The Ausbildung allowance is the monthly training wage trainees receive throughout dual vocational training. The Ausbildung allowance varies by field and training year. This article explains the levels and mechanism.
What is the Ausbildung allowance
The Ausbildung allowance (Ausbildungsvergütung) is the monthly wage paid by the training company to the Ausbildung trainee throughout the training period (usually 2-3.5 years depending on the profession). This is not a voluntary stipend but a legal entitlement under Germany’s Vocational Training Act (BBiG).
The allowance amount increases progressively with each year of training. A third-year trainee receives more than a first-year trainee. The specific amount is set by the collective agreement (Tarifvertrag) of each industry, or by the statutory minimum if the company is not covered by a Tarifvertrag.
Allowance levels according to BIBB
According to the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) Datenreport 2025, the average monthly Ausbildung allowance across industries ranges from around 620 EUR to 1,300 EUR, depending on the profession and training year. Construction and banking industries usually pay more than service industries or hairdressing.
The statutory minimum for Ausbildung trainees is updated annually. Companies not covered by a Tarifvertrag may not pay below this minimum. Trainees are paid under a training contract registered with the IHK or HWK.
Is it enough to live on, and points to note
The Ausbildung allowance is usually enough to cover basic living costs in medium and small cities, but can be tight in large cities such as Munich or Frankfurt due to high rental costs. Trainees may apply for the supplementary BAB (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe) allowance in some cases.
For Vietnamese people going to Germany under an Ausbildung, careful financial planning is needed. Even with a training wage, some initial costs (accommodation, supplies, transportation) still need to be prepared for. Regulations and allowance levels may be updated; check the official website.
You should refer to Germany’s dual vocational training system and the Make it in Germany portal to check current conditions.
Summary
The Ausbildung allowance (Ausbildungsvergütung) is a mandatory training wage under the BBiG, increasing progressively each year. The average level under the BIBB Datenreport 2025 is around 620-1,300 EUR/month depending on the profession and year. The statutory minimum is updated annually. It is enough to live on in medium/small cities but tight in Munich/Frankfurt. Supplementary BAB may be available.
