Aptech Limited, a global leader in non-formal vocational education and training, through its 100% Malaysian subsidiary – AGLSM Sdn Bhd has signed an Articulation Agreement with the International School of Management (ISM), Germany, enabling international students from Aptech’s Advanced Diploma in Software Engineering (ADSE) program to gain direct entry into the final year of ISM’s undergraduate programs across its campuses in Germany through a Credit Transfer Facility (CTF).
The agreement was formally signed by Prof. Dr. Audrey Mehn, Ms. Caroline Krabs, Head of International Business, and Ms. Liu Yue, Head of Student Intake at ISM, alongside Mr. Kallol Mukherjee, Executive Vice President, International Business, Aptech Limited, at their HQ campus in Dortmund, Germany. The collaboration marks a significant step forward in bridging skill-based learning with globally recognized academic qualifications and opens up long-awaited avenues in Europe for Aptech students—particularly from Africa and Southeast Asia—who aspire for international education and careers.
A European Gateway to Global Careers Founded in 1990, ISM is one of Germany’s leading private business schools, with a reputation for academic excellence, industry-aligned programs, and strong international partnerships. With seven campuses located in key German cities—Dortmund, Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, and Berlin—the institution offers students a strategic advantage through access to diverse regional economies, internship opportunities, and post-study work options.
Through this articulation agreement, students who complete Aptech’s globally delivered ADSE program can get a direct entry into final year of ISM’s undergraduate degree courses through credit transfer facility in areas of Information Technology & Data Science. Upon graduation, students are entitled for 18-month post-study work visa under German policy, allowing them to gain meaningful work experience and even apply for permanent residency, subject to applicable norms.
This collaboration is significant in the current global context, where students from emerging economies are increasingly turning to Germany as a preferred study destination. With zero or low tuition fees at universities, robust industry-academic linkages, a strong economy, and a growing need for skilled talent, Germany has become a magnet for international students, particularly from Africa , Qatar , Vietnam & other countries, where Aptech offers ADSE courses.
“This partnership with ISM, Germany, marks a strategic milestone in Aptech’s mission to make quality global education accessible to all,” said Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, and Whole-time Director, Aptech Limited. “We have long recognized the demand among our international students for viable international pathways in Europe. With this agreement, we are not just opening doors to a world-class degree but also creating a real opportunity for career progression and global mobility. This is a leap toward delivering truly borderless education.”
Prof. Dr. Audrey Mehn, Managing Director, International School of Management, echoed this sentiment: “We are delighted to welcome Aptech students into our campuses across Germany. This collaboration brings together two institutions that are deeply committed to academic rigour, industry relevance, and international student success. Aptech’s ADSE program equips learners with strong technical and professional skills, making them ideal candidates for our programs. We look forward to empowering this new generation of talent to thrive in Germany’s vibrant economy and beyond.”
Aptech’s network spans over 200 emerging markets, with a strong presence in Africa, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, among others. Countries such as Nigeria, Vietnam, and Indonesia have witnessed a rising demand for international education pathways. But affordability, visa restrictions, and lack of recognition of prior learning often hinder access.
The ISM agreement directly addresses these barriers by:
- Recognizing ADSE as prior learning, allowing students to skim through the initial years of undergraduate study,
- Reducing the overall cost of international education, and
- Offering students a tangible career and immigration pathway in Europe.
Germany’s reputation as a tech and innovation hub is particularly attractive for software and IT students. Its shortage of skilled professionals across sectors, especially in digital technology, makes it the ideal destination for Aptech’s international students to find both internships and long-term opportunities.
This collaboration is just the beginning. Aptech and ISM are exploring further joint initiatives, with an aim to create a comprehensive, future-ready academic experience that responds to the aspirations of students and the demands of the global job market.
