Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany: Salary 1,215€-1,372€ (2025)

Are you curious about becoming a physiotherapist and wondering how to start your journey in Germany? This guide will explain everything about the Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany— from how to apply, to what it involves, the salary you can expect, and whether it’s a good option for foreigners.

Whether you’re a student, a career changer or someone from abroad, this post will answer all your questions. We will try to cover every corner of Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany.

We firmly believe after reading this post you will be able get all kinds of information you need to start your new career in Germany as a health professional. So, without any further ado let’s get started.

What is Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany?

First, let’s understand the term ‘Ausbildung‘. Ausbildung is a German word for vocational training or apprenticeship. It’s a structured program that combines theoretical education in school with practical experience in the workplace.

And physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany is a three-year vocational training program that prepares students to become licensed physiotherapists through practical and theoretical education.

It’s one of the most popular ways to enter skilled professions in Germany— especially in healthcare, like physiotherapy. In simple terms: Ausbildung teaches you a job by doing it.

How does Ausbildung Work in Germany?

A typical Ausbildung in Germany lasts 2 to 3.5 years, depending on the profession. For physiotherapy, it’s usually a 3-year school-based program, combined with internships in clinics or hospitals.

You attend lessons on subjects like anatomy, physiology, treatment methods, and patient care. At the same time, you’ll do practical training where you treat real patients under supervision. Once you finish and pass the exams, you become a state-certified physiotherapist.

What Is Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany?

The Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany is a specialized training that prepares you to help people recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses through movement and therapy. It’s perfect for people who love health, sports, and helping others.

You learn:

• How the human body works (bones, muscles, joints)
• Different types of treatments (manual therapy, massage, electrotherapy)
• How to support patients during recovery

This is not just classroom learning. You’ll spend hundreds of hours working with real patients, guided by professionals.

Physiotherapie Ausbildung in Germany Requirements

If you’re considering a career in physical therapy, understanding the Physiotherapie Ausbildung in Germany requirements is essential.

This vocational training program, which typically lasts three years, equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to become licensed physiotherapists in Germany.

From academic qualifications and language proficiency to practical internships and final state examinations, the requirements are structured to ensure high professional standards.

So, what do you need to start?

Basic Requirements:

• School diploma (usually Realschule or equivalent)
• Good physical health (doctor’s certificate required)
• Strong communication skills
• Empathy and patience
• German language skills (often B2 level)

Some schools also ask for:

• Police clearance certificate
• Proof of vaccinations
• A motivation letter or entrance test

These are common Ausbildung in Germany requirements, but always check with the specific school.

How to Apply for Ausbildung in Germany

Now the big question: how do I apply for Ausbildung in Germany?

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Find a Physiotherapy School (Berufsfachschule or Fachschule)
2. Check the entry requirements
3. Prepare your application documents:
   • CV (Lebenslauf)
   • Motivation letter (Anschreiben)
   • School certificates
   • Health and police records
4. Submit your application (usually online or by post)
5. Attend an entrance test or interview, if required
6. Wait for acceptance!

If you’re asking how to get Ausbildung in Germany, this is exactly how it works.

How to Find Ausbildung in Germany

Finding a good school is key. Use these tools:

• Official job portals (e.g. berufenet.arbeitsagentur.de)
• School websites
• Local chambers (IHK/KMK)
• Study in Germany portals
• Social media groups for Ausbildung
• Degreeola Job Search

Search with terms like ‘Physiotherapie Ausbildung in Germany’, and check the region you want to study in.

Can Foreigners do Ausbildung in Germany?

Yes! Can foreigners do Ausbildung in Germany? Absolutely. very year, thousands of international students start an Ausbildung. You need:

• A recognized school certificate
• Sufficient German language skills (at least B2)
• A visa or residence permit for training (Ausbildungvisa)

Germany actively supports foreign professionals in healthcare. That means Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany for foreigners is encouraged!

Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany Requirements for Foreigners

As a foreigner, you may also need:

• Translated school documents (with certification)
• Proof of language tests (Goethe, TELC, etc.)
• Pre-approval from ZAB (German recognition authority)

It may take a bit more paperwork, but it’s absolutely possible.

