The German Embassy in New Delhi has issued a formal advisory to Indian students planning to apply for German universities. The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate, which is mandatory for all Indian students applying to German public universities, is now taking 8–10 weeks to process — up from the previous 4–6 week standard. Students are urged to apply immediately if they are targeting a 2026 intake.
Updated APS Processing Times
- Previous standard processing: 4–6 weeks
- Current processing (2025–26 cycle): 8–10 weeks
- Rush processing: Not currently available
- APS offices in India: New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai
The increased processing time is attributed to a surge in German university applications from Indian students, which has grown over 28% year-on-year in 2025. APS offices are operating at full capacity.
What is the APS Certificate
The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is a verification service operated by the German Embassy that authenticates Indian academic credentials for German university applications. It involves:
- Submission of original academic documents (Class 10, Class 12, and bachelor's certificates + transcripts)
- An in-person verification interview at the APS office
- Document authentication by APS
- Issuance of the APS certificate
- Cost: Approximately €75 (payable in INR equivalent)
Critical: You cannot apply to a German public university without a valid APS certificate. Most universities will reject your application outright if it is not submitted.
Recommended Action Steps
- Apply to APS immediately if you are targeting Winter Semester 2026 (start October 2026) — applications close around July 2026
- Book your APS interview appointment online — appointments fill up quickly
- Gather all original academic documents before booking — they are required at the interview
- Allow 10 weeks minimum from application to receiving your APS certificate
GS Study Abroad guides students through the APS process as part of our Germany admissions service. Learn about studying in Germany or speak to our Germany specialist.