Your path to vocational training: start well prepared.
A new profession, a new language, a new country. A clear plan turns open questions into manageable next steps.
Understand your training pathway first
In a dual vocational training programme, you learn in two places: a company and a vocational school. School-based training is organised differently and may include practical placements, depending on the profession. Always check the specific occupation and institution.
Ask yourself: do I enjoy working with people, technology or numbers? Learn about the everyday tasks, rather than focusing only on a job title. A profession should suit your interests and strengths.
Organise your documents
Create a separate digital folder for each application. An overview helps you see what you already have and what you still need to request. Ask the company or school which documents and translations they require.
- Prepare a CV with up-to-date contact details.
- Keep school certificates and any language certificates together.
- Give files clear names, such as CV_Firstname_Lastname.pdf.
- Record the contact person, submission date and response for each application.
Practise German for your profession
A certificate is an important form of evidence. In everyday work, you also need words for instructions, follow-up questions and conversations with colleagues. Collect five words from your chosen profession each week and use them in your own sentences.
Try: “Könnten Sie mir den nächsten Schritt bitte zeigen?” (Could you show me the next step, please?) or “Habe ich richtig verstanden, dass ich zuerst …?” (Have I understood correctly that I should first …?). Asking questions shows that you want to work carefully. Confirm the specific language requirements with the company or school.
Prepare for your first interview
Explain in a few sentences why you want to learn this profession. Give an honest example from daily life, an internship or school. You do not need to memorise a perfect script.
Prepare your own questions too: how does induction work? Who supports trainees? How are school and practical work organised? Before an online interview, check your camera, sound and the correct time. Your next step: choose a profession and write down three questions about it.
Your first application sentence
Complete: “Ich möchte eine Ausbildung als … machen, weil …” (I would like to train as … because …). Say your sentence aloud and give a specific reason.
Show example / explanation
Example: “Ich möchte eine Ausbildung im Büro machen, weil ich gerne organisiere und sorgfältig mit Informationen arbeite.” This means: I would like to do vocational training in an office because I enjoy organising and handling information carefully. Give your own reason: personal examples are clearer than generic phrases.
Further reading
Official information and learning resources (some in German):
Published on 18 October 2026 · General guidance. Specific requirements may vary by educational pathway and institution.
