Germany apprenticeship market shifts as international trainees rise

Germany's dual vocational training market is undergoing a significant structural shift. In 2025, the total number of apprentices fell by 2.8% to 461,900. However, this decline masks a major demographic change: while the number of German apprentices dropped by 6%, the number of international apprentices rose by 18%.

In a ten-year comparison, the number of non-German apprentices has more than doubled, growing from approximately 38,800 in 2015 to 82,400 in 2025. Notable increases include apprentices from Ukraine (+64%), Vietnam (+36%), Turkey, and Afghanistan (both approximately +47-48%).

Occupational preferences are also shifting. IT professions saw a decline, dropping from the second most popular choice for young men in 2024 to fourth place in 2025. Meanwhile, skilled trades are seeing growth, with automotive mechatronics remaining the top choice for men and medical assistants leading for women. International apprentices show a high concentration in medical professions, particularly among women.