The most common Ausbildung fields
What does Lerniyo give you?
- A full A1 to B1 curriculum, in English
- A CV in the official German formatLebenslauf
- A cover letter, corrected line by lineAnschreiben
- Job interview practice with NourBewerbungsgespräch
- Field vocabulary: nursing, mechanics, hospitality, cookingFachvokabular
We prepare you a strong application — the contract and visa remain the employer's and embassy's decision.
The B1 exam
A mock exam styled after official exams (Goethe, telc, ÖSD) at B1 level — the requirement most Ausbildung programs ask for.
Lerniyo's exam is built in the style of internationally recognized exams (Goethe, telc, ÖSD) — it is not an official registration with any of those institutes. The Lerniyo certificate is a completion certificate for our own curriculum.
Want the fuller orientation?
This page covers the level, timeline, and what Lerniyo offers. Our guide explains what the Ausbildung system actually is and how the journey generally unfolds.
Read the full guideFrequently asked questions
What level do I exactly need for an Ausbildung?
Usually B1 — some specialized fields (like nursing) ask for B2. The exact requirement varies by employer and field.
Does Lerniyo guarantee me an Ausbildung?
No. Lerniyo gets you to the required level and prepares your application (CV, cover letter, interview) — but acceptance, the contract, and the visa remain the employer's and embassy's decision.
How long to reach B1?
About 18 weeks at 15-20 minutes a day — only an estimate, it varies with how consistent you are.
Where do I find help with my application (CV, letter, interview)?
At Lerniyo Arbeit — a service live now, unlocked from B1.