Before understanding the difference between ABC ID and APAAR ID, let us first know what they are. Both of these IDs are part of India’s Digital Education initiative under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The APAAR ID number and ABC ID number are the same — there is no difference in the number. If a student studying in Class 1 to 12 has already created an APAAR ID, there is no need to apply for an ABC ID separately, because both IDs are the same.
Students from Class 1 to 12 get the APAAR ID, and after Class 12, students get the ABC ID. However, both IDs are used for different purposes.
ABC ID – Academic Credit Key
ABC ID is a 12-digit number given under the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC). This ID helps to keep and manage your education credits. Whenever a student completes a course, exam, or certification, the credits are saved in this ID. It helps students easily transfer their credits from one college or university to another. learn “ABC ID and Apaar ID Application Process“
Apaar ID – Student Identity Card
Apaar ID means Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry. It is also a 12-digit number. But Apaar ID is bigger than ABC ID. Apaar ID stores everything about a student’s education journey – marksheets, certificates, achievements, and other important documents. This ID is a part of the “One Nation, One Student ID” plan. It will stay with the student from school to college and even after that.
Main Difference Between ABC ID and Apaar ID
Now let’s see the main difference between ABC ID and Apaar ID. They look similar but their work is different.
Purpose and Use
| ID | Purpose |
|---|---|
| ABC ID | To store and transfer education credits, which was gived to the students after class 12 by collage or university. |
| Apaar ID | To store the full academic record of a student |
- ABC ID helps students move their credits from one college to another.
- Apaar ID keeps all the student’s documents and records in one place.
How They Work Together
Apaar ID and ABC ID both id numbers are same you can acess the details of the Apaar id at apaar.education.gov.in and ABC ID deatils at abc.gov.in.
Where They Are Used
- ABC ID is used mainly in higher education like colleges and universities for credit transfer.
- Apaar ID is used everywhere – school, college, and job application – as it shows your full academic history.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | ABC ID | Apaar ID |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Academic Bank of Credits ID | Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry |
| Main Purpose | Tracks and transfers credits | Stores all academic records |
| Digits | 12-digit number | 12-digit number |
| Scope | For credits only | For full academic profile |
| Connected To | ABC platform | ABC + DigiLocker |
Many people get confused between ABC ID and APAAR ID because both have the same ID number. But the main difference is in their use cases. You can access APAAR ID and ABC ID details using the same ID number on different websites – Apaar id at apaar.education.gov.in and ABC ID deatils at abc.gov.in.
- Apaar ID use for = Full student record
- ABC ID use for = Only credits
You can think of Apaar ID as a big house and ABC ID as one room in that house.
How To Get ABC ID and Apaar ID?
Both IDs are given through the same process.
- Visit www.abc.gov.in or DigiLocker app.
- Sign up using your name, date of birth, etc.
- Verify your identity using Aadhaar card (with parent permission for minors).
- Get your Apaar ID/ABC ID.
For step-by-step guidance, you can check Times of India’s guide. to downlaod your Apaar/ABC id follow this guide “Steps to Download ABC and Apaar IDs“
Why Is The Difference Important?
Knowing the difference between ABC ID and Apaar ID is useful because:
- Students: Can transfer credits easily while changing courses using ABC ID. Apaar ID keeps all records safe.
- Parents: Can create Apaar ID early for their children for smooth education.
- Teachers/Institutions: Can verify students’ records easily.
Example:
ABC ID is like your bank account number for your credits.
Apaar ID is like your customer ID which has all your details.
Advantages & Disadvantages of APAAR ID
Advantages:
- Permanent Tracking:
APAAR ID gives every student a special 12-digit number which will stay with them from small classes (pre-primary) to higher studies. This helps to keep all records safe even if students change schools or colleges. - Digital Access:
APAAR ID is connected to DigiLocker. This means students can save their certificates, mark sheets, and awards online. It will help them when applying for admission or jobs. - Easy Transfer:
Since all academic records are in one place, changing schools or colleges becomes easier. There is less paperwork and fewer delays. - Transparency:
APAAR ID keeps a full record of the student’s education which cannot be changed or misused. This makes the system trustworthy.
Disadvantages:
- Privacy Problem:
As all student information is stored online, there is a risk of data being hacked or misused if there is a security problem. - Aadhaar Card Needed:
Students must have an Aadhaar card to register for APAAR ID. This can be difficult for those who don’t have Aadhaar or have wrong details like diffrence in name or linked with old mobile numbers. - Parental Permission Required:
Schools need parents’ permission to register students. In villages or remote areas, parents may not know about this process which can cause delays.
Advantages & Disadvantages of ABC ID
Advantages:
- Flexible Learning:
ABC ID allows students to collect and save their academic credits. These credits can be used in different colleges and courses. It supports learning new subjects and skills. - Credit Transfer:
With ABC ID, students can move from one university to another or continue studies later without losing credits. These credits are usually valid for 7 years. source: abc.gov.in - Digital System:
ABC ID is also connected to DigiLocker. This means students don’t need to carry paper certificates. All credits are stored online safely. - Student Empowerment:
Students can choose different courses or colleges based on their saved credits. This gives them more control over their education.
Disadvantages:
- Technical Problems:
To create ABC ID, students must have Aadhaar linked with DigiLocker. Students from remote areas with poor internet or outdated mobile numbers may face problems. - Implementation Issues:
Not all colleges or universities are part of the ABC system yet. So, in some cases, credit transfer may not work properly. - Data Security Risk:
Like APAAR ID, ABC ID also stores data online. If the system is hacked, credits or personal details may be at risk.
Common Questions
Are These IDs Compulsory?
- Apaar ID is not compulsory yet, but it is good to have, especially for higher education.
- ABC ID is needed for credit-based courses.
Are They Needed For Exams Like NEET?
No, Apaar ID is not compulsory for NEET 2025, as per Hindustan Times. But it is useful for document verification.
What Do They Store?
- ABC ID: Only credits
- Apaar ID: Marksheets, certificates, awards, and other documents.
Last Words
In simple words:
ABC ID is for storing and transferring your education credits.
Apaar ID is for keeping your full education record safe.
Both are important parts of India’s digital education system. Knowing about them will help students, parents, and teachers in the future.
If you want to learn more, you can visit the official Apaar website FAQ page.
Postal Services Professional | Blogger | E-commerce Enthusiast
I’m Ashim Sonowal, working with the Department of Post for the past 10 years. Alongside my career in public service, I’m passionate about blogging, SEO, and building successful e-commerce and local businesses. I enjoy exploring new digital opportunities and connecting with others who share a drive for growth and innovation.