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 Germany’s dual vocational training: you learn a trade in a company and, at the same time, attend a vocational school (Berufsschule). It usually lasts two to three and a half years, you receive a monthly training allowance (Ausbildungsvergütung), and it ends with an official qualification. For learners from Morocco the usual language requirement is about B1, and some fields such as nursing may ask for B2. The exact rule is set by the employer and the field and, for a visa, by the embassy.
This page explains how it works, what to prepare and in which order. Rules and requirements change, so treat it as an orientation and confirm the details with the employer and with the embassy or the Federal Employment Agency.
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Ausbildung vs university: the main differences
| Aspect | Ausbildung | University |
|---|---|---|
| How you learn | Mostly practical work in a company, plus time at a vocational school (weekly or in blocks). | Mostly lectures, seminars and independent study. |
| Pay | You receive a monthly training allowance. | Usually no wage; you finance your living costs yourself. |
| Duration | Usually two to three and a half years. | Often three to six years in total, depending on the degree. |
| German level | Usually about B1, B2 for some fields. | Usually B2 or C1, or a university German test. |
| Entry | A school-leaving certificate and a contract with an employer. | A recognised school-leaving qualification and admission by the university; some applicants first need a preparatory course (Studienkolleg). |
| Result | An official vocational qualification and, in many cases, the chance to stay on with the company. | An academic degree. |
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, the B1 stage takes about 18 weeks, and from zero (A1, A2 and B1 together) about 8 to 9 months. That is only an estimate, and it varies with how consistent you are.
The most common Ausbildung fields
Who is an Ausbildung for?
It suits several kinds of learners, as long as the language level is reachable.
People starting a career
You do not need a university degree. Many programs ask for a school-leaving certificate, and the employer decides who they accept.
People who prefer learning by doing
Most of your time is spent in the company, so practical work matters as much as theory.
Learners who can reach B1
B1 is the usual language requirement, so the main question is whether you can reach it in time. See the timeline on this page.
People who want to build a life in Germany
After a successful Ausbildung you can usually apply to stay and work in your field. Check the current residence rules.
Common mistakes when preparing
- Waiting until you reach B1 to start the application. Research employers while you study.
- Choosing a field by its name without checking its language level and requirements.
- Relying on one employer or one intermediary instead of applying to several.
- Paying anyone who promises a guaranteed contract or visa. Nobody can guarantee a contract or a visa, so be careful with such offers.
- Writing the CV or cover letter word by word from another language instead of using the German format.
- Ignoring everyday German, which you need for housing, banks and appointments, not only at work.
The path, step by step
A typical order. Details vary by field and employer:
- 1
Choose a field and check its requirements
Look at the language level, the school-leaving certificate and any entry test the employer asks for.
- 2
Reach the language level
Study German up to the level asked for, usually B1, and take an official exam such as Goethe, telc or ÖSD if the employer or the embassy wants a certificate.
- 3
Prepare your application
A CV in the German format (Lebenslauf), a cover letter (Anschreiben) and interview practice (Bewerbungsgespräch).
- 4
Find employers
Search company career pages, the Federal Employment Agency job board and the apprenticeship listings of the chambers of industry and commerce (IHK) and of crafts (HWK).
- 5
Sign the contract and apply for the visa
With a training contract from a German employer you can apply for the visa. The embassy decides, and you may need to show your German, your financing and other documents.
- 6
Prepare before you travel
Learn the vocabulary of your field and everyday German for housing, banks and appointments.
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 exactly do I 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 8 to 9 months from zero at 15-20 minutes a day (the B1 stage itself is about 18 weeks) — 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.
How long is an Ausbildung?
Usually two to three and a half years, depending on the field.
Is an Ausbildung paid?
Yes. Trainees receive a monthly training allowance (Ausbildungsvergütung). The amount depends on the field, the company and the year of training.
Can I do an Ausbildung without a university degree?
Yes. An Ausbildung does not require a degree. Employers usually look at your school education, your language level and your motivation.
Is an Ausbildung better than university?
Neither is better in general. An Ausbildung is practical, paid and shorter, while university is more academic. The right choice depends on your goal.