Many international medical graduates have misconceptions about the prerequisites for working as a medical doctor in Germany. Here are four common myths debunked:
Grades from Medical School:
Many asks if their grades from medical school have any impact on getting accepted in their dream residency in Germany. In Germany, your medical school grades are irrelevant. The primary criteria are your medical licensure (“approbation”) and proficiency in the German language.
Internships in Germany:
Unlike in the U.S., where stateside experience can be advantageous, prior work in Germany is not expected or required. While having local experience may be beneficial, it is not a standard criterion during the hiring process unless you mention it.
Recommendations and Networking:
This might come as a surprise, but it is not required to have a recommendation from your previous supervisors to be able to work in Germany as a doctor. Knowing someone within a hospital may alert you to job openings, but it doesn’t necessarily secure a position. Hiring decisions often depend more on the individual’s application and less on recommendations, depending on the department head’s preference.
Research and Publications:
In Germany, the emphasis for doctors is on clinical skills rather than academic achievements. Although earning a Dr.med. degree requires research and a thesis, this is not a prerequisite for practicing medicine or for job applications in Germany, except perhaps in university hospitals where research is encouraged alongside clinical duties.
For a detailed explanation, check out our video on the topic on our channel.
