Voluntary social year

The Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) offers young people the opportunity to get involved in the social sector and gain professional experience at the same time. It consists mainly of practical assistance. An essential part of the FSJ is the pedagogical support to assist, qualify and educate the volunteers. The FSJ provides career guidance and promotes personal development and social skills.

An FSJ can be completed in the following areas of social work:

• Healthcare
• Elderly care
• Disability care
• Day care centers
• Child and youth work

It is also possible to work abroad.

More on this topic:

You can only complete a Voluntary Social Year with an approved FSJ organization. These organizations are also the contact points for your application.

You can find a list of providers in the information provided by the Hessian Ministry for Social Affairs and Integration and the State Working Group of FSJ providers in Hesse.

Please enquire with the respective institution as to which documents they require from you for an application.

Applications are to be submitted informally directly to the sponsor

Participants in an FSJ

• must have completed compulsory full-time schooling and
• must not have reached the age of 27 by the end of their service.

Please note:

• The entitlement to child benefit continues during the FSJ.

If you are interested, please contact the organization where you would like to do the FSJ. They will provide you with more detailed information, for example on the respective places and locations, as well as the application details.

The FSJ can be completed for a period of six to 18 months, whereby the standard period is 12 months. It usually begins on September 1.

The application deadlines are not the same for all organizations (usually by 31 March of the year). You should therefore enquire as early as possible.

Other expenses

Pocket money, accommodation, meals

Participants receive monthly pocket money of at least 130.00 euros, although the amount may vary depending on the sponsoring organization. You will receive a lump sum for board and lodging. Accommodation and meals can also be provided free of charge. The sponsoring organization is responsible for paying social security contributions.

Further information on the Voluntary Social Year can be found on the website of the Hessian Ministry for Social Affairs and Integration.