If you are planning to study in Germany, one of the most important requirements is the APS Certificate. Without this certificate, your student visa application will not be accepted. Many students are confused about what APS is and how to apply for it. Don’t worry – in this article, we at NovasasK Education will guide you through everything you need to know.
What is APS?
APS stands for Academic Evaluation Centre (Akademische Prüfstelle). It is an official authority that verifies your academic documents and qualifications. The APS Certificate proves that your Indian educational background is genuine and meets the eligibility criteria to study in Germany.
In simple words, it is the first step before applying for a German student visa.
Why is APS Certificate Important?
- Mandatory for Student Visa – Without APS, your visa application will be rejected.
- Proof of Academic Validity – Ensures your degrees, mark sheets, and certificates are recognized in Germany.
- Transparency – Avoids fake documents and ensures smooth admission.
- One-Time Requirement – Once issued, the certificate does not expire and can be used for all future applications.
Who Needs to Apply for APS?
All students from India who want to study in Germany must apply for APS, especially if:
- You are applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
- You have completed your studies in India and want to continue in Germany.
- You are applying for a student visa under the German Embassy/Consulate.
Documents Required for APS Application
Documents Required for APS Application – Bachelor Education
Here is the checklist of documents you need:
- Printed and duly signed application form with passport size photo (not older than 6 months)
- Copy of APS fee transfer receipt.
- Copy of Aadhaar Card with linked mobile number.
- Copy of passport. (1st and last page)
- Copy of Class X Marksheet and Certificate
- Copy of Class XII Marksheet and Certificate. In case the certificate has not yet been issued, the Provisional Certificate issued by the school will be accepted (Not older than 3 months).
- Proof of participation in a Pre-University Entrance Exam (if applicable)
- Copy of TestAS Results (Core and Subject specific)
- Copy of Language Certificate – German and/or English* ( For IELTS English Language Certificate You can Get Free Demo Class)
Documents Required for APS Application – Master Education
Here is the APS checklist of documents you need:
- Printed and duly signed application form with passport size photo (not older than 6 months)
- Copy of APS fee transfer receipt.
- Copy of Aadhaar card with linked mobile number.
- Copy of passport (1st and last page)
- Copy of Class XII marksheet and certificate.
- Copy of Class XII admit card, if available.
- Copy of marksheets of all semesters.
- Copy of the bachelor degree. In case the degree has not yet been issued, the provisional certificate issued by the College will be accepted. (Not older than 1 year)
- Copy of the Master’s degree and transcripts. (if applicable)
- & 11. Copy of language certificate – German and/or English* ( For IELTS English Language Certificate You can Get Free Demo Class)
(Note: All documents must be self-attested. Additional documents may be requested depending on your case.)
Language Certificates
Requirements
- APS does not impose any language requirements on the candidates for the verification process. If language certificates are submitted on a voluntary basis, APS will check their formal authenticity.
- During the subsequent visa application, the visa section will reserve the right to ask
candidates to submit language certificates according to the requirements of the admitting university.
- As per the latest checklist: Where not confirmed by the German University in the admission notification: Proof of the language skills in the language of instruction for the study course or the preparatory course (without a preparatory language course as a rule at least B2-level in the language of instructions). Only certificates approved by German government will be accepted (such as Goethe Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan, ÖSD, IELTS, TOEFL).
- Do NOT provide “exemption letters” or “Language of Instruction Certificates!”
APS Application Process
- Online Registration – Visit the APS India website and create your profile.
- Submit Documents – Upload scanned copies and courier hard copies to the APS office in New Delhi.
- Pay Fees – Currently, the fee is INR 18,000 (subject to change).
- Verification – APS checks your academic records with universities and boards.
- Certificate Issued – After successful verification, you will receive your APS Certificate (both digital and hard copy).
Processing Time
It usually takes 3 to 8 weeks to get the APS Certificate. However, it may take longer during peak admission seasons, so apply early.
Tips for a Smooth APS Process
- Apply at least 3–4 months before your intake deadline.
- Make sure all documents are clear, complete, and properly attested.
- Keep both soft and hard copies of your APS Certificate for future use.
- Consult an expert (like NovasasK Education) if you face any confusion in filling forms or document preparation.
Final Thoughts
The APS Certificate is a gateway for Indian students to Germany. While the process may seem complicated, proper planning makes it simple. At NovasasK Education, we provide complete guidance for APS, German university applications, and student visa filing – ensuring your study abroad journey is stress-free.
📞 Get in touch with us today to start your Germany University application with confidence!