International Students: Apprenticeship Opportunities And Your Eligibility

International students can apply for apprenticeships in some countries, such as the UK, Germany, and France. In the UK, international students must be eligible to work in the country and have the necessary visas. Apprenticeships in Germany may require a minimum German language proficiency of B1, completion of 9-10 years of education, and employment by a German company. In France, non-EU international students may require a temporary work permit if the number of contract hours exceeds 964 hours per year. In the US, apprenticeships are not common, and work permits or US citizenship/residency are typically required for employment.

Can international students apply for an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship availability for international students varies by country

In the United Kingdom, international students can apply for degree apprenticeships, which are considered full-time jobs. UCAS, the UK's university and college admissions service, offers degree apprenticeships alongside traditional degree programs. These apprenticeships provide students with work experience, mentorship, and a salary while they pursue their degrees. However, students should be mindful of the allowed work time and ensure they don't exceed it.

Germany welcomes international students to apply for apprenticeships, offering a "skilled worker" certificate upon completion. The requirements include B1 German proficiency, nine to ten years of education, and secured employment by a German company. France also allows international students to pursue apprenticeships, particularly first-year master's students or applicants on training programs approved by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles. Non-EU international students in France should note that if their contract exceeds 964 hours per year, their employer must apply for a temporary work permit.

Australia, on the other hand, does not permit international students to undertake apprenticeships as they are considered a government subsidy scheme for Australian citizens and permanent residents. However, international students in Australia can explore other options like trade courses to gain practical skills and work experience. It is important for international students to research the specific requirements and opportunities available in their country of interest.

In the US, apprenticeships are not common, but international students can find on-campus jobs

Apprenticeships are not common in the US. One source states that "apprenticeship is not really a thing in the US". However, international students can find on-campus jobs. For example, international students in the US can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), a form of training that often comes with pay and directly relates to their program of study. Students can apply for OPT during their program of study (pre-completion OPT) or after they finish their program (post-completion OPT). F-1 students must request approval from their DSO, who will recommend this in SEVIS and endorse the student's Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status". The student must then file the Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization", with supporting documents to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS will issue a Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document", if the application is approved. Students cannot begin their training until they receive this authorization.

M-1 students may only participate in PT after their program completion. They earn one month of PT eligibility for every four months of program enrolment and must obtain authorization from the USCIS before participating in PT. F-1 students who plan to start their own business in the US must qualify and apply for OPT.

International students can also gain work experience through curricular practical training (CPT), which is an alternative work/study, internship, cooperative education, or other types of required practicums offered through cooperative agreements between a sponsoring employer and the student's college or university. CPT is only available to F-1 students when it is part of an established curriculum within a school and must be integral to their program of study. Unlike pre-completion OPT, CPT can be full-time and is not restricted by a weekly 20-hour work limit. To qualify for CPT, students must be F-1 students and have completed one full academic year of study at an SEVP-certified school, unless they are graduate students whose program requires immediate CPT. Students who complete one year or more of full-time CPT are ineligible to participate in post-completion OPT. To get permission for CPT, a DSO needs to authorise it in SEVIS and provide an updated Form I-20 indicating authorisation for the training opportunity.

While apprenticeships are not common in the US, international students can find on-campus jobs and gain work experience through OPT and CPT. These opportunities provide paid work experience and allow students to apply the lessons from the classroom to their work, helping them to better understand their course material.

International students in the UK can apply for degree apprenticeships, but they are considered full-time jobs

Apprenticeships are an excellent way to gain real job experience alongside your education. They are jobs where you can learn, work, and gain job experience as a student. International students in the UK can apply for degree apprenticeships, but there are some crucial points to keep in mind.

Firstly, while international students can apply for degree apprenticeships in the UK, it's important to note that UK law considers apprenticeships as full-time jobs. This means that international students should not exceed the allowed work time specified in their visa regulations. Degree apprenticeships are time-consuming, so it's essential to carefully consider the time commitment before applying.

Degree apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to combine university studies with paid work experience. Upon completion of a degree apprenticeship program, individuals will receive a bachelor's or master's degree. This is a significant advantage as the degree is typically paid for by the employer or the government, helping students avoid student debt. Additionally, during the program, individuals are considered students and can enjoy various student perks and discounts.

