Medical FSP Exam for International Doctors
You want to work as a doctor in Germany as an international physician? The path to licensure or professional registration goes through the Medical Language Exam (FSP). Since the administrative steps often seem complicated, we have summarized all the important information about the procedure, criteria and registration, as well as the official links, for you at a glance.
Everything you need to know!
The path to German licensure or professional registration for international doctors goes through the Medical Language Exam (FSP). Since the registration process and administrative steps often seem complicated, we have summarized the most important questions and answers for you. Whether you want to take your exam in Berlin or are looking nationwide: Here you will find step-by-step guides and all official links at a glance.
Procedure & Assessment of the FSP
The FSP is a practical individual exam. It simulates a typical everyday situation in a hospital or medical practice.
The 3 Exam Parts
Total duration: 60 minutes (20 minutes each)
Simulated anamnesis
Doctor-patient interview for systematic medical history taking.
- Conducting a doctor-patient interview for systematic medical history taking.
Written documentation
Writing a structured medical report or letter about the anamnesis at a professional level.
- Writing a medical report or letter about the collected medical history.
Medical discussion
Collegial exchange and structured case presentation before the examination board.
- Answering medical questions in a collegial context.
- Translation of 5 medical terms into German.
- Completion of 2 medical abbreviations.
- Correct reading of 3 laboratory values including numbers and units.
Passing criteria
- Maximum score: A total of 60 points can be achieved.
- Pass mark: The exam is passed if you achieve at least 60% of the points in each of the three exam sections. Compensation between sections is not possible.
- Fairness: Grading follows strict, standardized assessment forms. You will receive a detailed description of the task with your invitation.
FSP Questions
Using the example of the Berlin Medical Association
All doctors with a foreign degree (outside the EU/EEA) whose native language is not German generally need the FSP. Exceptions apply for proof of a German-language degree, 10 years of German-language schooling or 3 years of vocational training in Germany. The final decision is made by the LaGeSo.
It consists of three parts: a simulated doctor-patient conversation (anamnesis), written documentation (medical report) and a patient presentation in a doctor-doctor conversation.
Registration is only possible once you have applied for your license or professional registration at the LaGeSo. The LaGeSo reviews your application and determines whether you need to demonstrate language skills. You will then receive a written confirmation with reference to the medical language test.
Once you have the LaGeSo confirmation, you can register directly via the online registration form of the Berlin Medical Association.
C1 level (medical) is required. The LaGeSo requires proof of B2 general language skills in advance. A telc certificate does not replace the FSP at the Berlin Medical Association.
Please submit the following documents to the Berlin Medical Association:
- Your printed and hand-signed application form
- A copy of your valid ID (passport or ID card)
- The LaGeSo confirmation with reference to the language test
- A power of attorney in original (if someone else registers for you)
You have three simple ways to submit your documents:
- By email
- By post
- By dropping them in the letterbox of the Berlin Medical Association
The administrative fee in Berlin is €550.00. Once your documents are complete, you will receive a fee notice. As soon as the payment is received, you will be invited to the exam.
The invitation to the FSP is sent by email as standard. If you wish, it can also be sent by post.
Please bring your valid ID (passport or ID card) in original on the day of the exam.
If you are not applying for your license in Berlin, you will be assigned to the relevant regional medical association. See the links to all 17 chamber districts below.
FSP in other federal states
Here you will find direct links to the official information pages for the FSP of all 17 chamber districts in Germany.
What is the difference?
| Feature | Medical Language Exam (FSP) | Knowledge Exam (KP) |
|---|---|---|
| Content | Tests only linguistic and communicative competence in a medical context. | Examines medical knowledge and practical skills. |
| Level | Apply existing medical knowledge in German (C1 level). | Level of a German university degree. |
| Order | Always comes first. Afterwards you usually receive a temporary license. | Required after the FSP if the assessor finds significant differences to German training. |
| Examiners & Venue | Rooms of the responsible Medical Association (medical exam board & linguists). | University hospital or teaching hospital (state examination board). |
Optimally prepared for the exam
Our specially developed FSP preparation course specifically prepares you for all 3 exam parts – including medical team teaching with a specialist doctor.
