- Population: 1,200,000
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- University Students: 51,086
- International Students: 33,127
- English-taught Programs: 200
Cyprus is a small Mediterranean Island. It has a deep culture that embraces diversity. It also has a rich history. All this makes it an ideal place for those planning on studying in Cyprus. The weather is favorable, various universities offer English-taught programs, and the cost of living is relatively low.
Over the years, the education sector in Cyprus has become more and more vibrant, and a lot of international students are enrolling for courses in Cypriot learning institutions. Similarly, to meet this demand, there has been an introduction of marketable degree courses and boarding facilities to accommodate the increased demand.
The 2018/2019 figures from the Ministry of Education show a student population of 51,086. Of these, 23,872 are from Cyprus, 17,959 are from other European countries and 9,255 from the rest of the world. This is a very international student environment so if you are from far away, get ready to feel partly at home as Cyprus is home to many nationalities.
The republic of Cyprus recognizes the fact that education is a strategic industry that needs more emphasis and commitment to grow. Different universities have broad curriculums, programs and disciplines to meet the demand of the market. It is common to find modern facilities and experienced academicians from renowned global universities.
The Republic of Cyprus is keen on having educated citizens, and there has been a change in the past few years which has led to more and more students enrolling in the country’s institutions. By 2017 at least half of the population has been educated up to the tertiary level. These statistics present a 55.8% which is above the EU recommendation of 46%.
The country has committed up to 6% of the GDP to the education sector. A significant percentage of the Government’s spending goes toward education. The universities have invested in competitive programs that attract international students so if you are looking at Cyprus to pursue a University career, you can be sure you are in safe hands.
Universities in Cyprus
The University of Cyprus (UCY) was established in 1989. Before the establishment, students sought higher education abroad. It ranks in position 678 worldwide. There are eight faculties spread across humanities, applied sciences, pure sciences, social sciences, education, engineering, letters, management, medical school and graduate studies. The outlook has been positive, with a total of 8 universities, with five being private and the rest public. These universities have pacts with global universities to the benefit of their students.
List of public universities
• Cyprus University of Technology
• University of Nicosia
• Open University of Cyprus (OUC)
List of private universities
• European University Cyprus (EUC)
• Frederick University
• Neapolis University Paphos (NUP)
• University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) Cyprus
• The University of Nicosia
The Cyprus education system has seen a growth in the higher education system with an increasing student population. This has led to global accolades of the university education going by the rankings. For example, The University of Cyrus features among the top universities in the world. Others, such as the University of Nicosia, follows closely.
Most students prefer public universities due to the international appeal, although there are limited places. Furthermore, they do not charge any fees for undergraduate students from EU member states, making it an affordable choice. Equally, the postgraduate fees are a on the lower side when compare to tuition fees at universities around the world.
Studying in Cyprus in English
Public universities teach in Greek, although there have been efforts to petition the Government to let them teach courses in English to become attractive to international students. However, there are English units in public universities. The situation is different for private universities, which offer most of their courses in English.
European University Cyprus (EUC)
The EUC is a private university based in Nicosia, Cyprus. It is one of the oldest universities in Cyprus with an excellent record of performance. It is a favorite among students from the European Union since it offers English-taught programs. It has both science and art-based courses. Also, it has several scholarship opportunities for students with limited funds.
American University of Cyprus (AUC)
The American University of Cyprus is a private institution of higher learning based in Nicosia, Cyprus. It has been around since 2014 and is a preferred choice among international students since it offers English programs. The main programs offered here are Fine arts, Economics and Nusiness, Political Science and Health studies.
The University of Central Lancashire Cyprus (UCLan)
UCLan is a British university in Cyprus, founded in 2012. It is a private university and is a campus of the British University Central Lancashire. It is also a favorite to international students since it offers programs taught in English.
Tuition Fees in Cyprus
The advantage of studying in Cyprus is that the tuition fee is lower when you compare to countries such as the United States and the UK. A bachelor’s degree program costs up to 13,390 Euros for every academic year. However, the cost of tuition varies depending on the program. For example, a Pharmacy degree program costs approximately 7,000 Euros, whereas an International Business program costs 3,500 Euros every year.
