Study in Athens

Are you planning your next step in education and cultural enrichment and looking to study abroad? Study in Athens, Greece and experience the union of historical grandeur and modern academic life!

This guide offers a straightforward look into Athenian student life, living expenses, and cultural dynamics. Get the essential insights to plan your education and lifestyle in Greece’s iconic capital, learning what to expect from your time as a student in Athens.
Explore the wide array of educational options Athens offers, pick your favorite subject, and find the right Bachelor’s and Master’s courses and degrees for you!

The City of Athens at a Glance

Geographical Location

Nestled in the heart of Greece, Athens stands as the nation's capital and its largest city. Geographically, Athens is situated in the southern part of the country on the Attica Peninsula. Its strategic location not only makes it a hub of historical significance. It also places it within reach of the mesmerizing Aegean Sea, gracing the city with stunning coastal landscapes, azure waters, and a refreshing sea breeze that enhances the overall allure of Athens.

Population

Worried whether you’re going to fit in as an expat studying abroad in Athens?
Well, don’t. Athens is home to a vibrant and diverse population and it boasts a dynamic mix of cultures and backgrounds.
The current metro area population of Athens in 2024 is 3,155,000 (Macrotrends) - the largest in the Balkan peninsula. The city's residents, known for their warm hospitality, contribute to the unique tapestry of Athens, creating an atmosphere that welcomes international students from around the world.

Living in Athens

As the cultural and economic center of Greece, Athens is a thriving metropolis filled with educational opportunities, vibrant city life, and a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored.
The city is famous for seamlessly blending its classical heritage with a modern urban landscape. What this means is that it can provide students with a unique and lively environment to both pursue their academic endeavors and enjoy the best Greece has to offer in cultural activities and entertainment.

Why Study In Athens?

Unique Educational Opportunities

The city of Athens, as an academic hub, offers a diverse range of unique educational opportunities.
Renowned universities and colleges provide programs that blend academic rigor with practical experience, fostering a holistic learning environment. Students can delve into specialized fields, benefit from expert faculty, and engage in research initiatives that contribute to their intellectual growth.

Cultural and Historical Richness

One of the upsides of studying abroad in Athens is the chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the city.
Athens boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders, museums, and ancient landmarks to explore. Students have the chance to walk through millennia of history, experiencing the intersection of classical heritage and modern big city life.

Vibrant City Life

Studying in other countries is not just about academic achievement. It’s also about enriching your life experience abroad - and having a good time, too!
From traditional festivals to modern art exhibitions to sport events and concerts, students can actively experience everything the beating heart of urban life has to offer, while still pursuing their academic goals.
That’s one of the reasons Athens is such a great choice to study in Greece. Bustling markets, lively coffee shops, a diverse night club scene, and a myriad of cultural events create an atmosphere that is both invigorating and inspiring. All that can definitely add a vibrant dimension to its students' daily life!

Networking and Career Prospects

Studying in Athens opens doors to extensive networking opportunities and promising career prospects.
Being Greece’s main economic and cultural hub, Athens attracts industries and professionals from various sectors. Students have the chance to connect with professionals, engage in internships, and attend industry events, enhancing their career readiness and expanding their professional networks.
In essence, choosing Athens for higher education is not just about earning a degree; it's about embracing a transformative journey enriched by educational excellence, cultural immersion, vibrant urban experiences, and promising career pathways. The unique blend of academic, historical, and modern elements it offers make the learning journey truly exceptional for international students.

What are my options for educational options, universities, and colleges in Athens?

Thinking about embarking on an exciting academic journey in Athens?
Discover a variety of Bachelor's Programs tailored for diverse interests and Master's Programs designed to meet evolving needs. Whether you're into humanities, sciences, or business, these cities offer something for everyone!

Bachelor's Programs in Athens

Discover a variety of bachelor programs offered by institutions dedicated to providing a comprehensive education.

Master's Programs in Athens

Explore advanced studies with a range of master programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of students.


The Pros of Living and Studying in Athens

Living and studying in Athens offers a harmonious blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and a lively lifestyle. It’s what makes  it an ideal destination for students seeking an exciting, life-changing educational experience!

