Nursing apprenticeship (Ausbildung) in Germany

What is Ausbildung?

Ausbildung is the German word for an apprenticeship or vocational training. It is a system of education that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. In Germany, many young people choose to pursue an Ausbildung rather than going to university, as it is seen as a valuable alternative way to gain skills and enter the workforce. The length of an Ausbildung varies depending on the profession, but it typically takes between 2 and 3.5 years to complete.

In Germany, the dual education system is structured, regulated, and legally defined. It means that companies and vocational schools work closely together to provide theoretical and practical training for students. Apprentices are employed by a company and attend vocational school on a part-time basis. During the apprenticeship, they are paid a salary and receive on-the-job training, while also learning the theoretical foundations of their chosen profession in the classroom.

The German government, as well as industry associations, play a significant role in the design, regulation, and financing of vocational education and training. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) coordinates and supports the efforts of the Lander, the 16 states in Germany. The Landers are responsible for the vocational education and training in their state, and the industry associations are responsible for the design of the curricula and the recognition of qualifications.

The German dual education system is highly respected internationally, and Germany is known for its high-quality vocational training. This is due to its strong focus on practical skills, as well as its close links between education and industry. Apprenticeship programs are offered in a wide range of fields, including engineering, construction, IT, healthcare, and many more. The apprenticeship programs are also known as a dual system of education, which means that the apprentices get to learn on the job as well as in the classroom.

Furthermore, the German dual system of education is considered to be very flexible. The apprenticeship can be started at any time, and it is also possible to switch to a different profession or to continue with further education. Moreover, German vocational training is not only for young people but also for adults who want to change their profession or improve their skills.

In conclusion, the German dual education system, also known as Ausbildung, is a unique and highly respected system of education that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. It is a valuable alternative way to gain skills and enter the workforce. The German dual education system has a strong focus on practical skills, and it is closely linked to industry, which ensures that the training is relevant and up-to-date. German vocational training is flexible, and it is not only for young people but also for adults who want to change their profession or improve their skills.

Nursing Ausbildung in Germany

Nursing education in Germany is known as “nursing Ausbildung in Germany" and typically takes three years to complete. It is a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training, known as practical training.

The program is divided into two parts: a theoretical phase and a practical phase. The theoretical phase is usually completed at a vocational school or college and includes classes on anatomy, physiology, nursing care, and pharmacology. The practical phase is completed at a hospital or other healthcare facility, where students gain hands-on experience caring for patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

In order to enroll in a nursing Ausbildung program, individuals must have completed secondary education and have a general or specialized secondary school diploma. Some programs may also require that applicants have completed a pre-vocational training program, have relevant work experience, or have passed an aptitude test.

During the nursing Ausbildung, students will learn how to provide basic care to patients, including monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and conducting basic physical examinations. They will also learn how to assist with diagnostic procedures and treatments, such as administering IVs and performing wound dressings.

After completing the nursing Ausbildung, individuals can take a state exam to become licensed practical nurses. They may then seek employment in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and doctor's offices. With further education, they can also become registered nurses, who are responsible for more complex patient care and can work in management or supervisory roles.

It's worth mentioning that in recent years, the German government has made efforts to make the nursing profession more attractive, and has been implementing measures to improve the working conditions, salary, and recognition for the nursing profession, with the goal of attracting more young people to the profession and nursing Ausbildung.

What are the criteria needed to become a nursing apprentice in Germany? 

In order to become a nursing apprentice and start with nursing Ausbildung in Germany, there are several criteria that must be met. These include:

• Educational requirements: To become a nursing apprentice in Germany, you typically need to have completed at least 9 years of education, which means having finished at least the 9th grade of school. Some apprenticeships may require a higher level of education.
• Language skills: If you want to start a nursing Ausbildung in Germany, you will need to have a good command of the German language, both spoken and written, as the apprenticeship will be conducted in German.
• Physical and mental health: Nursing apprentices must be in good physical and mental health, as the job can be demanding and requires a high level of stamina and endurance.
• Age: To start with a nursing Ausbildung, you must typically be between 16 and 27 years of age.
• Background check: You will have to pass a background check, which will check for any previous criminal records.
• Interview: You will be interviewed by the company or institution offering the apprenticeship to assess your suitability for the role.
• Enrollment in vocational school: As a nursing apprentice, you will be required to attend vocational school on a part-time basis.
• On-the-job training: You will receive on-the-job training and will be supervised by a qualified nurse.

In addition, there might be some additional requirements for the nursing Ausbildung depending on the company or institution offering the apprenticeship, so it is best to check directly with them for specific details.

German need for medical staff

Germany is currently facing a shortage of medical staff, and part of the reason why Germany offers the nursing Ausbildung with a lot of advantages terms to international applicants. Particularly in the areas of nursing and general practitioners. There are several reasons for this shortage.

One of the main reasons is the big amount of population that is aging. As the population of Germany ages, there is an increased demand for healthcare services. This has led to a strain on the healthcare system, and a shortage of medical staff to meet the demand.

Another reason is the lack of new medical graduates. Despite the high demand for medical staff, the number of medical students in Germany has been decreasing in recent years. This is partly due to the high costs and long duration of medical studies, which can discourage some students from pursuing a career in the field.

A third reason is the lack of incentives for medical staff to work in certain areas. Some rural areas and certain specialties, such as geriatric care, are particularly affected by the shortage of medical staff. This is partly due to the lack of incentives for medical staff to work in these areas, such as higher salaries or better working conditions.

