What Is the APS Certificate and Why Is It So Important?
If you’re an Indian student planning to study in Germany, you’ve probably heard of the APS certificate—but what exactly is it, and why does it matter so much?
Introduced in November 2022, the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS) certificate has become mandatory for Indian students applying to German universities. This certificate verifies the authenticity of your academic documents from India and confirms your eligibility to study in Germany. Without it, you cannot apply for a student visa or even complete your university applications in many cases.
The APS was introduced due to the increasing number of fraudulent educational documents submitted by applicants. It serves as a safeguard to ensure only genuine and qualified candidates make it through the application process.
Who Needs an APS Certificate and Who Doesn’t?
Not every Indian applicant needs the APS certificate. So how do you know if you need it?
You do need an APS certificate if you:
- Are applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs in Germany.
- Hold Indian educational qualifications (10th, 12th, bachelor’s, etc.).
- Are applying to German public or private universities for degree programs.
You do NOT need an APS certificate if you:
- Are applying for a Ph.D. or postdoc.
- Are going to study a non-German degree in Germany.
- Have completed your entire education outside India or under a non-Indian board like IB.
⚠️ Keep in mind: APS is as essential as your SOP, admit letter, blocked account confirmation, and health insurance when applying for a student visa.
What Are the Documents Required for APS?
What should you prepare before applying? The APS documentation depends on your academic path, but here are the essentials for most applicants:
- 10th and 12th-grade mark sheets.
- Bachelor’s transcripts and degree (or current semester mark sheets).
- Passport-sized photo (JPEG format, under 30KB).
- Copy of passport and Aadhaar (for Indian citizenship verification).
- Application form and student authorization letter.
- Payment receipt of ₹18,000 INR (via UPI, credit/debit card).
Additional documents may be required based on whether you’re applying for:
- Master’s programs
- Studienkolleg (foundation year)
- Bachelor’s with JEE Mains/Advanced
- Bachelor’s after one year of study in India
📌 All these checklists are available on the APS India website.
When Should You Apply for the APS Certificate?
Timing is crucial—when should you start your APS process?
For Master’s applicants, apply as soon as your 6th or 7th semester transcripts are available. Some universities require the APS certificate at the time of application, so don’t wait until you receive your final degree.
For Bachelor’s applicants, wait until your 12th board results or first-year college results are out. Then, apply immediately to avoid delays in university applications or visa appointments.
⏱ The verification process can take 2 to 6 weeks, so apply early to avoid missing your intake.
How Do You Apply for the APS Certificate?
Wondering how the application works? Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Register on the APS India portal.
- Fill in your personal details, educational history, and language proficiency.
- Upload your passport photo.
- Provide university and professor contact details (for verification).
- Pay the ₹18,000 verification fee online via CC Avenue.
- Download the application form and sign it.
- Attach the student authorization letter (available on the checklist page).
- Post all documents to the APS office in New Delhi.
Once your documents are received, APS officials begin the verification process. After approval, you’ll receive your APS certificate via email. Always double-check the certificate for correct details like your name, degree, and scores.
What Happens After You Submit the Application?
After submission, you must:
- Post your application and documents to the APS office.
- Wait 2 to 6 weeks for processing.
- Track your status on the APS portal.
- Receive your certificate via email once approved.
If delays occur, ask your university to email APS on your behalf with verification requests. You can find a free email template on our page or reach out to us directly.
Ready to Apply for the APS Certificate?
The APS process is straightforward if you follow each step carefully. Fill your form correctly, submit valid documents, and apply early. Your APS certificate is the gateway to your German education journey—don’t underestimate its importance.
💡 Still unsure about any step in the process?
Let ETAINFI Help You Every Step of the Way
At ETAINFI, we offer free information and consultancy services for students who want to study and work in Germany. From university shortlisting to visa preparation and APS assistance, we’re here to make your process stress-free.
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