A trainee programme (Trainee-Programm) is a structured entry into a company in which you rotate through several stations and are prepared for a specialist or management role. The term is not defined by law, so the contract determines content and duration. What matters most is whether you are employed or doing an internship.
Short answer: A trainee programme is a structured entry for new graduates with several stations. Whether it is an employment relationship depends on the contract and the actual work. If it is one, the statutory minimum wage of 13.90 euros gross per hour applies from 1 January 2026 (MiLoV5). Last updated: October 2026.
The essentials at a glance
- A trainee programme is a structured entry with several stations and a clear goal.
- The term is not legally defined. Content, duration and pay are set out in the contract.
- If the programme is an employment relationship, social insurance and the minimum wage apply.
- A compulsory internship during your studies is something different from a trainee contract.
- Before you sign, get the stations, pay, probation period and any prospect of being taken on confirmed in writing.
Trainee or internship: how to tell the difference
The classification determines pay, social insurance and protection against dismissal. The table shows the typical differences.
| Feature | Trainee with employment contract | Internship |
|---|---|---|
| Contract | Employment contract with a fixed salary | Internship agreement, often fixed-term and shorter |
| Pay | Salary, at least the statutory minimum wage | Depends on type and length; exceptions apply under the Minimum Wage Act |
| Social insurance | Compulsory as an employee | Depends on whether it is a compulsory internship |
| Goal | Training across several areas with a prospect of being taken on | Insight into a profession, or a compulsory part of your studies |
Assumption: You work 40 hours a week in the trainee programme and receive the minimum wage of 13.90 euros gross per hour. Over 52 weeks a year, spread across twelve months, that comes to a gross monthly amount of 2,409.33 euros. A collective or company salary may be higher.
Frequently asked questions
Must a trainee programme be paid?
If you are employed, yes. Then at least the statutory minimum wage applies, and more depending on the collective agreement or your contract. A compulsory internship during your studies can be unpaid under certain conditions. The rules for that are in the Minimum Wage Act.
Am I covered by social insurance during the trainee programme?
If you are employed, you are generally covered by health, long-term care, pension and unemployment insurance. How this interacts with your studies is best clarified early with your health insurer.
Does a trainee programme mean I will be taken on?
No, being taken on is not guaranteed. If it is not in the contract, it is generally not legally binding. Ask for the criteria, the timing and a contact person.
What should I look for in the contract?
Check the stations, pay, probation period and notice periods. The statutory notice periods under § 622 BGB set the framework. Deviations from them are only permitted within the limits set by law.
What to do now
- Check whether the contract is an employment contract or an internship contract.
- Compare the gross salary with the statutory minimum wage of 13.90 euros per hour.
- Have the stations, contacts and the prospect of being taken on confirmed in writing.
- Clarify your social insurance status and whether your tax class is correct.
Related reading
- Internship After Graduation: Minimum Wage and Deductions
- Master or Work: Which Path Pays Off More?
- Glossary: Payroll Tax Class Explained
- Glossary: Salary Sacrifice Explained
Sources: Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Fifth Minimum Wage Adjustment Ordinance, Civil Code (BGB) § 622, notice periods (all accessed October 2026).
Last updated: October 2026. This guide provides general information, not individual advice.