Additionally, high workload and stress, as well as the bureaucratic burden of the healthcare system, have led to a high rate of burnout among healthcare workers. This high burnout rate contributes to the shortage of medical staff.

The shortage of medical staff has significant consequences for the healthcare system and the population. It can lead to longer waiting times for medical appointments and treatments, as well as a reduced quality of care. It also puts a strain on the remaining medical staff, who may have to work longer hours and take on more patients.

To address the shortage of medical staff, the German government has dedicated more investments to nursing Ausbildung in the healthcare field.

Duration and Fees for nursing Ausbildung

The duration of a nursing apprenticeship in Germany, also known as nursing Ausbildung, typically takes between 3 to 3.5 years. During this time, apprentices will receive both on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The on-the-job training will take place at a hospital or other healthcare facility, while the classroom instruction will take place at a vocational school.

As for fees, in Germany, apprenticeships are generally free of charge for students. The cost of the nursing Ausbildung is typically covered by the government or the employer. However, it is important to note that apprentices may be responsible for some expenses, such as books, uniforms, and other materials. Apprentices are also paid a salary during the apprenticeship, which increases as they progress through the program.

It is also worth noting that in some cases, the healthcare facilities or the vocational schools may require some fees, such as for the exams or the school materials, but these expenses are usually low and manageable.

It's also worth noting that, as an apprentice, you are considered an employee and therefore you will be paying taxes and social security contributions, which are automatically deducted from your salary.

The candidates who apply via nursing Ausbildung will not pay any training fee, and on top of that, they will also get paid throughout the program. The program will take three years, and the training allowance will be increased gradually within years. After these three training years, the candidate should take a state examination, and after passing this examination, you can further your career in the nursing industry.

Salary for Ausbildung in nursing

The salary for a nursing Ausbildung in Germany will vary depending on the employer and the specific apprenticeship program. However, apprentices are typically paid a salary during their apprenticeship, which increases as they progress through the program.

According to the German Federal Association of Personnel Service Providers (BAP), the minimum wage for nursing apprentices is currently €8.50 per hour for the first year of the apprenticeship, €8.70 for the second year, and €8.90 for the third year. The minimum wage for a nursing Ausbildung is subject to change and it's usually reviewed annually.

It's worth noting that these are minimum wages and some employers may offer higher wages than the minimum wage, especially in big cities, or if the apprentices have some special qualifications or skills. Additionally, it's also important to note that during the nursing Ausbildung, the apprentices are considered employees and therefore they are entitled to the same rights and benefits as other employees, such as vacation days, health insurance, and so on.

Overall, the salary and benefits received during the nursing Ausbildung can vary greatly depending on the specific program and employer. It's best to check with the specific employer or institution offering the apprenticeship for more information on salary and benefits.

Monarch nursing Ausbildung’s services 

Monarch company has a vast connection to German employers around Germany and can ease your work in finding an apprenticeship position. Monarch also provides its clients with more services, a listed of services are listed below:

• Checking your conditions and consulting you about the required documents 
• Setting a timetable for preparing, translating, and verifying documents at the German embassy
• Arranging and sending out your documents and doing the administrative process to obtain the recognition (Anerkennung) for your documents
• Arranging a meeting with German employers and preparing and practicing with our clients before the final interview with employers
• Obtaining approval from the German Labor Office
• Arranging an appointment at the German Embassy and preparing your documents for the interview
• Pick-up visa

After entering Germany, we will also provide our clients with other necessary services until they get familiar with the soundings and administrative work in Germany. For instance:

• Make an appointment at the residence office, and we will help you register in the city
• Applying for conversion of initial visa to work visa
• Register for Insurance
• Guidance for basic everyday life
• Make an appointment and guidance for opening a bank account

Where do I start with applying process?

The process of applying for a nursing Ausbildung in Germany will depend on the specific employer or institution offering the apprenticeship. However, there are some general steps that you can follow to start the process:

1. Research different nursing Ausbildung opportunities: Look for different healthcare facilities and institutions that offer nursing apprenticeships in your area. You can also check with the local Chamber of Commerce or the German Federal Employment Agency for information on apprenticeship opportunities.
2. Meet the requirements: Make sure that you meet the requirements for the nursing Ausbildung, such as having completed at least 9 years of education, having good German language skills, and being in good physical and mental health.
3. Prepare your application: Gather the necessary documents for your application, such as your resume, a copy of your diploma or certificate of completion of your education, and a copy of your ID or passport.
4. Submit your application: Submit your application to the healthcare facility or institution offering the nursing Ausbildung. This can be done online or in person.
5. Interview: If your application is successful, you will be invited for an interview. This is an opportunity for you to learn more about the apprenticeship and for the employer to assess your suitability for the role.
6. Enrollment in vocational school: If you are accepted into the apprenticeship, you will be required to enroll in vocational school on a part-time basis.
7. Start the nursing Ausbildung: Once you have completed the enrollment process, you will begin your on-the-job training and will be supervised by a qualified nurse.

Or you can leave all the work to Monarch experts, monarch’s job is to ease job recruitment with vast connections all over Germany for nursing enthusiasts, 

The process of applying for a nursing Ausbildung, if you are doing it for the first time, could be overwhelming, there are lots of papers works and arranging interviews, which will be all done for you. Of course, you can manage all these works all by yourself, but if you are considering hiring a recruitment agency, we are here to accompany you in your journey. 

Meet our support team today

If you are interested in this profession, by clicking on the link below, you can evaluate your chances of finding a job position in Germany in the first healthcare field, and also get in contact with our experts and address your questions about nursing Ausbildung in Germany.