Scholarships to Study in Cyprus
Various universities offer a wide range of scholarship opportunities to students in Cyprus. The University of Cyprus has multiple scholarship programs or grants for students. These are in the form of financial support and mostly offered to the students to study. Also, international students can apply for scholarships to achieve their goal of studying in Cyprus without breaking their budget.
For you to apply for a scholarship, you only need to fill an online form. Scholarships are available for Bachelors, Masters and PhD programs.
Examples of scholarships for international students under the University of Cyprus
• IAL research Grants for Doctoral studies
• HKADC overseas Arts Administration scholarships
• National Arts Council Arts Scholarships in Singapore 2019
• Canon Foundation Research Fellowship 2019
• Momeni Iranian Financial Assistance Scholarships 2019
The European University of Cyprus offers financial scholarships to top students who have completed their bachelor’s and are willing to pursue a master’s degree. The EUC has policies and structures to support needy students. However, each award is based on merit. The scholarship mainly helps offset the tuition fees. The university also offers athletic scholarships to students.
Other institutions that offer scholarships to international students in Cyprus
• Endeavour Vocational Education and Training (VET) Scholarship in Cyprus
• Cyprus Institute Dean’s Distinguished Scholarship for Doctoral Studies
• Cyprus International Institute of Management Scholarships
• Ph.D. Scholarships in Computational Sciences at Cyprus Institute
• Cyprus International Institute Of Management Scholarships
• UCLan BSc Mathematics Scholarship At British University Of Cyprus
• PhD Research Scholarship in 5G Communication Networks at UCLan Cyprus
Cost of Living for a student Studying in Cyprus
Accommodation fee is lower in Cyprus for students, especially in smaller towns. However, the capital city Nicosia is pretty expensive. Nevertheless, the cost is lower than in most European countries, and you can budget a maximum of 10,711 Euros for living fees per year.
Students can seek accommodation in hostels, which is cheaper than boarding in hotels. Students undertaking a full-year academic program have priority when it comes to housing availability within the campus.
Internships & Company Placements in Cyprus
Notably, Universities in Cyprus usually have private placements for students. The internet offers more information on how students can access information on placements. Some programs, such as engineering and architecture, require students to complete placements before graduating. Placements equip students with experience when searching for jobs upon graduation.
Some of the education programs in Cyprus require practical placements as part of the study program. The universities usually monitor students’ placements. However, students can also arrange for private options.
Some placement programs are salaried while some are not. However, this entirely depends on the company sponsoring you. Summer placements are popular since you will receive some payment that varies from employer to employer. Also, it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure students observe the company’s policy during the placement period.
Working While Studying in Cyprus
Cyprus has various job opportunities available for international students. Most students enroll for part times jobs, which can only go for a maximum of 6 months per contract. These not only offer practical skills to students but can also earn you enough money to cater for your living expenses during the studies.
Some of the most famous work and study opportunities are in the hospitality sector. However, there are several opportunities in the health sector which pays well. International students can also seek internships in the IT and financial sectors, which are well paid. The advantage of studying while working in Cyprus is the lower taxation rates, coupled with a low cost of living.
Usually, you will work for an average of 20-30 hours every week. As a student, you can earn between 500-600 Euros every month. Whereas international students are allowed to work in Cyprus, there is a set of rules under the European Union that employers must follow.
Applying for a Student Visa to Study in Cyprus
Students who are not from the European Union member states need a study visa before coming to Cyprus. These visas are only available to full-time students intending to enroll for 12 credit units each semester. To apply for a student visa, you need to visit the Embassy of Cyprus in your respective country at least 2-3 months before commencing your program.
At the embassy, there is a visa interview where you will present the required documents, which include a medical check-up and proof of funds. Students who are members of the EU do not need a study visa. When you arrive in Cyprus, you must register with the authorities within seven days.