What A-Level/12th-Grade Subjects Are Needed for MBBS in Germany? (Full Guide 2025)
A-Level subjects for MBBS in Germany
Germany has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students who want to study MBBS or Medicine. With world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and globally recognised degrees, thousands of students from India, the UK, the Middle East, and Africa search every year:
“What subjects do I need in A-Level or 12th standard to study MBBS in Germany?”
This is the most important requirement because German medical universities are strict about academic subject combinations. If you choose the right subjects in 12th/A-Level, your path to MBBS becomes much easier. But choosing the wrong subjects can make your admission impossible.
This blog explains all subjects required, minimum grades, alternative options, FAQs, and complete guidance for 2025 MBBS applicants.
Why Subject Selection Is Important for MBBS in Germany
Medical education in Germany focuses strongly on science fundamentals, so the universities check your 12th/A-Level subject combination before anything else. Your subjects determine:
- Whether you qualify for direct admission or Studienkolleg
- Whether your application meets German equivalency rules
- Whether the university accepts your academic profile
- Whether APS, uni-assist, or German authorities approve your documents
Choosing the correct subjects in high school is the first step towards a German medical career.
A-Level / 12th Grade Subjects Required for MBBS in Germany
To study MBBS in Germany, students must have completed A-Level or 12th Standard with pure science subjects.
1. Biology (Mandatory)
Biology is the most important subject for MBBS in Germany. Without Biology, you cannot apply for MBBS at all.
German universities require:
- Human Biology understanding
- Life science fundamentals
- Anatomy basics
- Genetics foundations
Minimum grade requirement:
- At least B or 70%+ in 12th
- A-Level: At least Grade B or higher
2. Chemistry (Mandatory)
Chemistry is required because medical studies require strong knowledge of:
- Organic chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Medical compounds
- Cellular chemistry
Without Chemistry, your profile becomes ineligible for MBBS.
Minimum grade requirement:
- 60–70% in 12th
- A-Level Grade C or B
3. Physics (Mandatory for medical eligibility)
Physics is essential because German medical universities require understanding of:
- Human body mechanics
- Radiation
- Neurological signals
- Energy & electrochemistry
Minimum grade requirement:
- 60%+ in 12th
- A-Level: Grade C or B
For both Indian (CBSE/ISC/State Board) & A-Level students, the subject combination must be PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
Minimum Subject Requirements Summary
12th Grade (India) Required Subjects:
- Biology – Mandatory
- Chemistry – Mandatory
- Physics – Mandatory
- English – Mandatory (for medium of instruction proof)
A-Level Required Subjects:
- Biology – A or B
- Chemistry – A or B
- Physics – A, B, or strong C
Additional Recommended Subjects
These are not compulsory but help your application:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Physical Education
- Environmental Science
Mathematics especially helps during Studienkolleg entrance exams.
Can You Study MBBS in Germany Without Physics or Chemistry?
No.
German universities clearly state that Biology + Chemistry + Physics must be completed at high-school level.
If you have taken:
- PCB → Eligible
- PCMB → Eligible
- PCM without Bio → Not eligible
- Commerce → Not eligible
- Arts → Not eligible
- Biology without Physics → Not eligible
Grade Requirements for MBBS in Germany
Germany follows a strict grade system. For medicine, the grade must be high because competition is strong.
Minimum grades required:
- Overall: 80–90% preferred
- Biology: 70–85%
- Chemistry: 65–80%
- Physics: 60–75%
A-Level requirement:
- BBB or AAC combination minimum
- AAA gives the best chance
Does Germany Accept NEET? (For Indian Students)
Yes—NEET is mandatory for Indian students planning MBBS in Germany since India requires NEET qualification for studying MBBS abroad.
You must:
- Qualify NEET in the same year as admission
- Even if the score is low, qualification is enough
Germany uses NEET only as a formal requirement for Indian students, not for selection.
APS Certificate Requirement
APS certificate is mandatory for Indian students.
