Is an APS Certificate Mandatory for a German Student Visa in 2025-26?
If you are planning to study in Germany for the 2025 intake, understanding the APS certificate is now absolutely essential—especially for Indian students. University admissions, visa processing, and access to the best German courses increasingly require this document. Knowing how the APS verification works, its costs, and timelines will help you prepare a smooth application journey.
What is the APS Certificate? Meaning & Importance (2025 Update)
The APS certificate (Academic Evaluation Centre certificate) is an official document issued after evaluation by the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS). It confirms the authenticity and eligibility of your Indian academic records for German university admissions and student visa applications.
- The APS certificate is mandatory for all Indian students applying to degree courses (over 90 days) in Germany.
- It is required before applying for a German student visa.
- It acts as a bridge between India's education system and Germany's academic expectations.
- Short-term courses and language-study visas do not require APS.
The APS process ensures your documents are verified, reducing fraud and aligning your credentials for German immigration and higher education standards.
APS Certificate Highlights 2025
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Academic Evaluation Centre (Akademische Prüfstelle) |
| Mandatory For | Indian students (UG, PG, PhD admissions in Germany, duration > 90 days) |
| Processing Time | 4–6 weeks (approximate) |
| Application Fee | EUR 225 (Approx. INR 22,690, non-refundable) |
| Validity | Indefinite (paper), 3 years (digital DigZert) |
| Application Method | Documents only (no interview for most) |
| Student Visa Requirement | Yes, compulsory |
Top German Universities Requiring APS Certificate
Nearly all renowned German public universities now expect Indian applicants to provide a valid APS certificate. Below are some of the key universities for 2025 admissions:
| University | Requires APS? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | Yes | Required for all Indian degree holders |
| RWTH Aachen University | Yes | Mandatory at application stage |
| Heidelberg University | Yes | Applies to UG and PG |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Yes | All degree programs |
| LMU Munich | Yes | Check program-specific rules |
Always cross-check with your chosen university, as a few private or applied sciences universities may have different processes. View more about German universities here.
APS Certificate Eligibility and Requirements
To apply for the APS certificate in 2025, Indian students must meet specific academic and document criteria. Both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants are covered.
- Must have completed 12th standard or a higher degree from a recognized Indian board/university.
- Valid passport and recent, passport-sized photos.
- Academic transcripts and certificates (Class 10, 12, Bachelor's, and/or Master's).
- Language proficiency proof (German/English, as per university requirements).
- Duly filled APS application form & fee receipt.
- All documents translated into English or German, and notarized if translated.
This evaluation is required even for many English-taught programs in Germany. Students with degrees from outside India, or those applying to certain PhD/DAAD-funded programs, may get exemptions. For grading format help, see convert 10-point CGPA to 4-point GPA.
Step-by-Step: APS Certificate Application Process in India
- Register on the official APS India portal and complete the application form.
- Pay the non-refundable processing fee as per current rates.
- Gather all required documents—including translations and notarized copies if applicable.
- Submit your application package (printout + documents) by courier/post to APS New Delhi.
- Wait for verification (no interview required for most).
- Receive your digital DigZert (valid 3 years) by email, or a paper certificate (validity indefinite).
For detailed forms or sample templates required for international admissions, see: Academic Transcripts Guide.
APS Certificate Fees, Costs, and Funding Tips
The APS certificate fee is EUR 225 (approx. INR 22,690). This is a one-time, non-refundable payment directly to APS India by bank transfer or online during application.
| Item | Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| APS Application Fee | EUR 225 (INR 22,690) |
| Document Translations/Notarization | INR 2,000–5,000 (approx., if required) |
While the APS cost cannot be waived, you can offset application expenses by targeting scholarships for study abroad including government and university-based funding. Some DAAD programs also provide direct admissions without APS for eligible PhD or research scholars.
Is the APS Certificate Mandatory for a Germany Student Visa?
Yes, for Indian students, a valid APS certificate is compulsory for German student visa applications (D-Visa) for all degree or long-duration courses (over 90 days). Applications without APS will not be processed by the German embassy or VFS.
- Obtain your APS certificate before starting your university or visa application.
- Attach the digital or original APS certificate with your VFS visa dossier.
- APS is not needed for tourist visas, short-term language courses, or exchange programs under 90 days.
