A structured path - from course start to recognition

Oncademy Care guides your nurses in clearly defined steps from preparation to a successful Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam).

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Structured curriculum

Step by step

SkillsLab practice

Nurses in the structured preparation course for the Kenntnisprüfung

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The whole process in 4 steps

Step	Description	Duration
Self-study phase (e-learning)	Introduction to topics, basic knowledge, setting your own priorities.	Individual
Live online classes	Theoretical basics: legal framework, communication, hygiene, documentation.	2 weeks (40h per week)
On-site phase in the SkillsLab	Practical training, case work, language practice, simulations under real conditions.	4 weeks (40h per week)
Kenntnisprüfung	Final exam according to the Defizitbescheid, results sent to the Landesamt für Pflege Bayern.	1-2 days

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Goals for each learning phase

Learn. Apply. Pass.

Self-study phase

Independent start, review of medical basics, activating prior knowledge.

Live online classes

In-depth theory, communication training, understanding of German nursing practice.

On-site phase

‘Hands-on’ training in the SkillsLab, safe application of theory, targeted feedback.

Exam

Proof of equivalence - the basis for recognition as a nurse.

Defizitbescheid required

The Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) is the basis for your participation in the preparation course and for admission to the Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam).

To take part in the preparation course, a Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Landesamt für Pflege Bayern (Bavarian State Office for Nursing) is mandatory. Only on this basis can it be determined which specialist content must be added individually and whether admission to the Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) is granted.

Our courses are particularly suitable for participants with a deficit of around 240 hours. Larger deficits (e.g. 440 or 640 hours) can be taken into account by individual arrangement.

Course content at a glance

The course content follows the modules of the official Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation course) and covers all exam-relevant topics of the Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam). The aim is a focused combination of theory, practice and communication - for safe work in everyday nursing in Germany.

M1: Understanding nursing in Germany (40 teaching units)

Orientation in the German healthcare system, understanding of roles and organisation of nursing.

M2: Legal basics & nursing concepts (40 teaching units)

Nursing process, documentation, professional ethics and the legal framework.

M3: Supporting people in critical life situations (10 teaching units)

Care in acute situations, crisis intervention, communication in stressful moments.

M4: Mental health & dementia (30 teaching units)

Dealing with mental illness, cognitive impairment and challenging behaviour.

M5: Nursing children & young people (30 teaching units)

Developmental support, communication with families, prevention and child protection.

M6: Inpatient acute care (40 teaching units)

Care planning, setting priorities, interprofessional cooperation and hygiene.

M7: Inpatient long-term care (40 teaching units)

Promoting independence, mobilisation, nutrition and documentation in everyday care.

M8: Home care (10 teaching units)

Particularities of care at home, organisation and legal aspects.

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The Kenntnisprüfung in detail

The Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) consists of an oral part and a practical part, both on one day. The scope depends on your individual Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Landesamt für Pflege Bayern (Bavarian State Office for Nursing).

Deficit hours	Oral exam	Practical exam	Notes
240 hours	45 min	120 min	Standard scope
440 hours	45 min	180 min	Additional situations
640 hours	45 min	240 min	Extended complex cases

Exam board: 1 nurse educator (chair) & 1 practice instructor (second examiner, from the facility on request)

All your questions answered

1. Course & participation

What is the difference between the preparation course and the Kenntnisprüfung?

Both routes lead to the same goal - the German licence to practise as a nurse. The difference lies in the procedure, the duration and the way your performance is assessed.

Anpassungslehrgang (adaptation course)

The Anpassungslehrgang is a clearly defined route that follows your individual Defizitbescheid (deficit notice). Depending on the learning needs identified, 240 to 640 teaching units and practical phases in specific areas of nursing must be completed. The programme lasts at least 6 months and ends with a final discussion instead of an exam. This route is particularly suitable for nurses with less practical experience or greater subject-specific gaps to close.

Preparation course with Kenntnisprüfung

The preparation course is more compact and takes place in block form. Its content follows the Anpassungslehrgang, but it ends with an oral and practical Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam). The educational institution sets the scope and duration - at our centre the course lasts 6 weeks. Participants should already have practical experience in Germany, as the focus is on exam preparation.

Conclusion

Both routes lead to recognition as a nurse in Germany.

The Anpassungslehrgang offers more time and more practical training for less experienced nurses.

The Kenntnisprüfung is ideal for experienced nurses who want to reach the licence to practise faster.

Who can take part in the course?

Nurses who completed their training outside the EU and have received a Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) from the Landesamt für Pflege Bayern (Bavarian State Office for Nursing).

How long does the course last?

The intensive course lasts 6 weeks in total - 2 weeks of live online classes and a 4-week on-site phase - followed by the Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam).

Can I take part without a Defizitbescheid?

No, the Defizitbescheid (deficit notice) is legally required to determine your individual learning needs and to be admitted to the exam.

2. Exam & procedure

What happens if I do not pass the Kenntnisprüfung?

Failing can happen even after good preparation. The Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) can be repeated - after individual retraining or further preparation. We support you and advise you personally on the next steps.

How often can I repeat the Kenntnisprüfung?

Usually once. Targeted retraining should take place between the exams to secure your learning progress.

Where does the exam take place?

In the SkillsLab of Oncademy Care in Würzburg - under realistic but predictable conditions.

How does the exam work?

The exam consists of an oral part and a practical part, both on the same day. The duration depends on the individual deficit hours.

Who assesses the exam?

The exam is conducted by a nurse educator (chair) and a practice instructor (second examiner). On request, the second examiner can come from the candidate's facility.

3. Organisation & booking

How can I book a place?

Through our online booking system. You choose your preferred start date, enter the number of participants and reserve the place with no obligation for 7 days.

Can I register several participants at once as a company?

Yes, booking is possible for individuals as well as for facilities.

When is my place firmly reserved?

After booking, you receive an email confirmation and a consultation to finalise the participant details.

4. Costs & services

How much does the course cost?

The 6-week preparation course costs €2,500 net per participant. The Kenntnisprüfung (knowledge exam) costs €1,200 net.

Are learning materials included in the price?

Yes, all teaching materials, digital access and consultations are included in the price.

Is accommodation included?

No, accommodation is not included in the price. It can be added as an option through our partner MOWO.

5. Accommodation & stay

How do I find accommodation during the on-site phase?

Through our partner MOWO, which offers high-quality staff flats in Würzburg. Double rooms from €60 per night.

Can I book accommodation myself?

Yes, of course. Booking through MOWO is an optional service for more comfort.

6. After the exam

When do I get my exam result?

You receive the result straight after the exam. How quickly the Berufsurkunde (professional licence certificate) is issued depends on how fast the authority works.

What happens after I pass the exam?

The results are sent directly to the Landesamt für Pflege Bayern (Bavarian State Office for Nursing) so that your Berufsurkunde (professional licence certificate) can be issued.