Test for Medical Studies (TMS): Dates, Pattern, Medical in Germany

Studying Medicine in Germany is a dream for many international students because of its low tuition costs, top-ranked universities, and high-quality education. But to get into a top medical university in Germany, you need to take certain entrance tests. One important exam is the TMS – Test for Medical Studies in Germany.

The TMS (Test for Medical Studies) is a type of aptitude exam used by many German universities for medical and dental admissions. The TMS aims to measure essential skills, including visual perception, memory, scientific reasoning, spatial awareness, concentration, and diligence. The TMS test is conducted twice a year, typically in spring and autumn. The registration for the TMS is done online through the official registration portal managed by the Test Coordination Centre. The TMS registration fee in India is currently €100, including VAT.

All undergraduate medicine courses in Germany (like dentistry, veterinary medicine, etc.) are taught only in the German language. So, if you’re planning to study Medicine in Germany, German language proficiency is a must. Many universities also check your TMS scores to shortlist applications.

What does TMS mean test?

The Test for Medical Studies or TMS is essentially an aptitude test that aims at assessing the student’s ability to understand and identify scientific/ medical problems. This is not a mandatory test but many Medical Colleges in Germany use the TMS score to qualify your admissions. In other words, while they might not ask for it mandatorily, your score, if shared, would help in your admission.

The test is developed by ITB Consulting GmbH in Bonn and is conducted and administered by the Medical Faculty of Heidelberg. It is important to note that the Test is conducted only in Germany and at specified locations. TMS can be repeated once within one year after the first participation. Note that both the TMS test results are valid in case of a repetition.

Since the language of instruction for undergraduate medical examination is only German, the test is also conducted only in the German Language. It would include high usage of scientific jargon and hence a very high level of proficiency in the language is recommended.

Test for Medical Studies (TMS Pattern in India)

TMS is divided into three broad sections. The first is a fairly simple section divided into questions pertaining to the basic understanding of the subject. The tests also aim at determining the ability of the student to understand the given texts and retain the same. The other two sections are focussed on the same. While the second section is based on reading comprehension, the last section is about what all you have been able to retain. Here’s a breakup of the test sections:

While it sounds difficult, the rewards of pursuing medicine from Germany are unique as well. The opportunities set aside, it opens up the possibility of practising anywhere in the European Union. Besides the medical studies, this exam can also be recommended for related fields and would only add to your eligibility for various courses related to human health.

Documents Required to apply for TMS

In order to register for the TMS exam, you must carry the following documents:

• The Test invitation (soft copy/hard copy);
• A valid, official Photo ID (identity card, passport or driving licence); and
• Completed and signed Declaration of consent (only for underage participants).

Some other permitted items that you may carry are marking pens, catering, wallet, medicines, handkerchiefs, alarm clocks, stopwatches (without computer function and without or with optical and acoustic signals that can be switched off), disinfectants/disinfectant wipes, dress appropriately for indoors (no scarves, jackets, etc), religious clothing and headgear, pencil sharpener.

Following are the items which are strictly prohibited: any electronic items apart from the timer (smartwatch, mobile phone, calculator, etc.); cameras or camera-capable devices; wristwatches and earplugs of all kinds.

TMS Exam Dates 2025

The exam is usually conducted in the month of May and the results are often declared by the end of June, giving the students enough time to apply for and get admitted in a medical program in Germany.

Check out the standardised exams required to study abroad:

TMS vs. HAM-Nat: Which One Should You Take?

While TMS is the most popular exam for medical studies in Germany, some universities also accept the HAM-Nat (Hamburg Assessment Test for Medicine - Natural Sciences). It tests your knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Also, see more on Studying in Germany:

• Student Guide to Germany
• Germany Student Visa Guide