- Population: 10,722,287
- Currency: Euro
- Official language: Greek
- University students: 663,700
- International Students: 27,777
- English-taught Programs: 50 master and postgrads, 1 undergraduate
Greece is the home of universal knowledge. Its strategic geographical location makes it an important crossroads between Africa, Europe, and Asia. Studying in Greece will give you the opportunity to live in a calm and peaceful environment combined with the passion of the people of this legendary land.
As a tourist country, you can enjoy many sunny days and visit the varied and fascinating places full of traditions, history and an international reference cuisine. Its official language is Greek, but you can speak English because the Greeks tend to have a good level of in this language.
There are many university students from other countries who decide to make an academic life in this charming place. The educational quality of this country is well documented; several universities of this country are among the best ones in the world ranking. On the other hand, Greece has 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the impressive Acropolis of Athens, the ancient city of Rhodes which will take you back in time to the Middle Ages, and meanwhile, Delphi, Olympia, and Mycenae will help you to understand history with their amazing archaeological finds. In addition, Greece has an incredible nightlife so studying there will be an interesting adventure.
Universities in Greece
Greece has more than 90 higher education institutions. However, you need to know that the Greek university education system is divided into 4 parts.
- General Universities
- Polytechnic Schools
- Technological Institutes
- Academies
Each of these institutes offers a wide range of careers and the degrees they offer are accepted throughout the European community as Greece is among the signatory countries of the Bologna international agreement.
These are the main universities in Greece:
- National University and Kapodistrian of Athens
- Open University (Distance University)
- Ionian University
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Let’s talk a little more about the latter one which is also known as the International University of Aristotle of Thessaloniki.
It was founded in 1925; it is one of the best universities in Greece. Its educational disposition is marked by the important international relations it has managed over time. In fact, it has established some educational cooperation agreements with a wide variety of institutions worldwide. On the other hand, this university offers doctorates, masters and bachelor’s degrees dictated entirely in English which emphasizes its international character.
Tuition Fees in Greece
According to Greek law, no student of the EU is obliged to pay a fee for their studies. This applies to public universities. In addition, students from the EU can use textbooks for free. On the other hand, if you are a student and you are a non-EU student, you will have to pay a small fee for accommodation. In many cases, the fees will depend on the academic level of the institution you choose. It is always recommended you visit the university you want to attend, and make sure it has what you are looking for before selecting it. Studying in Greece is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries.
Scholarships in Greece
In addition to the country’s scholarship programs, one of the ways you can access a scholarship to study in Greece is through the European Region’s Action Plan for University Student Mobility, which is also known as ERAMUS. This EU-sponsored program is an opportunity that benefits more than 4 million students each year.
Depending on the country of origin and destination, the financial aid you can receive after this scholarship scheme can range between 170 and 520 euros per month. Of course, there are other variables to consider, but this scholarship will allow you to pay for expenses related to transportation and accommodation at your destination. In addition, the program contemplates other additional economic aids that are granted to students with certain characteristics or who come from certain countries in particular.
Cost of Living in Greece
This country is well-known for being one of the cheapest places to study, thus, it is an attractive choice for international students. Normally, 700 Euros cover basic expenses such as food, transport, as well as public services and housing. Therefore, you would only need over 6 and 10 Euros a day to eat in Greece.
Internships & Company Placements in Greece
All students who successfully complete their practical training will have the opportunity to complete their respective internships. You will be provided with certificates and company positions which contain the company information and your responsibilities.
All students are entitled to financial assistance from the company, and other benefits as meals and accommodation. Salaries range from €300 to €450 per month. Your internship will last 3 months as a minimum, being the ideal period from 4 to 6 months. You will work 8 hours a day, 6 days a week. If you belong to the European Union, you don’t need a VISA. It is possible that depending on your performance and available vacancies, you may be able to keep your job where you took the internship.
Working in Greece
Certainly, once you have graduated, you may think of working and settling in Greece, and because of being mainly a tourist country, it will be relatively easier for you to get a job if you have chosen to study a career related to this field. However, you should know that some professions are regulated by the government.
Applying for a Student Visa to Study in Greece
In this link, you will find information about some nationalities which a visa is required.
However, the student visa for Greece may require you to present the following documents, it will depend on the place of origin and the period of your stay:
- Application (it can be picked up from the Consular office).
- 2 equal photos.
- Valid passport.
- Travel insurance covering 90 days.
- Acceptance certificate in Greek University or Scholarship.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Health certificate issued by an official public or private institute (certify that you do not have a disease that poses a danger to public health).
Here you will be able to see the different consulates to process your student visa in a fast and appropriate way.
Visit: www.mfa.gr/en/appendix/greece-bilateral-relations/a.html