How to Apply for APS Certificate (India, Vietnam, China)

If you’re from India, Vietnam, China, or a handful of other countries, you’ve probably already heard about the APS—the Akademische Prüfstelle. It’s that extra step before German universities (and the visa office) will look at your application. Sounds daunting, but once you know the drill, it’s manageable. Here’s how to get through it without the usual headaches.

What is the APS Certificate?

Think of APS as a stamp of authenticity. They check that your school and university papers are real and that your qualifications line up with what German unis expect. No certificate, no application—that’s the rule. So it’s worth getting right.

Who needs it: Right now, students from India, Vietnam, China, and Mongolia. The list can change, so always double-check the official APS site for your country.

Documents You Need

Get these in order before you hit “submit”:

• Passport – A clear copy of every page. Make sure it’s valid.
• School certificates – Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and passing certificates. If they ask for attestation, get it done.
• Degree certificates – Your Bachelor’s (and Master’s if you have one), plus final transcripts.
• Language proof – IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes, or TestDaF/Goethe for German-taught. Whatever your programme asks for.
• APS application form – Filled and signed, from their portal. Don’t leave blanks.
• Passport-size photos – Follow their specs exactly; wrong size = unnecessary delay.

Pro tip: bookmark the official APS page for your country. Document lists do get updated.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Register on the APS portal

Head to the APS website for your country (e.g. aps-india.de for India). Create an account, fill in the form, and you’ll get an application number. Save it somewhere you won’t lose it—you’ll need it for everything that follows.

Step 2: Pay the fee

Pay the verification fee (the amount is on the site). Usually it’s a bank transfer. Keep the proof of payment safe; if they can’t match the payment to your application, things get stuck.

Step 3: Send documents

Send everything by post or courier as they specify. Use their checklist and tick off each item. Incomplete applications get sent back, and then you’re back to square one—and the clock is ticking.

Step 4: Wait for verification

Yep, you wait. Processing can be a few weeks or a few months depending on the office and the time of year. Keep an eye on the portal and your email. If they ask for something extra, send it as fast as you can.

Step 5: Collect your certificate

When verification is done, you get the actual certificate. You’ll need the original for your uni applications and for the visa. Some offices post it; others want you to collect. Check what applies to you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Blurry or wrong documents – They need to read everything. Clear copies, proper attestation where required. No shortcuts.

Skipping attestation – If the checklist says “attested,” get it attested. By the right authority or a notary, as they specify.

Wrong payment reference – Use the exact reference number they give you. Without it, your payment might not get linked to your file.

Ignoring emails – When APS writes asking for more docs, they mean it. Miss the deadline and your application can be put on hold or closed.

Timeline and Planning

Start the process at least 3–4 months before your first university or visa deadline. Rushing = mistakes and stress. Use the waiting time to get your language tests and other documents in order.

Need a hand keeping track of APS and application deadlines? YourWeg can help you see everything in one place and find programmes that actually match your profile.