Specialist language examination in nursing
Official information on the specialist language examination for nursing professionals in Bavaria.
A valid language certificate remains required for the recognition of nursing qualifications in Bavaria. From December 1, 2025, international nursing staff can choose between a B2 certificate and the newly introduced Specialist Language Examination for Nursing (FSP). The FSP thus provides an additional option for demonstrating language competence in a nursing context.
What is the specialist language examination for nursing?
The specialist language examination for nursing is a job-specific language examination for foreign nursing professionals who wish to work in Bavaria.
It assesses linguistic competence in typical nursing situations: patient interview, documentation and handover.
The inspection will be carried out according to the guidelines of the Bavarian State Office for Care (LfP) .
Who has to take the exam?
The specialist language examination for nursing is aimed at:
foreign nursing professionals with training abroad
Nursing staff in the recognition process
People who need proof of language proficiency for a professional license
IMPORTANT •
Choice for nursing staff:
Specialist language exam for nursing OR general B2 certificate (telc, Goethe, ÖSD)
→ Both variants are recognized as proof of language proficiency
Procedure for the specialist language examination in nursing
Patients
Expert interview
Duration: 20 minutes
- structured patient interview
Skilled worker - Skilled worker -
Conversation
Duration: 20 minutes
- structured transfer to colleagues
Typical for the profession
written assignment
Duration: 20 minutes
- Nursing report
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Legal notice
Speak & Learn provides information about the specialist language examination for nursing according to the official guidelines of the Bavarian State Office for Nursing.
The examination is conducted exclusively by approved testing centers.