APS Certificate Germany: Application Process, Fees, and Documents Required

Yatin Kumar Study Abroad Content Specialist

Study Abroad Content Specialist

For Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education in Germany, obtaining an APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) Certificate is a pivotal step. This certification verifies the authenticity of your academic credentials and is a mandatory requirement for the German student visa application. Without the APS Certificate, your visa application or university admission may face significant delays or even rejections. Understanding the importance of the APS process and preparing your documents meticulously can greatly enhance your chances of a smooth transition to German universities. Embark on your educational journey in Germany with confidence by securing your APS Certificate efficiently.

Also Read: Germany Student Visa Guide

Table of Contents

What is the APS Certificate? And Why it’s Important?
Who Needs an APS Certificate?
Who is Exempt from APS Certification?
APS Certification vs. WES Evaluation
Application Process for APS Certificate Germany
Required Documents for APS Certificate Germany
APS Certificate Fees and Payment Details
Processing Time and Validity
Tips to Expedite Your APS Certificate
FAQs

What is the APS Certificate? And Why it’s Important?

The APS Certificate, short for Akademische Prüfstelle, is an official document verifying the authenticity of your Indian academic qualifications. Jointly managed by the German Embassy and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the APS Certificate is a mandatory prerequisite for Indian students applying for a German student visa and admission to German universities. Established in India in 2022, the APS has branches in China and Vietnam as well.

The APS Certificate serves as a validation tool ensuring that your academic credentials meet German standards. It simplifies and accelerates the admission process to German institutions and is essential for obtaining a long-term German student visa. Without this certification, your visa application or university admission might face delays or rejections.

Who Needs an APS Certificate?

Indian students who plan to undertake long-term studies in Germany, such as undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs, must obtain an APS Certificate. This certification is essential for validating academic credentials and is a mandatory requirement for applying for a German student visa. Ensuring you meet this requirement is crucial for a smooth admission and visa approval process.

Required:

Indian Students from Recognized Educational Boards: Applicants from Indian school boards or universities recognized by the German authorities.
Students Seeking a German Student Visa: Those applying for long-term visas (over 90 days) to study in Germany.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Aspirants: Students enrolling in bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs in Germany.

Not Required:

Sponsored Students: Those receiving German or EU-funded scholarships.
Language Course Attendees: Students going to Germany solely to learn the German language without enrolling in a university.
Short-Term Course Participants: Programs lasting less than 90 days.

Who is Exempt from APS Certification?

Indian students who fall under the following categories do not need to obtain an APS Certificate:

Sponsored by German Institutions: If your education is fully funded by a German scholarship or sponsorship.
EU-Funded Scholarships: Recipients of scholarships funded by the European Union.
Non-University Language Courses: Individuals traveling to Germany exclusively for language training without university enrollment.

APS Certification vs. WES Evaluation

While both APS and WES (World Education Services) evaluations authenticate academic documents, they serve different purposes:

APS Certification:
- Region-Specific: Exclusively for Germany.
- Focused Verification: Tailored to meet German academic and visa requirements.
- Fee: INR 18,000 for Indian students.
- Processing Time: Approximately 3-4 weeks.
WES Evaluation:
- Global Reach: Valid in over 200 countries and for more than 48,000 institutions.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for various countries and institutions beyond Germany.
- Variable Fees and Processing Times: Depending on the country and type of evaluation.

Application Process for APS Certificate Germany

Securing your APS Certificate involves several steps. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Document Verification

Begin by gathering all necessary academic documents. These must be verified by APS India to confirm their authenticity.

Step 2: Online Registration and Document Submission

Visit the Official APS India Website: Navigate to aps-india.de/ to create an account.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out all required details accurately.
Upload Documents: Submit both original and English-translated photocopies of your academic documents. Ensure translations are notarized if translated from an Indian regional language.

Step 3: Payment of Fees

Fee Amount: INR 18,000.
Payment Method: Transfer the fee directly to the APS India bank account.
Bank Details:
- Account Holder: Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany – Wiss
- Account Number: 0946426766
- Bank Name: Kotak Mahindra Bank
- IFSC Code: KKBK0000182
Keep the Receipt: Ensure you retain the transaction receipt as proof of payment.

