Examination and Certification
The apprenticeship period usually ends with the final exam or a journeyman’s test. The final exam will cover both the school part of the education as well as the practical in-company training. The social partners and/or the chambers of commerce are responsible for the practical part of the exam. The apprenticeship certificate is nationally recognised in the labour market, which is one of the key success features of apprenticeship.
Examination and Certification in Austria
Apprenticeship training is concluded with the final apprenticeship exam. By passing the exam, the apprentice shows that they have acquired the skills and competences needed to be successful. The exam consists of a practical and a theoretical section.
Examination and Certification in Denmark
Tests and exams mirror the objectives of each VET programme. Consequently, exams vary from programme to programme. Both formative and summative assessments are used throughout the programme to monitor student progress and to support the student as a learner. There are different kinds of exams: oral, written, oral and project-based, and a journeyman’s test.
Examination and Certification in Germany
The dual apprenticeship is characterised by the significance of its final examination. This leads to the awarding of a certificate by the competent body in charge. Content and methods of the examination are described in the training regulation of the occupation.
Examination and Certification in Luxembourg
The Luxembourgish VET system is organised in a unit and modular based system where each module’s competences are assessed individually by the VET teacher or in-company trainer in charge. VET programmes leading to a DT or a DAP include a final national test organised as an integrated project corresponding to a real or simulated working situation. The official VET certifications are issued by the National Authority for Vocational Certification.
Examination and Certification in Switzerland
There are two federally recognised formal initial VET qualifications in Switzerland, the Federal VET Diploma for 3-year and 4-year VET programmes and the Federal VET Certificate for 2-year VET programmes. Intermediary examinations and grades are displayed in reports from the vocational school. Federal diplomas and certificates are awarded after successful completion of the qualification procedure at the end of the apprenticeship. In addition, apprentices in 3-year and 4-year VET programmes may achieve the Federal Vocational Baccalaureate (FVB) if they pass an additional examination. The courses for an FVB might be taken during or after the 3-year or 4-year VET-programme and it allows for further studies at a University of Applied Sciences.