Here’s a few of the highlights and pros you’ll get by studying abroad in Athens:
● A Unique Cultural Odyssey: Athens is a city like nothing you’ve experienced before. You’ll live among famous places like the Acropolis and enjoy a captivating journey through time, blending ancient history with everyday life in one of Europe’s most striking capitals.
● Prestigious Intellectual Environment: Athens offers a dynamic backdrop for your quest for knowledge. You’ll engage with brilliant educators in an array of esteemed educational institutions that will challenge, nurture, and elevate you.
● Diverse Social Tapestry: Athens is a sprawling tapestry of diverse cultures and individuals. It invites you to forge connections with people from various backgrounds, broaden your social horizons, and form friendships and relationships that will last for a lifetime!
● Vivid Urban Lifestyle: From bustling markets to quaint cafes to a rich nightlife scene, Athens has it all. The city serves as your very own playground, seamlessly blending academic pursuits with the most exciting recreational delights.
● Budget-Friendly Living: Contrary to many European capitals, Athens provides an affordable lifestyle without compromising quality. Come and discover comfortable accommodation, budget-conscious shopping, and delicious dining options that won’t break the bank.
● Mild Mediterranean Climate: Forget about harsh weather - this is the Mediterranean! Enjoy the world-famous Greek weather Athens offers, with cozy winters and warm, sunny summers.
● Professional Networking Hub: Athens serves as Greece’s main hub for significant career opportunities. Engage with seasoned professionals, attend inspiring events, and secure meaningful internships, paving the way for future professional success.
● Island Retreats at Your Doorstep: Athens serves as a gateway to the enchanting Greek Islands, offering accessible retreats to stunning beaches. Picture spending holidays in paradise – Athens opens the door to idyllic getaways!

Do I Need a Visa To Study In Athens?

Are you a citizen of a country that’s a member of the EU?
If yes, then that’s great news! Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa to study in Greece.

But what happens if you’re a non-EU citizen? There’s no reason to worry. You can still study in Athens, but you’ll need a student visa. You’ll just need an official acceptance letter from a college, university, or other institution certified by the Greek Ministry of Education. Make sure to contact the Greek Embassy in your country or consult the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to see a comprehensive list of the documents required for a student visa, as well as information about how to submit your application.

You can also check the Global Visa Center World (GVCW), a one-stop-shop for foreign visa applicants and a full-service provider to the local Greek Consular Authorities in issuing Schengen visas.

What Is It Like to Live and Study in Athens?

Almost no other city in the world — with the few exceptions being places like Rome or Thessaloniki — is defined by its past quite as starkly as Athens. The Greek capital’s heart has been beating for more than two millennia, and the everyday life of its citizens beats along with that same rhythm.

Best places to live

Athens is a pretty big place, and its neighborhoods are as diverse as its people. Nea Smyrni, for example, is a lush family-friendly neighborhood, included in The Guardian’s Top 10 best city neighborhoods in Europe. Chalandri is an up-and-coming northern suburb with a buzzing bar and café scene, also conveniently located a short stroll away from the nature and hiking trails of Mt. Penteli. And Exarcheia, despite its alternative and rebellious character, provides affordable rent opportunities amidst the city’s beating heart of youth and counterculture.
To learn more about each of the various (and charmingly diverse!) neighborhoods of Athens, you can visit this official neighborhood guide.

Cost of living

Compared to other European cities, Athens offers an affordable lifestyle without compromising quality (Numbeo). While the local economy has its challenges, the overall lower cost of living in Athens makes it a great destination for international students looking to study abroad.
Affordable options for accommodation, transportation, and leisure activities make it very possible for students in Athens to strike a balance between academics and a fulfilling lifestyle. Effective budget planning will help you experience everything life at the beating heart of Greece has to offer.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Athens varies based on location and housing type. Opting for the city outskirts or student-friendly neighborhoods can be budget-friendly. Shared apartments and university accommodation options further cut down expenses.
To start the apartment search, students can utilize online platforms like real estate websites, student housing portals, or connect with local real estate agents. Joining social media groups and university forums may also provide valuable insights and recommendations from fellow students who have navigated the housing market. Check out the most popular online greek real estate platform.

Finding roommates

Shared apartments are a popular choice among students, allowing them to split costs, creating a more affordable living arrangement.
Again, joining social media groups and university forums is a good way for students to look for roommates and shared housing opportunities. There are also dedicated websites for that, like myroomie.gr.

Transportation

Public transportation in Athens is generally well-developed and cost-efficient, offering students discounted monthly passes. Walking and cycling are also popular modes of commuting, contributing to a budget-friendly lifestyle. Owning a car is not a necessity for many students, further reducing transportation costs. The options for getting around in Athens include the metro, bus/trolley, tram, and taxi. While there’s a sprawling network of buses that can take you virtually anywhere, traffic can be an issue. That’s why the best way to get around Athens is by metro and on foot, as most of the city’s attractions are usually just a short walk from a metro station.

