What Makes Applications Succeed
Applying for a Bildungsgutschein isn’t complicated, but it does require preparation. What separates successful applications from unsuccessful ones usually comes down to three things: clarity about your goals, evidence that you’ve done your research, and persistence if things don’t work out immediately.
This guide covers what actually helps.
Who Can Apply
The Bildungsgutschein supports people who need training to improve their job prospects. This includes those registered as unemployed or job-seeking, those at risk of losing their job, and those in need of retraining for a profession with better opportunities.
Approval isn’t automatic. Your advisor reviews your situation, work history, and whether the training connects to realistic employment. People who assume they won’t qualify often discover they have a stronger case than expected—once they have a clear conversation with their advisor.
Which Agency Do You Contact?
Two agencies issue the Bildungsgutschein. The Agentur für Arbeit handles cases for people receiving Arbeitslosengeld I, which is unemployment insurance based on previous employment contributions. The Jobcenter handles cases for people receiving Bürgergeld, which is basic income support.
The application process is similar at both. If you’re unsure which applies to you, check your benefit letter.
Bildungsgutschein vs. AVGS
A common source of confusion involves the difference between these two vouchers. The Bildungsgutschein covers longer training programs, like StartSteps’ five-month courses, that lead to specific job opportunities. The AVGS covers shorter measures like coaching, job application support, or quick reentry assistance. We also have a great program called TechMentor which is a match for the AVGS.
Understanding this distinction helps you ask for the right support. If you want full professional training, you’re asking for a Bildungsgutschein.
Preparing for Your Advisor Meeting
The meeting with your advisor is where decisions get made. Come prepared.
You should bring a motivation letter explaining why you want to change careers, what interests you about digital roles, and how training fits your goals. Bring evidence of job research—applications you’ve submitted, roles you’ve explored, conversations you’ve had. And bring program documentation with details about the training, including what you’ll learn, how long it takes, and what jobs it leads to.
StartSteps provides program documentation you can bring to your meeting and offers support in writing your motivation letter.
Advisors look for evidence that you’ve thought about your career direction, that the training connects to real job demand, and that you’re taking initiative rather than just waiting for support.
A note on language: advisor meetings are typically held in German. B1-level German is usually sufficient. Many advisors are experienced working with non-native speakers.
If You Get a Rejection
A verbal rejection isn’t the end. What helps is asking for specific reasons, since understanding why helps you address the concern. Take notes and record what the advisor said so you can respond to it. Request a formal written rejection, which can be useful for an appeal. And be prepared to try again—many successful applicants needed more than one attempt.
Persistence combined with preparation often works. We’ve helped learners succeed after initial setbacks.
Staying Responsive
After submitting your application, approval typically takes a few weeks. During this time, respond to emails promptly, answer any follow-up requests quickly, and keep your advisor informed of any changes.
Responsiveness shows reliability and helps avoid delays.
How StartSteps Helps
We support you through the application process. This includes program documentation for your advisor meeting, help writing your motivation letter, consultation sessions to prepare for your meeting, and guidance if your first attempt doesn’t succeed.
Next Steps
Our programs—SAP Finance Consultant, SAP EWM, ServiceNow System Administrator and Cloud & Data Engineering—are five months, full-time, taught in English, and fully covered by the Bildungsgutschein. If you’re ready to start your application, visit startsteps.org to learn more about our programs and book a free consultation.