Kenntnisprüfung in Baden-Württemberg

• Oral part: case presentation and professional discussion (Fachgespräch) on the competence areas (Kompetenzbereiche) of the PflAPrV (nursing training and examination regulation)
• Practical part: care of patients in 2–4 nursing situations (real or simulated, § 45 PflAPrV), usually in a hospital or nursing school
• No written part – the Kenntnisprüfung is purely oral and practical (§ 45 PflAPrV)
• The exam language is German; B2 level is usually required

Recognition procedure at the Regierungspräsidium Stuttgart: currently up to €350, subject to change (according to the RP Stuttgart application form, as of 10/2026). You take the Kenntnisprüfung at a nursing school – its exam costs are not fixed for the whole Land and vary from school to school. On top of that there may be costs for preparation courses and travel. Employers often cover the costs – ask!

1. Wait for the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Regierungspräsidium Stuttgart – it states that you are allowed to take the Kenntnisprüfung
2. Contact an exam school or exam centre and ask for a date (waiting times of several months are common – register early!)
3. Submit the registration documents: Defizitbescheid, proof of identity, B2 language certificate if required
4. Pay the exam fee and wait for the invitation
5. Before the exam: find out which specialist areas (e.g. inpatient acute care, long-term care) your exam centre covers

Exams take place at recognised nursing schools and hospitals, including in Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Freiburg, Heidelberg/Mannheim, Ulm. Waiting times vary a lot – plan several months ahead.

Baden-Württemberg is one of the Länder with the most recognition procedures. The RP Stuttgart itself warns of longer processing times. Tip: Submit all documents complete and keep your file number (Aktenzeichen) ready whenever you make an enquiry.