Kenntnisprüfung in Hamburg

• 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) at 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

According to the Hamburg authority's application form (as of 01/2026), the recognition procedure costs at least €350 in total, up to €750 in individual cases; €150 of it is due when processing starts and is credited. Payment by bank transfer only. Note: the website and the BIBB Anerkennungs-Finder (recognition finder) give different amounts (€225–650 and €225–600, each plus €42) – ask the authority for the current figures before you apply. Costs for the Kenntnisprüfung at the exam school and for preparation courses may come on top. Large Hamburg employers such as UKE or Asklepios often cover the fees – ask!

1. Wait for the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Sozialbehörde – 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 care area (e.g. acute care, long-term care) will be tested

Exams take place at recognised Hamburg nursing schools and hospitals, e.g. around UKE, Asklepios and large training centres for health professions.

As a city-state, Hamburg is compact: the authority, schools and hospitals are well connected. Tip: Many preparation courses in Hamburg work directly with exam schools – this can get you an earlier date.