Apprenticeship is an employment contract that allows an apprentice to train by alternating periods of work in a company with periods of training at a vocational training center (CFA), in order to prepare for a diploma or qualification.
At Istec Business School, we structure the experience around a simple three-pronged approach: a clear contract, regular support, and a tool-based skills assessment.
In the workplace, the apprentice is integrated, carries out their tasks under supervision, learns internal rules, and progresses in their role.
At the vocational training center, they attend classes, acquire knowledge and skills, and take assessments and exams.
The schedule adheres to the principle of alternating between classroom instruction and practical experience: theoretical training represents at least 25% of the total contract duration, with this calculation governed by regulations.
The apprentice is an employee: the company pays remuneration according to age, year of contract and collective agreement provisions.
Apprenticeship training is free for the apprentice. For the company/CFA (Apprenticeship Training Center), funding is based on a NPEC (level of support): the France Compétences framework serves as an operational tool to identify the applicable NPEC. The OPCO (Skills Operator) provides funding based on this level, prorated to the duration of the contract, up to the limit of the service price set by the training agreement. If the NPEC does not cover the entire service price, the company may contribute financially; the details are specified in the training agreement signed between the CFA and the company.
According to OPCO rules, certain additional costs may be covered (specific categories depending on the sector).
The success of an apprenticeship depends heavily on the apprenticeship supervisor (or company mentor). Their role is to welcome and integrate the apprentice, organize a progression of tasks, transmit the practices and requirements of the profession, monitor skills development, and communicate with the apprenticeship training center (CFA).
At Istec Business School, the company mentor is explicitly involved in the monitoring process: the skills acquired during training allow for adjustments to the support provided and the setting of relevant objectives throughout the year.
See the guide
Financial aid is subject to change. ISTEC assists companies in defining eligibility and terms at the time of contract signing.
International Mobility: The apprentice can complete part of the contract abroad, for up to one year, after six months in France. The OPCO (Skills Operator) finances certain fixed and additional costs. The mobility agreement formalizes obligations, rights, and validation of acquired skills.
Contract Suspension: Temporary suspension of the contract (e.g., for mobility). The apprentice remains affiliated with the company, with their rights and ongoing support. ISTEC coordinates the process and ensures a smooth transition.
France compétences references certifications and provides an operational benchmark for identifying the NPEC applicable to a contract.
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The CFA provides the training, organizes support and monitoring, and facilitates the three-way relationship (workbook, site visits, assessments, etc.). Note: the employer can authorize the CFA to ensure the transmission of the contract and the necessary documents to the OPCO (according to the applicable framework).
Yes, a CFA can accommodate a young person before the contract in a structured framework and duration, with an appropriate status.
The OPCO provides funding based on the NPEC (National Reference Framework for Skills), prorated to the duration, up to the limit of the service price. A remaining balance may exist if the NPEC does not cover the entire cost.
The scheme provides for termination procedures and, in some cases, a temporary continuation of training at the CFA.
To support the apprentice in the progressive acquisition of skills, in conjunction with the CFA.
The monitoring is supported by the booklet and includes a minimum of two visits / monitoring points per year (on site or remotely).
Depending on the arrangements, payment may be automatic after proper submission of the contract and transmission of the necessary information.
Recruiting an apprentice involves making key decisions: candidate profile, timeline, contractual framework, funding through the OPCO (Skills Operator), and monitoring organization. Istec supports you to ensure a smooth transition at every stage, from defining your needs to the operational implementation of the contract.
A dedicated contact person will analyze your situation, help you define the terms (compensation, NPEC [Skills Development Plan], training agreement, potential subsidies), and coordinate the administrative procedures if necessary.
Submit your project to us: we will contact you promptly to develop a clear, compliant, and tailored plan for your organization.
Contacts:
• Corporate Relations: relationsentreprises@istec.fr
• Contracts & Administration: contrats@istec.fr