APS clearance reduces university and embassy delays, as it verifies the legitimacy of your academic achievements in advance. For the full Germany student visa guide, check the official page.
APS Certificate Validity and Processing Time (2025 Intake)
The APS certificate issued as a paper document is valid indefinitely for applying to any German universities. The digital version (“DigZert”) emailed from April 2023 is valid for 3 years due to EU rules on digital signature seals.
- Standard processing time: 4–6 weeks from document submission
- No fast-track process (as of 2025), so apply early
- Keep all documentation correct and complete to avoid rejections or delays
If your APS processing is delayed, most German universities allow you to defer your admission offer or provide updates to keep your seat reserved.
APS Certificate and Career Prospects in Germany
Securing the APS certificate is not just about admission; it signals to employers, embassies, and universities that your Indian qualifications meet German standards. This boosts your eligibility for post-study work visas, internships, university placements, and job prospects in Germany.
- APS ensures transparent recognition of Indian degrees in Germany.
- Smoothens the process for post-study work visas and local employment.
- Essential for many high-paying jobs in Germany after graduation.
For more on building a strong career in Germany after your studies, check out highest paying jobs worldwide and future-ready study options.
Featured: APS Certificate Requirements for Indian Students (2025)
- Indian bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts (attested copies)
- APS application form & payment receipt
- Proof of language proficiency (as required by course/university)
- All documents translated into German or English
Obtaining your APS certificate is the first and arguably most critical step if you wish to pursue a degree, scholarships, or a career in Germany. Early planning, correct documentation, and understanding the 2025 requirements can help you secure a spot at your dream university. Don’t forget to consult official websites and updated embassy pages for the latest instructions.
FAQs on What Is an APS Certificate and Why Do Students Need It for Germany?
1. What is APS certificate in Germany?
The APS certificate (Akademische Prüfstelle) is an official document required for international students applying to German universities. It verifies the authenticity of your previous academic qualifications and whether they meet the admission criteria for higher education in Germany. APS is especially required for applicants from countries like India, China, and Vietnam.
2. Is an APS certificate mandatory for a Germany visa?
Yes, the APS certificate is mandatory for student visa applications from specific countries, including India, China, and Pakistan. Without a valid APS certificate, your application for a German study visa may be rejected.
3. What is an APS certificate for?
The APS certificate serves to verify the authenticity and equivalence of foreign academic degrees and transcripts. It ensures that your qualifications meet the university admission standards in Germany and helps streamline the student visa process.
4. How long does APS certification last?
The APS certificate is generally valid indefinitely, unless there are changes in your academic qualifications or the APS process itself. You can use the same certificate for multiple university applications in Germany.
5. What is the APS certificate number?
The APS certificate number is a unique reference number printed on your APS certificate. This number is used by universities and visa authorities to verify your certification status. You can find it on the top or bottom section of your official certificate document.
6. What is the APS certificate in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, the APS certificate is also required for students applying to German universities. The document certifies the authenticity of your academic records for higher education in Germany and is issued by the APS Office established at the German Embassy in Islamabad.
7. What is the APS certificate full form?
The APS certificate stands for Akademische Prüfstelle Certificate. 'Akademische Prüfstelle' is German and translates to 'Academic Evaluation Centre' in English.
8. What is the APS certificate cost in India?
The APS certificate fee for applications from India is generally ₹ 18,000 as of 2024. This fee covers the processing and verification of your educational documents and is non-refundable.
9. How to get an APS certificate?
To obtain an APS certificate:
- Register online on the official APS website for your country (e.g., APS India or APS Pakistan).
- Fill out the application form and upload scanned copies of required documents (marksheets, degree certificates, passport, etc.).
- Pay the processing fee.
- Send hard copies (if required) to the APS office.
- Attend an interview or verification process as scheduled.
- Receive your APS certificate after a successful review.
10. What is the APS certificate validity?
The APS certificate is usually valid indefinitely unless new academic credentials are obtained or there is an update in APS regulations. It does not expire for most German university applications.
11. What is the APS certificate report/reference number?
The APS certificate report/reference number is a unique identification number on your APS document. It allows universities and embassies to verify your certificate's authenticity and status online or through APS offices.
12. APS certificate processing time
The usual APS certificate processing time is about 4–6 weeks from the date of document submission. However, times may vary depending on application volume and country. Applying early is recommended to avoid delays in your German university admission or visa process.
