APS Certificate for German Student Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Yana Immis
🌟 Unlock Your Path to Studying in Germany! Master These Steps to Obtain Your APS Certificate and Secure Your Student Visa with Ease!
APS Certificate for German Student Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you an Indian student interested in pursuing higher education in Germany?
If yes, obtaining an APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate is essential for you now from 2022 onwards!
For students who wish to study in Germany, the APS certificate verifies the equivalence of their educational qualifications. I'll walk you through the step-by-step process in this comprehensive guide, so you'll be well-prepared to study in Germany. Stay tuned!
Understanding the APS Certificate
International students studying in Germany should familiarize themselves with the APS certificate. APS certificates are issued by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in collaboration with the German Embassy.
It evaluates the academic qualifications of international students and determines their eligibility to study in Germany. Specifically, this certificate is required for students from India. However, for a decade before India introduced those, China, Vietnam, and Mongolia already had them in place!
Good news: your visa processing time is reduced because the main workload now falls on the APS equivalency.
Eligibility Criteria
The APS certificate requires certain criteria to qualify. The following requirements must be met:
Completing 12 years of education from a recognized board or university.
Applying for undergraduate studies (bachelor's degree) or postgraduate studies (master's degree) in Germany.
Considering the future education program out of the list of qualified professions. For example, engineering, medicine, natural sciences, business, or related fields.
Application Process
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the APS certificate application process:
Step 1: Research Your Desired Course and University
From India to Germany soon!
Before applying for the APS certificate, it is crucial to thoroughly research the course and university you wish to attend in Germany.
Use the DAAD website for uni in Germany or my website and free consultations for the best uni selection! Check the admission requirements, program details, deadlines, and any specific prerequisites for international students.
Step 2: Collect Required Documents
APS Zertifikat
Gather all the necessary documents for your APS certificate application. These typically include:
Filled application form (available on the DAAD or APS office website)
Valid passport
Official transcripts and certificates from previous educational institutions
Proof of language proficiency (usually German or English)
Curriculum vitae (CV)
Statement of purpose (SOP)
Any additional documents required by the APS office
If you already have offer letters and study contracts, attach those too!
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Your completed forms may be sent with all the supporting documents to the APS office in India by post or be brought in person.
Mind the new updates from the APS & German embassy websites about the digital opportunities appearing!
Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information to avoid any delays in the evaluation process.
Step 4: Attend the APS Interview
The majority of students are invited to the interview (not all) once the application is received and processed.
This is to assess your academic background, language skills, and motivation for studying in Germany.
Prepare well for the interview by researching and answering these 4 questions:
WHY GERMANY? WHY THIS CITY? WHY THIS UNIVERSITY? WHY THIS PROGRAM?
Be ready to be asked questions about your future goals.
Hint: if you mention, that you want to contribute to your country when you return (not that you have to return) it will give you bonus points!
Step 5: Be patient and await the APS Certificate
After the interview, the APS office will evaluate your application and make a decision regarding the issuance of the APS certificate. The evaluation process may take several weeks or even months, so it's important to be patient during this period.
Students who apply to study in Germany with me are individually guided by me and partner universities. Because of that, we receive an APS certificate earlier!
Preparing for the Student Visa Application
Preparing for the Student Visa Application
Once you receive the APS certificate, congratulations! You're one step closer to your dream of studying in Germany. Here are the next steps and articles to help you find your way step by step.
Step 1: Research Visa Requirements
Thoroughly research the visa requirements for Indian students planning to study in Germany.
Visit the official website of the German Embassy or Consulate in India for detailed information on the documents needed, application procedures, and visa fees. Consult me if you need help with the German language!
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all the necessary documents for your student visa application. These typically include:
Valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Germany.
APS certificate: This is a crucial document that verifies the equivalence of your educational qualifications.
Proof of financial means: Provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in Germany. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship documents.
Health insurance: German law requires all students to have health insurance coverage. Obtain comprehensive health insurance that is valid in Germany.
Proof of accommodation: Show proof of your accommodation arrangements in Germany.
