The two main words for “education” in the German language are the more general “Bildung” (f.) and the more specific “Ausbildung” (f.).

Although there is significant overlap, the word “Bildung” is used more commonly in the sense of personal development and becoming a well-rounded and intellectually mature person (“eine gebildete Person”, not to be confused with “eine eingebildete Person”, which means “a conceited person”). The word is related to “bilden”, meaning “to form”.

The word “Ausbildung” refers to education for a more specific purpose (such as attaining a degree or diploma). “Berufsausbildung” (“vocational training) is specifically geared towards imparting practical skills that can be used at the workplace.

Common headers on a German CV (called a “Lebenslauf” (m.)) are:

– “Ausbildung” or “Schulbildung” for elementary and secondary education
– “Berufsausbildung” for vocational or professional training
– “Studium” for academic studies
– “Weiterbildung” or “Fortbildung” for further or continued education