Exploring the City

Athens provides numerous free or low-cost cultural and recreational activities, ensuring that students can enjoy their leisure time without breaking the bank. Museums, historical sites, and outdoor spaces offer affordable ways to explore the city's rich heritage and natural beauty - and often offer student discounts, too! To make sure you make the most out of your stay in Greece, a good place to start is the official visitors' guide to the City of Athens.

City & Nightlife

From trendy bars and traditional tavernas serving delicious food to famous nightclubs and an active partying scene, the city offers a myriad of options for every taste. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening with friends or dancing until dawn, Athens' nightlife caters to diverse preferences.
What’s more, the local lifestyle can be very different from what international students may be used to, with restaurants, cafes, bars, and other venues staying open and busy until very late in the night.

Finding Work

If you’re a student from a EU/EEA country, then finding work in Athens shouldn’t be an issue. EU/EEA students can stay and work in Greece without a work permit. For Non-EU students, on the other hand, the situation is a bit different, as their residence permit type allows access to internship-type work opportunities only. To find work opportunities in Athens as a student check out Job platforms like Jobfind.gr ,student- or work-related Facebook groups, and LinkedIn.

Healthcare

As a student in Athens, you have access to both the public and private healthcare system. If you’re a holder of an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you’re entitled to access to the Greek public healthcare system on the same terms and conditions as the domestic insured population. To learn more about accessing healthcare services in Greece, visit EOPYY’s website. Non-EU students will be expected to pay for healthcare services, but there’s no reason to worry. The private healthcare and insurance system in Greece is well-organized and can provide you with a wide array of solutions.

Safety

Compared with other European capitals, Athens isn’t a particularly dangerous city to live in (Numbeo). Petty theft and pickpocketing are the most significant crimes students should worry about, and those are usually limited to very crowded and touristic areas. Violent and serious crimes are very rare in Athens.
Here’s the emergency numbers you should keep handy as a student in Athens:
General Emergency: The national emergency number in Greece is 112, the same as the European Emergency Number. It can be used for any emergency, including medical, police, or fire.
Police: For non-emergency situations, you can call the police at 100.
Fire Department: In case of fire, call 199 to reach the fire department.
Medical Emergencies: In case of a medical emergency, dial 166 for ambulance services.

Bachelor’s and Master’s in Athens – Key Takeaways

Embark on a transformative educational journey in the enchanting city of Athens, where historical grandeur converges with modern academic excellence.
Here’s a few key takeaways about getting your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Athens:

Cultural Fusion and Diversity

Athens, with its rich history and diverse population of 3,155,000, welcomes you with open arms. Immerse yourself in a dynamic tapestry of cultures, fostering an atmosphere that makes international students feel at home. The city's warm hospitality, combined with its strategic location on the Attica Peninsula, ensures a unique blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy.

Educational Excellence

Choose Athens for its renowned universities and colleges offering a diverse range of academic programs. Experience a holistic learning environment that blends rigorous academics with practical experiences. Athens not only provides a platform for intellectual growth but also invites students to engage in research initiatives that contribute to their personal and professional development.

Cultural and Historical Immersion

Studying in Athens isn't just about academics; it's a journey through millennia of history. Explore archaeological wonders, museums, and ancient landmarks, seamlessly blending classical heritage with modern city life. Athens offers a unique opportunity to walk through history while pursuing your academic goals.

Vibrant Urban Lifestyle

Athens' dynamic city life adds a vibrant dimension to your student experience. From bustling markets and lively coffee shops to a diverse nightlife scene, the city invites you to actively participate in cultural events, festivals, and modern art exhibitions. Athens ensures a balance between academic pursuits and the excitement of urban life.

Networking and Career Opportunities

As Greece's economic and cultural hub, Athens opens doors to extensive networking opportunities and promising career prospects. Connect with professionals, engage in internships, and attend industry events to enhance your career readiness. Studying in Athens is not just about earning a degree; it's about paving the way for a successful and fulfilling professional journey.

Studying In Athens, Greece - Your Gateway to an Amazing Educational Adventure!

In essence, Athens is more than a city; it's a gateway to an unparalleled educational adventure. Embrace the blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and a lively lifestyle that Athens offers, making your student years truly exceptional.

Your educational odyssey begins here – Athens awaits!

Find the educational program that’s right for you today!