Studying Nursing in Germany: Wide Open Opportunities But Not for Dreamers

Studying in nursing in Germany is a realistic path to a stable career and the opportunity to settle down permanently. However, behind the attractive income opportunities and social benefits are strict requirements: German language skills, professional competence, physical and mental endurance. Only by understanding both sides – opportunities and challenges – can you properly prepare for the journey ahead.

Why is Germany "thirsty" for nursing staff?

Germany has one of the fastest ageing populations in the world: low birth rates and high life expectancies. As a result, hospitals, nursing homes and home care systems are constantly short of skilled workers.

To solve this situation, the German Government has expanded its policy of attracting international workers, especially in the medical field. However, they do not only need “workers”, but also real nurses - understand the profession, be responsible, communicate effectively with patients and strictly follow medical procedures.

Germany is opening its doors to dedicated and professional nurses (Photo: Former SHD student - Bui Tran Khanh Hoa)

Vietnamese people are highly appreciated by many German employers for their diligence, discipline and progressive spirit. But “diligence” is only a necessary condition. To turn opportunities into success, learners must have language skills, solid expertise and a mindset ready to face the pressure of the job.

Nursing in Germany: rosy or gray?

There is no denying that nursing is one of the most promising professions in Germany. After completing the program 3-year contract, students can receive the level starting salary 3,600 euros/month, Okay permanent residency support, sponsor relatives and enjoy full social benefits as German citizens.

The job opportunities are wide open, but the road is not easy. Nursing is more than just “taking care of patients” – it is a highly specialized job that requires a high level of mental endurance. Nurses must work shifts, work nights, and be ready to handle emergencies. They perform basic procedures, administer medications, and update medical records – all with absolute accuracy.

> Reference: Signing of a tripartite cooperation agreement between SHD – Landkreis Harz (Sachsen-Anhalt state) – IB organization in Germany: Expanding international job opportunities for Vietnamese human resources

In addition to professional skills, nurses need patience and empathy to communicate with the elderly, patients with memory loss, special patients and their relatives. Every word and action can affect the psychology and recovery process of the patient.

Caring for the elderly requires not only skills, but also understanding and patience (Photo: Former SHD student - Ho Thi Kieu Tien)

In addition, there are strict regulations on hygiene, safety and medical reporting. This job is not for the easily discouraged. The apprenticeship period (Ausbildung) is therefore considered a “test of endurance” – a challenge both physically and mentally. But for those who are persistent enough, this is also a precious time to mature, to understand and love the profession more deeply.

German – the biggest barrier, but also the only key

Most students studying nursing in Germany think that a B1 certificate is enough. But reality proves the opposite: many students with B1 or even B2 certificates still fail interviews or cannot keep up with the study program.

The issue is not the degree, but the practical ability to use German – the ability to listen, understand, react and handle situations at work. A certificate can prove that you have studied, but it does not guarantee that you can live and work in that language.

Consider some real-life scenarios:

• When a patient calls in the middle of the night, do you understand what they need, or do you fumble with every word? 
• When your boss gives you urgent work, do you respond accurately, or do you just nod your head? 
• When your coworkers talk, do you keep up or do you feel left out?

Those little situations are the difference between fitting in and falling behind.

In terms of procedures, B1 is enough to apply for a visa, but in reality, students need B2-equivalent capacity, even aiming for B2/C1 in the major, to be able to study, work and develop long-term. When German is no longer a barrier, you will not only be more likely to be accepted, but also confidently live, study and work in Germany sustainably.

SHD Academy and students equip themselves with solid luggage for their career journey in Germany

At SHD Academy, students are comprehensively prepared before going to Germany – not only to learn the language, but also to learn to live and work in German.

Students are equipped with specialized knowledge, practice listening - speaking - reflexes in a hospital environment, confidently handling real communication situations. In parallel, SHD provides elementary vocational training and simulated practice, helping students become familiar with care work, medical procedures and professional operations before starting Ausbildung.

Former SHD students – Ho Thi Kieu Tien, Kim Cao Minh Thu, Kim Thi Bich Mai, Bui Tran Khanh Hoa are currently studying Nursing in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany.

Cultural and soft skills training courses – such as shift work, teamwork, stress management – are also indispensable. Because only by understanding and adapting to German working culture can students develop in the long term.

All documents, certificates and contracts are carried out transparently by SHD and in direct cooperation with reputable businesses and training institutions in Germany. After leaving the country, students continue to receive integration support and career counseling, helping them feel secure when starting their journey in a new country.

Recently, SHD Academy organized interviews for 30 students studying Nursing in Germany, preparing to enroll in the spring. They demonstrated solid abilities, a spirit of learning and a will to never give up – qualities that German employers highly appreciate.

SHD believes that only real knowledge, real skills and real attitudes can help young Vietnamese people stand firm in Germany – a country of discipline and efficiency. And that journey, if properly prepared, will no longer be a distant dream, but a future completely within reach.