Jena, March 04, 2026. Anyone wishing to study medicine in Jena often fails due to the strict Numerus clausus (NC). However, a new path is now opening in Thüringen: via the so-called Landarztquote, studying medicine and dentistry is now possible even without top grades in the Abitur.
- What: Medical studies (human and dental medicine) without Numerus clausus
- Where: Thüringen (Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena)
- How: Via the newly introduced Landarztquote
- Condition: Commitment to future medical practice in underserved regions
New Path to Medical Studies
Until now, an excellent Abitur was the absolute prerequisite for securing one of the coveted study places for human or dental medicine. With the implementation of the Landarztquote in Thüringen, this is now fundamentally changing. The model is specifically aimed at applicants who demonstrate high motivation for the medical profession but do not necessarily have a perfect grade point average.
The Conditions of the Landarztquote
However, studying without an NC is not a gift without something in return; it is tied to a very clear requirement. Anyone who receives a study place through this quota contractually commits to working in a medically underserved region in Thüringen for a specified period after successful graduation and completion of specialist medical training. The aim of the measure is to actively counteract the looming shortage of doctors in rural areas and to ensure primary care for the population.
Background: The Faculty of Medicine in Jena
The Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena is home to the only medical faculty in the Free State of Thüringen. While theoretical training mostly takes place in the institutes in the city center, clinical practice is taught at the Universitätsklinikum Jena (UKJ) in the district of Lobeda. The campus in Lobeda has been massively expanded in recent decades and is considered one of the most modern clinical centers in Germany. The shortage of doctors in the countryside has been a pressing problem in Thüringen for years, as many practicing general practitioners will retire in the coming years due to age. The Landarztquote is considered one of the most important political instruments nationwide to reverse this trend.
Source:
Medical studies in Jena possible for the first time without Numerus clausus
Transparency note: This article was automatically created, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.