Education system — Germany
| Level | Typical duration | EQF | Benefit notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duale BerufsausbildungDual vocational training (apprenticeship) | 2–3.5 years | — | EQF 3–4. BBiG/HwO apprenticeship — different benefit set (BAB, Schüler-BAföG), not covered here. |
| Universitäts-BachelorUniversity bachelor | 3–4 years (180–240 ECTS) | 6 | Full BAföG eligibility as a first degree. |
| FH-/HAW-BachelorBachelor at a university of applied sciences | 3–4 years (180–240 ECTS) | 6 | Full BAföG eligibility as a first degree. |
| Staatsexamen (Medizin, Jura, Pharmazie, Lehramt)State examination degree (medicine, law, pharmacy, teaching) | varies by subject | 7 | BAföG-eligible as a first degree for the standard period of study. |
| MasterMaster's degree | 1–2 years (60–120 ECTS) | 7 | BAföG covers a consecutive master if you start before turning 45. |
| Duales StudiumDual work-study degree | 3–4 years | 6 | Kindergeld (first education until 25) and student health insurance (until 30) apply as for any first degree. |
| PromotionDoctorate | varies | 8 | Usually funded via employment or Stipendien (Begabtenförderungswerke up to €1,450/month); BAföG does not cover it. |
| Aufstiegsfortbildung (Meister, Fachwirt, Techniker)Advanced professional qualification (master craftsman, specialist, technician) | varies | — | EQF 5–6. AFBG (Aufstiegs-BAföG) territory — not regular student BAföG. |
| TeilzeitstudiumPart-time study | varies | — | Generally NOT BAföG-eligible; Wohngeld often applies instead. |