In 2025, around 461,800 apprentices in Germany began a dual vocational training program. According to preliminary data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on Tuesday, this figure represents a decrease of 2.8 percent, or 13,300 fewer contracts than the previous year, when 475,100 apprentices started.
This marks a continuation of a slight decline in new enrollment compared to 2024, following periods of modest growth between 2021 and 2023 (which saw increases of 0.6% in 2021, 0.8% in 2022, and 2.1% in 2023).
Examining the composition of the new cohort, men significantly outnumbered women in starting a dual apprenticeship this year. A total of 295,400 men (64%) started training, compared to 166,400 women (36%).
The distribution across specialized fields showed distinct gender patterns. In the crafts and agricultural sectors, the male participation was highest, accounting for 81 percent (106,900 apprentices) and 74 percent (9,300 apprentices) respectively. Conversely, women formed the majority in free professions (representing 89 percent of 39,800 apprentices) and household management (80 percent of 820 apprentices). For comparison, in the public service sector, women also outnumbered men, making up 63 percent (9,000 apprentices).
Overall, as of year-end 2025, approximately 1,207,900 individuals were enrolled in a dual vocational training program. This total represents a slight overall decrease of 0.8 percent, or 10,000 apprentices, compared to the previous year.
In terms of the core sectors, Industry and Trade remained the largest discipline with 677,100 apprentices. This was followed by the crafts sector, which enrolled 342,700 people. Free professions accounted for 113,100 trainees, while public service housed 40,700, agriculture included 31,400, and household management supported around 3,000 people through vocational training.
