How to get APS Certificate for Germany?

The APS Certificate (Akademische Prüfstelle Certificate) is an official document required by the German Embassy to verify that your academic documents—such as school certificates, degrees and transcripts—are genuine and meet German university standards.

The APS process checks:

• Authenticity of your academic certificates
• Validity of your grades
• Equivalence of your education with German requirements
• Eligibility for bachelor’s or master’s admission

Once verified, you receive an APS certificate, which is mandatory for the student visa and often required during university applications.

Who Needs an APS Certificate?

You need an APS certificate if:

• You are an international student applying for a German student visa
• You completed your education in a country where APS is required
• You want to join a German-taught or English-taught program in Germany
• You want faster visa processing
• You are applying for Studienkolleg (foundation year)

Countries that require APS include India, China, Vietnam, Mongolia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and several others.

Why Is APS Required?

Germany introduced APS to:

• Reduce fake academic documents
• Simplify visa processing
• Speed up admission decisions
• Create a transparent and fair evaluation system

After APS verification, universities and embassies trust your academic records without requiring further checks.

Documents Required for APS Certificate

To apply for APS, you must prepare the following:

For Bachelor’s Applicants:

• Class 10 mark sheet
• Class 12 mark sheet
• School leaving certificate (if available)
• Passport
• Passport-size photos
• Application form
• Proof of APS fee payment

For Master’s Applicants:

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Bachelor’s transcripts (semester-wise)
• Provisional degree (if final degree not available)
• Passport
• Passport-size photos
• APS application form
• Proof of fee payment

Some APS offices may ask for additional documents, so always check the latest requirements on the official country-specific APS website.

Steps to Get APS Certificate for Germany

Below is the exact process followed by most countries.

Step 1: Fill Out the APS Application Form

Visit your local APS website (e.g., APS India, APS China, APS Vietnam) and download the application form. Fill it carefully with accurate academic details.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Collect scanned and physical copies of your certificates, transcripts and identity documents. Missing documents can delay the APS process.

Make sure:

• Your name matches exactly on all documents
• Grades and dates are clear
• Documents are attested if required

Step 3: Pay the APS Processing Fee

Different countries have different fee structures.
Average APS fee ranges from ₹18,000–₹20,000 (India equivalent) or similar in other countries.

You must upload the receipt or attach a printed copy while submitting your application.

Step 4: Submit the Application and Documents

APS applications are submitted either:

• In person at the APS office, or
• By courier/post (based on the country rules)

Submit:

• Application form
• Required documents
• Passport-size photos
• Payment proof

After submission, APS will verify your documents.

Step 5: Wait for Verification and Evaluation

APS officers compare your documents with the issuing institutions, verify authenticity, and check your eligibility for studies in Germany.
This process usually takes:

• 2–4 weeks during normal seasons
• 6–8 weeks during peak seasons

You may receive updates via email.

Step 6: Attend APS Interview (If Required)

Some countries require an interview, while others do not.
The interview checks basic academic understanding and confirms authenticity.

If your country does not require interviews, this step is skipped.

Step 7: Receive Your APS Certificate

If everything is correct, you receive your APS certificate with a unique verification number. It includes:

• Verified study achievements
• Eligibility status
• Official seal

The certificate is valid indefinitely and can be used for all future German university applications.

How Long Does APS Take?

APS evaluation usually takes:

• 2–4 weeks (normal period)
• 5–8 weeks (peak season: September–January)

Apply early to avoid delays in university deadlines and visa appointments.

APS Certificate Validity

APS certificate is valid for a lifetime unless otherwise stated by your local APS office.
You do not need to apply again for future admissions.

APS Certificate Fees (Country-wise)

Though fees vary by location, the average range is:

• €160–€200
  or
• ₹18,000–₹20,000 (India equivalent)

Always check the official APS site for exact fees.

Common Reasons for APS Delays

• Incorrect or incomplete documents
• Name mismatch on certificates
• Unclear or unreadable grade sheets
• Missing fee proof
• Verification delays from schools or universities

Submitting clear documents helps reduce delays.

Conclusion

Getting an APS certificate is one of the first and most important steps for international students planning to study in Germany. The process ensures that your academic documents are authentic and meet German higher education standards. Once approved, the APS certificate simplifies university admissions, speeds up visa processing and increases your chances of securing a place at a German university.

By following the correct steps—preparing documents, submitting your application on time and responding quickly to verification requests—you can complete the APS process smoothly. With your APS certificate in hand, you are ready to take the next step toward studying and building your career in Germany.

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