When does the academic year start in Greece?
The academic year in Greece typically starts in September, with slight variations depending on the university, degree level, and program type. This schedule applies to most public and private universities, including programs taught in English for international students.
Official Start of the Academic Year in Greece
For most universities in Greece:
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Academic year begins: September
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First semester starts: Mid-September to early October
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Second semester starts: February
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Academic year ends: June or early July
Exact dates are confirmed by each university annually.
Semester Structure in Greece
Greek universities follow a two-semester system.
First Semester (Fall Semester)
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Starts: September / early October
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Ends: January
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Includes:
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Lectures
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Mid-term assessments
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End-semester exams
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Second Semester (Spring Semester)
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Starts: February
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Ends: May or June
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Includes:
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Coursework
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Final exams
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Project submissions
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Some programs also include summer exams or internships between June and July.
When Do English-Taught Programs Start?
Most English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs follow the same timeline:
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Main intake: September
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Limited programs may offer:
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February intake (less common, mostly for Master’s)
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Students should always check the specific intake mentioned on the program page.
Application Timeline for Greece (2026 Intake)
To study in Greece in 2026, students should plan early:
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Applications open: January – March 2026
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Application deadlines: April – June 2026
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Admission offers: May – July 2026
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Visa process: July – August 2026
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Classes begin: September 2026
Early application helps with visa processing, accommodation, and scholarships.
Orientation and Arrival Period
Most universities organise:
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Orientation sessions
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Registration and document verification
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Campus and city introductions
Students are advised to arrive in Greece:
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2–3 weeks before classes start
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To complete residence formalities and settle in
Exceptions and Special Cases
Some programs may have different schedules:
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Medical and health-related programs may start slightly earlier
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Private colleges may have flexible start dates
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Short-term or foundation programs may begin at different times
Always rely on the official university admission letter for confirmed dates.
Key Takeaway
The academic year in Greece usually starts in September, with the main intake for international students aligned to the fall semester. Most English-taught programs follow this structure, making Greece a predictable and well-organised study destination.
Students planning for 2026 admissions should begin applications early to avoid delays.
