APS Certificate to Study in Germany

A Complete Guide for Indian Students

aps certificate

What is APS Certificate?

APS stands for Akademische Prüfstelle, or Academic Evaluation Centre. It is a joint initiative by the German Embassy and the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service). The APS certificate is a mandatory document for Indian students applying to German universities for Bachelor’s or Master’s programs.

The APS process verifies the authenticity of academic documents and ensures that students meet the eligibility criteriafor higher education in Germany. Without an APS certificate, your visa application for Germany will be rejected.

Why is APS certificate is Mandatory

Since November 1, 2022, all Indian students must submit an APS certificate before applying for a student visa to Germany. This is to:

  • Prevent fraudulent academic documents
  • Speed up the student visa process
  • Validate your qualifications before university admissions

Who Needs the APS Certificate?

You need an APS certificate if:

  • You’re applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Germany
  • You’ve completed your schooling or graduation in India
  • You’re applying to public or private universities in Germany

You don’t need APS if:

  • You’re applying for PhD (case-specific)
  • You have a DAAD scholarship (APS waived in some cases)
  • You’re already studying in Germany and applying for a higher program (case-specific)

APS Application Process – Step by Step Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need:

  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates (10th, 12th, UG/PG)
  • Passport copy
  • Language certificates (IELTS/TOEFL/German, if available)
  • Passport-size photos
  • APS application form
  • University admission proof (if applicable)

Step 2: Register Online

Visit the official website: https://aps-india.de
Fill the online form and take a printout.

Step 3: Pay the Fee

APS processing fee: INR 18,000
Payment can be made via bank transfer. Keep a copy of the payment receipt.

Step 4: Submit Application

Courier the signed form, fee receipt, and required documents to the APS India office in New Delhi.

Step 5: Wait for Verification

  • Processing time: 3–4 weeks (longer during peak seasons)
  • You may be called for an interview, though it’s rare.

Step 6: Get APS Certificate

Once verified, you’ll receive 5 original APS certificates. You can request more at an additional cost.

How Long is the APS Certificate Valid?

The APS certificate is valid indefinitely, as long as your academic background doesn’t change. You can use it for multiple university applications in Germany.

Important Tips

  • Apply for APS at least 6–8 weeks before university deadlines
  • Make sure all transcripts and documents are in English or German
  • Check with your target universities if they need the APS certificate before or after conditional admission

APS and German Student Visa

You must attach your APS certificate while applying for a German national (D type) student visa. Without it, your visa file will be considered incomplete.

Need Help with APS and German Admissions?

We provide:

✅ Complete APS guidance and document check
✅ University shortlisting and application support
✅ Visa file preparation with 100% documentation assistance
✅ Help with IELTS/GRE test prep
✅ Scholarship & accommodation support

Contact Us Today!

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