What is the Berufsförderungsdienst (BFD) of the Bundeswehr?
As a temporary soldier (SaZ), career soldier (Berufssoldat), or voluntary military service member (FWDL), you are entitled to financial support after your service ends. You can use this support to complete a meaningful vocational training or Weiterbildung that facilitates your transition into civilian life. Whether you are still in service or preparing for the future, here you will find the key information to make the most of BFD’s offers.
In principle, individual suitability, preferences, and performance capabilities are taken into account. However, in addition to assessing whether a specific professional goal can be achieved, the current labor market situation is also considered.
Soldiers also have the right to funding for external measures, such as in-person courses, distance learning, or online study programs offered by public or private educational institutions.
What Does the Bundeswehr BFD Offer?
The Berufsförderungsdienst (BFD) of the Bundeswehr supports temporary soldiers during their service and up to seven years after. The goal is to prepare them as best as possible for transitioning into civilian employment and improving their career opportunities. The BFD’s services include:
Financial support for educational programs: The BFD often covers the costs of Weiterbildung, university programs, or other qualifications that improve career prospects outside the Bundeswehr.
Reimbursement of travel expenses: If travel is required for training sessions or job interviews, the BFD may reimburse travel costs.
Rehabilitation support: Soldiers who have suffered health issues during service receive specialized rehabilitation programs to facilitate their professional reintegration.
Transition allowances: Soldiers leaving the Bundeswehr receive transition payments (Übergangsgebührnisse) to provide financial security until they find civilian employment.
Recognition and certification assistance: The BFD helps convert military qualifications into civilian certifications, making job market entry easier.
Who Can Apply for BFD Support?
Support is available primarily for temporary soldiers (SaZ), career soldiers (Berufssoldaten), and voluntary military service members (FWDL) who are planning their post-service careers.
The various programs aimed at integrating soldiers into the civilian job market are open to all temporary service members (m/w/d) as regulated by the Soldiers’ Pensions Act (Soldatenversorgungsgesetz). The longer the period of service, the more extensive the benefits available through the Bundeswehr BFD. However, voluntary military service members are also eligible for support. For further information, you can contact your assigned advisor at the Berufsförderungsdienst.
How Can I Apply for BFD Support?
If you wish to receive BFD support, it is essential to contact the Berufsförderungsdienst before starting your planned Weiterbildung. There, you will receive personalized advice and the necessary application forms. Please note that, similar to the AZAV education voucher, retroactive funding is only granted in exceptional cases. During the consultation, your career goals, previous qualifications, and future development options will be discussed. Your advisor will assist you in creating an individualized support plan tailored to your personal and professional needs.
Once the Berufsförderungsdienst approves your funding request, you typically only need to submit the original invoice and proof of participation after completing the program. The approved costs will then be reimbursed.
After at least four years of service, soldiers may also receive support for transitioning into the public sector. The Berufsförderungsdienst of the Bundeswehr operates a dedicated Stellenbörse (job exchange) platform, where open positions in the public and private sectors are listed for former soldiers.
Cost Coverage for Educational Programs
The funding provided by the Berufsförderungsdienst depends on the length of service. The coverage can be up to 100% of the costs.