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Social benefits

Apply for continuing education funding (Qualification Opportunities Act)

Funding for continuing education programs for employees provided by the Employment Agency under the Qualification Opportunities Act (Section 82 of Book III of the Social Code).

Processing: approx. 2 weeks
Success rate: 78.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Counseling at the Employment Agency

    Grant counseling for businesses and employees.

  2. 2

    Apply for a grant

    The employer and the employee apply for the subsidy together.

  3. 3

    Take continuing education courses and get reimbursed for the costs

    Reimbursement of course fees and, if applicable, wage costs, depending on the size of the business.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 2 weeks

Official: max. approx. 3 weeks

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Application submitted only after the measure had begun
  • • Course fees without an AZAV-certified provider

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Continuing education program not offered by an accredited provider
  • • The company does not have a works council (certain provisions do not apply)

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Employees at companies who need further training due to reduced work hours, digitalization, or structural change.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks

Success rate

approx. 78.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application submitted only after the measure had begun
  • •Course fees without an AZAV-certified provider

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Continuing education program not offered by an accredited provider
  • •The company does not have a works council (certain provisions do not apply)

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

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