BILDUNGSGUTSCHEIN @ 42 BERLIN

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.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR A BILDUNGSGUTSCHEIN?

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 jobless now 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 residency via 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.

HOW TO GET STARTED?

🐟 Apply and Complete the Piscine
Start by applying to 42 Berlin and passing the Piscine—our intensive 26-day selection bootcamp. This step is required for all students, regardless of funding.

📄 Get the Info Pack for Your Advisor

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.

Meet with Your Advisor. Book an appointment with your Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit advisor. Bring the info pack and be ready to explain

👩‍🚀 Why you’re choosing 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

✅ Receive the Voucher.
If approved, you’ll receive a Bildungsgutschein valid for up to 18 months—more than enough time to complete the core curriculum.

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.

Please make sure that the validity covers the start date of the next Kick-Off. And also hand in the voucher three weeks prior to your Kick-Off. You can find all the important dates here.

Important Links