This is a myth: accommodation is NOT required for a visa. Rent a cancellable AirBnb/Hotel/Hostel!
Step 3: Complete the Visa Application Form
Fill out the student visa application form accurately and truthfully.
In my experience, you can send the ready version to the academic or admissions office of the university to have a second glance. However, mostly only private universities offer such a service.
Double-check all the information before submitting the form to avoid any mistakes or discrepancies. Be sure to include your APS certificate details and other relevant information.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the German Embassy or Consulate closest to the address you are checked in at (written in your passport) for submitting your visa application.
It is essential to book the appointment well in advance, as there may be a high demand for visa appointments during peak seasons. Make sure to bring all the required documents with you to the appointment.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
On the scheduled date, attend the visa interview at the German Embassy or Consulate. There most probably will be an interview, unless you submitted the documents via VFS by post.
Hint: they may ask you some things in German, remain calm and say that you will be studying in English (if that is the case), but showing off some German words will always do good!
Be prepared to answer questions related to your study plans, financial solvency, and motivation for studying in Germany once again. Provide all the required documents during the interview, and be honest and confident in your responses.
The rule in the embassy is: more is more. Bring as many documents as possible, even more than required in the checklist!!! Let them pick out the relevant and irrelevant ones on their own.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable visa fee to the Embassy, VFS center or the Consulate. Keep the receipt as proof of payment, as you may need it for future reference to pick up the passport.
Step 7: Patiently Wait
After the visa interview, your application will undergo processing. Due to APS, the processing times are not more than 1-2 months now! This is good news, however, the duration for processing may vary, so it's important to be patient. Once a decision is made, you will be notified of the outcome.
Once your visa application is approved, you are asked to bring insurance and passport (unless it was kept) for stamping. Yay!
Should your visa be denied, we, together with my students and universities appeal for a visa decision.
Up until now 100% of students were given a positive visa or a positive answer on appeal!
Additional Tips for a Smooth Process
To ensure a smooth process of obtaining the APS certificate and student visa, consider the following tips:
Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for document gathering, evaluation, and visa processing. This helps avoid last-minute stress and ensures timely completion of all requirements.
Seek Guidance: If you have any doubts or concerns regarding the APS certificate or student visa application, let me know!
Obtain Language Proficiency: Consider daily Duolingo practice, an intensive 3-month course prior to arriving online or in-person to improve your language skills.
Focus on Financial Planning: Plan your finances carefully to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees & living expenses.
A Blocked Account or an Invitation (Verpflichtungserklaerung) should cover you in small cities. In big cities that may not be sufficient).
Research scholarships, grants, and part-time job opportunities to support your financial needs. Scholarship info can be found here.
Check Accommodation Arrangements: Start looking for accommodation options early on, as finding suitable housing can take time.
Explore university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals based on your preferences and budget, and make sure to take full use of this article on accommodation!
The majority of students get AirBnb, Hostel, or Hotel for 2-3 weeks from arrival date. Because they want to check the long-term rentals in person (also safer this way).
Health Insurance: Familiarize yourself with the health insurance requirements in Germany. If you haven’t yet obtained insurance for travel (tourist one) make sure to get it.
The majority of students get insurance from the Blocked Account providers or subscription-based options (TKK AOK etc) in person in Germany. This will ensure access to quality healthcare during your stay.
Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest information and changes in visa regulations, application procedures, and educational policies.
Regularly check official websites, attend info sessions, and engage with relevant forums or communities to stay informed and make informed decisions.
Obtaining an APS certificate is the last step together with a visa separating you from your goal of studying abroad in Germany.
By following this step-by-step guide, conducting thorough research, and staying organized throughout the process, you can increase your chances of a successful application.
Remember to start early, gather all necessary documents, and seek guidance when needed. With careful planning and preparation, you'll be on your way to pursuing your academic dreams in Germany.
I wish you all the best in your journey toward obtaining an APS certificate and pursuing your studies in Germany. And if you are my student or my prospective student, you know where to find me ;-)
