What is guaranteed employment (Übernahmegarantie) after apprenticeship?

Übernahmegarantie is a written commitment from your employer to hire you permanently after successfully completing your apprenticeship. This guarantee significantly improves your loan approval chances.

What government funding is available for apprentices in Germany?

The main options are BAB (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe) and Bildungskredit. BAB is a grant that doesn't need to be repaid. Bildungskredit has very low interest rates and flexible repayment terms.

How much do apprentices earn in Germany?

Apprentice salaries vary by industry and year. First year is typically 600-900 EUR, third year 800-1,200 EUR or more. Some industries like IT or chemical pay significantly more.

Can I get a car loan as an apprentice?

Yes, especially if the car is needed for commuting to work. Car loans are often easier because the vehicle serves as collateral. A guaranteed employment commitment further improves your chances.

What happens if I drop out of my apprenticeship?

If you drop out, you still need to repay the loan. Inform your bank early and look for solutions like payment pause or refinancing.

Apprentice Guide / Ratgeber für Auszubildende

Apprenticeship Loanwith Guaranteed Employment in Germany

Doing an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) in Germany and need a loan? A guaranteed employment commitment from your employer can significantly improve your chances.

With employment guarantee

BAB + Bildungskredit

Schufa-neutral

The Übernahmegarantie (Guaranteed Employment)

A guaranteed employment commitment is a strong signal to banks.
It shows that your employer intends to hire you after you complete your apprenticeship. This means: Secure future = Better loan chances.

Job secured after apprenticeship

Key German Terms

Ausbildung = Apprenticeship / Vocational training

Azubi = Auszubildender (Apprentice)

Übernahmegarantie = Guaranteed employment after training

BAB = Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe (Training allowance)

Bildungskredit = Government education loan

Ausbildungsvergütung = Apprentice salary

What Is an Apprenticeship (Ausbildung) in Germany?

The German dual vocational training system is a success model: you learn at the company and vocational school simultaneously. During the apprenticeship, you receive a salary – but it often doesn't cover all expenses.

Duration

2-3.5 years depending on profession. Can be shortened with good grades or prior education.

Salary

Year 1: ~600-900 EUR
Year 2: ~700-1,000 EUR
Year 3: ~800-1,200 EUR

Completion

Recognized vocational qualification. With Übernahmegarantie: Direct transition to permanent employment.

Why Does Guaranteed Employment Help with Loan Approval?

Advantages for the Bank:

Secure income source after training
Employer shows confidence in the apprentice
Predictable income for repayment
Lower default risk

How to Get an Übernahmegarantie:

Proactively ask your supervisor
Good performance at work and school
Some collective agreements include automatic guarantee
Request written confirmation

Government Funding for Apprentices

Before taking out a private loan, check government funding options. These often have better conditions or don't need to be repaid.

BAB (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe)

• Grant – no repayment required
• For apprentices not living with parents
• Depends on parents' income
• Apply at Agentur für Arbeit (employment agency)

Up to 781 EUR per month possible

Bildungskredit (Education Loan)

• Very low interest rates (currently ~1-2%)
• 100-300 EUR monthly, max 7,200 EUR total
• Independent of parents' income
• Repayment only starts 4 years after disbursement

Apply at Bundesverwaltungsamt

Important: Check government funding first!

BAB and Bildungskredit have better conditions than private loans. Only consider a private loan if these are not sufficient or not available.

Typical Costs During Apprenticeship

Expense	Typical Cost	Priority
Driver's license (Führerschein)	2,000 - 3,500 EUR	High
First apartment (deposit + furniture)	3,000 - 6,000 EUR	High
Used car	3,000 - 8,000 EUR	Medium
Laptop / Computer	500 - 1,500 EUR	Medium
Work clothes / Tools	200 - 1,000 EUR	Low

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Compare different loan providers. Rate inquiries are Schufa-neutral – comparing doesn't affect your credit score.

* Representative example: Net loan amount 5,000 EUR, term 48 months, effective annual interest 4.99% - 10.99% (credit-dependent). This is a brokerage offer.

Private Loan Options for Apprentices

Small Loan (up to 3,000 EUR)

• Often possible even without high income
• Short term (12-24 months)
• Fast disbursement
• Employment guarantee improves chances

Car Loan

• Vehicle serves as collateral
• Often lower interest rates
• Good chances if car needed for commute
• Vehicle title stays with bank

Loan with Co-Borrower

• Parents or partner as co-applicant
• Higher loan amounts possible
• Better interest rates
• Both are jointly liable

Employer Loan

• Ask your training company
• Often interest-free or very cheap
• Deducted from salary
• More common at large companies

Practical Tips for Apprentices

Provide Proof of Guaranteed Employment

Present the written Übernahmegarantie to the bank. It's a strong argument.

Choose a Small Monthly Payment

Maximum 10-15% of your apprentice salary. Shows you can afford the loan.

State the Purpose

"Driver's license for commute" or "Moving for apprenticeship" = understandable and sensible.

Exhaust Government Funding First

BAB and Bildungskredit have better conditions. Check these first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Übernahmegarantie?

A written commitment from your employer to hire you permanently after you successfully complete your apprenticeship. This significantly improves your loan approval chances.

What government funding is available?

BAB (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe) is a grant that doesn't need to be repaid. Bildungskredit is a government loan with very low interest rates and flexible repayment (starting 4 years after disbursement).

Can I get a loan as an apprentice?

Yes, especially if you have an Übernahmegarantie or can offer other security. Small loans and car loans are often possible for apprentices.

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