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What is the Kenntnisprüfung and how to prepare for it
If you are a foreign-trained professional – especially in medicine, nursing, or other regulated health professions – and your degree is not considered fully equivalent to its German counterpart, you may be required to take the Kenntnisprüfung.
This exam is often the final hurdle before you can work in your profession in Germany with
full recognition (
Anerkennung). But what exactly is it, and how can you prepare to pass it?
1. What is the Kenntnisprüfung?
The Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge test) is an official state examination designed to assess whether your professional knowledge and skills match those of a German-trained professional.
It typically covers:
- Theoretical knowledge of your field (specialized subjects)
- Practical application (case scenarios, clinical reasoning, or professional tasks)
- Legal and ethical standards relevant in Germany
- German professional language skills (Fachsprache)
The exact structure varies by profession and Bundesland. In healthcare, for example, it often focuses on patient safety, German medical documentation, and specific local procedures.
2. Who has to take it?
You will be required to take the Kenntnisprüfung if:
- Your foreign qualification is considered partially equivalent to the German one.
- The authority identifies significant differences that cannot be compensated through work experience or further documentation.
For example:
- A veterinarian whose degree lacks certain EU-mandated subjects.
- A nurse who trained with different clinical protocols.
- A teacher missing specific pedagogy modules.
3. How is it different from a language exam?
While German language skills are essential, the Kenntnisprüfung is not primarily a language test. It evaluates your professional competence. However, you will need at least B2–C1 Fachsprache to understand and respond appropriately in the exam.
For healthcare professionals, passing a separate Fachsprachprüfung may be required before or alongside the Kenntnisprüfung.
4. Common challenges
- German professional terminology – knowing everyday German is not enough; you need field-specific language.
- Differences in procedures – Germany may have protocols you’ve never used.
- Stress under exam conditions – the exam can last several hours and include oral and practical parts.
5. How to prepare effectively
a) Understand the exam structure in your state
Each Bundesland publishes its exam guidelines. Get them from your Approbationsbehörde or competent authority.
b) Focus on the “differences”
The authority’s recognition notice (Defizitbescheid) will outline what topics you are missing. Study these intensively.
c) Practice in German
Don’t just translate your notes – practice explaining your answers in German. Join professional language courses like German for Healthcare Professionals – C1.
d) Simulate exam conditions
Time yourself, use case studies, and rehearse oral presentations.
e) Learn local laws and ethics
Especially important in regulated professions – patient rights, data protection (GDPR), and professional responsibilities.
6. Timeline & costs
- Registration: Once your authority assigns the exam, book early; waiting times can be several months.
- Costs: Usually between €400–€1,000, depending on the profession and state.
- Retakes: If you fail, you can often retake the exam, but there may be a limit (commonly 2–3 attempts).
7. Final tips for success
- Start preparing as soon as you get your Defizitbescheid – don’t wait for the exam date.
- Join study groups with other candidates.
- Combine theoretical study with practical observation in German workplaces (Hospitation).
- Take care of your mental and physical health – this exam can be stressful.
