FSP Medical German - Exam Preparation for Doctors

Are you a doctor and would like to work in Germany?

To obtain a medical license in Germany, you must first pass the medical language exam. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the medical language exam (Fachsprachprüfung/FSP).

Who is required to take the medical language exam (FSP)?

All foreign doctors who have studied abroad and wish to work as a doctor in Germany must take the medical language exam in order to apply for a license to practice medicine (Approbation) or a temporary professional permit (Berufserlaubnis).

What are the requirements for the medical language exam (FSP)?

To register for a medical language exam (FSP), you need proof of German language skills at at least level B2.

How is the medical language exam (FSP) structured?

The medical language exam is divided into three parts, each lasting approximately 20 minutes:

1. Doctor-Patient Conversation (Anamnesis Interview)
   In this part of the medical language exam, you are required to conduct an admission interview/anamnesis interview with a patient. You need to ask the patient about their symptoms, medical history, medications, risk factors, etc. It is important to avoid using medical jargon in this section; instead, you should explain things to the patient in simple language.
2. Documentation
   In the second part of the medical language exam, you are required to summarize the content of the anamnesis interview, including the suspected diagnosis and the proposed next steps, for the information of medical colleagues.
3. Doctor-to-Doctor Conversation
   In the final part of the medical language exam, you are required to present the case to another doctor. After presenting the patient, you must answer their questions. In some federal states (e.g., Lower Saxony), you may also be required to translate certain medical terms into their German equivalents and vice versa.

How many times can I retake the medical language exam (FSP)? What should I do if I fail the medical language exam once (or multiple times)?

The medical language exam (FSP) can be retaken as many times as needed. There are no limits. However, it is recommended to wait at least 3 months after the last exam before attempting it again.

What happens if I make an incorrect diagnosis during the medical language exam? Does that mean I fail?

The primary focus of the medical language exam is to assess your German language skills. Your medical expertise will only be tested in the knowledge exam (Kenntnisprüfung). Therefore, making a small mistake in the diagnosis during the language exam is not a significant issue.

How much does the medical language exam (FSP) cost?

The cost of the medical language exam varies between €300 and €490, depending on the federal state.

Do dentists and medical doctors have to take the same medical language exam (FSP)?

No, there are two different types of medical language exams: one is specifically for medical doctors and the other is for dentists.

We offer preparatory courses for the medical language exam tailored to both medical doctors and dentists.