International teachers in North Rhine-Westphalia: Opportunities and paths to integration

International teachers in North Rhine-Westphalia: Opportunities and paths to integration

On September 8, 2025, Bielefeld University will open a new application phase for the “Teachers Plus” program. This program aims to systematically qualify teachers from third countries, especially those with a refugee background, for the German school service. The current application period runs until October 13th, and the next cohort begins in April 2026. A maximum of 25 places are available within the program.

The primary target group are teachers from third countries with a refugee background, although a limited number of places are also made available for teachers without a refugee background. The prerequisite for applying is a completed, internationally recognized degree that qualifies you for the teaching profession. An additional criterion is previous professional experience in the teaching profession as well as sound knowledge of German at at least B2 level.

Extensive qualification and practical support

In addition to improving German language skills at C1 level, the one-year qualification program also includes deepening technical and didactic knowledge. The content includes, among other things, topics such as educational system comparisons and digitalization in school lessons. Practical experience is made possible through internships in schools in the region. During this phase, the participants receive support from mentors who accompany them directly in the schools.

The program is managed by the Bielefeld School of Education (BiSEd) and aims to efficiently integrate internationally trained teachers into the North Rhine-Westphalian education system. Science Minister Ina Brandes highlights the advantages of international teaching experience, while Schools Minister Dorothee Feller emphasizes the important role of integrating international teachers. Since 2017, seven cohorts with a total of 145 international teachers have been successfully completed, and the eighth cohort is currently underway with 19 participants.

Integration through education: Further perspectives for international teachers

The “Teachers Plus” program is part of the “NRWege ins Studium” project, which aims to make universities in North Rhine-Westphalia more international. Since the start of the program, over 85 million euros have been made available to promote the integration of international graduates. Around 60 graduates have so far received further qualifications for work at schools in North Rhine-Westphalia. This process is crucial to providing the best possible support to students from different cultural backgrounds.

After completing “Teachers Plus”, graduates have the opportunity to take part in the two-year qualification program “ILF – Promoting International Teachers”, which is offered by the Arnsberg district government. As part of this program, international teachers can receive support for two additional years to work in the German school system.

In addition, the participants go through an extensive application process and are supported during their qualification period both at universities and in selected schools. The teachers can be employed for a limited period of time for up to twelve hours per week in secondary school I for no specific reason, which includes a gradual introduction to independent teaching.

In summary, it can be said that the “Teachers Plus” program not only offers significant support for international teachers, but also directly contributes to combating the shortage of teachers in North Rhine-Westphalia. It creates opportunities for people who often come from crisis areas and promotes integration through education.

The application phase is open to those interested until October 13, 2025, and all qualified teachers from third countries who are ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the German education system can apply.

Bielefeld University reports that...

North Rhine-Westphalia School Ministry provides information about the “Teachers Plus” program.

Arnsberg district government on “ILF – Promoting International Teachers”.