Bildungsgutschein: 100% Funded Cybersecurity Training
To obtain a training voucher from the Agentur für Arbeit or the Jobcenter, you’ll need to fulfill certain criteria. You may be eligible for a Bildungsgutschein if you belong to one of the following categories:
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How to get a Bildungsgutschein
FAQ
Everything related to the Bildungsgutschein can seem overwhelming at first – we want to make sure you have all the information you need.
A Bildungsgutschein is issued by the Agentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) or the Jobcenter and is available to:
- Unemployed individuals, regardless of whether they receive unemployment benefits (Arbeitslosengeld I) or citizen’s income (Bürgergeld)
- Job seekers, even if they are not currently receiving benefits
- Individuals at risk of unemployment, such as those facing layoffs or on temporary contracts
- Employees on short-time work (Kurzarbeit)
- People without a formal vocational qualification who wish to obtain one
Funding is provided if the training improves employment opportunities. A consultation with the relevant agency is required to qualify.
Applying for a Bildungsgutschein involves several steps:
1. Schedule an appointment
Book a consultation with your local Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter. Many consultations can also be done online or via video call.
2. Preparation
Register with us to receive full support throughout the process. We will create a personalized application package for your first meeting, including custom documents and a selection of relevant job postings to demonstrate demand for your chosen career.
On your end, you should prepare by updating your resume, collecting previous certificates you achieved, and job applications you submitted recently. If you have previous experience or internships, bring proof of them as well.
3. Attending the consultation
During your consultation, you should clearly explain why cybersecurity training is beneficial for you. Use the supporting documents we provide to demonstrate that this training will significantly improve your job prospects. Additionally, present the program materials so that your employment advisor can get a clear picture of the training course.
4. Redeeming the Bildungsgutschein
Once your Bildungsgutschein has been approved, send it to us and sign the training contract. Be sure to submit your Bildungsgutschein before it expires.
A Bildungsgutschein is valid for three months from the date of issue. You must start your training within this period; otherwise, the voucher will expire, and you will no longer be eligible for funding. It’s crucial to secure a training provider early.
Yes, if additional training is required to improve your job prospects, you can apply for a second or even third Bildungsgutschein. Each case is assessed individually, and the decision depends on whether further training is deemed necessary to prevent or overcome unemployment.
It is best to explore the possibility of a Bildungsgutschein as soon as you anticipate job insecurity or realize that additional qualifications may be necessary. Industries affected by digitalization and automation are evolving rapidly, so staying proactive about your career development is crucial. Those who act early have a better chance of finding the right training and securing funding.
The consultation with the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter is a key step in the application process. During the meeting, case workers assess whether you meet the requirements for a Bildungsgutschein and whether the proposed training will genuinely enhance your employment opportunities.
To increase your chances of approval, be well-prepared and provide a clear argument as to why this training is necessary for your career path. A solid explanation of how the training will boost your employability and align with your previous experience is essential. If you already have a specific training provider in mind, be sure to mention them during the consultation. Being well-prepared significantly increases the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Yes, since the Bildungsgutschein is a discretionary benefit, there is no legal entitlement to approval. Your application may be denied if the employment advisor determines that the training is unnecessary or unlikely to improve your job prospects. If your existing qualifications are considered sufficient for job placement, or if a career change seems unrealistic, your request may be rejected.
If your application is denied, make sure to request a written explanation. You have four weeks to file an appeal and present additional arguments or supporting documents. If you need assistance with this, we are happy to help.
Yes, a Bildungsgutschein can be a great solution for career changers, provided the training realistically enhances job prospects in a new field. During the consultation, it is essential to explain why you are transitioning to a new profession and how your previous skills and experience are relevant. Fields facing a high demand for skilled workers, such as IT and cybersecurity, often support career changers.
No prior technical knowledge is required to join our courses. However, to qualify for financial support through a Bildungsgutschein, you must:
- Have a registered residence in Germany
- Speak English at a B1 level or higher
- Be registered as a job seeker
Read more about our admissions process here
A Bildungsgutschein typically covers the full cost of the training course. In certain cases, childcare costs may also be covered. The exact level of funding is determined on a case-by-case basis and should be discussed with your Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter.
Yes, our program is certified under the Accreditation and Licensing Regulation for Employment Promotion (AZAV), ensuring that our courses meet the rigorous standards set by the Agentur für Arbeit/Jobcenter (Federal Employment Agency) and are eligible for funding.
At Cybersteps, we prioritize high-quality education; therefore we also conduct regular audits and internal quality assessments to ensure our curriculum remains up-to-date and practical. A key part of our quality assurance is direct feedback from our participants. Through surveys and personal discussions, we continuously adapt our courses to provide the best possible learning experience.
Our curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in cybersecurity, ensuring that our participants gain the skills most in demand in the job market. Additionally, we work with experienced instructors who come directly from the industry and provide hands-on training to prepare participants for real-world challenges.
Ready to Build a New Career?
Check if you are eligible for a Bildungsgutschein-funded training program
