If you are planning to pursue Ausbildung (Vocational Training) in Germany, one of the first questions that probably comes to your mind is:
“How much salary will I earn during my Ausbildung?”
This is a very important question — not only because it affects your financial stability while studying and training, but also because it gives you a clear idea of what to expect when starting your career in Germany.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain everything you need to know about Ausbildung salary in Germany, including how it works, average pay by profession, factors that affect your income, taxes and deductions, and how you can manage your expenses efficiently.
Let’s get started.
What Is Ausbildung in Germany?
Before diving into salary details, let’s understand what “Ausbildung” actually means.
Ausbildung is a German term for vocational training or apprenticeship. It is a structured program that combines theoretical education (in vocational schools) and practical training (in companies or institutions).
This dual education system is one of the main reasons why Germany has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. The system ensures that students not only gain academic knowledge but also real-world work experience.
The duration of most Ausbildung programs ranges from 2 to 3.5 years, depending on the profession.
And yes — you get paid during this time!
Understanding the Concept of Ausbildung Salary
During Ausbildung, trainees are not just students — they are employees under training. This means they work for a company and perform practical tasks under supervision.
In return, they receive a monthly salary known as “Ausbildungsvergütung” (training allowance).
This salary is paid by the employer and increases each year of training. The amount depends on several factors, such as the profession, location, and type of company.
So, unlike regular university students who have to pay tuition fees and manage living costs on their own, Ausbildung trainees earn money while learning — making it one of the most financially attractive study options in Europe.
How Much Salary Do You Get During Ausbildung?
The average monthly salary during Ausbildung in Germany typically ranges between €800 and €1,500 depending on the occupation and training year.
Let’s break this down by year:
| Training Year | Average Monthly Salary (€) |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | 800 – 1,000 |
| 2nd Year | 900 – 1,200 |
| 3rd Year | 1,000 – 1,500 |
This amount is gross salary, meaning taxes and social contributions will be deducted before you receive the net pay.
Examples of Ausbildung Salaries by Profession
The salary during Ausbildung varies significantly across different professions. Some fields, such as healthcare or technical jobs, offer higher pay than others.
Here’s a detailed look at average salaries in some of the most popular Ausbildung professions in Germany:
| Profession | 1st Year (€) | 2nd Year (€) | 3rd Year (€) | 4th Year (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse / Healthcare Assistant | 1,200 – 1,300 | 1,250 – 1,350 | 1,350 – 1,500 | – |
| Hotel Management / Hospitality | 850 – 950 | 950 – 1,050 | 1,050 – 1,200 | – |
| IT Specialist | 1,000 – 1,100 | 1,100 – 1,200 | 1,200 – 1,300 | – |
| Automotive Mechanic | 850 – 950 | 950 – 1,050 | 1,050 – 1,200 | – |
| Electrician | 950 – 1,000 | 1,050 – 1,150 | 1,150 – 1,250 | – |
| Chef / Culinary Arts | 850 – 900 | 950 – 1,050 | 1,100 – 1,200 | – |
| Retail Salesperson | 850 – 950 | 950 – 1,050 | 1,050 – 1,200 | – |
| Dental Nurse | 900 – 1,000 | 1,000 – 1,100 | 1,100 – 1,200 | – |
| Construction Worker | 950 – 1,100 | 1,100 – 1,250 | 1,250 – 1,400 | – |
| Bank Clerk | 1,050 – 1,150 | 1,150 – 1,250 | 1,250 – 1,350 | – |
This table gives you a general idea of what you can expect. Remember that these figures can vary depending on your employer, the region you work in, and the current wage agreements in that industry.
Factors Affecting Ausbildung Salary
Several factors determine how much salary you will receive during your training. Let’s explore them one by one:
1. Type of Profession
Some professions are more technical, demanding, or require higher skills — hence, they pay more. For example, a mechatronics trainee usually earns more than a retail trainee.
2. Industry and Sector
Public institutions (such as hospitals or government offices) usually follow national pay agreements, which ensures fair and standardized wages.
Private companies, on the other hand, may pay more or less depending on their financial capacity.
3. Region
Salaries in Western Germany are generally higher than in Eastern Germany, though the cost of living in eastern regions is lower.
4. Year of Training
Your salary increases each year as you gain experience and take on more responsibility. A third-year trainee often earns around 20–30% more than a first-year trainee.
5. Collective Agreements (Tarifverträge)
Many Ausbildung programs are regulated by collective wage agreements, which are contracts negotiated between employers’ associations and trade unions. These ensure that trainees are paid fairly and consistently.
Gross vs. Net Salary in Ausbildung
When you read Ausbildung salary numbers, they are usually gross salaries — meaning the amount before deductions.
As a trainee in Germany, your net salary (the money you actually receive in your bank account) will be slightly less because of the following deductions:
- Income tax (depending on your total income)
- Health insurance
- Pension contribution
- Unemployment insurance
- Nursing care insurance
However, since Ausbildung salaries are relatively low, the tax deduction is usually minimal — and in many cases, you may not have to pay income tax at all.
For example:
If your gross monthly salary is €1,000, your net pay after deductions might be around €850–€900.
Living Expenses and Budgeting During Ausbildung
While earning during Ausbildung is a huge advantage, managing your expenses wisely is equally important.
