Education in Greece is built on a public system that offers free and compulsory schooling for all children from ages 6 to 15, and provides access to higher education through public universities. The country is known for its inclusive approach, welcoming international students from Europe, the Balkans, and beyond.
Greece has become a more attractive destination for global learners due to its increasing number of English-taught programs, affordable tuition, and the opportunity to enjoy studying in a Mediterranean climate.
This article will highlight key information about all stages of education in Greece, including international schools, the top universities, tuition fees, and more.
This is what we will cover:
The Education system in Greece
The education system in Greece is free and compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 15. It is divided into three main levels: primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary education includes kindergarten (pre-primary) and primary school (grades 1–6).
Secondary education consists of two stages: Gymnasio (lower secondary, ages 12–15) and Lykeio (upper secondary, ages 15–18), which can be general or vocational. After completing Lykeio, students can take national exams to enter higher education, which includes universities and technical institutions.
Public education is free at all levels, and the state provides textbooks. Private schools and tutoring centers (frontistiria) also exist, especially to support students preparing for university exams. Most higher education institutions are public, and admission is based on exam performance.
Pre School Education in Greece
Preschool education in Greece is compulsory and lasts for two years, beginning at age four. It is divided into Pre-Kindergarten (Προνηπιαγωγείο) for children aged 4 to 5 and Kindergarten (Νηπιαγωγείο) for those aged 5 to 6. Most preschools are located within or next to primary schools and share facilities with them.
Children who turn four by December 31 must start preschool on 11 September of that year (or the next Monday if the 11th falls on a weekend). Registration occurs during the first two weeks in May, and late enrollment is not allowed. In preschool, students do not receive grades; instead, they are assessed through descriptive evaluations.
According to research showing that early language learning improves long-term proficiency, English is also introduced as part of the core curriculum in kindergarten. Public options also include Special Preschools for children with specific needs and Experimental Preschools (Πειραματικά Νηπιαγωγεία) that follow innovative teaching models.
Primary School Education in Greece
Primary school in Greece is compulsory for six years, starting at age six. It includes grades 1 to 6 and is free in all public schools. Classes begin on 11 September and end on June 15, running daily from 08:15 to 13:15. After completing primary school, students automatically move on to lower secondary school (Gymnasio).
Students receive descriptive assessments in the early years and numeric grades later. Upon completing grade 6, a primary school certificate (Απολυτήριο Δημοτικού) is awarded.
Grade levels and gge
- 1st Grade (Πρώτη τάξη): Age 6–7 — No grades
- 2nd Grade (Δευτέρα τάξη): Age 7–8 — No grades
- 3rd Grade (Τρίτη τάξη): Age 8–9 — Letter grades (A–D)
- 4th Grade (Τετάρτη τάξη): Age 9–10 — Letter grades (A–D)
- 5th Grade (Πέμπτη τάξη): Age 10–11 — Numeric grades (4–10)
- 6th Grade (Έκτη τάξη): Age 11–12 — Numeric grades (4–10)
Primary School Subjects in Greece
| Subject | Grades Taught |
| Modern Greek Language | Grades 1–6 |
| Mathematics | Grades 1–6 |
| English Language | Grades 1–6 |
| History | Grades 3–6 |
| Physics | Grades 5–6 |
| Geography | Grades 5–6 |
| Religion | Grades 3–6 |
| Environmental Studies | Grades 1–4 |
| Social & Political Studies | Grades 5–6 |
| Art | Grades 1–6 |
| Music | Grades 1–6 |
| Theatrical Education | Grades 1–4 |
| Physical Education | Grades 1–6 |
| Computer Studies | Grades 1–6 |
| 2nd Foreign Language (French or German) | Grades 5–6 |
Secondary Education in Greece
Secondary education in Greece is split into two stages: lower secondary education (Gymnasio) and upper secondary education (Lykeio).
Lower Secondary Education
Lower secondary school is compulsory and covers three years of study for students aged 12 to 15. This stage includes the 7th, 8th, and 9th grades. All students follow a standard curriculum for Greek language and literature, mathematics, history, sciences, foreign languages, which usually include English, physical education, and arts. Students do not specialize in any subject during this period. At the end of Gymnasio, students receive a certificate called the Apolytirio Gymnasiou, which allows them to progress to upper secondary school.
Upper secondary education
Upper secondary education (Lykeio)lasts another three years and is optional, though it is required for students who want to continue higher education. It is usually attended by students aged 15 to 18 and includes grades 10 to 12. There are different types of Lykeio, but the most common is the General Lykeio (Geniko Lykeio). In General Lykeio, students specialize in academic subjects in their final years, choosing from study areas such as humanities, sciences, or economics. Teaching remains classroom-based, focusing on preparing students for the Panhellenic national exams, which are necessary for university entrance. Students receive the Apolytirio Lykeiou, the high school leaving certificate, upon completion.
Vocational High Schools Lykeio (EPAL)
There is also a Vocational Lykeio (EPAL) option, which combines general education with technical and professional training. This path allows students to enter the workforce directly or take additional exams to access certain higher education institutions. Both the General and Vocational Lykeio lead to qualifications that are recognized nationally and can be used for further studies or employment.
