Kenntnisprüfung in Saarland

• 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

The Landesamt für Soziales does not state any amounts: according to its information sheet (Merkblatt), issuing the professional licence (Berufserlaubnis) is subject to a fee, and the request for payment will come in due course (Merkblatt Ausbildung im Ausland, as of 10/2026). Best ask about the amount at your first contact. As a rough guide: in the neighbouring Länder, fees for the decision notices are approx. €50–350, plus exam costs depending on the school (unverified for Saarland). Saarland hospitals often cover the costs – ask your employer!

1. Wait for the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Landesamt für Soziales – it states that you are allowed to take the Kenntnisprüfung
2. Contact an exam school or exam centre and ask for a date (small Land, few dates – 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 nursing schools and hospitals, mainly in Saarbrücken and Homburg (Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Saarland University Hospital).

Saarland is small – the way to the authority is short, and queries are often less complicated than in large Länder. Tip: Work through the document checklist in the Landesamt's current information sheet (Merkblatt) and call beforehand if anything is unclear.