What Is Medical Residency in Germany?
Medical residency in Germany (called Facharztausbildung or Weiterbildung) is a structured training program that leads to specialist certification (Facharzt). Unlike India, there are no competitive entrance exams like NEET PG — you apply directly to hospitals after obtaining your Approbation or Berufserlaubnis.
Key Advantages Over Indian PG
- No entrance exam: No NEET PG, no competitive quota system
- Paid from day one: €5,000+/month salary during entire residency
- No tuition fees: Training is completely free
- Flexible specialties: Switch specialties without restarting
- Better work-life balance: 40-hour weeks, 30 days paid leave
- EU-wide recognition: Your Facharzt title is valid across Europe
Duration by Specialty
Residency duration varies by specialty, typically 5-6 years:
- Internal Medicine: 5 years
- General Surgery: 6 years
- Cardiology: 6 years (includes Internal Medicine base)
- Radiology: 5 years
- Orthopedics: 6 years
- Anesthesiology: 5 years
- Pediatrics: 5 years
- Dermatology: 5 years
Unlike India, German residency includes integrated sub-specialization — no additional exams needed.
How to Get a Residency Position
- Complete the Approbation process (or get Berufserlaubnis)
- Pass the FSP exam
- Apply directly to hospitals (Bewerbung)
- Interview and receive a contract
- Start your residency!
MedGermany helps with Hospitation placement — which significantly improves your chances of getting a residency position at the same hospital.
Book a free consultation to discuss which specialty suits your profile and goals.
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