What Is a Bildungsgutschein?
If you’re considering a career change or professional training in Germany, cost is often a major concern. The Bildungsgutschein (education voucher) is a government funding program that can cover 100% of approved training costs. It’s issued by the German employment agencies and available to people who are unemployed, job-seeking, or at risk of losing their job.
At StartSteps, our training programs are fully covered by the Bildungsgutschein. This includes programs in SAP Finance Consulting, SAP EWM, ServiceNow administration, and AWS Cloud and Data engineering—each around five months long, taught in English, and designed to lead to jobs in the German market.
Who Can Apply?
The Bildungsgutschein is generally available to people who are unemployed and receiving benefits, registered as job-seeking, at risk of unemployment because their contract is ending, or in need of retraining to improve their job prospects.
Your eligibility is assessed individually by an advisor. There’s no automatic approval—each case is reviewed based on your situation, work history, and how the training connects to realistic employment opportunities.
Many people assume they won’t qualify, then discover they have a strong case once they discuss it with their advisor.
Which Agency Do You Contact?
There are two agencies that 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.
If you’re unsure which applies to you, check your benefit letters or ask us. We help people navigate this regularly.
A Note on Language
The training programs at StartSteps are conducted in English. However, the Employment Agency typically requires a minimum level of German B1 before they consider giving out a Bildungsgutschein.
For the Bildungsgutschein application itself, advisor meetings are typically held in German. B1-level German is usually sufficient. Many advisors are experienced working with non-native speakers. Someone can accompany you to the meeting if you feel more comfortable with a translator.
The Application Process
The process begins with identifying a program. Start by choosing an approved (AZAV-certified) training program. At StartSteps, we have several programs that you can consider (SAP Finance and EWM, ServiceNow, AWS & Databricks). If you are interested in one of the programs, click the Apply button on the program page to talk to an educational consultant.
Next, you’ll meet with your advisor. Schedule a meeting at your local Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter. Come prepared to explain your career goals and why the training will improve your job prospects. This is your chance to make your case. Your advisor will guide you through the paperwork. Respond promptly to any follow-up requests.
Then you wait for approval. Processing time varies— sometimes it happens directly in the meeting with your advisor, other times you hear back within a few weeks. Staying responsive helps avoid delays.
What If It Takes Multiple Attempts?
Some applications aren’t approved on the first try. Common reasons include unclear career goals, a weak connection between the training and job market demand, or incomplete documentation. A rejection isn’t final. You can provide additional information, clarify your goals, or try again. At StartSteps, we’ve helped people succeed after initial setbacks.
Why Motivation Matters
Advisors aren’t just reviewing paperwork. They’re evaluating whether the training is likely to lead to employment. Their job is to fund training that works.
This means your task is to connect the dots: explain clearly why this training fits your goals and how it leads to realistic job opportunities. People who articulate their reasoning tend to have smoother conversations with their advisors.
How StartSteps Can Help
We support you through the application process. This includes program documentation for your advisor meeting, help writing your motivation letter, a consultation sessions to prepare for your meeting, and support if you receive a rejection.
Our programs—SAP Finance Consultant, SAP EWM, ServiceNow System Administrator, and AWS and Databricks Cloud & Data Engineering—are five-month, full-time courses that include technical training, soft skills development, and career coaching.
Next Steps
If you’re in Germany and considering a funded training program, visit startsteps.org to learn more about our programs and book a free consultation. We can help you determine if you’re eligible and what to expect from the process.