Top German Universities without APS Certificate

Top German Universities without APS Certificate

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Raushan
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Updated on Jun 1, 2026 11:01 IST
Thinking of studying in Germany? The APS certificate is a new requirement for Indian students. This guide explains what it is, why it exists, and what your options are if your university doesn't require it. Plus, we explore some universities in Germany that don't require the APS certificate!

Planning to study in Germany? You maybe heard about the APS certificate. It is an important paper for Indian students who want to apply to German universities. But the good thing is, there are also some universities in Germany without APS certificate requirement.

APS certificate

Germany is one of the most popular study destinations for international students because of its high-quality education, modern infrastructure, and strong job opportunities. However, many Indian students face delays in their admission process due to the APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate requirement. Since obtaining the APS certificate can take several weeks or even months, many students look for universities that offer admission without requiring APS during the application stage.

Several private and international universities in Germany provide admission opportunities without an APS certificate. These institutions often offer degrees in partnership with universities from the UK, the US, or other countries, which allows them to follow different admission processes. Popular options include IU International University of Applied Sciences, Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI), Arden University Berlin, EU Business School, and GISMA University of Applied Sciences.

Choosing a German university without an APS certificate can help students save time and start their application process faster. However, students should always check the latest university and visa requirements before applying, as APS rules may change depending on the institution and programme.

Table of contents
  • What is APS Certificate?
  • Who Doesn’t Need APS?
  • List of German Universities without APS Requirement
  • Top 5 Universities in Germany without APS Requirement
  • Important Visa & Work Rules for German Universities without APS Requirement
  • FAQs related to German Universities without APS Certificate

What is APS Certificate?

The APS certificate Germany is a verification document introduced by the German Embassy and DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) to simplify the admission process for Indian students. It confirms the authenticity of academic documents and ensures that applicants meet the APS requirement for Germany before applying to universities.







Who Doesn’t Need APS?

In certain cases, students may not require an APS certificate:

  • Applicants to some private universities in Germany (check university rules).
  • Students enrolling in a foreign university’s German campus.
  • Candidates applying for a PhD with recognized scholarships.
  • Students holding a degree from countries like the UK or USA.
  • Short-term courses (usually less than 90 days)

Note: APS requirements may vary, so always verify with the university and official guidelines.

List of German Universities without APS Requirement

Some universities in Germany may not require an APS certificate, especially private institutions or specific programs. However, APS rules can vary by course and intake. Always check official university guidelines before applying, as APS requirements for Indian students are subject to change and verification policies.

University Name Why No APS? Popular Courses
BSBI (Berlin School of Business & Innovation) Offers UK Degrees (University for the Creative Arts) or Italian Degrees (UNINETTUNO). MBA, Global MBA, Management, Animation.
Arden University It is a UK University with a campus in Germany. The degree is British. MBA, Data Analytics, Project Management.
Lancaster University Leipzig It is a branch of a UK University. You get a British degree. Computer Science, Business Management, Software Engineering.
EU Business School It is a private international school. Degrees are from Spain or Switzerland. MBA, Digital Business, Marketing, Finance.
New European College Offers degrees from Wittenborg University (Netherlands). International Management, MBA.
Schiller International University Offers American (US) Degrees. International Relations, Business.
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Top 5 Universities in Germany without APS Requirement

Some private and international universities in Germany may offer admission without an APS certificate, depending on the course and applicant profile. However, APS requirements can change, so always verify with the university. Here are five universities often considered by students exploring options without APS requirement. The list of best universities in Germany without APS has been mentioned below with details.

Arden University Berlin

Another great option in Berlin is Arden University. This is actually a British University that opened a campus in Germany. Because the degree is from the UK, the German rules for APS do not apply here. It is very good for students who want to study Data Analytics, IT Security, or Project Management. Their class timings are very flexible, which helps if you are working. You get a high-quality British education but you live in Germany and enjoy the German student life.

