Complete Guide

How to Change Your Ausbildung: The Complete Process Guide

Follow our proven 4-stage process to switch your Ausbildung safely and legally. This comprehensive guide includes templates, checklists, and expert tips.

4-8 weeks

Average timeline

100%

Legal compliance

500+

Successful switches

Download Process Guide (PDF)Get Personal Support
Why a Systematic Approach Matters

Changing your Ausbildung is a significant decision that affects your career, visa status, and financial stability. Without proper planning, you risk losing your residence permit, facing repayment obligations, or experiencing gaps in health insurance and income.

Legal Framework

All changes must comply with Berufsbildungsgesetz (BBiG) §22 and involve proper chamber coordination.

Timeline Management

Strategic timing ensures continuous visa validity and uninterrupted financial support.

Stage 1

Assessment & Documentation

Timeline: Week 1-2 | Comprehensive evaluation and preparation

Self-Assessment Checklist
  • Document specific issues with current training
  • Identify desired career direction
  • Evaluate financial situation
  • Check visa expiry dates
  • Review completed training modules
  • List transferable skills
Document Collection
  • Current training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag)
  • Training logbook (Ausbildungsnachweis)
  • Berufsschule transcripts and certificates
  • Residence permit and passport
  • BAB/BAföG approval letters
  • Employment references if available
  • Health insurance documentation
  • Bank statements (last 3 months)
Chamber Consultation
  • Book appointment with IHK/HWK advisor
  • Prepare questions about credit transfer
  • Request mediation if conflicts exist
  • Get list of available positions
  • Understand examination implications
  • Obtain official guidance documentation
Stage 2

Formal Termination Process

Timeline: Week 2-4 | Legal compliance and stakeholder notification

During Probation Period (First 4 Months)
Simplified termination without stating reasons

Template Letter

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]

[Company Name]
[Company Address]

Betreff: Kündigung meines Ausbildungsverhältnisses

Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

hiermit kündige ich mein Ausbildungsverhältnis zum [Position]
während der Probezeit zum [Date].

Mit freundlichen Grüßen
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]

Important Notes:

  • No reason required during probation
  • Can be immediate or with agreed date
  • Must be in writing (email not valid)
  • Deliver personally and get receipt confirmation
Download Template
Notification Checklist
  • Notify IHK/HWK immediately
  • Inform Berufsschule administration
  • Update Ausländerbehörde (within 2 weeks)
  • Contact BAB/BAföG office (within 14 days)
  • Request final Arbeitszeugnis
Mediation Process

If your employer refuses termination or disputes arise:

  1. 1.Contact chamber within 48 hours
  2. 2.Schedule mediation appointment (free service)
  3. 3.Attend with all documentation
  4. 4.Receive binding resolution
Stage 3

Secure Your New Position

Timeline: Week 4-8 | Job search, applications, and contract negotiation

IHK/HWK Job Boards
Official chamber placement services with verified employers

IHK Lehrstellenbörse

116,000+ positions

Handwerkskammer

45,000+ positions

Government Portals
Federal Employment Agency resources

BERUFENET

Database positions

JOBBÖRSE

80,000+ positions

Industry Platforms
Sector-specific job boards

Azubiyo

25,000+ positions

Ausbildung.de

30,000+ positions

Application Tips
  • • Explain switch positively
  • • Highlight transferable skills
  • • Show commitment to completion
  • • Mention language abilities
  • • Include credit transfer request
Interview Preparation
  • • Prepare honest explanation
  • • Focus on future goals
  • • Bring all documents
  • • Ask about training plan
  • • Confirm start date flexibility
Contract Review
  • • Verify training duration
  • • Check salary progression
  • • Confirm probation terms
  • • Review vacation days
  • • Ensure IHK/HWK registration
Stage 4

Integration & Onboarding

Timeline: Week 8-12 | Smooth transition into your new role

Administrative Tasks
Register at new Berufsschule
Submit credit transfer application
Update Ausländerbehörde records
Notify BAB/BAföG office
Change health insurance if needed
Update bank details for salary
Academic Tasks
Get class schedule
Obtain required textbooks
Meet with class teacher
Join study groups
Review missed content
Plan exam preparation
Workplace Tasks
Complete onboarding paperwork
Meet training supervisor
Understand department structure
Review training plan
Set probation goals
Establish feedback schedule
Credit Transfer Process

Maximize recognition of your previous training:

  1. 1.Submit Ausbildungsnachweis to new employer
  2. 2.Request chamber evaluation
  3. 3.Get Berufsschule transcript evaluated
  4. 4.Receive credit confirmation in writing
  5. 5.Adjust training plan accordingly
First 90 Days Success Plan

Critical actions for probation success:

Days 1-30

Complete onboarding, meet team, understand expectations

Days 31-60

Demonstrate skills, seek feedback, join projects

Days 61-90

Request evaluation, address gaps, confirm continuation

Troubleshooting

Common Challenges & Solutions

Quick solutions for urgent situations during your transition

Timeline Calculator
Estimate your switching timeline based on your situation
Probation periodFastest (1-2 weeks)
Post-probationStandard (4-6 weeks)
With conflictsExtended (6-8 weeks)
Company insolvencyExpedited (2-3 weeks)
Get Personalized TimelineDownload Timeline Template
Emergency Contacts
Save these numbers for immediate assistance

IHK Emergency Hotline

0800-5015000

Mon-Fri 8:00-20:00

Immediate mediation and legal guidance

Agentur für Arbeit

0800-4555500

Mon-Fri 8:00-18:00

Financial aid and job placement

Youth Migration Services

0800-1116111

24/7

Crisis support for young migrants

Fair Integration Hotline

0800-0005776

Mon-Thu 9:00-16:00

Legal advice on labor rights

Need Help?

Get Expert Support for Your Switch

Our specialists guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant transition to your new Ausbildung.

Request Personal ConsultationExplore Alternative Pathways