International Education in Greece: Finding the Perfect School for Expat Families
Reading time: 9 minutes
Table of Contents
- Introduction to International Education in Greece
- Why Choose International Schools in Greece
- Top International Schools Across Greece
- Understanding Curriculum Options
- Admission Process and Requirements
- Costs and Financial Considerations
- Relocating to Greece: Practical Considerations
- Your Educational Roadmap: Making the Right Choice
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction to International Education in Greece
Relocating to Greece with family in tow brings the critical question: where will your children continue their education? Greece, with its rich historical legacy and growing expat communities, offers a surprising array of international educational options that balance global standards with local cultural immersion.
For many expat families, finding the right school represents the cornerstone of a successful transition to Greek life. Whether you’re moving to Athens for a corporate position, settling in Thessaloniki for academic pursuits, or pursuing island living while working remotely, educational continuity for your children remains paramount.
As Maria Papadopoulos, education consultant for expatriate families, explains: “The right international school creates a bridge between worlds—preserving academic continuity while introducing children to Greek culture, language, and perspective. This dual immersion often becomes the most enriching aspect of an international move.”
Why Choose International Schools in Greece
When relocating to Greece, families typically explore three educational paths: local Greek schools, international schools, or homeschooling. For most expatriates, international schools offer several compelling advantages:
- Language continuity: Instruction primarily in English with Greek language learning integrated at appropriate levels
- Curriculum familiarity: Following recognized international frameworks (IB, British, American) that maintain educational consistency
- Global university pathways: Preparation and credentials recognized by higher education institutions worldwide
- Cultural diversity: Learning alongside students from multiple nationalities, creating a globally-minded perspective
- Transition support: Staff experienced in helping third-culture kids navigate cultural adjustments
Case in point: The Johnson family moved from London to Athens in 2021 when father Michael accepted a position with a multinational corporation. Their two children, ages 8 and 12, enrolled in an IB international school. “The curriculum alignment meant they didn’t miss academic beats,” shares Sarah Johnson. “But the unexpected benefit was how quickly they integrated—the school’s orientation program for new families and buddy system helped them feel connected within weeks.”
Top International Schools Across Greece
Athens International Schools
Athens, as Greece’s capital and largest expatriate hub, hosts the most diverse selection of international educational institutions:
American Community Schools (ACS Athens)
Offering all three IB programs alongside an American curriculum, ACS Athens serves students from over 60 countries. Its 25-acre campus in Halandri includes state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts facilities, and athletic courts.
Campion School
Following the British curriculum with IGCSE and A-Level qualifications, Campion maintains a reputation for academic excellence while offering extensive extracurricular programming from robotics to competitive sports.
St. Catherine’s British School
Providing British education from nursery through secondary, St. Catherine’s balances rigorous academics with emphasis on creative arts and multilingualism, including robust Greek language instruction.
Thessaloniki Options
Greece’s second city offers fewer but still excellent international education options:
Pinewood International School
American curriculum-based education with IB Diploma offerings and AP courses. Located in the Thermi area, Pinewood serves northern Greece’s expatriate community with comprehensive programming from Pre-K through Grade 12.
Mandoulides Schools
While primarily a Greek school, Mandoulides offers strong international sections with English-language instruction and preparation for external examinations like the IB.
Island-Based Educational Institutions
Families settling on Greek islands face more limited options but can still find international education, particularly on larger islands:
St. Lawrence College, Crete (Heraklion)
A British curriculum school offering education through GCSE and A-levels for the growing expatriate community in Crete.
International School of Rhodes
A smaller but comprehensive option following a modified British curriculum for families based on Rhodes.
For families considering property investment alongside educational opportunities, exploring property for sale greece near established international schools often represents a sound long-term strategy, combining lifestyle preferences with practical educational access.
Understanding Curriculum Options
International schools in Greece typically offer one of three primary curriculum frameworks:
| Curriculum | Key Features | Examination Structure | University Pathways | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | Inquiry-based learning; global perspective; theory of knowledge component | Internal assessments + final examinations; points-based scoring (max 45) | Globally recognized; especially strong for European universities | Globally mobile families; academically motivated students |
| British Curriculum | Subject specialization; structured progression; focus on depth in fewer subjects | IGCSEs (ages 14-16); A-Levels (ages 16-18) | Strong recognition in UK, Commonwealth, and globally | Families with UK connections; students preferring early specialization |
| American Curriculum | Breadth of subjects; flexibility in course selection; credit-based system | Continuous assessment; SAT/ACT for college admission | Designed for US universities but increasingly recognized globally | American families or those planning US university attendance |
| Hybrid Models | Combines elements from multiple systems plus Greek language/culture | Varies by institution | Multiple pathways possible | Families planning long-term residence in Greece |
Educational consultant Dr. Elena Mavromatis advises: “Consider not just your current country ties but future university plans. A student planning to study medicine in Germany will benefit from different preparation than one aiming for a liberal arts education in the United States.”
Admission Process and Requirements
International schools in Greece typically maintain selective admissions processes. While procedures vary between institutions, most follow these general steps:
- Initial inquiry and campus tour – Begin 6-12 months before intended enrollment if possible
- Application submission – Includes previous academic records, teacher recommendations, and application fee
- Assessment – May include entrance examinations in core subjects and English language proficiency
- Student interview – Schools assess fit while allowing students to ask questions
- Parent interview – Discussion of educational philosophy and family-school alignment
- Decision and enrollment – Upon acceptance, payment of registration fee to secure placement
Required documentation typically includes:
- Previous school transcripts (translated if not in English or Greek)
- Immunization records conforming to Greek health requirements
- Residency documentation
- Passport copies
Pro Tip: Many premium international schools maintain waiting lists, particularly for certain grade levels. Early application is strongly recommended, especially for families planning moves during standard academic years.
