Financing your studies after completing your vocational training
The question of financing is central for many people who decide to study after completing their training. Unlike traditional school leavers who go on to study immediately after graduating from secondary school, many of these students already have several years of professional experience, are financially independent, and may have their own flat, family commitments or children. In such cases, unpaid full-time study is often difficult to achieve – which makes it all the more important to consider the various financing options at an early stage.
BAföG – also possible after training
The Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) is one of the most important government support measures for students. Even those who have already completed vocational training can receive BAföG under certain conditions. The following factors are decisive for eligibility:
● the age of the applicant (usually under 30 at the start of the bachelor's programme, exceptions possible),
● the income and assets of the student and, if applicable, their parents or spouse,
● and the type of programme (e.g. first higher education programme).
In the case of part-time studies, traditional BAföG is not usually granted, as it is intended for full-time courses. However, those who reduce or give up their employment in order to study may well be eligible to apply. It is advisable to arrange a personal meeting with the relevant office for educational assistance in advance.
Upgrading BAföG – especially for professionally qualified individuals
Those who have completed advanced training such as master craftsman, technician, specialist or a comparable qualification can receive financial support under the so-called Aufstiegs-BAföG (formerly "Meister-BAföG"). Unlike the classic BAföG, this programme is explicitly aimed at professionally qualified individuals who wish to further their development through further training and/or subsequent studies.
A major advantage of the Aufstiegs-BAföG is that it is independent of parental income and offers both grants and low-interest loans. Not only further training itself is funded, but under certain circumstances also further studies, if these are closely related to the previous qualification.
Scholarships – support for committed and experienced professionals
In addition to government support programmes, there are a variety of scholarships that specifically target people with professional experience, above-average motivation or special circumstances. Applying usually involves a certain amount of effort, but it can be worthwhile – both financially and in terms of personal and professional networking.
Relevant scholarship programmes include, for example:
● the Deutschlandstipendium, which rewards both academic achievement and social engagement,
● the offers of the StipendiumPlus network, which includes the German National Academic Foundation,
● and the Advancement Scholarship from the Foundation for the Promotion of Gifted Vocational Training (SBB), which is specifically aimed at people who have been successful in their careers after completing their training and now wish to take up a course of study.
The advancement scholarship is aimed at skilled workers with at least two years of professional experience and completed vocational training who are expected to achieve above-average results in their studies. It offers up to £934 per month (plus £80 for books) for full-time study and is also available in a part-time format.
Working alongside your studies – working student model & part-time jobs
For many, partial financing through work during their studies is a practical solution. Those who have already worked in a particular field can make targeted use of their skills – for example, by working as a working student or in a part-time job in their previous field. This not only provides income, but also helps them to stay in touch with their profession and build networks for the time after their studies at an early stage.
Working student positions are particularly popular because they are often tailored to students and can be easily combined with their timetable. Special social security regulations apply, which makes this type of work more attractive than traditional mini-jobs.
Student loans – responsible financing
If neither BAföG nor a scholarship or part-time job is sufficient, a student loan can be a last resort to make studying possible. In Germany, for example, the KfW banking group offers a special student loan that is granted regardless of income and offers flexible repayment models. Some private banks and savings banks also offer similar programmes.
However, a student loan should be chosen with great care and a realistic financial plan. Before signing a contract, it is advisable to carefully check the interest rates and repayment terms – because although a loan can create financial leeway, it also leads to a long-term financial commitment.
Financing options