Bachelor of Physiotherapy in Germany vs. Ausbildung

There are two main paths:

1. Ausbildung (Vocational Training): Practical, faster, and job-ready in 3 years.
2. Bachelor of Physiotherapy in Germany: Academic, offered by universities, takes 3-4 years.

Both lead to good jobs, but Ausbildung is more hands-on and accessible to many.

What do You Learn During Physiotherapy Ausbildung?

During a Physiotherapie Ausbildung in Germany, students receive a comprehensive education that combines both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The curriculum covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, and therapeutic techniques like massage, electrotherapy, and exercise therapy.

Students also learn how to assess patients, develop treatment plans, and work with various conditions, from orthopedic injuries to neurological disorders.

In addition, practical training in clinics or hospitals is integrated throughout the program to ensure students gain hands-on experience with real patients under professional supervision.

Each year builds new skills:

Year 1:

• Basic anatomy and Latin terms
• Muscles, joints, and bones
• Physiology: How the body works

Year 2:

• Disease theory (Krankheitslehre)
• Therapy methods
• Hands-on practice

Year 3:

• Prevention techniques
• Rehabilitation methods
• Final exam preparation

What is the Salary after Ausbildung in Germany?

After completing a Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany, many graduates are curious about their earning potential. While salaries can vary depending on factors like experience, location, and employer, there are general expectations for entry-level and long-term income in the field.

Understanding the typical salary range after Ausbildung helps future physiotherapists plan their careers and financial goals effectively.

Let’s talk money!

During Ausbildung in hospitals or public clinics, you may get a monthly salary:

However, if you study at a private school, you may not get paid — and sometimes pay school fees. Thankfully, many states now cover these costs.

So the salary after Ausbildung in Germany depends on where you study.

How much does a Physiotherapist make in Germany?

Once you’re fully trained and working, your salary goes up:

So if you’re asking how much physiotherapist earn in Germany or how much does a physiotherapist make in Germany, this is your answer!

Physiotherapie Ausbildung in Germany Salary: Summary

Let’s summarize:

• During Ausbildung: €1,215–€1,372 (if paid)
• After Ausbildung: €2,500–€3,600 monthly
• Higher pay with experience, public jobs, or private practice

Are Physiotherapists in Demand in Germany?

In one word the answer is: ‘Yes’. Very much. With Germany’s aging population and increasing health awareness, physiotherapists are highly in demand. Many clinics and hospitals face staff shortages and are open to hiring trained professionals— even from abroad.

Physiotherapists are in high demand in Germany. The country faces a significant shortage of skilled professionals in this field, with reports indicating that up to 85.7% of physiotherapy positions remain unfilled

So if you’re wondering are physiotherapists in demand in Germany? The answer is a clear YES.

Benefits of doing Ausbildung in Germany

Doing an Ausbildung (vocational training) in Germany offers several benefits, especially for those pursuing careers like physiotherapy. Here’s a brief introduction to the advantages:

Pursuing an Ausbildung in Germany provides a practical and structured pathway into a professional career, combining classroom instruction with real-world work experience.

For aspiring physiotherapists, this dual system ensures that you not only learn essential medical theory but also gain hands-on experience in clinics and rehabilitation centers.

Additionally, Ausbildung programs are often free or low-cost, and in some cases, trainees receive a monthly stipend.

Completing an Ausbildung in Germany also opens doors to permanent employment, long-term residency opportunities, and potential pathways to higher education or specialization.

Also, there are many reasons to consider this career path:

1. Hands-on learning
2. Stable job market
3. Good salary
4. International recognition
5. Can lead to higher studies or private practice
6. Growing demand in all regions

These are just a few benefits of doing Ausbildung in Germany, especially in physiotherapy.

Career Paths After Physiotherapy Ausbildung

Once you’re certified, you can:

• Work in clinics, hospitals, or wellness centers
• Specialize (e.g. sports therapy, pediatrics)
• Study further (e.g. Bachelor or Master)
• Open your own practice
• Teach or train others

Germany supports professional growth through Weiterbildung (advanced training).

Conclusion

The Physiotherapy Ausbildung in Germany is an excellent path for anyone interested in health, movement, and helping others. It’s structured, affordable, and open to both locals and foreigners. With good pay, strong job demand and opportunities for growth, it offers a rewarding career.

So whether you’re just starting out or changing careers— this might be the perfect step forward.