APS Certificate – German Study Guide

What Is APS?

The Academic Evaluation Centre Certificate

The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is a German academic evaluation centre that verifies the authenticity of academic documents from certain countries before you can apply to a German university or get a student visa.

Without an APS certificate, your German student visa application will be rejected. It is mandatory — not optional.

🌍 Who Needs an APS Certificate?

Students from: India, China, Vietnam, Mongolia, Pakistan and a few other countries. Check the official APS website to confirm for your nationality.

APS at a Glance

Mandatory for students from India, China, Vietnam, Pakistan
Verifies authenticity of your academic transcripts
Certificate valid for life (no expiry)
Required before applying to German universities
Also required for German student visa application
Processing time: 4–12 weeks depending on country

Document Checklist

Documents Required for APS

Prepare all documents carefully — incomplete applications cause delays of weeks.

📄 Academic Documents

10th Mark Sheet (original + photocopy)
12th Mark Sheet (original + photocopy)
Bachelor's Degree Certificate (original + photocopy)
All semester mark sheets / transcripts
Migration / Transfer Certificate (if applicable)
Attempt Certificate from University

🪪 Personal Documents

Valid Passport (all pages photocopy)
Passport-size photographs (4 copies)
Completed APS application form
APS fee payment receipt
Appointment confirmation letter

⚠️ Important: Original Documents Required

You must bring original documents to your APS appointment. Photocopies alone are not accepted. Documents in languages other than German or English must be accompanied by certified translations.

Step-by-Step Process

How to Apply for APS Certificate

1

Register on APS Portal

Create an account on the official APS portal for your country (India: New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai). Fill in personal and academic details.

2

Upload Documents Online

Upload scanned copies of all required academic documents and personal identification to the portal for pre-verification.

3

Pay the APS Fee

Pay the APS assessment fee online. Fee varies by country: India ₹8,000–12,000. Payment must be completed before booking appointment.

4

Book Interview Appointment

Schedule your in-person appointment at the nearest APS office. Appointments book up fast — book 4–8 weeks in advance.

5

Attend APS Interview

Attend your appointment with all original documents. Interview is academic in nature — they verify your documents and may ask questions about your studies.

6

Receive APS Certificate

APS certificate is issued within 2–4 weeks after successful interview. Collect or receive by post. Now you can apply to German universities.

⏱️ Processing Times by Country

Country	Wait for Appt	Certificate
India	4–8 weeks	2–4 weeks
China	6–10 weeks	3–4 weeks
Vietnam	4–6 weeks	2–3 weeks
Pakistan	3–5 weeks	2–3 weeks

💡 Pro Tip

Start your APS application at least 6 months before your intended university application deadline. Slots fill up quickly, especially before winter semester.

Common Questions

APS Certificate FAQ

No. If you are from a country that requires APS (India, China, Vietnam, Pakistan, Mongolia), you cannot apply to German universities without a valid APS certificate. The universities will reject your application at intake.

No, the APS certificate does not have an expiry date. Once issued, it is valid for all future German university applications and visa applications for life.

APS rejection is rare if documents are genuine. If rejected, you receive a rejection letter with reasons. You can appeal or reapply. Our team helps you understand the reason and prepare a stronger reapplication.

Yes! This is one of our core services. We conduct mock interviews based on your academic background, prepare you for likely questions and review all your documents before the actual appointment.

Yes. APS is required regardless of whether you are applying for a full Bachelor's/Master's degree or a preparatory Studienkolleg course. It is required at the visa stage.

APS Certificate — Complete Guide