BSBI (Berlin School of Business and Innovation)

This is very famous among Indian students who want to go to Germany fast. BSBI is located in the capital city, Berlin. The best thing here is that they don't ask for APS certificate because they give degrees from UK universities (like University for the Creative Arts) or Italian universities. They have many courses like Global MBA, Digital Marketing, and Tourism. The fees are also not too high, maybe around €9,000 to €12,000 per year. Since it is in Berlin, you can find many part-time jobs easily while studying

Lancaster University Leipzig

If you want a degree from a top-ranking college, check out Lancaster University Leipzig. It is a branch of a prestigious UK University. The campus is in Leipzig, which is a very nice city and much cheaper than Berlin or Munich for rent and food. You can study Computer Science, Business Management, or Software Engineering here. The fees might be a little high, but the degree value is very good globally. Since it is a UK degree, no APS is needed for admission.

EU Business School (Munich)

For business students, EU Business School in Munich is a top choice. Munich is a rich city with companies like BMW, so it is good for jobs. This college offers degrees from Spain or Switzerland. It is a private international school, so the environment is very modern. They are famous for MBA, International Business, and Marketing. You don't need APS here either. It is a bit expensive, but the networking opportunities are great.

New European College & Schiller International University

There are few more options like New European College in Munich, which gives a Dutch degree (from Netherlands), and Schiller International University in Heidelberg which gives an American (US) degree. Both of these allow you to skip the APS waiting time. Schiller is great if you like International Relations or Diplomacy. New European College is good for MBA, and they help a lot with finding jobs after studying.

Important Visa & Work Rules for German Universities without APS Requirement

Many students ask whether degrees from universities without APS are valid. In most cases, if you study in Germany at a recognized institution, your degree can be valid. However, eligibility for the post-study work visa Germany (18-month job seeker visa) depends on degree recognition and immigration rules.

After completing your course, you may apply for a Germany post-study work visa to stay and search for a job. Once employed, you can convert it into a work permit or EU Blue Card, subject to eligibility.

For your German student visa, it is important to provide clear documentation. If APS is not required, carry an official letter from the university explaining the reason. Always check the latest visa guidelines, as rules may change based on government policies.

Candidates wanting to know more about APS Germany requirements can visit our website or contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors

FAQs related to German Universities without APS Certificate

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is APS certificate mandatory for visa?
A: 

Yes, the APS certificate is generally mandatory for Indian students applying for a student visa to Germany. Without it, students cannot proceed with their visa applications.

Q:   How can I avoid a blocked account in Germany?
A: 

You can avoid opening a blocked account by providing alternative proof of financial resources. This includes:

  • Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung)
  • Scholarships
  • Government Sponsorship
  • Institutional Support
Q:   How long can I stay in Germany as a non-citizen after completing my studies at the University of Tuebingen?
A: 

After successfully completing your studies at the University of Tuebingen, students can apply for a Residence Permit at the Foreigner's Office. Through this, students can extend their stay for up to 18 months in order to look for a job in Germany. Also Read: Post Study Work Permit in Germany

Q:   What are the different types of student accommodation available in Berlin?
A: 

The housing options in Berlin for international students include:

  • On-campus housing- Popular universities like Humboldt University of Berlin or Free University of Berlin provide on-campus housing facilities for their local, as well as international enrollees.
  • Student Dormitories - These are available for both, students with a tighter budget and students fine with spending more for additional comfort. The former can look for dormitories located on the outskirts of Berlin whereas the latter can search in the city centre for more fancier options.
  • Shared Flats- Also known as WG or Wohngemeinschaften, these are furnished or unfurnished, shared apartments sublet by people.
  • Independent Housing- Students more inclined towards personal space can opt for personal flats or studio apartments. Although the price range for these usually goes higher.
  • Private Housing- Another suitable option for people seeking independent living. These are long-term rentals and typically cost more than student dorms.
  • Loft conversions- These refer to formerly unused attic spaces that have now been renovated by homeowners and put up for rent. They are rapidly gaining popularity as a housing option in Berlin.







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Written by
Raushan Kumar
Assistant Manager Content
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new Read Full Bio
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Reviewed by
Chandra
MBA, MS & UG in Europe
Chandra has been mentoring students for the past seven years and has expertise in overseas counseling for those applying to Sweden, Germany, France, and Ireland. He is a people person and enjoys interacting with peo Read Full Bio
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