The education system in Cyprus: schools and universities on the island

Cyprus is a small island state in the Mediterranean Sea with a strong education system that is accessible to both local and international students. The Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for the entire education process.

The education system in Cyprus consists of four main levels:

• Pre-school education (for the youngest children).
• Primary education (primary school).
• Secondary education (middle and high school).
• Higher education (universities and colleges).

In this guide, we will elaborate on each of these categories and share useful information for students, parents and teachers.

Overview of the education system in Cyprus

Cyprus, along with Denmark and Sweden, spends about 7% of its GDP on education. Here are the main points you need to know:

• All children must go to school, even if their parents are not residents of Cyprus.
• Most schools teach in Greek and English.
• There are both public and private schools at all levels.
• An equivalent diploma or certificate is required for admission of international students to educational institutions in Cyprus.

​​​​​​​Pre-school education

Since 2004, the Cypriot Government has made pre-school education compulsory for all children.

Highlights:

• Age of admission: 3-5 years.
• It is mandatory from 4 years and 8 months.
• Types of institutions: municipal, community and private kindergartens.
• Language of instruction: Mainly Greek, some private institutions offer instruction in English or other languages.
• The focus of the curriculum is primary school preparation, social skills development and early learning.

Types of preschool institutions:

Cost and enrollment:

• State kindergartens: 45-150 euros per month, depending on the number of hours of attendance.
• Private kindergartens: from 130 to 500 euros per month.
• Meals: about 2 euros per day (often paid separately).
• Additional fees may include registration fee, health insurance and deposits.

Primary education

Primary education in Cyprus is compulsory and forms the basis of a child’s academic path. 

Highlights:

• A must for all children.
• The duration of study is six years (from 1st to 6th grade).
• Age range: 5.5-12 years.
• The curriculum is established by the Ministry of Education and Culture.
• Language of instruction: Greek in public schools, different languages in private schools.
• Focus on the main subjects: Greek, mathematics, natural sciences, history.
• There are no written exams at the end of the year.
• Creative and exciting homework.
• The maximum number of students in a class is 25 students.

Types of schools:

Secondary education

After primary school, students in Cyprus move on to secondary education. This is similar to what is called middle and high school in many countries.

Incomplete secondary education (gymnasium):

• Duration: 3 years (grades 7-9).
• Age fork: 12-15 years old.
• Mandatory for all students.
• Focus on general education subjects.
• Weekly load: 38 hours.

General secondary education

After graduating from the gymnasium, students can choose one of two paths:

1. Lyceum:
   • Duration: 3 years (grades 10-12).
   • Prepares students for university admission.
   • A combination of compulsory subjects and elective subjects is assumed.
   • Weekly load: 35 hours. ​​​​​​​
2. Technical school
   • Duration: 3 years.
   • Emphasis on professional and technical training.
   • Prepares students for a specific profession or further technical education.

The curriculum at the lyceum is divided into three categories:

• Compulsory subjects: basic subjects, like in a gymnasium.
• Specialized subjects: students choose them based on their interests and plans for the future.
• Electives: additional subjects to choose from.

Specialization options in the 10th grade include:

• Ancient Greek language and history.
• Physics and mathematics.
• Economics and mathematics.
• English and Economics.

In grades 11 and 12, students can choose specializations such as:

• Classical and humanitarian sciences.
• Foreign languages and European studies.
• Natural and biological sciences, computer science and technology.
• Economic research.
• Trade and services.
• Art.

Briefly about exams and certification:

• Annual exams for the transition to the next grade in grades 7-11.
• Final exams in the 12th grade, which also serve as entrance exams to universities in Cyprus and Greece.
• Graduates receive a school graduation certificate (Apolyterion).

Higher education

Higher education in Cyprus adheres to the Bologna system and applies the European System of Transfer and Accumulation of Points (ECTS).

