Why International Students Should Choose Greece for Higher Studies

Located on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece is the place which lies at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This historic nation is a hub for philosophers, thinkers and historians. For such a long affiliation with education, Greece is regarded as one of the leading spaces of global learning and study abroad destination. It is also known as the birthplace of academia. Moreover, Greek history proves that the country always values and invests in education. The first European institution described as a university was founded in Greece and is known as the University of Constantinople

 The country is broadly divided into nine regions and includes 227 residential islands. This created the longest coastlines with an enjoyable Mediterranean summer. 

Education System in Greece

The Greek government offers free public education to all citizens, including immigrants living in Greece permanently. According to a recent estimation, above 90% of schools in Greece are public and similarly more than 90% of pupils attend a public institution in Greece. There are also private institutions in Greece. These institutes render curriculum in Greek as well as in other languages and educational programs. However, only 7% of pupils attend compulsory education in private institutions. Similar to other countries, primary and higher secondary education is completed in12 years. Tertiary education, however, is grouped into the non-university level, university level first stage, university-level second stage and university level third stage.

Higher Education in Greece 2024

Higher education is governed by state laws. Some private institutions also provide tertiary education to both national and international students. There are branches of foreign universities and colleges in Greece, especially from the United States and the UK. These institutions offer degrees accepted by the education system of the parent country. Public institutes in Greece are generally free but private schooling charge a higher amount as tuition fees. There is a set grading system in Greek institutes. It is based on the numeric scale 1-10 where 10 is excellent, and pass/fail borders at 5

The Degree Levels

The first level of university study will render the undergraduate degrees to students which are natively called the Ptychio degrees. The course of study generally consists of a four-year program. However, in some particular or professional fields such as medical sciences and engineering, it could take five years. For a medical doctor program, it could exceed twelve years. These study programs allow students to pick some electives along with their compulsory courses. After the bachelor’s program students can continue their study to seek a masters degree. The education system in Greece also allow some hours of part-time employment for students

The second stage means entry into the first level of postgraduate studies. This will take a minimum of two years to complete and the student then achieves the Metaptychiako Díploma Exidíkefsis, (Postgraduate Diploma of Specialization).

The third stage in Greece education system will grant a doctoral degree to prospective student. This doctorate degree is called Didaktoriko in Greek. It is mandatory to submit a thesis based on original research to gain the third level degree from a Greek university

Nearly all graduate programs in Greek universities charge no tuition fees, however, masters and PhD programs are offered in affordable costs.

Universities in Greece for Pakistani Students 2024

Greece homes around 24 main universities and 16 technical universities. Most of these universities are public. As an EU-nation, Greece is a member of the Bologna process so students can easily transfer ECTS credits. Moreover, Greece resides in popular high-ranking institutions such as the University of Crete and the University of Loannina. Some of the highly ranked universities in Greece include

• University of Crete

• National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

• Athens University of Economics and Business

• Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

• University of Ioannina

• The University of Patras

Courses to Study in Greece

Greece is a popular study destination for subjects like engineering and aviation. Besides these scientific studies, Greece is popular for its unconventional courses. Students who want to deviate from the norm and choose some unique subjects in their study courses should consider studying in Greece. These study courses include Environmental Studies, Urbanism Sustainability, Archaeology, History, Philosophy, Religion, Classical & Modern Literature and languages, Art s& Architecture etc.

Language of Instruction

Most of the study courses are offered in Greek language especially in graduate programs .However, there are many English taught programs at Masters and Doctoral level. To take admission in any of these courses a prior language proficiency certification is necessary

Student Cities in Greece

There are three most popular student cities in Greece. It includes Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion (Crete). Athens is the capital city of Greece. This busiest European city resides around 4 million citizens. Renowned universities in Athens include the National Technical University of Athens, Athens University of Economics and Business and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Athens is also listed in the QS Best Student Cities and it is also known as the most affordable city for students. Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city, it is also known as the administrative capital of Macedonia. Thessaloniki resides the second highest-ranked university in Greece, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Another renowned university in Thessaloniki is the University of Macedonia. The third student city is Heraklion (Crete). It is the administrative capital of the island of Crete (the largest Greek island). Crete, in fact, is the fourth-largest city in Greece. Heraklion homes one of the two campuses of the University of Crete .the second campus is located in the town of Rethymnon. The Technological Educational Institute of Crete is also located in Heraklion.

Scholarships in Greece

There are many scholarships and financial aids offered to international students, especially from developing countries. Though most of these scholarships are offered at masters level, yet students can search for meaningful scholarships at the graduate level also.

Part-time Jobs for Students

International Students can work Part Time in order to finance education and other requirements. This part-time employment helps student to get exposed to the practical world and gain a positive experience. Greek colleges and universities also provide internships to the students as a part of the study program. Thus, students can also earn through these paid internships

Life in Greece

Greece is selected as the study destination because it is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students and tourists. According to a recent estimation around 400-700 EUR/month is required to spend an average living. This includes reasonable accommodation and other necessities. This living cost is quite affordable as compared to other European study destinations like Germany or France. Average monthly living costs In the stated countries is no less than 1,000 Euros.

Greece is known for its rich history. The scenic beauty of Greece includes sandy beaches and lively islands. The picturesque countryside and pleasant weather make the destination a tourist favorite.

Greece also offers tempting cuisines. International students can get the opportunity to taste the mouthwatering souvlaki and gyros, with a savor of famous tzatziki sauce. The blend of cucumber, yoghurt, garlic and olive oil is unique and matchless. The Greece public health care is available in low cost. However students have to buy a health insurance while living in Greece. The country also offers miscellaneous sightseeing and adventure-seeking, activities. Shopping malls, swift transportation as well as entertainment opportunities make Greece the favorite study destination for international students.