vocatium Cologne

Since 2014, vocatium Cologne has been one of Germany’s leading education and career fairs. Its name is derived from the Latin word vocatio (meaning "calling") and reflects its mission: the fair doesn’t just provide information – it opens real career opportunities.

The XPOST – a modern event center housed in a historic parcel post building on the banks of the Rhine – becomes the hub for education and career entry each year. Centrally located and well connected to public transportation, the venue offers a unique atmosphere that blends industrial charm with urban vibrancy.

The event is organized by the IfT Institute for Talent Development, a nationwide specialist in personalized career guidance. While vocatium Cologne is part of a successful series of over 80 fairs across Germany, it stands out for its unique format: scheduled appointments with exhibitors in advance ensure efficient and personal interactions – without the anonymity and chaos of typical trade shows.

The fair covers a broad spectrum of topics – from apprenticeships and dual study programs to trainee positions and emerging fields like digitalization and sustainability. Companies, universities, and advisory institutions showcase themselves not only at their booths, but also through application workshops, career talks, and direct conversations with employers.
Visitors leave not only inspired but also equipped with practical tools to start their careers.

The exhibitors represent key industries – from IT and engineering to retail – while the main audience includes students, university attendees, and early-career professionals seeking hands-on career orientation. Cologne, as a dynamic and diverse economic hub, provides the perfect setting for this exchange of opportunities.

vocatium Cologne at the XPOST is more than a fair – it’s a career-building experience with direct access to decision-makers. Just minutes from Cologne Cathedral, the venue combines excellent accessibility with a distinctive atmosphere.

The vocatium will take place on 2 days from Tuesday, 30. June to Wednesday, 01. July 2026 in Cologne.