The APS Certificate is a document that proves your academic qualifications are genuine before you can apply to a German university. It is currently required for students from India, China, Vietnam, and Mongolia. This guide explains what it is, who needs one, and how the process works.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. APS requirements, fees, and processing times vary by country and change over time. Always verify current requirements directly with the APS office for your country or your German embassy before applying.
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What Is the APS Certificate?
The APS Certificate is issued by the Akademische Prüfstelle (Academic Evaluation Center), a joint body run by the German Embassy or Consulate and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It confirms that your academic transcripts, degrees, and other qualifications are authentic and meet the standard required for admission to a German university. Most German universities will not process an application without it, and for some countries, your embassy checks it before issuing a student visa.
Who Needs an APS Certificate?
You need an APS Certificate if you completed your previous education in one of the following countries and want to study in Germany:
- China (APS China, the first APS office established)
- Vietnam (APS Vietnam)
- India (APS India, based at the German Embassy in New Delhi)
- Mongolia (APS Mongolia)
The requirement applies to both bachelor's and master's applicants, and generally covers on-campus and online programs alike. Some applicants are exempt, for example those who already hold a degree from Germany or another EU/EEA country. Students from EU/EEA countries do not need an APS Certificate, since their academic qualifications are already recognized.
Why Is the APS Certificate Required?
Germany introduced the APS process to prevent academic document fraud from countries where verifying credentials directly with the issuing institution is difficult. By confirming your qualifications upfront, APS speeds up the university admission process and, for applicable countries, supports your student visa application with one less document in question.
How the APS Certificate Process Generally Works
The exact documents and steps differ by country, but the process generally follows this pattern:
- Gather your academic documents. This typically includes transcripts, mark sheets, and degree certificates going back to your secondary schooling.
- Submit your application to the APS office for your country. Each country (China, Vietnam, India, Mongolia) has its own APS office and submission process.
- Complete document verification. This may include an academic assessment or interview for some applicants.
- Receive your APS Certificate. Once issued, it can generally be used across multiple German university applications.
Need Help With Your Application?
An ApplyBoard counsellor can help you track document requirements, deadlines, and next steps for your specific country.
How Long Does the APS Certificate Take?
Average processing time differs by country, counted from when you submit your application:
Note: These are average ranges and delays are possible during peak application season. Apply as early as possible, especially for China, where processing can take the longest.
APS Certificate Guides by Country
For the full, step-by-step application process, required documents, and country-specific fees, sign in to your Assist account to access our detailed country guides:
- APS Certificate for China and Vietnam: How to Apply (sign-in required)
- APS Certificate for India: How to Apply (sign-in required)
Frequently Asked Questions: APS Certificate
For most applicants from these countries, yes. Some exemptions exist, such as applicants who already hold a degree from Germany or another EU/EEA country. Always confirm your individual situation with the APS office for your country.
Studienkolleg applicants from APS-required countries generally do need an APS Certificate as well. Confirm with your specific Studienkolleg and the APS office for your country, as requirements can vary.
Generally yes, once issued, your APS Certificate can be used across multiple German university applications. Confirm the current validity period with your APS office, as this can change.
They are separate requirements. The APS Certificate verifies your academic qualifications, while a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) proves you have enough funds to support yourself. Depending on your country, you may need both before your visa can be approved.
If your country requires one, most German universities will not process your application until it is submitted. Applying early helps avoid delays to your intended intake.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The APS Certificate is one of several documents German universities and embassies check before approving your application. Starting early and confirming country-specific requirements gives you the best chance of staying on track for your intended intake.
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Browse programs at ApplyBoard's partner universities in Germany and get support with your APS Certificate and full application.