Germany sees record‑high early termination of apprenticeship contracts

Around 30 % of new apprenticeship contracts in Germany are being ended prematurely, according to the latest BIBB report for 2025. The termination rate has risen to a record 29.7 %, with most cancellations occurring in the first year of training and roughly one‑third during the probationary period.

Trainer and speaker Ute Herzog stresses that the main cause is poor interpersonal understanding rather than lack of technical skills. She advises employers to focus on early relationship building, attentive observation of body language, clear expectation setting and open dialogue during the initial weeks. Herzog cites several former trainees she helped re‑engage through chamber‑mediated placements, all of whom passed their final exams on the first attempt.

The high dropout rate imposes significant costs on businesses and apprentices alike, affecting time, money and morale, and highlights the need for improved mentorship practices in Germany’s dual‑education system.