The Praktisches Jahr (PJ) is the final, purely practical stage of medical studies in Germany. It lasts 48 weeks and is currently divided into three rotations of 16 weeks each: internal medicine, surgery and an elective.
German term, introduced with the Approbationsordnung (German medical licensing regulation) of 1970
PJ, practical year
final year clinical training
During the Praktisches Jahr, students work full time in hospitals or teaching practices and learn everyday clinical routine under supervision. It follows the second part of the state medical examination and ends with the M3.
The current status of the planned reform with four quarters is covered in the guide Praktisches Jahr 2026: status of the PJ reform.
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