Gap year / Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr (FSJ) application

Overview

Use this after Abitur or vocational completion when planning a gap year or FSJ. Apply early; voluntary social year service can count toward pension contributions.

Timing to be aware of

Deadline applies

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

What you'll need

• School-leaving certificate
• motivation letter
• health clearance

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• How do I apply for Kindergeld and who is eligible?
• How much parental allowance will I get and how is it calculated?
• Can I homeschool my child in Germany?

Related events

• School type selection (Gymnasium/Realschule/Hauptschule)
  Critical
  On transition
• Hochschule application (university)
  Critical
  Deadline applies
• Homeschooling notification
  Critical
  Regulatory deadline
• School enrollment registration
  High
  Deadline applies
• Kindergarten application
  High
  Deadline applies