Let’s look at typical monthly expenses for a trainee in Germany:
| Expense | Average Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared flat or dorm) | 300 – 500 |
| Food & groceries | 200 – 300 |
| Health insurance (if not covered by employer) | 100 – 150 |
| Transportation | 50 – 100 |
| Internet / Phone | 30 – 50 |
| Miscellaneous (clothing, entertainment, etc.) | 100 – 150 |
| Total | 780 – 1,250 |
As you can see, your Ausbildung salary is usually enough to cover basic living costs, especially if you share accommodation or live in smaller cities where expenses are lower.
Tax Benefits and Financial Support
As an Ausbildung student, you are eligible for certain benefits and financial aids in Germany:
1. BAföG (Federal Training Assistance)
In some cases, trainees can apply for BAföG, a government grant/loan to help cover living costs if the salary is not sufficient.
2. Child Benefit (Kindergeld)
If you are under 25 and your parents live in Germany, they may continue to receive child benefit payments for you during your Ausbildung.
3. Tax Refunds
If you have paid income tax but your total annual income remains below the taxable threshold, you can apply for a tax refund at the end of the year.
4. Subsidized Accommodation
Some companies or institutions provide low-cost dormitories or shared housing for trainees, which can significantly reduce your expenses.
Can You Earn Extra Money During Ausbildung?
Yes — but with conditions.
Trainees are allowed to take part-time or mini-jobs outside their Ausbildung, as long as it does not interfere with their training hours. However, you must inform your employer before taking any additional job.
In many cases, the salary from such jobs is limited to €520 per month (the “mini-job” threshold) to remain tax-free.
Comparison: Ausbildung Salary vs. University Study
| Criteria | Ausbildung | University Study |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2–3.5 years | 3–5 years |
| Salary | Earn €800–€1,500/month | Usually no salary |
| Tuition Fees | Mostly free | Usually free or low |
| Work Experience | Extensive (practical training) | Limited (internships) |
| Job Security | High | Depends on market demand |
| Employment after Completion | Immediate | May require job search |
This comparison shows why Ausbildung is becoming an increasingly popular option, especially among international students who prefer earning while learning and gaining early work experience.
After Ausbildung: Salary Growth and Career Outlook
After completing your Ausbildung, you become a qualified professional (Fachkraft) in your field. This leads to a significant salary increase.
On average, a newly qualified worker earns between €2,500 and €3,500 per month, depending on the occupation and experience.
For example:
- A qualified nurse can earn around €3,000–€3,500.
- A mechanic or electrician may earn between €2,800–€3,200.
- An IT specialist can earn up to €4,000 or more with experience.
Over time, with additional certifications or work experience, your salary can rise even higher.
Is Ausbildung Salary Enough to Live Comfortably in Germany?
Yes, but it depends on your lifestyle and location.
In smaller cities, €900–€1,200 per month is usually sufficient to cover rent, food, and other necessities.
However, in large cities like Munich, Hamburg, or Frankfurt, living costs are higher, and you may need to budget carefully.
Still, the key advantage of Ausbildung is that you do not have to pay tuition fees, and your employer covers many work-related expenses.
This makes Ausbildung one of the most affordable and practical pathways to living and working in Germany.
Tips to Manage Finances During Ausbildung
Here are a few practical tips to make the most of your Ausbildung salary:
- Create a Monthly Budget: Track your expenses and stick to your financial goals.
- Use Student Discounts: Many public transport, cinema, and store discounts are available for students and trainees.
- Cook at Home: Save money by preparing your own meals instead of eating out.
- Share Accommodation: Living in a shared flat (WG) can reduce rent by up to 50%.
- Avoid Unnecessary Debts: Use credit wisely and avoid installment plans.
- Open a Savings Account: Save a small portion of your salary every month.
- Plan Ahead: Keep some emergency funds for medical or travel needs.
Why Ausbildung is Financially a Smart Choice
Unlike traditional education systems where students often take loans or depend on their families for support, Ausbildung allows you to:
- Earn money while studying
- Gain work experience
- Become financially independent early
- Start a stable career right after training
In short, you get the best of both worlds — education and employment.
Challenges Related to Ausbildung Salary
While Ausbildung salaries are fair, they are still modest compared to full-time jobs. Some trainees might find it difficult to save money or manage expenses in expensive cities.
Other challenges include:
- Adjusting to a fixed budget
- Managing taxes and insurance paperwork
- Balancing work and study hours
However, these experiences prepare you for real-world financial management and professional responsibility.
Future Salary Prospects and Growth Opportunities
Once you complete your Ausbildung and start working as a full-time employee, you can expect a steady rise in income over time.
Additionally, Germany offers various advanced training programs (Weiterbildung) that help you specialize and increase your earning potential.
For instance:
- A qualified nurse can pursue advanced roles like nursing management or anesthesia specialization.
- A mechanic can become a master craftsman (Meister) and open their own workshop.
- An IT specialist can upskill into cybersecurity, cloud computing, or software development roles.
With experience and growth, your salary can double or even triple within a few years.
Key Takeaways
- Ausbildung salary ranges from €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on profession and training year.
- The salary increases every year and covers basic living expenses.
- Deductions for taxes and insurance are relatively low for trainees.
- After Ausbildung, professionals earn between €2,500 and €3,500 or more.
- Financial planning and budgeting can make your training period comfortable and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Germany’s Ausbildung system offers not only a solid education and practical training but also a financially stable start to your career.
Getting paid while learning, gaining hands-on experience, and having a guaranteed job path after training makes Ausbildung one of the best options for international students and young professionals.
While the salary during Ausbildung may not make you rich, it provides enough for a decent and independent life — and sets the foundation for a strong financial future in Germany.
If you are someone who values practical learning, financial independence, and job security, then Ausbildung is the perfect pathway for you.