Your APS verification depends heavily on:
- 12th subjects
- 12th grades
- University type
- NEET result
If your subjects are not PCB, APS will reject your application for MBBS programs.
Do You Get Direct Admission to MBBS in Germany?
No.
All international students must complete:
Studienkolleg (M-Course)
This is a 1-year foundation program required before medical school.
Entrance exam is required (Aufnahmeprüfung)
The exam generally tests:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- German language basics
So your high-school science subjects play a big role in your success.
German Language Requirement
To study MBBS, German language is compulsory.
Required Levels:
- B1 for APS
- B2 for Studienkolleg
- C1 Medizin for university medical program
Your subjects in 12th do not affect language requirements, but strong academic science skills help in German medical terminology.
Eligibility Pathway: A-Level Students
You must have:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English
Grades:
- Minimum BBB
- Best chance with AAB or AAA
After A-Level:
- APS (only for Indian passport holders)
- German language up to B1/B2
- Studienkolleg (M-Course)
- Final medical university admission
Eligibility Pathway: Indian 12th Students
You must have:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- English
Minimum percentage:
- 75–90% for top universities
After 12th:
- NEET qualification
- APS Certificate
- German language B2
- Studienkolleg
- University entrance exams
- MBBS admission
Common Student Questions About Subject Requirements
1. Can Commerce, Arts, or Non-Science students apply for MBBS in Germany?
No.
Only science students with PCB subjects are eligible.
2. Can I apply if I have PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) but no Biology?
No.
Biology is mandatory across all German medical universities.
3. Is Mathematics needed for MBBS in Germany?
Not compulsory, but helpful for:
- Entrance exams
- Studienkolleg coursework
- University selection
Having Maths gives an advantage.
4. Can I take MBBS in Germany with 60% in 12th?
You can try, but competition is very high.
Most universities prefer 75–85%+.
If your grades are low, you can improve your chances by:
- Strong German proficiency
- Good Studienkolleg entrance score
- Strong motivation letter and CV
5. Are A-Level students given priority?
Not priority, but A-Level grades are considered strong by German universities.
Both systems (A-Level and Indian 12th) are accepted equally.
Career Scope After Studying MBBS in Germany
Choosing the right subjects opens many opportunities:
- Medical PG (Facharzt) in Germany
- Medical practice license
- High-salary specialist jobs
- EU-wide medical opportunities
- UK GMC recognition pathways
- Job security and long-term residence permit
Germany provides hands-on training, clinical exposure, and excellent career growth.
Tips for Students to Improve Their Eligibility
Here are the best tips to strengthen your profile early:
1. Choose PCB Subjects in 11th–12th
Without these subjects, MBBS is impossible in Germany.
2. Score well in Biology and Chemistry
These two subjects matter the most.
3. Start German language early
If you reach B2 during 12th standard, your admission is very fast.
4. Prepare for Studienkolleg entrance
Entrance test difficulty is moderate, but science basics must be strong.
5. Build a strong academic profile
Include:
- Volunteering
- Clinical exposure
- Science competitions
- Research projects
This strengthens university selection.
Complete Subject Checklist for MBBS in Germany
You are eligible if you have:
✔ Biology
✔ Chemistry
✔ Physics
✔ English
✔ Minimum 70%–85%
✔ NEET qualified (for Indian students)
You are NOT eligible if you have:
✘ Commerce
✘ Arts
✘ PCM without Biology
✘ Biology without Physics
✘ 12th from open schooling (in some cases)
✘ Low grades in science subjects
Conclusion
Studying MBBS in Germany is one of the best decisions for international medical students. But first, you must have the right A-Level or 12th-grade subjects.
The mandatory subject combination for MBBS in Germany is:
Biology + Chemistry + Physics (PCB)
With strong grades, German language proficiency, NEET qualification (for Indian students), and Studienkolleg preparation, you can successfully begin your MBBS journey in Germany.
