Master Craftsman and Qualification Examinations from 2024

From January 1, 2024, all examination fees for module exams within the framework of master and qualification examinations will be fully covered nationwide in Austria. Public institutions, in particular the regional chambers of the Chambers of Commerce, can apply for reimbursement of the fees from public funds. With a budgeted funding amount of €9.51 million, this measure aims to significantly relieve vocational training and further education in crafts as well as in regulated trades, thereby strengthening the competitiveness of especially small and medium-sized enterprises. The funding rate and application procedure are designed to be simple, ensuring prompt processing and disbursement.

Funding is available for persons aged 18 and over who are taking a module exam pursuant to §§ 20ff of the Trade Regulation Act for the first time or again. The offer is available indefinitely – applications can be submitted at any time and without limitation. The funding rate is 100 percent of the examination fees, so no residual costs arise. A prerequisite is the first or second attempt in a respective module exam of a master or qualification examination. The administration is carried out by the regional chambers as funding-executing bodies. This model lowers financial barriers and promotes the professional qualification of participants in the long term, supports professional organizational structures, and contributes to securing qualified skilled workers in all federal states.