In Germany, foreign credential recognition is a core step that most skilled immigrants and international students cannot bypass — employers, university admissions offices, and immigration authorities may all require you to demonstrate what your degree “is equivalent to in Germany.” However, Germany’s credential recognition system is not a single unified institution but dispersed across several different channels, with specific processing pathways for Chinese credentials.
Anabin Database: The First-Step Lookup Tool
Anabin (www.anabin.kmk.org) is a foreign credential database maintained by the Conference of German Cultural Ministers (KMK), cataloguing the recognition status of universities and degrees worldwide. Query results fall into three categories:
H+ (positiv bewertete Hochschule): The institution and degree are fully recognized and can be used directly to apply for work visas, Blue Cards, etc. H+ (conditional): Institution is recognized but degree may need additional verification. H- (negativ bewertet): Institution is not recognized; the degree is essentially invalid in Germany and requires re-credentialing through other means.
Most Chinese “985/211” university bachelor’s degrees and above are rated H+ in Anabin, but vocational school credentials (associate degrees/higher vocational) have lower recognition levels. Anabin lookup tool.
APS: Academic Review Specifically for Chinese Credentials
APS (Akademische Prüfstelle, Academic Review Center) is the institution specifically handling credential authentication from mainland China, Vietnam, and certain other countries. Those with mainland Chinese credentials applying to German universities generally need to go through APS review (in some cases also needed for work visas).
APS review process: submit credential materials (transcripts, degree certificates) → in some cases take a subject knowledge test → receive APS certificate (approximately 3–6 months). APS certificates are valid for 2 years and can be used to apply for German universities or relevant visas.
KMK Certificate Equivalency Determination
For those already working or living in Germany who need to formally equate a foreign degree with a German qualification, you can apply to your state’s education authority for KMK equivalency determination (Gleichwertigkeit) or assessment (Bewertung). This determination is required for certain regulated professions (doctors, engineers, etc.).
Vocational Qualification Recognition (Non-Degree)
For those holding vocational qualification certificates (accountants, electricians, chefs, etc.) rather than university degrees, equivalency recognition must be obtained through the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) or relevant industry associations. The process and timeline vary by profession; some professions have a fast track (the Anerkennungsberatung/fast-track process).
