APS certificate explained

Everything international students from India, Vietnam and China need to know about the APS certificate for studying in Germany

What is an APS certificate?

The APS certificate (Akademische Prüfstelle) is a mandatory academic verification document required by certain German embassies for student visa applications.

It confirms that:

• Your academic qualifications are valid
• Your university documents are authentic
• You meet the eligibility requirements to study in Germany

The APS system is operated in cooperation with German embassies and ensures a faster and more reliable visa process. Your APS certificate is valid for an unlimited period of time and can be used to apply to universities in Germany, as well as Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.

Who needs an APS certificate?

You need an APS certificate if you are applying for a German student visa from:

If you are from any other country and have not gotten your previous degrees in the above 3 states, an APS certificate is not required for you.

The APS process step-by-step

The APS process evaluates and confirms your academic background. It involves five straightforward steps:

Step 1: Online Registration:

Register on the APS website, print the application, and sign it. Ensure all information your provide is accurate and matches your passport.

Step 2: Pay the processing fee:

Transfer the APS evaluation fee to the APS bank account. The process won’t start until you have paid the fee. Also, the fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

Step 3: Submit your documents:

Send all required documents by mail, ideally via courier, including notarized copies of graduation certificates and university transcripts. Keep the tracking details to ensure the documents were received.

Step 4: Verification & Interview:

The APS committe reviews your documents and depending on the country where you are applying may schedule a face-to-face interview. The interview is usually about 20 minutes regarding your chose field of study. In some cases you may be required to take an aptitude test called TestAS.

Step 5: Receive your certificate:

Successful applicants receive a digital certificate (“DigiZert”) in their account, which is needed for university application and visa. You will also receive a physical version of the certificate. You do not need to reapply for it regularly as it does not expire. You will need this certificate to apply for universities in Germany and for your visa application.

Documents you need to apply for APS

Core Documents:

• Application Form: Printed and signed application form (with a recent photo).
• Proof of Payment: Copy of the APS fee transfer receipt.
• Passport: Copy of the first and last page of your valid passport.
• For India only: Copy of Aadhaar card with registered mobile number.
• For Vietnam only: Two recent 35mm x 45mm passport-sized photos.

Educational Documents:

• Academic transcripts: Notarized copies and certified English/German translations
• Degrees/diplomas: Notarized copies and translations of bachelor’s/master’s degree certificates.

Language Certificates:

• German and/or English language proficiency certificates.

Optional/Specific:

• CV: Updated CV/résumé, especially if you graduated more than 6 months ago
• TestAS certificate: for Bachelor applicants, or university contact details for faster processing

Common mistakes & best practice tips

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)