Looking for the full walkthrough? Read our complete, step-by-step APS certificate guide with exact documents, fees, timelines, screenshots and FAQs. This page is the quick version.
If you're an Indian student, you cannot apply to most German universities or get a visa without an APS certificate. Plan for it early.
What APS verifies
The Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) checks that your academic documents are genuine. It became mandatory for Indian students in 2022.
The timeline that won't burn you
- Gather documents (transcripts, degree, ID), week 0
- Apply online & pay the fee, week 1
- Processing, several weeks (start before your application deadlines!)
The classic mistake is starting APS after you've shortlisted universities. Do it in parallel.