Germany is known for its world-class education system, tuition-free universities, and excellent medical training. Every year, thousands of international students, especially from India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries, aspire to study MBBS in Germany. However, despite its advantages, pursuing medical studies in Germany comes with several challenges.
If you are considering studying MBBS in Germany, it is essential to understand the difficulties before making a decision. This guide highlights the disadvantages of studying MBBS in Germany, covering language barriers, licensing issues, high competition, and career challenges.
Language Barrier – German is a Must for MBBS in Germany
One of the biggest challenges international students face in Germany is the language requirement.
✔ Most MBBS programs in Germany are taught in German, not English.
✔ Students must clear C1-level German proficiency (TestDaF or DSH exam) to study medicine.
✔ Medical practice, patient interactions, and exams are conducted in German, making fluency essential.
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- Takes 1-2 years to learn German fluently before even starting medical studies.
- Medical terminologies are complex, and learning them in German can be difficult.
- Many international students struggle with understanding lectures and communicating with patients.
💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t know German, MBBS in Germany will be extremely difficult, as medicine requires direct interaction with patients.
Extremely Competitive Admission Process
MBBS admission in Germany is highly competitive because:
✔ Germany has limited medical seats for international students.
✔ Applicants must have a high GPA (90%+ in 12th grade or equivalent).
✔ Most universities require students to pass the TestAS (for international medical students).
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- Even if you qualify, securing a seat is tough due to limited spots.
- Preference is given to German and EU students, making it harder for international applicants.
- Some students fail to get admission even after waiting 1-2 years.
💡 Alternative: Many students choose MBBS in Russia, Ukraine, or China, where admission is easier.
Long Duration of MBBS in Germany
✔ Unlike in India, where MBBS takes 5.5 years, in Germany, it takes 7-8 years to become a doctor.
📌 Duration Breakdown:
| Stage | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| German Language Learning | 1-2 years | Required before starting medical studies |
| Preclinical Phase (Vorklinik) | 2 years | Basic medical sciences, anatomy, physiology |
| Clinical Phase (Klinik) | 3 years | Hospital training and medical subjects |
| Final Year (Practical Year - PJ) | 1 year | Internship and practical training |
| State Exam (Approbation) | 1 year | Mandatory medical licensing exam |
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- Takes 8+ years to complete MBBS + licensing.
- Other countries like the UK, Russia, or India allow you to complete MBBS in 5-6 years.
💡 Alternative: If you want a faster MBBS degree, consider studying in Poland, Hungary, or the UK.
High Cost of Living in Germany
✔ While tuition is free at public universities, the cost of living is high.
✔ Students must show €11,208 (₹10-12 Lakhs) per year in a blocked account to get a student visa.
📌 Cost of Living Breakdown in Germany:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Annual Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €400 - €800 | €4,800 - €9,600 |
| Food & Groceries | €200 - €400 | €2,400 - €4,800 |
| Health Insurance | €110 - €150 | €1,320 - €1,800 |
| Public Transport | €50 - €100 | €600 - €1,200 |
| Total Cost | €800 - €1,500 | €10,000 - €18,000 |
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- Students must manage high expenses without tuition fees.
- Finding part-time jobs is difficult due to language requirements.
💡 Alternative: Countries like Russia, Ukraine, and the Philippines offer lower living costs for MBBS students.
Complicated Medical Licensing Process (Approbation Exam)
✔ To practice medicine in Germany, students must pass the Approbation Exam (Medical Licensing Exam).
✔ Requires C1-level German proficiency and practical training in German hospitals.
✔ After MBBS, international students must pass an additional medical knowledge test to get a permanent license.
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- Extremely tough for international students.
- Many fail to pass the medical licensing process after MBBS.
- Some students return to their home country without getting a job.
💡 Alternative: If you plan to return to India, MBBS from Germany doesn’t qualify for NEET PG without additional exams.
Difficulty in Getting Residency & Jobs After MBBS
✔ Germany has strict regulations for international doctors.
✔ Even after passing MBBS, students must apply for Medical Residency, which is difficult due to:
- Preference given to EU students.
- Limited residency positions.
- Strict language and licensing requirements.
📌 Why It’s a Problem?
- No guarantee of a job after MBBS.
- Many students struggle for years to get residency.
- Alternative options like the UK or the USA offer clearer career paths.
💡 Solution: If you want to practice medicine in Germany, start preparing early for the Approbation Exam.
FAQs About Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Germany
1. Is MBBS in Germany really free?
✔ Yes! Public universities do not charge tuition, but students must cover living expenses (€10,000+ per year).
2. Is German language required for MBBS in Germany?
✔ Yes! C1-level German proficiency is mandatory for medical studies and licensing.
3. Can I practice medicine in India after MBBS in Germany?
✔ Yes, but you must pass the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) in India.
4. Is Germany better than the UK or USA for MBBS?
✔ No. The UK & USA offer better licensing and job opportunities. Germany has tougher licensing rules for international doctors.
5. Should I study MBBS in Germany?
✔ Only if you are fluent in German and ready for a long, competitive process. Otherwise, consider other countries with easier licensing and job pathways.
Conclusion
While Germany offers tuition-free MBBS, it has significant challenges, including language barriers, long study duration, high living costs, tough licensing exams, and limited job opportunities for international students.
