Master qualification within reach: How to secure the ideal loan for your further training
03.05.2025
10
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
The Master Craftsman’s Certificate is a decisive career step, but the costs can be a hurdle. With the right financing strategy, the dream of achieving your master title becomes within reach.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The costs of master craftsman training are often between 5,000 and 10,600 euros, including all fees and materials.
The Advancement BAföG offers a grant of 50 per cent towards course costs and a low-interest loan for the other half.
Costs for further training, including interest on the loan, can be claimed as tax-deductible work-related expenses.
Cost analysis: Planning your investment in your master craftsman qualification realistically
The path to master craftsman certification begins with sound financial planning. Total costs vary considerably depending on the trade and training provider. Expect course fees between EUR 4,000 and 9,000. Additional examination fees can amount to EUR 750 to 850.
But that is not all. Further costs arise for learning materials, which often add up to EUR 200 to 500. The issuing of the master craftsman's certificate itself also costs, depending on the chamber, between EUR 20 and 50. Overall, you should budget up to EUR 10,600 or more.
A detailed breakdown will help you keep track:
Course fees: EUR 4,000 – 9,000
Examination fees: EUR 750 – 850
Learning materials (books, software): EUR 200 – 500
Masterpiece (material costs): up to EUR 2,000
Administrative fees (applications, certificate): EUR 40 – 240
These figures show that careful calculation is essential before you choose the most suitable financing method.
Use government funding as the foundation of your financing
Before taking out a loan, you should make full use of all state funding options. The most important instrument is the Aufstiegsfortbildungsförderungsgesetz (AFBG), better known as Aufstiegs-BAföG. It supports you with course and examination fees of up to 15,000 euros. This funding is independent of income and assets.
The funding is made up of two parts. You receive 50 per cent of the eligible costs as a direct grant, which you do not have to repay. For the remaining 50 per cent, you can apply for a low-interest loan from the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW). If you pass the exam, a further 50 per cent of the loan will be waived.
The material costs for your master craftsperson examination project are also eligible for funding. Here you can receive support of up to half of the necessary costs, but no more than 2,000 euros. This well-thought-out combination of grants and loan concessions forms a strong basis for your financing.
Find the right loan for master craftsman training
Even after deducting state subsidies, there is often still a funding gap. A loan for advanced training to become a master craftsman is a common solution to close this gap. There are specialised options such as the KfW advancement loan, which is directly linked to Aufstiegs-BAföG. This loan is characterised by particularly low interest rates and a flexible repayment period, which only begins after the training has been completed.
Alternatively, you can take out a classic instalment loan from a bank. This option often offers more flexibility, as the loan amount does not have to be tied to a specific purpose. This means it can also cover living costs during full-time training. A loan for unrestricted use may be the right choice here.
Compare the terms carefully: interest rate, term and the option of making additional repayments. A careful household budget calculation before applying for the loan helps you assess your monthly affordability realistically. A loan with a longer term can significantly reduce monthly instalments and give you financial room to manoeuvre.
Maximise tax benefits and reduce overall costs
An often overlooked aspect of financing is the tax advantages. You can claim the costs of your master craftsman training as tax-deductible work-related expenses on your tax return. This applies to all expenses you incur in connection with the further training. This includes not only the course and examination fees.
The interest on your loan is also tax-deductible. The principal repayments on the loan cannot be deducted, but the interest you pay reduces your taxable income. Keep all receipts and the loan agreement carefully.
The following items can generally be deducted:
Course and examination fees
Travel costs to the educational institution (30 pence per kilometre)
Costs for specialist literature and work materials
Accommodation and meal allowances for attending away from home
Interest on the education loan taken out
Note: Loan forgiveness, as is common with Aufstiegs-BAföG, is treated as taxable employment income and must be declared on your tax return. The correct tax treatment can reduce your overall financial burden by several hundred euros per year.
Application Strategy: Four Steps to Secured Funding
A structured approach is the key to success. With a clear strategy, you secure the best possible financing for your master craftsman training. Follow the four steps below to make the process efficient. This helps you avoid delays and financial bottlenecks.
The first step is always to apply for government funding. Start applying for Aufstiegs-BAföG at least three months before the course begins. Only once you have the notice confirming the funding amount in your hands can you calculate your remaining financing gap precisely. This notice is the basis for all further planning.
Next, compare the loan offers. Obtain quotes for the KfW loan and for unsecured personal loans. Use our advisory service as well to find the product that suits you. As soon as you have decided on a loan, submit the application and provide all the necessary documents. With good preparation, such as a well-prepared household budget calculation, you will speed up approval.
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More useful links
The Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) provides detailed information on the education loan, a low-interest loan for training and further education.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides comprehensive statistics and information on further education in Germany.
The Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts provides detailed information on Aufstiegs-BAföG and how to apply for it.
The Leipzig Chamber of Crafts offers information on state support for financing master craftsman training.
The Federal Employment Agency provides information on various funding opportunities for vocational further training.
FAQ
What is the interest rate for a Meister loan?
The interest rates for the KfW loan linked to Aufstiegs-BAföG are state-subsidised and therefore very low. For unsecured instalment loans, the interest rates depend on your creditworthiness and the bank’s respective offer. Comparing options is essential here.
Can I still receive funding in my mid-40s?
Yes, the Advanced Training Assistance Act (Aufstiegs-BAföG) is granted regardless of age. As long as you meet the formal requirements for the master craftsman examination, you can apply for the funding.
What happens if I do not pass the master craftsman examination?
If you do not pass the examination, the 50 per cent loan forgiveness on the KfW loan portion of Aufstiegs-BAföG will no longer apply. The loan received must then be repaid in the usual way. However, the 50 per cent grant portion does not have to be repaid.
Can I also use the funding for part-time training?
Yes, the Aufstiegs-BAföG supports both full-time and part-time measures. However, the requirements regarding the number of hours and the duration of the measure must be met.
Do I have to provide collateral for the KfW loan?
No, you usually do not have to provide any collateral for the loan under Aufstiegs-BAföG. The funding is designed to make access to professional development easier.
Where do I apply for Aufstiegs-BAföG?
You submit the application to the responsible office for educational support at your permanent place of residence. You can find the application forms online or directly at the office.
