Bildungsgutschein

42 Berlin offers a world-class software engineering program that’s completely free of charge—with or without a Bildungsgutschein.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers, there’s no tuition, and no hidden fees.

If however you’re registered as unemployed or soon to be, you might qualify for additional financial support through Germany’s Bildungsgutschein program (AZAV funding) provided by the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter.

WHAT IS A BILDUNGSGUTSCHEIN?

The Bildungsgutschein is an education voucher from the German Federal Employment Agency. It covers the cost of certain certified training programs—and since 42 Berlin is already tuition-free, the voucher instead allows eligible students to receive financial support while studying full-time.

That means if you qualify, you’ll get paid while you study.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?

You are already registered at AfA

You’re registered with the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter.

Registering with the appropriate agency is a prerequisite for accessing the Bildungsgutschein.

You’re currently unemployed or at risk of unemployment

You’re currently unemployed or your current role is ending soon.

If you're considered “at risk,” you can register early with the Agentur für Arbeit and potentially receive a Bildungsgutschein before becoming unemployed. This helps you transition smoothly into a new career—like studying at 42 Berlin—without a gap in support.

You’ve been living in Germany for at least one year

AfA checks your residency via your Meldebescheinigung, Residence Permit, or employment records.

To apply, you need to schedule an appointment with your local Employment Agency. During this appointment, you'll discuss your career goals and how a specific training program can enhance your employment prospects.

More information

We recommend speaking with your advisor at the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit to confirm your eligibility and discuss your interest in joining 42 Berlin.

GET STARTED

1. Apply for the education voucher

Before starting the Piscine, apply for the education voucher—or at least register your interest with your advisor.

This will help you understand how likely your voucher application is to be accepted before you begin.

2. Apply and complete the Piscine

Apply to 42 Berlin and pass the Piscine—our intensive 26-day selection bootcamp.

This step is mandatory for all students, regardless of funding.

3. Get the Info Pack for your appointment

After passing the Piscine, download our Bildungsgutschein Info Pack, which includes all the details your advisor will need about the program and our AZAV certification.

4. Meet with your advisor again

Schedule an appointment with your Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit advisor. Bring the info pack and be prepared to discuss:

👩‍🚀 Why you chose 42 Berlin

📈 Your goals in software development

🧑🏻‍🏫 How the program supports your career path

We’ve created a document that might help you prepare for the meeting with your caseworker. Find it here.

5. Receive the Education Voucher

If approved, you’ll receive a Bildungsgutschein valid for up to 18 months—more than enough time to complete the Core Curriculum.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO NOTE

Studying at 42 Berlin using an Education Voucher is only possible as a full-time student with a required on-site attendance of 40 hours per week.
Similar to a professional occupation, you have 30 days of holidays that you can take at your sole discretion.
Make sure your voucher is valid from the start date of the next Kick-Off. You must submit the voucher at least three weeks before your Kick-Off.
To understand your chances of approval, you should apply for the education voucher—or at least register your interest with your advisor—before starting the Piscine.