Language Courses in Greece

Features of admission to Greek language schools

Enrollment in Greek language courses is the same as in other countries — a foreigner chooses a school and program, fills out an application, and pays the registration and tuition fees. Next, the school sends an invitation for a Greek visa.

Admission to university courses is similar. But when filling out an application, you must attach the following documents:

• Passport copy
• Entry visa^[1]
• Copies of previous education documents (with translations into English or Greek)
• Tuition and registration payment receipt

On the first day of school, students take a language test. Some centers and universities offer to pass it online before arriving in Greece. Students are divided into groups according to the results.

Taking Greek language courses

Hospitable Greece offers numerous opportunities to learn the language and immerse yourself in the ancient culture. Students can choose a convenient manner and place of study — at Greek university centers or private language schools.

The former offer long-term courses lasting from one semester to an academic year, along with short-term summer programs. Such courses are offered by the most popular Greek universities, such as Aristotle University of Thessaloniki or the Kapodistrian University of Athens. Programs include not only the study of the language, but also preparation for the Greek as a foreign language exam. The exam is conducted at the same universities. Upon completion of the course, students receive ECTS credits.

At Greek language schools, there are many more options: from intensive courses lasting 1-2 weeks to Business and Ancient Greek. Such courses are suitable for students of all levels and available throughout the year. Classes usually start every Monday, while Beginner courses have a separate schedule.

A feature of Greek courses is small groups, in which the number of students rarely exceeds 7-8 people. This allows the teacher to pay undivided attention to each student.

Visa for language courses in Greece

For courses that last less than 3 months, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. To do this, you need to fill out a questionnaire and submit it to the visa center or Greek embassy.

Required documents:

• Visa application form
• Passport (must be valid for at least 3 months after the trip)
• Photo
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Civil passport copy
• Medical insurance
• Enrollment confirmation
• Proof of financial solvency

To take a language course lasting more than 90 days, you need to apply for a national category D visa. Long-term visa applications are considered by the Greek Consulate from 6 weeks to 3 months.

Documents for a national visa:

• Visa application form
• Enrollment confirmation
• Consular fee payment
• Two photos
• Passport (must be valid for at least 3 months after the trip)
• Certified absence of a criminal record
• Housing reservation in Greece
• Medical certificate (proof that the applicant is not sick with diseases dangerous to others)
• Medical insurance
• Proof of financial solvency

If the student is under the age of 18, they must present a letter of consent from their parents or legal guardian.

Most popular language schools in Greece

The Lamda Project

The Lamda Project is a language school in Athens. The prices here are high — 373 USD for a week of Standard Intensive courses. However, after lessons, students attend workshops on Greek culture, go to festivals and attractions, learn traditional Greek dances, and try national dishes. All this is included in the program cost.

Standard Greek lessons can be supplemented with classes on mythology and Greek literature. If you are going to study at a Greek university, then the Lamda Project offers a preparation course for the language exam. The Mixed Greek Locations is for those who do not want to spend their entire trip in Athens. As part of the program, you get to study on the island of Tinos for several weeks.

The Lamda Project provides its students with three accommodation options: hostels, host families, or mini-apartments.

School of Modern Greek Language, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

The School of Greek at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki offers standard language courses. They last 3-5 months, but there are also annual programs.

This university is one of the centers that organize language exams. Therefore, if your goal is to enter a bachelor's or master's program in Greece, then here you can attain a B2 language level within a year and pass the test.