Continuing education scholarship (Weiterbildungsstipendium) (Scholarship of the Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung): The continuing education scholarship (Weiterbildungsstipendium) supports young skilled workers who have completed their vocational training with very good results, with up to 9,135 euros over a maximum of three years. It is coordinated by the Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung (SBB), a foundation for promoting talent in vocational education.
What is funded
According to the SBB, the funds can be used for continuing education or a part-time degree programme alongside work. For each measure, the personal contribution is 10 percent. Scholarship holders choose their courses themselves and can do several courses until the maximum amount or the three years have been used up.
Who can apply
The requirements are a completed vocational training and a special achievement, for example a final examination with at least 87 points or a grade of 1.9 or better, a place among the top three in a national vocational skills competition, or a justified recommendation from the employer. According to the SBB, admission is possible up to the age of 24, or up to three years later after voluntary service or parental leave. Anyone who already has a university degree cannot apply.
In practice: an example
A 23-year-old industrial clerk (Industriekauffrau) passed her final examination with 90 points. She applies to her IHK for the continuing education scholarship. If she is accepted, she can have, for example, a Fachwirt course and an Excel course funded within three years and pays 10 percent herself for each measure.
How we help you
We clarify with you which funding route fits your situation and look for an approved course in our course finder. All funding routes at a glance are on our funding page, and you can request an appointment here.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for the continuing education scholarship?
Usually to the body where your training contract was registered, for example the chamber. For health professions regulated by federal law, directly to the SBB. The SBB sets out the current procedure.
Do I have to pay anything myself?
Yes, according to the SBB a personal contribution of 10 percent per measure.
Related terms
Sources
Legal texts and official bodies this article relies on. Links last checked on .
- Continuing education scholarship (Weiterbildungsstipendium)Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung (SBB)
Note: This information is for general guidance and is not legal advice. Whether you receive funding is decided in each individual case by the responsible office, for example the employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit), the job centre or the pension insurance. As of 08.11.2026.