Chinese, Vietnamese, and Mongolian students applying to German universities must obtain an APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate before their student visa application. This is a Germany-specific requirement — no other European country has an equivalent. Here’s what the process involves and how to navigate it efficiently.
What the APS Is
The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is an office run by the German Embassy in Beijing and consulates in Shanghai and Guangzhou that verifies Chinese academic credentials. The APS authenticates your university transcripts and degree certificates, and for some applicants, conducts a short academic interview.
Who Needs It
Chinese nationals applying to German universities for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. It’s not required for short courses or language programs. If you completed a bachelor’s degree in China and want to study a master’s in Germany, you need the APS for the degree and transcripts from your Chinese bachelor’s program.
The Two Types: Document Check vs. Interview
Document check only: Applicants from some universities and with certain GPAs can complete the process purely through document submission. The APS verifies your transcripts against the university’s official records.
Interview: Applicants from universities where verification is more complex may be called for an interview. The interview tests whether you actually understand the subjects your transcripts claim. It’s conducted in German or with a German-speaking expert for your field.
Timeline
APS processing typically takes 4-8 weeks after document submission, sometimes longer during peak periods (March-May and September-November when German university application deadlines fall). If you need an interview appointment, add 2-4 weeks for scheduling. Plan for the entire APS process taking 2-3 months from start to finish. Start early — before your German university application deadlines.
Documents Needed
Original and certified copies of: university degree certificate, academic transcripts, high school diploma (Gaokao scores / 高考 results), and passport. Translations of Chinese documents into German by certified translators. The APS website (in Chinese and German) has the current complete list — verify before preparing.
Tips That Actually Help
Get certified translations done by recognized translators early. The APS has a list of approved translators. Non-certified translations are not accepted. Apply for your university admission and APS in parallel — German universities accept a pending APS for initial admission, but you must submit the APS certificate before your visa appointment. Keep digital copies of everything. If documents get lost (rare but possible), having copies saves significant time.
