Study In Greece: Top Universities, Study Visa, Tuition Fees, Living Cost

Studying in Greece isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s a journey through millennia of history, wrapped in Mediterranean sunshine and Greek hospitality. Whether you’re drawn by world-class engineering programs, affordable master’s degrees, or simply want to immerse yourself in the birthplace of Western philosophy, Greece has something for every international student. In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to study in Greece, from top universities and student cities to visa requirements, tuition costs, living expenses, and application processes.

Why Choose to Study in Greece?

Historical Legacy & Modern Campus Life

Greece is the cradle of democracy, philosophy, and the sciences. Walking the campuses of Athens or Thessaloniki, you’ll pass by ancient ruins and cutting-edge laboratories alike.

Affordable Tuition & Living Costs

Public universities charge no tuition for EU/EEA undergraduates and €1,500/year (approx. US$1,680) for non-EU master’s—a fraction of Western Europe’s fees.

Student cities like Thessaloniki and Patras offer monthly living costs of €530–€800.

High-Quality Education & English-Taught Programs

Over 100 English-taught degrees, from Mechanical Engineering in Athens to International Business in Crete.

Institutions ranked by QS World University Rankings ensure global recognition.

Mediterranean Lifestyle & Cultural Immersion

Savor Greek cuisine, explore island beaches, and study alongside students from 150+ countries.

Strategic European Location

Hop on a budget flight to Rome, Berlin, or Barcelona on weekends.

Section 1: Top Public Universities in Greece (All Tuition-Free for EU Undergrads)

1. National Technical University of Athens (NTUA)

• Founded: 1837
• QS Rank: 401–410 globally
• Strengths: Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics
• Programs: 5-year Diploma (equivalent to Master’s); English options for Erasmus/Exchange.
• Why NTUA? Renowned engineering excellence, strong industry links, campus in historic Athens.

2. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH)

• Founded: 1925
• QS Rank: 501–550 globally
• Strengths: Medicine, Psychology, Economics, Philosophy
• Programs: 33 English-taught Master’s; vibrant city life in Thessaloniki.
• Why AUTH? Largest campus in Greece, strong research output, UNESCO heritage nearby.

3. National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)

• Founded: 1837
• QS Rank: Top 700 globally
• Strengths: Law, Language Studies, Health Sciences
• Programs: 50+ English Master’s; historic campus in central Athens.
• Why NKUA? Prestigious legacy, extensive alumni network, access to Greek Parliament and supreme courts.

4. University of Crete

• Founded: 1973
• Strengths: Computer Science, Biology, Mediterranean Studies
• Location: Chania & Rethymno—study by the sea!
• Why Crete? Affordable living, island lifestyle, research in marine ecology.

5. University of Patras

• Founded: 1964
• QS Rank: Top 800 globally
• Strengths: Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Technology, Architecture
• Campus: Sprawling modern facilities near the Rio–Antirrio bridge.
• Why Patras? Student festivals, proximity to the Ionian Sea, exchange programs across Europe.

Section 2: Best Student Cities in Greece

Section 3: Cost Breakdown: Tuition & Living Expenses

A. Tuition Fees

EU/EEA Undergraduates: €0 at public universities

Non-EU Undergraduates: €1,500–€3,000/year (some programs may charge up to €5,000)

All Master’s Students: €1,500/year flat rate (public)

B. Living Costs (Monthly Estimates)

Section 4: Greece Study Visa & Residence Permit

Who Needs a Greece Study Visa?

EU/EEA Citizens: No visa; must register with local authorities within 90 days.

Non-EU/EEA Students: Type D National Visa (long-stay).

Required Documents for Visa Application

1. Acceptance Letter from a Greek university recognized by the Ministry of Education.
2. Valid Passport (6+ months beyond intended stay).
3. Passport-Sized Photos (biometric).
4. Proof of Accommodation (university dorm reservation or lease).
5. Evidence of Sufficient Funds:
   • €2,000–€3,000 per academic year (bank statements, scholarship award).
6. Health Insurance covering all medical expenses in Greece.
7. Criminal Background Check (apostilled & translated).
8. Medical Certificate proving general fitness.

Visa Application Steps

Gather & Translate Documents into Greek (certified).

Submit at local Greek Embassy/Consulate—include all originals + copies.

Pay Visa Fee: Approx. €60–€90.

Attend Interview (if required).

Processing Time: 8–12 weeks (apply 3 months before course start).

Collect Visa and book flight; upon arrival, apply for Residence Permit at Decentralized Administration within 30 days.

Section 5: Application Process for International Students

A. Undergraduate Admissions

1. Centralized Application via the Hellenic Ministry of Education (every July).
2. Required:
   • High School Diploma (translated & apostilled)
   • Grading Certificate & Equivalency from DAPIP
   • Language Proficiency: Greek (ELLINOGLOSSA) or English tests (IELTS/TOEFL).
3. Selection: Based on Panhellenic exams or direct entry for EU/EEA.

B. Postgraduate Admissions

Direct Application to each university’s Graduate School web portal.

Required:

Bachelor’s Degree Transcript

CV/Resume

Motivation Letter (500–1,000 words)

Two Recommendation Letters

English Proficiency (if program in English).

Deadlines: Vary by institution—typically May–September intake.

Section 6: Scholarships & Funding Opportunities

1. State Scholarships Foundation (IKY)

• IKY Scholarships fund EU & non-EU students for Master’s and PhD.
• Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend (€700–€1,100), travel allowance.

2. University-Specific Grants

NTUA Excellence Scholarships: Top-engineering students receive tuition waivers + monthly grants.

AUTH Dean’s Awards: Merit-based stipends for academic achievers.

3. Erasmus+ & Exchange Programs

Erasmus+: 3–12 month study abroad grants (EU students).

Bilateral Agreements: Reduced or waived tuition for partner universities globally.

Section 7: Working While Studying in Greece

EU/EEA Students: Unlimited work rights.

Non-EU Students: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays (with permit).

Popular Student Jobs: Campus assistants, language tutors, hospitality staff.

Average Wage: €7–€9/hour—enough to cover part of living costs.

Section 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it possible to study in Greece for free as a non-EU student?
– Master’s programs cost just €1,500/year, and tuition is free for EU/EEA undergrads.

How much money do I need to show for a Greek student visa?
– Approximately €2,000–€3,000 per year in blocked account or sponsorship letter.

Are there English-taught bachelor’s programs in Greece?
– Limited, but growing: fields like Business Administration in Athens University of Economics & Business and International Relations at Panteion University.

Can I stay in Greece after graduation to work?
– Yes, you may apply for a residence permit for employment or start-up visas if you launch a business.

What’s the cost of health insurance in Greece?
– Around €200–€400/year for comprehensive coverage.

Conclusion: Start Your Study in Greece Adventure Today!

From the ancient agora where Socrates taught to the modern labs at NTUA, Greece merges heritage with innovation. With affordable tuition, low living costs, and English-taught programs across top universities, Greece stands out as a budget-friendly study abroad destination in Europe.

Next Steps:

1. Research Programs: Visit university websites and filter by English-taught courses.
2. Check Deadlines: July for undergrads, vary for postgrads (May–September).
3. Prepare Documents Early: Diplomas, translations, bank statements, and visa forms.
4. Apply for Scholarships: IKY, NTUA Excellence, Erasmus+.
5. Book Your Visa Appointment: Submit 3 months before your course start date.

Embark on an academic journey where democracy, philosophy, and modern science converge—apply to Greek universities today and unlock both your future and a piece of history!