Top German universities without APS certificate
Vaishnavi k Pandhari8 Jul, 2025
Share
Germany has long been a highly sought-after destination for international students seeking quality education. Renowned for its engineering prowess, scientific advancements, and affordable (or even free) tuition at public universities, Germany attracts students from all over the globe. However, the Abiturprüfungszeugnis (APS) certificate, a document verifying the authenticity and equivalence of foreign educational qualifications, can sometimes be a hurdle for prospective students.
Fortunately, not all German universities require an APS certificate. This article will explore some of the top German universities where you can pursue your academic dreams without necessarily needing an APS certificate, opening doors for diverse international applicants.
Understanding the APS Certificate
Before diving into the list of universities, it's crucial to understand the purpose of the APS. The APS certificate is issued by the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS) – the German academic evaluation center. It verifies that your foreign educational qualifications meet the minimum requirements for university admission in Germany. The APS assesses your high school diploma or previous academic records and confirms its equivalence to the German Abitur.
The APS certificate was implemented by the German Embassy and the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) to simplify the admission process for students from India. It checks educational credentials and guarantees that only eligible individuals can enter German universities. Although it is significant, some universities have chosen not to mandate this certificate, simplifying the application process for specific students. APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) verifies the validity of your Indian degree for studies in Germany. It has become a required document for a German student visa, except when your university or program is exempt.
However, it's important to note that not all universities and not all nationalities require an APS certificate. The requirement often depends on your country of origin, your specific degree program, and the university's regulations.
Top German universities without APS certificate
While specific requirements can change, the following universities are known for offering programs where an APS certificate might not always be mandatory, depending on the factors mentioned above. Always confirm the specific requirements with the university directly before applying.
The table below shows the Top German universities without APS certificate
|
University Name |
City(ies) |
Primary Focus Areas |
Key Features |
Note on APS Requirement (for Admission) |
|
IU International University of Applied Sciences |
Multiple (Online & Campus) |
Business, IT, Hospitality, Health, Social Sciences, Design |
Germany's largest university, flexible online and on-campus programs, and a strong industry focus. |
Known for its independent admission process. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
SRH Hochschule Berlin / SRH Campus Hamburg |
Berlin, Hamburg |
Business, Technology, Design, Film, Music, Psychology |
Practice-oriented, project-based learning, strong international network. |
Often has its internal verification process. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
GISMA Business School |
Potsdam, Berlin |
Business, Management, Finance, Marketing, Data Science |
Offers accredited UK and German degrees, international faculty, executive education. |
Designed for international students, uses its own admission criteria. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
Steinbeis University Berlin |
Berlin |
Business, Management, Technology, Entrepreneurship |
Focus on the project-competence concept, combining theory with practice, often dual-study models. |
Independent admission procedures. APS typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
CODE University of Applied Sciences |
Berlin |
Software Engineering, Interaction Design, Product Management |
Project-based learning, strong emphasis on digital skills, highly innovative approach. |
Modern, international focus, unique application process. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
BSBI (Berlin School of Business and Innovation) |
Berlin |
Business, Finance, Marketing, Hospitality, Art & Design |
Offers degrees from partner universities (e.g., University of Creative Arts, UK), practical focus. |
Caters heavily to international students, has its own admission process. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
|
Macromedia University of Applied Sciences |
Multiple (e.g., Munich, Berlin, Hamburg) |
Media, Design, Management, Journalism, Communication, Arts |
Hands-on learning, industry connections, and focus on creative and digital industries. |
Relies on its own internal verification. APS is typically not directly required for university admission. (Visa requirement for APS still applies for designated nationalities). |
Important Considerations:
- Direct Enrollment: Some universities allow direct enrollment for students from certain countries based on bilateral agreements or recognition of specific international qualifications like the International Baccalaureate (IB).
-
Foundation Courses (Studienkolleg): If your qualifications don't directly meet the requirements for university admission, you might need to attend a Studienkolleg, a preparatory course that bridges the gap between your qualifications and the German Abitur. The APS is generally required for admission to a Studienkolleg.
-
English-Taught Programs: While a growing number of German universities offer courses in English, and there is a misconception that all English-taught programs automatically waive the APS, this is not always the case. Thoroughly check the program requirements.
-
Individual Assessment: Some universities might offer an individual assessment of your qualifications to determine their equivalence to the German Abitur. This might involve submitting detailed academic transcripts and other supporting documents.
How to Confirm APS Requirements:
The most reliable way to determine whether you need an APS certificate is to:
- Visit the University Website: Check the admission requirements for your chosen program on the university's website. Look for specific information regarding international students and the APS certificate.
-
Contact the International Office: The International Office at the university is the best resource for answering questions about admission requirements. Contact them directly via email or phone.
-
Check the DAAD Website: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) website provides valuable information about studying in Germany, including details on admission requirements and the APS certificate.
While the APS certificate is a common requirement for international students seeking admission to German universities, it is not always mandatory. By exploring universities with flexible admission policies and thoroughly researching program requirements, international students can find pathways to pursue their academic aspirations in Germany without necessarily needing an APS certificate. Remember to always verify the specific admission requirements with the university before applying.
Top German universities without APS certificate FAQs
What is the APS certificate?
Is the APS certificate always required for international students?
Where can I find information about APS requirements for a specific university?
Is it more expensive to study at universities that don't require APS?
