Bertelsmann Stiftung study finds high apprentice satisfaction but persistent access gaps in Germany

A new Bertelsmann Stiftung study reports that nine out of ten apprentices in Germany are satisfied with their training, and 87 % would choose the same occupation again. Respondents highlighted good team atmosphere, regular learning opportunities and a sense of purpose in their work.

Despite the positive appraisal, the study warns of a growing access problem. In 2025 about 84 000 job‑seekers arrived empty‑handed while 54 400 apprenticeship positions remained unfilled, a 5 % drop in available places and a 2 % fall in new contracts. Experts blame regional mismatches and the heavy weighting of school grades, urging a shift toward practical skill assessments, longer internships and entry‑level qualifications.

Regional surveys echo the shortage. The Leipzig IHK notes that one‑third of firms reduced apprenticeship offers and 39 % could not fill advertised slots. The Südwestfälische IHK listed roughly 130 vacant places across more than 70 companies. The Rosenheim employment agency is holding an open counselling session to help young people navigate the job market.

Stakeholders call for policy measures to ease entry, improve vocational financing and adjust social‑security costs so that companies can sustain and expand training programmes.