These programs also offer the opportunity to take national exams to access higher education, or continue with a 4th year of apprenticeship training (optional), which includes paid work and further practical experience.
| Sector | Specialties Offered |
| Mechanical Engineering | – Vehicle Technician – Industrial Machinery Technician – Heating & Cooling Systems Technician |
| Electrical & Electronic Engineering | – Electrician – Electronics Technician – Automation Technician |
| Information Technology | – Computer Systems Technician – Software Applications Technician |
| Health & Welfare | – Nurse Assistant – Medical & Biological Lab Assistant – Childcare Assistant |
| Agriculture, Food & Environment | – Agricultural Technician – Food Technology Technician – Environmental Technician |
| Applied Arts | – Graphic Design – Photography – Fashion & Textile Design |
| Aesthetics & Hairdressing | – Hairdresser – Beauty Therapist – Nail Technician |
International Schools in Greece
International schools in Greece are private institutions that follow foreign-based curriculums like the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE/A Levels), American, French, or German systems. They are mainly found in larger cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, where many expatriate and diplomatic families live.
These schools are popular among expats and internationally minded Greek families who prefer education in a foreign language, usually English, though some offer bilingual or non-English programs. They provide education from preschool to high school and prepare students for global university admission.
Unlike traditional public schools, international schools charge tuition fees and often offer modern facilities, extracurricular activities, and academic support services. Many are accredited and follow internationally recognized education standards.
List of International Schools in Greece
English-speaking international schools
- American College of Greece, also known as Pierce College (US)
- Campion School (UK)
- St. Catherine’s British School (UK)
- American Community Schools, ACS (US)
- Byron College: The British International School (UK)
- International School of Athens, ISA
- Costeas Geitonas School CGS
- Doukas School
- I.M Panagiotopoulos School
- St. Lawrence College (UK)
- International School of Piraeus (UK)
- Anatolia College (US)
- Pinewood American College of Thessaloniki (US)
French-speaking international Schools
- Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix
- French School of Thessaloniki – Ecole française de Thessalonique
German-speaking International Schools
- Deutsche Schule Athen
- German School of Thessaloniki – Deutsche Schule Thessaloniki
On average, annual fees for these schools can range from €5,000 to €15,000 or more, with some prestigious schools charging higher fees. It’s advisable to check with individual schools for precise fee information.
International Students Studying in Greece
International students, especially from the EU, the Balkans, and the Middle East, are more than welcome to study in Greece. However, most undergraduate courses are taught in Greek>, so students are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in the Greek language. However, there is a growing number of English-taught programs, particularly at the postgraduate level. International students from the EU enjoy the same rights as Greek students regarding tuition, while non-EU students may pay modest fees depending on the program.
Importantly, children of non-EU nationals who hold a Greek Golden Visa also gain access to Greek public universities under the same terms as Greek citizens.
Greece also participates in the Erasmus+ program, which allows students to exchange with European universities. Several institutions offer scholarships and support services for international students, including housing assistance and Greek language courses.
Tertiary Education In Greece
University education in Greece is part of the tertiary education system and is offered by public universities and technical universities (also called Higher Educational Institutions – AEI). Admission is based mainly on performance in the Panhellenic national exams, taken at the end of upper secondary school (Lykeio). Most undergraduate programs last four years, while some specialized fields like engineering, pharmacy, or dentistry may require five or six years of study.
Higher education is free for Greek and EU citizens, and students do not pay tuition fees for undergraduate programs. Books and learning materials are also provided free of charge. However, depending on the institution and program, master’s and doctoral programs may have tuition costs.
Top Five Universities in Greece
These are public, well-established universities recognized for academic excellence and research. They have also appeared in European and global rankings, particularly in medicine, engineering, and the humanities. For instance, Greece ranks 41st on the Global Education Report by Global Citizen Solutions. It particularly stands out for its quality of life and affordable fees. This makes it perfect for prospective students interested in moving to Greece for education.
| University | Location | Known For |
| National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) | Athens | Humanities, Law, Health Sciences |
| Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) | Thessaloniki | Engineering, Philosophy, Natural Sciences |
| National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) | Athens | Architecture, Engineering, Computer Science |
| University of Patras | Patras | Medicine, Physics, Engineering |
| University of Crete | Heraklion & Rethymno | Social Sciences, Biology, Education |
University Fees in Greece
Undergraduate Programs: Public universities in Greece offer free undergraduate education for Greek and EU/EEA students, including free textbooks. Non-EU/EEA students usually pay tuition, with fees ranging from €1,500 to €2,500 per year, which is low compared to other European countries.
Postgraduate Programs (Master’s and PhD): Most master’s programs charge tuition for all students, between €1,000 and €4,000 per year, with higher fees for English-taught or specialized courses. PhD programs are often tuition-free or have very low costs, especially if publicly funded.
How to Enroll Your Child in an International School in Greece
To enroll your children in any school in Greece, you will first need a resident permit that includes them. The Golden Visa Greece, as mentioned, allows for family reunification, as does the Greece FIP Visa, which means you can include your children in the application, making them eligible for the Greek educational system.
After you have done your research and found the right school for your child, enrolling your child in an international school in Greece involves the following steps:
- Contact the chosen school for information on admission requirements, application deadlines, and the availability of spots in your child’s grade level.
- Gather the necessary documents, including your child’s academic transcripts, passport, birth certificate, and vaccination records.
- Complete the school’s application form and provide all required documentation.
- Some schools may require your child to take an entrance test or attend an interview.
- Upon acceptance, pay the required enrollment and tuition fee.
- Attend any orientation sessions or meetings to familiarize yourself and your child with the school’s policies and procedures.
- Once enrolled, your child can begin attending classes and participating in the school community.
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