If you choose the right subjects now, your career pathway becomes clear and achievable.What A-Level/12th-Grade Subjects Are Needed for MBBS in Germany? (Full Guide 2025)
Introduction
Germany has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students who want to study MBBS or Medicine. With world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and globally recognised degrees, thousands of students from India, the UK, the Middle East, and Africa search every year:
“What subjects do I need in A-Level or 12th standard to study MBBS in Germany?”
This is the most important requirement because German medical universities are strict about academic subject combinations. If you choose the right subjects in 12th/A-Level, your path to MBBS becomes much easier. But choosing the wrong subjects can make your admission impossible.
This blog explains all subjects required, minimum grades, alternative options, FAQs, and complete guidance for 2025 MBBS applicants.
Why Subject Selection Is Important for MBBS in Germany
Medical education in Germany focuses strongly on science fundamentals, so the universities check your 12th/A-Level subject combination before anything else. Your subjects determine:
- Whether you qualify for direct admission or Studienkolleg
- Whether your application meets German equivalency rules
- Whether the university accepts your academic profile
- Whether APS, uni-assist, or German authorities approve your documents
Choosing the correct subjects in high school is the first step towards a German medical career.
A-Level / 12th Grade Subjects Required for MBBS in Germany
To study MBBS in Germany, students must have completed A-Level or 12th Standard with pure science subjects.
1. Biology (Mandatory)
Biology is the most important subject for MBBS in Germany. Without Biology, you cannot apply for MBBS at all.
German universities require:
- Human Biology understanding
- Life science fundamentals
- Anatomy basics
- Genetics foundations
Minimum grade requirement:
- At least B or 70%+ in 12th
- A-Level: At least Grade B or higher
2. Chemistry (Mandatory)
Chemistry is required because medical studies require strong knowledge of:
- Organic chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Medical compounds
- Cellular chemistry
Without Chemistry, your profile becomes ineligible for MBBS.
Minimum grade requirement:
- 60–70% in 12th
- A-Level Grade C or B
3. Physics (Mandatory for medical eligibility)
Physics is essential because German medical universities require understanding of:
- Human body mechanics
- Radiation
- Neurological signals
- Energy & electrochemistry
Minimum grade requirement:
- 60%+ in 12th
- A-Level: Grade C or B
For both Indian (CBSE/ISC/State Board) & A-Level students, the subject combination must be PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
Minimum Subject Requirements Summary
12th Grade (India) Required Subjects:
- Biology – Mandatory
- Chemistry – Mandatory
- Physics – Mandatory
- English – Mandatory (for medium of instruction proof)
A-Level Required Subjects:
- Biology – A or B
- Chemistry – A or B
- Physics – A, B, or strong C
Additional Recommended Subjects
These are not compulsory but help your application:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Physical Education
- Environmental Science
Mathematics especially helps during Studienkolleg entrance exams.
Can You Study MBBS in Germany Without Physics or Chemistry?
No.
German universities clearly state that Biology + Chemistry + Physics must be completed at high-school level.
If you have taken:
- PCB → Eligible
- PCMB → Eligible
- PCM without Bio → Not eligible
- Commerce → Not eligible
- Arts → Not eligible
- Biology without Physics → Not eligible
Grade Requirements for MBBS in Germany
Germany follows a strict grade system. For medicine, the grade must be high because competition is strong.
Minimum grades required:
- Overall: 80–90% preferred
- Biology: 70–85%
- Chemistry: 65–80%
- Physics: 60–75%
A-Level requirement:
- BBB or AAC combination minimum
- AAA gives the best chance
Does Germany Accept NEET? (For Indian Students)
Yes—NEET is mandatory for Indian students planning MBBS in Germany since India requires NEET qualification for studying MBBS abroad.
You must:
- Qualify NEET in the same year as admission
- Even if the score is low, qualification is enough
Germany uses NEET only as a formal requirement for Indian students, not for selection.
APS Certificate Requirement
APS certificate is mandatory for Indian students.
Your APS verification depends heavily on:
- 12th subjects
- 12th grades
- University type
- NEET result
If your subjects are not PCB, APS will reject your application for MBBS programs.
