Agencies Offer Medical Training Overseas
The dream of becoming a doctor in Germany can crumble under the weight of the demanding Numerus Clausus (NC). Those who continue to aspire for a career in medicine may turn to shrewd business operators who promise to secure study places overseas. This controversial business model is now under the microscope of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).
For those aiming to pursue medicine in Germany, an impressive Abitur score is often not enough for a coveted spot. Ambitious applicants, instead, look abroad for universities where the admissions process can be more forgiving. These hopeful doctors often rely on specialized agencies to guide them through the application process and support them during their studies.
Hendrik Loll, head of such an agency called StudiMed, explains that most families seeking their services are looking for comprehensive assistance. StudiMed offers advice on suitable universities, help with application documents, and subsequently, aids students during their studies, providing accommodation and assistance with registration. Yet, this aid comes at a hefty price: equivalent to one year's tuition fee at the respective university - typically ranging between 8,000 and 15,000 euros.
Payment is due only when the applicant secures a place at the desired university. However, complications arise when the applicant changes their mind. In a particular case close to Munich, the applicant, with a modest Abitur score of 3.0, obtained a study place at a university in Bosnia with the assistance of StudiMed. Nevertheless, the applicant refused to accept the place and, in turn, denied paying the agreed fee.
A Question of Risk:Every year, a handful of clients refuse to pay, reveals Loll. Historically, the higher regional courts (OLG) have supported the view that the agency is not responsible for the risk of whether the study place is accepted or not. However, the OLG Munich recently took a different stance. It viewed the agreement as a brokerage contract and deemed the agency to bear the risk if the applicant decides against acceptance. StudiMed is appealing this decision to the BGH, arguing that the mediation offer differs significantly from that of a real estate agent and should be considered predominantly a service contract.
The Global Market for Medical Education Mediation:StudiMed is not alone in offering this service in Germany. Loll reveals that there are at least three other agencies in the country that follow a similar payment model. A ruling by the BGH could profoundly impact the entire industry.
The Voice of Medical Students:Young doctors have long questioned the current admissions procedure for medical studies in Germany. The Federal Association of Medical Students in Germany (bvmd) believes that the process unfairly advantage applicants who can afford pricey supports. They argue that a student's financial standing should not dictate their chances of securing a study place. The bvmd, instead, advocates reforming the admissions procedure to include additional factors such as aptitude tests, completed vocational training, or volunteering. By doing so, they hope to prevent students from feeling pressured to study abroad simply because they have no chance of a place using the current system.
Sources: ntv.de, Jacqueline Melcher, dpa
Keywords: Medical education, Universities, Federal Court of Justice, Students, Study mediation agencies, Germany
- The community policy of study mediation agencies, such as StudiMed, needs clarification as they offer comprehensive assistance for students aiming to pursue medicine, including vocational training in the application process and during studying.
- While payment for these services is only due when a study place is secured, the question of risk remains: if the applicant changes their mind and refuses to pay, it may result in legal disputes, as shown in the recent case in Munich involving StudiMed.
- In light of the evolving court decisions, personal-finance management becomes crucial for students opting for online education or learning platforms to acquire vocational training related to medicine, as it may help them make informed decisions about investment in these services.
- Entrepreneurship in the field of education-and-self-development, particularly in online mediation for medical education, could face challenges due to the recent judgment by the OLG Munich and the potential upcoming ruling by the BGH, which may impact the entire industry and lead to business adjustments.
