Studying Medicine in Germany: Requirements, Costs, Stages and Key Tips for International Students
Studying medicine in Germany is a dream for many students around the world. German medical schools are renowned for their high academic standards, modern curricula and strong career opportunities after graduation. In this article, we provide an in-depth overview of everything you need to know about studying medicine in Germany – from basic admission requirements and costs to the different stages of study and practical tips for making the most of this opportunity.
1. Advantages of Studying Medicine in Germany
World-class curricula
Medical programmes in Germany enjoy an excellent international reputation. Strict academic standards ensure that graduates are well prepared to work in healthcare at a very high level.
Low or no tuition fees
At most public universities, tuition fees are very low or non-existent, especially when compared with countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom.
Advanced learning environment
Modern laboratories and university hospitals equipped with up-to-date medical technology allow students to gain hands-on clinical experience during their studies.
International recognition of the degree
The German medical degree is widely respected and recognised, opening doors to career opportunities across Europe and beyond.
2. Admission Requirements for Studying Medicine in Germany
2.1 Secondary school leaving certificate (Abitur or equivalent)
International applicants need a school leaving certificate that is considered equivalent to the German Abitur.
Many universities require a very good overall grade, as medicine is one of the most competitive and highly restricted subjects (Numerus Clausus – NC).
2.2 German language proficiency
For a German-taught medical programme, a C1 level in German is usually required. Some universities may initially accept B2 if you commit to reaching C1 before the official start of the programme.
Commonly accepted tests include TestDaF and DSH.
2.3 High GPA / Numerus Clausus
Most medical faculties require excellent grades.
NC values may range around 1.0–1.3 on the German scale (1.0 = best, 4.0 = pass), corresponding to roughly 98 % or higher in some other grading systems.
2.4 Studienkolleg (foundation year) in some cases
If your school certificate is not equivalent to the Abitur, you may be required to attend a Studienkolleg (M-course), which prepares students for medicine and natural sciences.
The foundation year includes intensive German classes and core science subjects such as biology, chemistry and physics.
3. Stages of Medical Studies in Germany
Studying human medicine in Germany usually takes about 6–6.5 years and is divided into several stages:
Pre-clinical phase (Vorklinik)
Duration: about 2 years (4 semesters).
Content: basic sciences such as anatomy, biochemistry and physiology, plus physics, chemistry and other foundational subjects.
Completion: First section of the medical state examination (Physikum).
Clinical phase (Klinik)
Duration: about 3 years (6 semesters).
Content: clinical subjects including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, gynaecology and obstetrics, neurology, psychiatry and more.
Includes practical training blocks and clinical placements in teaching hospitals and university clinics.
Practical Year (Praktisches Jahr – PJ)
After the clinical phase, students complete a full-time practical year, normally divided into three rotations (e.g. internal medicine, surgery and one elective).
The PJ takes place in hospitals and provides intensive hands-on clinical training in everyday practice.
State examination (Staatsexamen)
The medical state examination consists of several parts:
One after the pre-clinical phase (Physikum),
one after the clinical phase,
and a final part after the Practical Year (written and oral/practical).
After passing all parts, graduates obtain the Approbation, the official licence to practise medicine in Germany.
4. Study Costs and Living Expenses
Tuition fees
At most public universities, there are no traditional high tuition fees. Instead, students pay a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag), usually between €100 and €400, which often includes a public transport ticket.
Some federal states have reintroduced tuition fees for non-EU students, which can be up to around €1,500 per semester.
Living expenses
Living costs vary significantly between cities:
In cities like Munich or Hamburg, monthly expenses of €900–1,200 are realistic (rent, food, insurance, etc.).
In more affordable cities such as Dresden or Leipzig, €700–900 per month may be sufficient.
Health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all students.
Public student health insurance typically costs between €80 and €110 per month.
International students under the age of 30 can usually join the public student insurance scheme.
5. Studying Medicine in English
Most medical programmes in Germany are taught in German.
In recent years, some private universities and international programmes have started offering (partly) English-taught courses, but these are still limited and often come with higher tuition fees.
Since clinical training involves direct contact with patients, good German language skills are essential in practice, even if some modules are offered in English.
6. Working After Graduation: Opportunities and Licensing
International recognition
A German medical degree is recognised or relatively easy to have recognised in many European countries and beyond, depending on local regulations.
Practising in Germany
To work as a doctor in Germany, you need the Approbation (medical licence).
Once licensed, you can work in hospitals, clinics or private practices.
Due to a shortage of physicians in certain regions, especially rural areas, job prospects are generally good.
Specialist training (Facharztausbildung)
After obtaining the Approbation, doctors can apply for specialist training (residency) in their chosen field (e.g. internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics).
Specialist training usually takes 4–6 years, depending on the speciality and the requirements of the regional medical board.
Salary
Starting salaries for resident doctors (Assistenzärzte) are typically around €4,500–5,000 gross per month and increase with experience and further qualifications.
7. Important Tips for International Students Interested in Studying Medicine in Germany
Start preparing early
Begin learning German as early as possible; reaching C1 before applying is highly recommended.
Research universities, admission criteria and deadlines about two years prior to your intended start date.
Aim for excellent grades
Due to intense competition, a strong academic record is essential.
If you don’t hold an Abitur-equivalent diploma, consider a Studienkolleg (M-course) to strengthen your academic and language background.
Communicate with universities
Each university has its own admission rules and application timelines (often for winter and/or summer intake).
Pay attention to deadlines and check whether additional tests, such as the TMS (Test für Medizinische Studiengänge), are required.
Plan your finances
In addition to semester contributions, ensure you have enough funds to cover living costs.
For a student visa, you will usually need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) in Germany with a minimum required amount.
Explore scholarship opportunities (e.g. DAAD), although full scholarships for human medicine are relatively rare.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need strong skills in maths and science?
Yes. A solid background in biology, chemistry and physics is very important, especially during the pre-clinical phase.
Does studying medicine in Germany guarantee permanent residency?
No, not automatically. However, graduates can usually apply for a residence permit to look for a job. With an employment contract, they can then switch to a work-based residence permit and later apply for permanent residency, subject to legal conditions.
Can I study human medicine at a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)?
Human medicine is typically offered only at traditional universities. Universities of Applied Sciences generally do not train medical doctors, but they may offer programmes in nursing, medical engineering and other health-related fields.
What if I don’t get a direct place in medicine?
Consider attending a Studienkolleg (M-course) to improve your qualifications.
Begin studies in a related field and attempt to transfer later (if regulations allow).
In some cases, a waiting-semester system (Wartesemester) can lead to admission after several semesters, depending on the university and current law.
9. Conclusion
Studying medicine in Germany is a top academic goal for thousands of international students – and for good reason. The quality of training is high, the curriculum is practice-oriented and the degree is internationally respected. The programme usually lasts 6–6.5 years, spans several theoretical and practical stages and requires both strong German language skills (often C1) and excellent academic records.
While tuition fees at public universities are relatively low, the cost of living, the language barrier and the highly competitive admission process pose real challenges. With thorough preparation in terms of language, grades, finances and immigration requirements, however, students can gain an outstanding medical education in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems – and build a successful career either in Germany or internationally.
Note: Admission requirements, procedures and fees may vary by federal state and university. Always check with the respective university, Uni-Assist or the international office for up-to-date and detailed information before applying.
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on careful research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors or incomplete information cannot be completely ruled out. Please treat this article as an initial guide and always consult official authorities or qualified experts for binding and up-to-date advice.
