Just like anywhere else, the educational system in Cyprus has its own peculiarities. Not surprisingly, the most popular specialties offered by universities in Cyprus are Hospitality Business and Tourism, although the list of all available programs is by no means limited to these ones. Although Cyprus is a member of the EU and the Bologna system, most schools and colleges are based on the American system of education, which gives students the opportunity to choose their academic load and vary their course. It has a positive impact both on students’ leisure time and tuition fee, as the fewer subjects you study, the less you pay.
At the same time, it is somewhat more complicated for the foreigners, since education for them is more expensive and, under the Cyprus immigration law, they are not allowed to work more hours than prescribed by the legislation. Nevertheless, the cost of education in Cyprus is accessible, and although it grows annually, this increase correlates to the inflation index. On average, tuition fees range between 3,400 and 8,000 EUR/year, or at around 314 EUR/module.
In educational institutions based on the more conservative European system, the curriculum and payments are fixed and all talented students (including foreigners) are eligible for a scholarship or reduction of fees.
The structure of the academic year
In most colleges classes start in February or the beginning of October. However, foreigners should register two-three weeks in advance. Institutions also receive rolling admissions for the next start date. There are no pass-fail exams. Instead, a system of testing, research essays, and group projects is used. However, the students usually take two exams in each course (subject) – in the middle and at the end of the term.
Comfy accommodation and attractive facilities
Students are provided with the necessary conditions for a successful and comfortable study, as well as help with accommodation. The accommodation system is designed in such a way that a place in a dormitory should be primarily given to newcomers and foreigners, but the “first come, first served” approach is still widely practiced.