Prepare for the German dental license exam: "Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin"

Introduction

If you are a dentist with a foreign degree and want to work in Germany, the Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin is one of the most important steps in your journey. Passing this specialized language exam is a key requirement for obtaining your Approbation – the official license to practice dentistry in Germany.

In this guide, you will learn everything about the exam structure, requirements, and most importantly, how to prepare effectively.

What is the Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin?

The Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin is an official exam that tests your professional German language skills in dentistry. It is designed to ensure that you can:

• Communicate clearly with patients,
• Write accurate dental documentation,
• Discuss cases confidently with colleagues.

Who needs to take it?

• Dentists from outside the EU are almost always required to pass the exam.
• Dentists from EU countries may also need it, depending on the state and recognition process.

The exam is organized by the state dental chambers (Landeszahnärztekammern), and the required language level is typically B2 general German plus C1 medical/dental German.

Structure of the Exam

The Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin usually has three main parts:

1. Patient conversation
   • Take anamnesis, explain diagnoses, and present treatment options in clear, patient-friendly German.
2. Documentation
   • Write a patient record, referral, or medical report with correct grammar, terminology, and structure.
3. Professional discussion
   • Discuss a dental case with colleagues or examiners, demonstrating your ability to communicate in a professional, precise way.

Duration: usually around 60 minutes
Cost: between €350 and €1000, depending on the federal state

Differences Between Federal States

Germany is a federal country, so each Bundesland (federal state) organizes the exam slightly differently. Some states focus more on patient communication, while others emphasize documentation. Costs and waiting times can also vary.

That’s why it’s important to check the requirements of the Landeszahnärztekammer in the region where you want to work (for example NRW, Bavaria, or Berlin).

What is Tested?

The exam goes beyond just grammar. You will be evaluated on:

• Dental vocabulary & terminology (fillings, anesthesia, orthodontics, etc.)
• Communication skills with patients (clear, empathetic, understandable)
• Written German for precise medical documentation
• Professional interaction with colleagues in clinical contexts

How We Prepare You at coLanguage

At coLanguage, we specialize in preparing busy professionals like you for official exams such as the Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin. Here is how we do it:

• Personal teacher, personal plan
  You will be matched with a professional teacher who adapts lessons to your level, timeline, and exam goals.
• Structured course program
  Our curriculum follows CEFR standards and is designed in collaboration with European universities. It covers patient dialogues, medical writing, and exam simulations.
• Flexible scheduling
  Learn when it fits your agenda. Morning, evening, or weekends — you decide.
• Immersive materials and learning application
  Real patient scenarios, interactive exercises, and authentic medical vocabulary training.
• Exam-focused training
  We simulate the actual exam with role plays, writing tasks, and professional discussions, so you are fully prepared on exam day.

Get started today: Book your intake session, tell us your goals, and receive a personalized learning plan for your Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin.

After You Pass

Once you successfully complete the Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin, you can continue with your Approbation process — the license that allows you to practice dentistry in Germany without restrictions.

With the Approbation, you gain access to:

• Secure jobs in clinics and practices,
• Long-term career opportunities,
• The option to open your own dental practice in the future.

Germany has a strong demand for qualified dentists, making this a valuable career step.

FAQ

How many times can I retake the Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin?
Most states allow multiple attempts, but fees apply each time.

What does the exam cost?
Between €350 and €1000 depending on the Bundesland.

Is there one standard exam across Germany?
No. Each federal state organizes its own exam.

Is B2 German enough to pass?
No. You need B2 general German and C1 level in medical/dental German.

What’s the difference between Fachsprachprüfung Medizin and Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin?
The structure is similar, but the dental exam uses terminology and scenarios specific to dentistry.

Conclusion & Next Steps

The Fachsprachprüfung Zahnmedizin is a challenging but achievable exam. With the right preparation, you can pass confidently and take the next step towards your career in Germany.

At coLanguage, we have helped thousands of professionals reach their certificates with personalized courses, flexible schedules, and expert teachers.