Bildungsscheck NRW discontinued:
What Bildungsurlaub participants need to know
Until recently, the Bildungsscheck NRW was one of the most important funding tools for professional development in North Rhine-Westphalia. Many employees were able to finance up to 50% of their course costs – ideal for Bildungsurlaub. But now it's over: Since June 30, 2024, no new Bildungsscheck is being issued.
What does that mean for you? What happens to old vouchers? Are there alternatives? We answer all the important questions.
Funding under the “Bildungsscheck NRW” program was discontinued as of June 30, 2024. This affects both individual and company-issued vouchers.
- As of July 1, 2024, you can no longer apply for a new Bildungsscheck NRW.
- Counseling centers are no longer issuing new vouchers.
- The previous funding of 50% of course fees is no longer available.
If you received a Bildungsscheck before the deadline (June 30, 2024), the following applies:
You can still redeem it until March 31, 2029.
The condition is: The course provider accepts the funding, and your course starts before your Bildungsscheck expires.
Tip: Inform your course provider in advance and indicate during registration that you want to redeem a valid Bildungsscheck.
The state government announced that there will be a new funding program – expected to start in fall 2025.
- More support for online courses and digital learning offers
- Simplified application process
- Possible combination with other funding options (e.g. Bildungsgutschein, Aufstiegs-BAföG)
- Focus on transformation topics such as digitalization, sustainability, or healthcare
We will of course keep you updated as soon as concrete information becomes available.
Until the new program is available, you can consider these options:
If you're considering a career change or your job is at risk, you can apply for a Bildungsgutschein at the job center or employment agency. This often covers 100% of course costs.
If your course is recognized as Bildungsurlaub, you can deduct it on your taxes. This way, you can recover part of the costs through your income tax return.
If you live or work in Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, or other states, you may still be eligible for their Bildungsscheck programs. This may also apply to online courses.
Important: Your legal right to Bildungsurlaub remains – even without the Bildungsscheck.
This means you still have 5 paid days per year for further education (if working full-time) and can book a course – even if you finance it yourself.
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We hope this has answered your questions on the Bildungsscheck in North Rhine-Westphalia. If you have further questions, please feel free to send us an email.
About The Author
Nils is a digital entrepreneur who combines the digital world with his passion for personal development and work-life balance through meinbildungsurlaub.de. As the initiator of the platform, he wants to to help people achieve their professional and personal goals and promote the topic of Bildungsurlaub.
