A special scheme for unemployed people who want to complete a vocational education. Education Upgrade (Uddannelsesløft) gives unemployed people the opportunity to complete a vocational education while receiving benefits corresponding to up to 110% of unemployment benefits.
The scheme is designed to help unskilled unemployed people become skilled – and thereby improve their opportunities in the labor market.
Who can use the scheme?
To use Education Upgrade, you must:
- Be unemployed and receiving unemployment benefits
- Be at least 30 years old
- Be unskilled or have an outdated education
- Want to complete a vocational education
Note: The scheme can also be used by people under 30 in certain cases. Contact your unemployment fund for specific assessment.
Financial support
During your education, you can receive:
- Schooling periods: Up to 110% of unemployment benefits
- Internship periods: Apprentice wage from the company (typically higher than unemployment benefits)
The exact amount depends on your previous income and unemployment fund.
How to apply
Contact your unemployment fund
Start by talking to your unemployment fund about your possibilities.
Choose an education
Find a vocational education that is in demand in the labor market.
Get approval
The job center must approve that the education is a good choice for you.
Find an apprenticeship
You must secure an apprenticeship position before or during the education.
Start your education
Begin your education and receive support throughout.
Advantages of Education Upgrade
- Financial security – Receive up to 110% of unemployment benefits during schooling.
- Become skilled – Complete a full vocational education as an adult.
- Better job opportunities – Skilled workers are in higher demand than unskilled.
- Shorter education – Your experience is recognized through RPL.
Which educations are covered?
The scheme primarily covers vocational educations within:
- Technical educations (carpenter, electrician, plumber, etc.)
- Commercial educations (office, retail, etc.)
- Social and health educations (SOSU helper and assistant)
- Food educations (chef, baker, etc.)
The education must be in demand in the labor market. Your job center assesses this together with you.
Important considerations
Be aware:
- You must remain active in your job search during schooling periods
- You must find an apprenticeship position to complete the education
- The job center must approve that the education is relevant
Summary
Education Upgrade is an excellent opportunity if you're unemployed and want to become skilled. You receive financial support throughout the education and significantly improve your chances in the labor market.
Next step
In the next guide, we look at Adult Apprentice – a scheme for adults over 25 who want to become apprentices.