These days a degree is the best guarantee of upward mobility and financially secure circumstances. But what can you do if your parents' finances all but rule out support during your studies? There is still the option of applying for BAföG (the German government student aid), but in most university towns you can't even rent a room on that grant. For everyone who doesn't want to give up the dream of a degree, there is still the option of completing an employer-paid degree. In the lines below we reveal what options there are and what to watch out for, and we wish you every success with your application.

Employer-paid degree: becoming an officer in the Bundeswehr

One of the classic ways to have your employer pay for your degree is to pursue an officer career in the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces. The entry hurdles are quite high and there isn't a very wide choice of degree programs, but you generally only commit for a period of 12 years, and during that time you not only receive financial support during your studies but also insight into complex planning processes and leading people. For this reason, former Bundeswehr officers are also in great demand with civilian employers after leaving active duty.

Employer-paid degree

Employer-paid degree: tax offices and police pay for your studies

The state and federal police forces, as well as other authorities such as the tax offices, also offer the chance to complete a degree at the employer's expense as part of long-term employment. Before applying, though, you should look closely at the various career tracks and prospects, because terminating the employment relationship can give rise to a repayment claim by the employer, and that comes with considerable financial obligations. Exactly the opposite of what you want to achieve with a free degree.

Employer-paid degree: a career in industry and banking
Finally, one more tip for an employer-paid degree for everyone who would rather pursue a career in the private sector. Numerous banks, insurance companies, and industrial firms offer a dual program combining vocational training with a degree, in which students receive a salary from day one and can therefore focus fully on the knowledge being taught. This type of degree also has the advantage that students go through regular practical phases and so gain a much better insight into the working world than students who completed an ordinary degree.