FAQs
Interested in a dual study program and still have questions?
Then you're in the right place! In our FAQs you’ll find answers to the most common questions about applications, study structure, practical phases, and your development opportunities. And if your question isn’t included — no problem! Just reach out to us directly, we’re happy to help.
Application and selection process
The easiest way is to apply online through our jobboard. There you’ll find all current dual study programs. Simply choose the program that suits you and click “Apply now” to start the process. Please note: We only accept digital applications — applications by post or email unfortunately cannot be considered.
You’ll need a covering letter, your résumé, and at least your two most recent school reports. If you’ve already completed internships or have certificates — perfect! Simply upload them, they help us understand your experience and strengths.
Acceptable file formats: DOCX, PDF, image, and text (MSG, PPT, and XLS file formats are not acceptable for resumes or cover letters)
The application period for our dual/combined study programs usually starts one year before the program begins So if you want to start in summer 2026, you can already apply now. It’s best to apply early — these programs are popular and places fill up quickly.
Once we receive your application, we review your documents and check whether everything has been submitted correctly. If everything fits, you’ll receive an invitation to a digital online test, which you can complete from home within a two-week period.
If you impress us with your profile, the next step is an in-person interview — and if it’s a good match on both sides, you’ll receive your offer for a dual study place at BENTELER!
Yes, absolutely. You can apply even if your final certificate hasn’t been issued yet. In that case, simply upload your most recent mid-year school reports. You can submit your final certificate later.
Course content and structure
At BENTELER, the dual/combined study program is supported up to the master’s degree and lasts a total of six years — including probationary period and all practical phases. During this time, you’ll learn a great deal, try things out, and gradually find your place in our company.
You’ll study at the University of Paderborn while completing an IHK qualification in parallel — for example as an industrial mechanic or mechatronics technician. In your practical phases, you’ll work on real projects and get to know different areas of the company. This allows you to apply your knowledge directly and see how theory and practice come together at BENTELER.
The dual/combined study program at BENTELER combines university studies, an IHK qualification, and practical experience into a unique overall package — including support all the way to a master’s degree. You’ll gain intensive practical experience, complete a roughly three-month stay abroad, and benefit from additional qualifications. On top of that, you receive financial support, excellent hiring prospects, and great development opportunities within the company.
During the dual study program in Eisenach, you will regularly alternate between working at the company and attending university. The combined study program follows the “Paderborn Model”. That means theory phases at the university and practical phases in the company alternate regularly — typically in 3- to 4-month intervals. This enables you to apply your knowledge directly and deepen it. You also see immediately how theory and practice fit together.
That depends on your degree program. If you study business informatics, you’ll work in areas such as IT, project management, or software development. If you choose a technical field like mechanical engineering, you’ll get to know production planning, manufacturing, quality assurance, and research & development. This gives you a broad understanding of how processes interconnect at BENTELER.
Compensation and benefits
As a dual/combined student, you will receive a monthly salary that is based on our internal guidelines.. This ensures you’re financially secure throughout your studies and can fully focus on your academic and practical work.
Of course! You are also entitled to statutory vacation during your practical phases. Simply coordinate your dates with your department or your supervisor — ensuring a good balance between work and time off.
Definitely! At BENTELER, dual/combined students have access to regular internal training and development opportunities that support both professional and personal growth. This helps you expand your knowledge and strengthen your skills step by step.
Yes! A stay abroad is an integral part of your dual study program at BENTELER in Paderborn. You can choose from two possible time windows and select the period that best fits your schedule and study progression. This gives you international experience and insight into how global work functions at BENTELER.
Outlook and hiring
Very strong! Because at BENTELER, we train for our own workforce needs. If you perform well during your studies and show commitment during the practical phases, you have excellent prospects of joining us after graduation and continuing your career.
Many doors are open to you at BENTELER after your dual/combined study program. You can take part in both internal and external training programs — depending on your role and department. These options are tailored to your tasks and strengths so you can grow in the direction that suits you best.
Yes! The combined study program at BENTELER in Paderborn supports you up to your master’s degree. After around six years, you’ll have completed a vocational qualification, earned your bachelor’s degree, completed a stay abroad, and finished your master’s — a perfect foundation for your career start.
After your dual/combined study program, many paths are open to you at BENTELER. You can specialize, take on responsibility, and grow — all the way to leadership roles in different areas of the company. Your qualifications give you an excellent foundation for a successful career, including development into senior management roles.
Of course! At BENTELER, you’ll receive individual guidance to find the career path that truly fits you. We draw on your experiences from your practical phases and explore together which opportunities match your strengths and interests.