Pathways to Medical Licensure and Education in Germany

This guide provides information for doctors to be licensed and helps future-doctors find the path to become a doctor in Germany. There are over 35 public medical faculties in Germany and about 80,000 medical students.

Applying to Medical School

Admission to medical universities in Germany used to be extremely competitive. Medical, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and dentistry training spots were limited or numerus clausus (NC, Latin for "closed number"). Universities had a quota and places are given to students with the highest Abitur grades from the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung or an equal degree from other countries. But a wider range of applicants gets a chance now.

Following a decision by the Standing Conference of the Länder Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs, the allocation of university places for studying medicine has been changed. The 'numerus clausus' will continue to exist, and about 20 percent of the study places in human medicine will still go to the applicants with the best grades. But what is new is that greater weight is being attached in the universities' selection procedures to a person's CV, motivation and personal commitment. These criteria will also play a role in the Standard Assessment Test for Students of Medicine (TMS). More and more universities are offering the TMS test, which also makes access possible for study applicants without top grades.

Requirements for International Applicants

Secondary diplomas obtained inside the European Union are mutually recognized. Students from outside European Union have to apply for the Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB). The Akademisches Auslandsamt (International Students' Office) of the university evaluates qualifications based on the anabin database. International applicants may be able to apply directly to the universities via the Application Services for International University Applications, known as Uni-Assist. Between 4 and 6 percent of spots are held open for Bildungsauslaender (foreign students). The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides comprehensive information on how to apply for a spot in a German university.

If your school-leaving certificate is not recognized in Germany, there is another option. Prospective students can enroll in a Studienkolleg (foundation course) of one year that leads to a Feststellungsprüfung (university qualification assessment examination). With these results, applicants can try again for a spot in a medical program. In addition to these requirements, some programs require a Test für Medizinische Studiengänge (TMS) or Medizinertest. This tests knowledge, experience and general ability to study. The University of Heidelberg acts as a TMS coordination site.

Where to Study Medicine in Germany

Unlike places like the USA, most schools offer equally respected programs. However, different faculties have different areas of expertise so if you have a specialty you prefer, inquire at individual schools. Some of the most popular programs can be found at:

• Universität Heidelberg – The "Harvard of German Medical Schools” is the most competitive school to get in to. It has a highly respected international reputation and was founded in 1386 making it the oldest university in Germany.
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin – This is the oldest and most prominent hospital and medical school in Berlin. Charité is one of Germany's most research-intensive medical institutions. Excellent German language skills are still required in order to work with patients.
• Universität Witten/Herdecke – This is the oldest private university in Germany with a prestigious reputation. Applicants must endure rigorous testing to enter.

Key Medical Education Statistics

• Total medical students in Germany: about 80,000
• Number of public medical faculties: over 35
• Quota for applicants with best grades: about 20 percent
• Reserved spots for foreign students (Bildungsauslaender): between 4 and 6 percent