Entry Qualification for Youth

The funding program "Entry Qualification for Youth" targets employers throughout Germany who wish to offer a bridge into in-company vocational training for young people with limited placement prospects or lacking the necessary training aptitude. It aims to enable more young people to start an apprenticeship while simultaneously motivating businesses to provide training.

The program funds in-company entry qualifications that prepare participants for a recognized vocational training occupation. Training modules can be used to structure the qualification content. Funding includes grants for the young people's remuneration and social security contributions, as well as travel costs if applicable. The qualification must be carried out full-time or as a part-time model, with a large part of the time taking place within the company.

The "Entry Qualification for Youth" funding program offers employers financial support in the form of grants for the remuneration and social security contributions of young people. The maximum funding amount is 247 Euros per month plus travel costs. The qualification measure can last six to twelve months and requires a contract between the employer and the trainee.

Various legal and administrative conditions must be observed for the funding of an entry qualification. The qualification must be contractually regulated, prepare for a recognized vocational training occupation, and primarily take place within the company. There are specific requirements for the insurance coverage of young people and proof obligations for the employer.

The application for funding for the entry qualification for young people must be submitted to the responsible employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit). A contract must be concluded with the young person, and the necessary social security proofs must be provided.

The "Entry Qualification for Youth" funding program is legally anchored by the "Entry Qualification Funding Ordinance (EQFAO)" of the Administrative Board of the Federal Employment Agency. This ordinance is based on the Third Book of the Social Code (SGB III) and other relevant laws that establish the framework conditions for vocational training and social security in Germany.