Study nursing in Germany through Ausbildung
If you’re interested in studying nursing in Germany, Ausbildung is one option to consider. Ausbildung is a vocational training program in Germany that combines theoretical education with practical work experience. It is a popular option for many students who want to gain practical skills in a specific field.
To study nursing through Ausbildung in Germany, you will need to meet certain requirements. First and foremost, you should have a good understanding of the German language, as most of the program will be conducted in German. You may also need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as any other prerequisites required by the specific program you are interested in.
Once you meet the requirements, you can apply for the nursing program through the local health authority, or Gesundheitsamt, in your area. The program typically lasts three years, during which you will receive theoretical education in a classroom setting, as well as practical training in a hospital or other healthcare setting.
Upon completion of the program, you will take an exam to become a licensed nurse in Germany. This license will allow you to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and private practices.
It’s worth noting that the Ausbildung route is not the only way to become a nurse in Germany. You may also consider studying nursing at a university or college, which will typically require a higher level of education and may take longer to complete. Regardless of the path you choose, studying nursing in Germany can be a rewarding experience that offers a wide range of job opportunities and career growth potential.
The requirements to study Nursing in Germany
To study nursing in Germany, you will typically need to meet the following requirements:
Language skills: You should have a good understanding of the German language as most nursing programs are taught in German. You may need to provide evidence of your language proficiency through a language proficiency test such as TestDaF or DSH.
Educational qualifications: You should have a high school diploma or equivalent to be eligible to apply for nursing programs in Germany. In addition, you may need to have certain prerequisite courses completed, such as biology or chemistry.
Health requirements: To work as a nurse, you will need to be physically and mentally fit. You may need to undergo a medical examination to demonstrate your fitness for the job.
Criminal background check: You may need to provide a certificate of good conduct, also known as a criminal background check, to show that you have no criminal record.
Other requirements: Some nursing programs in Germany may have additional requirements, such as a minimum age or work experience in a related field.
It’s important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on the nursing program you are applying to, so it’s important to check with the program directly to ensure that you meet all the requirements.
Do nursing students get paid in Germany?
Yes, nursing students in Germany are typically paid during their practical training as part of their nursing education. In fact, nursing students in Germany are considered to be apprentices and receive a monthly stipend to cover their living expenses during their training. The amount of the stipend may vary depending on the region and the program, but it is usually enough to cover basic living expenses.
It’s worth noting that the payment structure for nursing students in Germany is different from other countries, such as the United States, where nursing students typically pay tuition fees and may not receive payment during their clinical rotations. In Germany, nursing students are paid for their work during their practical training, which is seen as an important part of their education.
In addition to the stipend, nursing students in Germany may also be eligible for other forms of financial support, such as scholarships or loans, to help cover the costs of their education. However, these options may vary depending on the individual program and the student’s financial situation.
PR after completing a nursing course in Germany
Completing a nursing course in Germany can lead to various opportunities for permanent residency (PR). Here are some of the most common ways nursing graduates can obtain PR in Germany:
Job-seeking visa: After completing their nursing program, international students can apply for a job-seeking visa, which allows them to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to find employment. Once they secure a job in their field, they can apply for a residence permit that will allow them to work and live in Germany long-term.
Blue Card: The Blue Card is a work and residency permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals, which includes nurses. To be eligible, graduates must have a job offer in a field related to their studies and meet the salary requirements.
Job contract: Nursing graduates can also obtain PR in Germany by obtaining a job contract in their field after completing their studies. The job contract must meet certain requirements, such as offering full-time employment and providing a salary above a certain threshold.
Family reunification: If nursing graduates have family members who are German citizens or permanent residents, they may be eligible for family reunification, which allows them to join their family members in Germany and obtain PR.
It’s important to note that the requirements and processes for obtaining PR in Germany can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as nationality and educational background. It’s recommended that nursing graduates consult with an immigration lawyer or the German embassy in their home country for more specific information on their options for obtaining PR in Germany.