Levels of higher education:

1. Bachelor course:
   • Duration: 3-4 years.
   • ECTS scores: 180-240.
2. Magistracy:
   • Duration: 1-2 years.
   • ECTS scores: 60-120.
3. Doctoral studies:
   • Duration: 3-8 years.
   • ECTS scores: Not applicable.

Types of higher education institutions:

Famous higher education institutions:

• University of Cyprus (public).
• Cyprus University of Technology (public).
• The Open University of Cyprus (public).
• University of Nicosia (private).
• European University of Cyprus (private).
• Frederick University (private).
• University of Neapolis Paphos (private).

The cost of higher education:

• Public universities: free of charge for students from the EU/EEA, 3400-3700 euros per year for non-EU students.
• Private universities: 4000-14000 euros per year for bachelor’s degree programs, 8000-22000 euros per year for master’s and doctoral programs.

​​​​​​​International education in Cyprus

International universities and schools in Cyprus are licensed and regulated by the Ministry of Education and Culture.

British schools:

• Private school “Pascal” (accredited by International Baccalaureate World Schools).
• The Heritage Private School & Institute (accredited by The British Council International School).
• Silverline Private School (accredited by UK examination bodies of Edexcel and Cambridge).

British Universities:

• UCLAN is the University of Central Lancashire (accredited by the British Computing Society).

Russian schools in Cyprus:

• The Russian school at the Embassy (accredited by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation).

At the moment there are no accredited Russian universities in Cyprus.

Requirements for admission of international students:

• Equivalent certificate/diploma (on completion of the previous level of education).
• National entrance exam.

For students from non-EU countries:

• Permission from the Embassy of Cyprus at the place of residence (Diplomatic mission of Cyprus).
• Application for a student visa.

Famous universities and schools in Cyprus by area

Nicosia:

• Schools: American International School in Cyprus, American Academy in Nicosia, private school “Pascal” in Nicosia.
• Universities: University of Nicosia, University of Cyprus, Medical School of the University of Nicosia.

Limassol:

• Schools: Heritage Private School, Foley’s Grammar School.
• Universities: Cyprus University of Technology, Cyprus College of Arts.

Pathos:

• Schools: Paphos International School, Archbishop Makarios III Lyceum, also known as Dasoupolis Lyceum.
• Universities: Neopolis University of Pafos.

Larnaca:

• Schools: American Academy of Larnaca, Pascal School Larnaca, Primary School “Agios Lazaros”.
• Universities: University of Central Lancashire.

Schools and universities in Northern Cyprus are not recognized in the Republic of Cyprus — they are accredited by the Council for Higher Education in Turkey and are recognized by most universities around the world.

Frequently Asked questions about the education system in Cyprus

Is education compulsory in Cyprus?

Yes, education in Cyprus is compulsory for all children, even those whose parents are not permanent residents. It is mandatory from preschool age (starting from 4 years and 8 months) until the end of incomplete secondary education (up to about 15 years of age).

What languages are taught in schools in Cyprus?

In public schools, the main language of instruction is Greek. However, many private schools offer instruction in English; some also offer other languages such as Russian. English is also widely used in higher education institutions, especially in private universities.

Are there international schools in Cyprus?

Yes, there are several international schools in Cyprus, including British, American and Russian schools.

How much does education cost in Cyprus?

Public education in Cyprus is free for EU citizens and residents. For private education, the cost varies: private kindergartens: 130-500 euros per month; private primary and secondary schools: 1000-6000 euros per year; private universities: 4000-14,000 euros per year for bachelor’s degree programs; 8000-22000 euros for master’s and doctoral programs.

Can international students study at universities in Cyprus?

Yes, international students can study at both public and private universities in Cyprus. However, they need to meet certain requirements, including having an equivalent diploma/certificate and, for non-EU students, obtaining a student visa.

Are Cypriot universities internationally recognized?

Yes, Cyprus universities, both public and private, are internationally recognized. The country adheres to the Bologna system and uses the European Points Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).

Author

Yulia Yanukovych Editor-in-Chief

I am responsible for the work of the editorial office. I write expert interviews and guides.

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