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Greece – Education and Schools

Quality of Education in Greece

Education in Greece is of a high standard and the country has a strong focus on academic excellence. The Greek government provides funding for schools and invests heavily in teacher training and educational resources.

Compulsory Education Age in Greece

Education in Greece is compulsory for children aged between six and 15 years old.

Types of Schools in Greece

In Greece, there are several types of schools, including:

1. Primary Schools

Primary schools provide education for children aged between six and 12 years old. These schools offer a broad range of subjects, including mathematics, science, language, social studies, physical education, and art.

2. Gymnasiums


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Gymnasiums provide education for children aged between 12 and 15 years old. These schools offer a more specialized education and prepare students for further education or vocational training.

3. Lyceums

Lyceums provide education for students aged between 15 and 18 years old. These schools offer a more advanced education and prepare students for university or vocational training.

4. Private Schools

Private schools in Greece are funded by tuition fees and often provide a higher quality of education than public schools. Private schools are more common in urban areas and tend to be more expensive than public schools.

5. International Schools

International schools in Greece offer instruction in English and follow an international curriculum. These schools are mainly aimed at expatriate families or local families who plan to study abroad.

Syllabus and Qualifications in Greece

In Greece, schools follow a national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education. Primary education covers a range of subjects, including mathematics, science, language, social studies, physical education, and art.

At the end of gymnasium, students take the Panhellenic Examination, which determines whether they can go on to further education or vocational training. Students who pass the examination are awarded a certificate of completion.

School Hours and Holidays in Greece

The typical school day in Greece starts at 8:00 am and ends at 2:00 pm, Monday to Friday. However, some schools may have different schedules. The school year in Greece runs from September to June, with breaks for Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays.

Enrolling in a School in Greece

To enroll in a school in Greece, students must provide a copy of their birth certificate or passport, a health certificate, and proof of address. In some cases, students may also need to provide academic records from their previous school.

Enrollment in public schools is generally straightforward, but there may be more competition for enrollment in private schools and international schools.

International Schools in Greece

There are several international schools in Greece, including:

These schools offer an international curriculum and instruction in English.

Higher Education in Greece

Greece has several universities and technical schools, including:

  • Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
  • National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
  • Athens University of Economics and Business
  • Technical University of Crete

These universities offer a range of degree programs, including engineering, medicine, law, and social sciences.

To enroll in higher education in Greece, students must typically have completed upper secondary education and passed the Panhellenic Examination.

Education in Greece is highly valued and the country has a strong focus on academic excellence. The Greek government provides funding for schools and invests heavily in teacher training and educational resources. The country offers a variety of school options, including primary schools, gymnasiums, lyceums, private schools, and international schools. Greece also has a range of universities and technical schools offering degree programs in various fields. While the education system in Greece faces challenges, such as funding issues and a high dropout rate, it continues to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of students and society.