Step 4: Submission of Documents

Courier Submission: Send all required documents via a reliable courier service to the APS India office.
In-Person Submission: Alternatively, you can personally submit your documents at:

APS India Office Address:

Academic Evaluation Centre

Gate No. 3, DLTA Complex, R.K. Khanna Stadium

1 Africa Avenue, New Delhi - 110029, India

APS Certificate Document Submission

Step 5: Personal Interview (If Applicable)

Undergraduate Candidates: Those enrolled in a bachelor’s program may be required to attend a personal interview.
Notification: You will receive a notification via phone or email 10-14 days before the scheduled interview.
Interview Details: The interview, conducted in English or German, will last approximately 20 minutes and will focus on your academic history and achievements.

Required Documents for APS Certificate Germany

The documentation required varies based on your current educational level. Below is a detailed checklist:

For Class 12 and JEE Candidates

Application Form: Printed and duly signed with a recent passport-size photo.
Fee Receipt: Copy of APS fee transfer receipt.
Identification: Copy of Aadhaar Card with a linked mobile number.
Passport: Copies of the first and last pages.
Academic Certificates:
- Class X Marksheet and Certificate.
- Class XII Marksheet and Certificate (or provisional certificate if pending).
Language Proficiency: Copy of German and/or English language certificates.
Entrance Exam Proof:
- Proof of participation in a Pre-University Entrance Exam (if applicable).
- Proof of passing JEE Main and Advanced along with the admit card.
TestAS Results: Core and subject-specific scores (if applicable).
Student Authorization Letter: Signed in German and/or English.

For Continuing Undergraduates

All documents listed for Class 12 and JEE candidates.
Bachelor’s Mark Sheets: Copies of all bachelor mark sheets for the first year.
TestAS Results: Core and subject-specific scores.

For Graduates and Postgraduates

All documents listed for Class 12 and JEE candidates.
Bachelor’s Degree: Copy of the bachelor's degree or a provisional certificate.
Master’s Degree: Copy of the master’s degree and transcripts (if applicable).
Semester Mark Sheets: Copies of all semester mark sheets.
Additional Documentation: Class XII admit card, if available.

Or Refer:

APS Certificate Fees and Payment Details

Total Fee: INR 18,000 (non-refundable).
Payment Method: Direct bank transfer to APS India's account.
Bank Details:
- Account Holder: Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany – Wiss
- Account Number: 0946426766
- Bank Name: Kotak Mahindra Bank
- IFSC Code: KKBK0000182
Important Notes:
- Ensure accurate entry of bank details to avoid payment issues.
- Retain the transaction receipt for reference.
- No Refunds: Fees are non-refundable regardless of the application outcome.

Processing Time and Validity

Processing Time: Approximately 3-4 weeks from the date of application submission and fee payment.
Validity:
- Digital Certificates (Post-April 2023): Valid for three years from the date of issuance.
- Reissue Requirement: After three years, a new APS Certificate must be obtained.
Tracking Application Status: Monitor your application status by logging into your account on the APS India website.

Tips to Expedite Your APS Certificate

Complete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are complete, accurate, and correctly submitted.
Prompt Communication: Respond swiftly to any queries or additional document requests from APS.
Regular Status Checks: Frequently check your application status online to stay informed.
Prepare for Interviews: If an interview is required, prepare thoroughly to avoid delays.
Avoid Original Documents: Only submit photocopies as originals are not required and may not be returned.

Obtaining the APS Certificate Germany is a pivotal step for Indian students aiming to study in Germany. By understanding the requirements and meticulously following the application process, you can ensure a smooth transition to your academic endeavors in Germany. Start your APS certification early, prepare all necessary documents, and stay informed throughout the process to make your dream of studying in Germany a reality.

FAQs

Ques. Can I apply for APS Certificate after securing admission in a German university?

Ans. Yes, but it's recommended to complete the APS certification before applying to minimize processing delays.

Ques. Is the APS Certificate transferable to other countries?

Ans. No, the APS Certificate is specifically for Germany. For other countries, different evaluation services like WES may be required.

Ques. What happens if my APS application is rejected?

Ans. APS will notify you of the reasons for rejection. You can rectify the issues and reapply, keeping in mind that fees are non-refundable.

Ques. Can I expedite the APS processing time?

Ans. Currently, APS does not offer expedited processing. Ensure all documents are correctly submitted to avoid delays.

Ques. Do I need to attend the interview if I am already a graduate?

Ans. Typically, the personal interview is required for undergraduate candidates who haven't completed their bachelor's degree. Graduates may not need to attend an interview, but APS reserves the right to request one if deemed necessary.