The eligibility criteria for degree apprenticeships in the UK include having a valid permit or visa and following all legal rules. In terms of entry requirements, the Degree category typically requires five GCSEs and Level 3 qualifications such as A-Levels, NVQ/SVQ Level 3, or a BTEC National. It's important to note that degree apprenticeships are offered at Level 6, which is equivalent to an undergraduate-level degree.

International students should be aware that the availability of degree apprenticeships varies by country. For example, Australia does not allow international students to pursue apprenticeships as they are considered a government subsidy scheme for Australian citizens and permanent residents. However, other countries, such as Germany and France, welcome international students to apply for apprenticeships, with certain requirements in place.

In summary, international students in the UK can apply for degree apprenticeships, but it is crucial to understand the legal classification of apprenticeships as full-time jobs and carefully consider the time commitment and visa regulations. Degree apprenticeships offer valuable benefits, including paid work experience, a degree without student debt, and student perks. By meeting the eligibility and entry requirements, international students can take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their employability and gain valuable experience.

Germany welcomes international students for apprenticeships, with some requirements

Germany offers international students the opportunity to pursue apprenticeships in the country, providing them with a pathway to acquire practical skills and training in various industries. While the system is primarily designed for German residents, non-German residents can also pursue apprenticeships and benefit from outstanding career opportunities. Here's what you need to know about apprenticeships in Germany as an international student:

Dual Education System

Germany's dual education system, known as "duales Ausbildungssystem," combines practical training in a company with theoretical training in a vocational school. This unique approach offers internationally recognized qualifications in various professions, including bricklayers, bakers, nurses, and electricians. The system is standardized throughout Germany, ensuring that qualifications are recognized regardless of the student's placement location.

Language Requirements

International students applying for apprenticeships in Germany must meet specific language requirements. A German language proficiency level of at least B1 is typically required, although some institutions may accept applicants with an A2 level and provide preliminary language courses. The training and lessons will be conducted in German, so advanced language skills are beneficial.

Educational Qualifications

Apprenticeships in Germany usually require a high school diploma or an equivalent school-leaving certificate that enables students to attend a higher education institution. It is essential to research the specific requirements and qualifications for each apprenticeship, as companies set their own standards.

Visa Requirements

International students may need to obtain a student visa or a specific visa for vocational training to pursue an apprenticeship in Germany. The visa procedure can be accelerated for a fee. EU citizens, as well as those from Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland, may have simplified requirements and can change their place of residency at the local city hall.

Salary and Benefits

Apprentices in Germany typically receive a monthly salary ranging from €500 to €800. Some apprenticeships may also offer benefits such as health insurance and paid vacation. It is important to note that the wage may not be sufficient to live independently, and additional funding sources may be necessary.

Application Process

The application process for apprenticeships in Germany typically begins a year ahead of the start date. International students should research available opportunities, contact potential employers, and utilize job search websites and professional networks. The requirements and specifics can vary depending on the industry and apprenticeship, so thorough research is essential.

France also offers apprenticeships to international students, with a work permit needed for >964 contract hours

Apprenticeships in France, known as "apprentissage", are open to international students. This vocational training combines academic education with practical work experience, allowing apprentices to gain theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills in a chosen field. While EU nationals can participate in apprenticeships without a work permit, non-EU international students require a valid student visa or residence permit. Additionally, if the apprenticeship contract exceeds 964 hours per year, the employer must apply for a temporary work permit from the Ministry of the Interior.

International students interested in apprenticeships in France should note that proficiency in French is often required, as most training and workplace communication is conducted in the language. Apprenticeships typically cater to individuals between 16 and 29 years old, although exceptions exist for older individuals in specific cases. To enrol, students must be accepted into a recognised French educational institution offering an apprenticeship programme.

The application process for apprenticeships in France varies depending on the school, but generally, students must first find a suitable apprenticeship course. Once accepted into the course, the student will receive an apprenticeship contract, which is then signed by the student and their future employer. This tripartite contract finalises the student's course registration. Apprenticeships are available across various fields, including architecture, business, and mechanics, and they can lead to bachelor's or master's degrees.

It is worth noting that training contracts, which blend on-the-job training with classroom instruction, are also open to international students in France. These contracts typically last between one and three years, and individuals are considered employees, receiving a salary. Apprenticeships and training contracts offer international students a valuable opportunity to integrate into the French work culture, gain practical experience, and finance their studies.

Frequently asked questions