A new record of 900 apprentices
At the end of 2025, 900 people in Germany were completing dual vocational training as funeral service professionals. According to the Federal Statistical Office, this was a new record. The number has more than doubled from 430 in 2015.
Women accounted for 61 percent of apprentices in 2025 and men for 39 percent; ten years earlier, the share of women was 46 percent. These figures show growing interest, but they do not guarantee vacancies in every region.
What the occupation involves
BERUFENET describes it as a recognised three-year dual training occupation in skilled trades, industry and commerce, and the public sector. The work combines advice, organisation, practical duties and commercial administration.
Typical tasks include supporting bereaved families, coordinating funerals, transferring and caring for the deceased, preparing coffins or urns, arranging ceremonies, calculating costs and handling contracts and invoices.
Check the demands honestly
The occupation requires empathy, emotional resilience, care, communication skills and respectful conduct. Working hours may be irregular depending on the employer. Applicants should assess the emotional demands as seriously as the organisational side.
Good German, basic maths and practical skills are useful. Individual employers may also request a driving licence, a minimum age or a prior placement. The actual vacancy remains decisive.
How to find an apprenticeship
Search for both “Bestattungsfachkraft Ausbildung” and broader terms related to funeral services, and contact local funeral homes directly. The Federal Employment Agency's job portal lists current training vacancies.
Before applying, check the starting date, workplace, vocational school location, pay, on-call arrangements and whether a placement is expected. A wider search radius can help, but travel and accommodation costs should be calculated first.
Make your motivation specific
A strong application shows that you understand the role. Explain how you can support people in difficult situations and give examples of careful, discreet or well-organised work from customer service, care, events or practical jobs.
A short placement is particularly useful because it lets both sides test whether the everyday work is a genuine fit.
What employers can learn from the record
Growing interest is an opportunity, but it does not replace a clear vacancy. Employers should state duties, school arrangements, working hours, pay, supervision and possible on-call work transparently.
Trial days, placements and a named contact person help applicants make an informed decision. Selection criteria should be clear and gender-neutral.
Conclusion
The record of 900 apprentices points to rising interest in a varied occupation spanning care, organisation, practical work and administration. It also requires resilience, discretion and responsibility.
Prospective applicants should read the official occupational profile, compare current vacancies and seek practical insight before deciding.