All employees benefit from membership in IG Metall. For apprentices and dual-track students, IG Metall has special offers that go beyond the collective bargaining benefits of membership.
Sufficient annual leave, reasonable working hours, fair pay —good training and working conditions don’t just fall from the sky. They’re negotiated between the collective bargaining partners—that is, employers and unions. A simple formula applies here: The more employees who join a union like IG Metall, the better it can advance the interests of its members.
We’ve already achieved a great deal: regular increases in apprenticeship wages and salaries, more vacation time, shorter working hours, and collective bargaining provisions for permanent employment after apprenticeship are just a few examples. However, only members of IG Metall have a legal right to these benefits. This also applies to (dual) students: only through membership do they have a right to the benefits of the collective bargaining agreement.
That’s why we’re counting on you: Because only together are we strong! It’s about your future, your apprenticeship, your studies! Become part of the “WE” of IG Metall.
Offers for Trainees
If you’re new to the workplace, you probably have a lot of questions: How much vacation time am I actually entitled to? How does vocational school work? Does my company have a policy on permanent employment after the apprenticeship? Who can help me if my trainer isn’t taking proper care of me?
We’re here to answer any questions you have about your apprenticeship. At more than 145 local offices nationwide, you can get advice from experts: youth secretaries, local youth committees, as well as workplace contacts and union representatives form a strong and reliable network. You can find your local office here.
In addition, we offer an educational program specifically tailored to the interests of young workers. We also provide the necessary know-how through seminars for anyone who wants to get actively involved—whether to advocate for their interests at work, promote democratic co-determination, or fight for social justice. In addition to learning about the subject matter, it’s always about meeting new people and networking. The costs for seminars can be covered by IG Metall in coordination with your local office. More information on the youth education program is available here. The membership fee for apprentices is one percent of their average gross monthly income.
Opportunities for Students
I want to do an internship—what should I keep in mind? As a dual-track student, do I have to pay social security contributions? How does student financing work? Or what are the starting salaries for graduates in the industry I’m aiming for after I finish my studies?
We also offer (dual) students advice on topics related to their studies. At the local university information offices or campus offices of the German Trade Union Federation (DGB) and IG Metall, you can get information on internships, part-time jobs, and starting your career. We also assist you with labor law questions regarding student jobs and offer seminars, events, and informational brochures on topics related to studying and careers. Students can network and, through discussion with one another, connect the theory learned in college with the practical realities of the working world.
High school students and students enrolled in full-time continuing education or degree programs pay a monthly service fee of 3 euros. High school students and students who receive compensation (= income) (e.g., dual-track students) or income equivalent to an apprenticeship stipend pay one percent of their average gross monthly income. You can find more information about services for students here.
Scholarships for Active Members
The Hans Böckler Foundation offers dedicated young people the opportunity to pursue a degree: Those who demonstrate involvement in labor unions or social and political causes receive monthly financial support to help fund their undergraduate studies or doctoral program. Find out more here.
For the first time, the Hans Böckler Foundation is now also able to support talented individuals in vocational training with a scholarship . This is made possible by the “Talents in Vocational Training” project . The pilot phase is currently underway, during which students in their third year of vocational training this year can apply for scholarships. The scholarship is awarded for a period of three years. You can find more information here.
The ISIC Card—Free for Members
It’s more than just a piece of plastic: The “International Student Identity Card” (ISIC) is the international ID card for high school students, apprentices, and college students aged 12 and older. It’s valid in over 130 countries. It gives you access to many exclusive discounts and benefits. And the best part: The card is valid for one year from the date of issuance and is available free of charge to our members. You can find out more and apply for the card here .
Legal Protection for Students During Exams
For students who are members of IG Metall, there’s a new benefit under the bylaws: legal protection for exam-related matters. We explain here in which cases it applies and exactly who is eligible to use it.
Benefits for All Members
Whether you’re at work, in vocational training, in college, unemployed, or retired —we offer our members a wide range of benefits to improve their quality of work and life.
These include, among others:
You can find detailed information about these benefits here.