Do You Get Direct Admission to MBBS in Germany?
No.
All international students must complete:
Studienkolleg (M-Course)
This is a 1-year foundation program required before medical school.
Entrance exam is required (Aufnahmeprüfung)
The exam generally tests:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- German language basics
So your high-school science subjects play a big role in your success.
German Language Requirement
To study MBBS, German language is compulsory.
Required Levels:
- B1 for APS
- B2 for Studienkolleg
- C1 Medizin for university medical program
Your subjects in 12th do not affect language requirements, but strong academic science skills help in German medical terminology.
Eligibility Pathway: A-Level Students
You must have:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English
Grades:
- Minimum BBB
- Best chance with AAB or AAA
After A-Level:
- APS (only for Indian passport holders)
- German language up to B1/B2
- Studienkolleg (M-Course)
- Final medical university admission
Eligibility Pathway: Indian 12th Students
You must have:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- English
Minimum percentage:
- 75–90% for top universities
After 12th:
- NEET qualification
- APS Certificate
- German language B2
- Studienkolleg
- University entrance exams
- MBBS admission
Common Student Questions About Subject Requirements
1. Can Commerce, Arts, or Non-Science students apply for MBBS in Germany?
No.
Only science students with PCB subjects are eligible.
2. Can I apply if I have PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) but no Biology?
No.
Biology is mandatory across all German medical universities.
3. Is Mathematics needed for MBBS in Germany?
Not compulsory, but helpful for:
- Entrance exams
- Studienkolleg coursework
- University selection
Having Maths gives an advantage.
4. Can I take MBBS in Germany with 60% in 12th?
You can try, but competition is very high.
Most universities prefer 75–85%+.
If your grades are low, you can improve your chances by:
- Strong German proficiency
- Good Studienkolleg entrance score
- Strong motivation letter and CV
5. Are A-Level students given priority?
Not priority, but A-Level grades are considered strong by German universities.
Both systems (A-Level and Indian 12th) are accepted equally.
Career Scope After Studying MBBS in Germany
Choosing the right subjects opens many opportunities:
- Medical PG (Facharzt) in Germany
- Medical practice license
- High-salary specialist jobs
- EU-wide medical opportunities
- UK GMC recognition pathways
- Job security and long-term residence permit
Germany provides hands-on training, clinical exposure, and excellent career growth.
Tips for Students to Improve Their Eligibility
Here are the best tips to strengthen your profile early:
1. Choose PCB Subjects in 11th–12th
Without these subjects, MBBS is impossible in Germany.
2. Score well in Biology and Chemistry
These two subjects matter the most.
3. Start German language early
If you reach B2 during 12th standard, your admission is very fast.
4. Prepare for Studienkolleg entrance
Entrance test difficulty is moderate, but science basics must be strong.
5. Build a strong academic profile
Include:
- Volunteering
- Clinical exposure
- Science competitions
- Research projects
This strengthens university selection.
Complete Subject Checklist for MBBS in Germany
You are eligible if you have:
✔ Biology
✔ Chemistry
✔ Physics
✔ English
✔ Minimum 70%–85%
✔ NEET qualified (for Indian students)
You are NOT eligible if you have:
✘ Commerce
✘ Arts
✘ PCM without Biology
✘ Biology without Physics
✘ 12th from open schooling (in some cases)
✘ Low grades in science subjects
Conclusion
Studying MBBS in Germany is one of the best decisions for international medical students. But first, you must have the right A-Level or 12th-grade subjects.
The mandatory subject combination for MBBS in Germany is:
Biology + Chemistry + Physics (PCB)
With strong grades, German language proficiency, NEET qualification (for Indian students), and Studienkolleg preparation, you can successfully begin your MBBS journey in Germany.
If you choose the right subjects now, your career pathway becomes clear and achievable.
At the end of the day, your comfort, beliefs, and career goals matter the most.For official details about vocational training regulations and wages, you can visit the Federal Employment Agency’s Ausbildung Portal or the Make It In Germany website.