Costs and Financial Considerations
International education represents a significant investment for expatriate families in Greece. Understanding the full financial picture beyond published tuition rates is essential for proper planning.
Fee Structures and Additional Costs
International school expenses in Greece typically include:
The Anderson family’s experience illustrates how costs can accumulate: “Beyond the €14,000 annual tuition for our daughter at an Athens international school, we pay approximately €2,500 yearly for transportation, €1,200 for mandatory school excursions, €800 for uniforms, and various additional fees for extracurricular activities. The total exceeds €19,000 annually—a cost we’re fortunate to have partially subsidized by my employer.”
Financial Planning Strategies
Consider these approaches to manage international education costs:
- Corporate education packages: Many multinational employers offer education allowances as part of expatriate compensation packages
- Sibling discounts: Most schools offer 5-15% reductions for second and subsequent children
- Early payment discounts: Some institutions offer 3-5% reductions for annual payment versus quarterly installments
- Scholarships: Limited merit scholarships exist at select schools, particularly for secondary students with exceptional academic, athletic, or artistic achievements
- Tax planning: Consult with expatriate tax specialists about potential education deductions depending on your nationality and employment structure
Relocating to Greece: Practical Considerations
Securing appropriate international education integrates with broader relocation planning. Consider these practical aspects when orchestrating your move:
Location and Housing Strategy
Housing proximity to selected schools significantly impacts daily quality of life. Traffic congestion in Athens can make even modest distances time-consuming during peak hours. Many families prioritize housing within 5-10 kilometers of their children’s school, even when this means compromise on other housing preferences.
The Martinez family shared their experience: “We initially rented in southern Athens due to proximity to my husband’s work, but the 45-minute school commute each way became unsustainable. After six months, we relocated to Kifissia, sacrificing some living space but gaining nearly two hours daily in family time thanks to the ten-minute school journey.”
For families considering property investment, researching property for sale greece in established expatriate neighborhoods with proximity to international schools often offers the best balance of lifestyle and practical considerations.
Community Integration
International schools function as social hubs for expatriate families. Parent associations, school events, and informal networks provide essential community connections. Dr. Alexandra Nikolaou, child psychologist specializing in expatriate transitions, notes: “For many families, the school community becomes the primary social structure during their first year in Greece, offering both practical support and cultural navigation assistance.”
Take advantage of:
- Parent welcome committees and buddy systems
- Grade-level WhatsApp or social media groups
- Parent-teacher organizations
- Volunteer opportunities within the school
- Weekend family activities organized by class parents
Your Educational Roadmap: Making the Right Choice
Finding the perfect educational fit requires methodical evaluation against your family’s specific needs and circumstances. Consider this strategic approach:
- Define your educational priorities – Create a family discussion around what matters most: academic rigor, creative opportunities, sports programs, cultural integration, or specialized learning support
- Research based on timeframe
- 12+ months before relocation: Begin comprehensive research, request virtual interviews
- 6-12 months: Schedule in-person visits during a reconnaissance trip
- 3-6 months: Complete applications to top choice and backup schools
- Under 3 months: Consider interim solutions while pursuing preferred options
- Evaluate with a critical eye – Look beyond impressive facilities to classroom dynamics, teacher qualifications, and student outcomes
- Connect with current families – Request the school connect you with existing expatriate parents for candid feedback
- Consider long-term educational continuity – Especially for older students, analyze how curriculum aligns with university aspirations
Remember that finding the right educational fit isn’t just about academic excellence—it’s about creating conditions where your child can thrive holistically while navigating the significant transition of international relocation. The best educational environment provides stability and growth opportunities during a period of substantial change.
As your family embarks on this Greek educational journey, remain open to adjustments. The school that initially seems perfect may reveal limitations, while an institution lower on your original list might surprisingly align with your child’s unique needs and personality. Maintaining flexibility while advocating for your child’s specific requirements will lead to the most successful educational outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do international schools in Greece teach Greek language?
Yes, virtually all international schools in Greece include Greek language instruction, though with varying intensity. Most offer tiered Greek language programs with separate tracks for beginners, intermediate learners, and native/heritage speakers. Additionally, many schools incorporate Greek cultural studies, history, and traditions into their broader curriculum to help students connect with their host country.
How difficult is mid-year admission to international schools in Greece?
Mid-year admission possibilities vary significantly by school and grade level. Premium international schools in Athens often maintain waiting lists for popular entry points (particularly K, Grade 6, and Grade 9), making mid-year placement challenging. However, most schools maintain some flexibility for expatriate families with corporate relocations. For mid-year transfers, be prepared to provide extensive academic records and potentially arrange for assessment testing prior to physical relocation to secure placement.
What support do international schools offer for non-English speaking students?
Most international schools provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, though approaches differ. Some offer intensive English immersion before mainstreaming students, while others provide pull-out support during regular school hours. For older students (typically above Grade 6), many schools require a minimum English proficiency level for admission. Some schools charge additional fees for intensive language support, typically ranging from €1,500-3,000 annually depending on support level required. Always inquire specifically about language support structures and any associated costs during the application process.
Article reviewed by Michelle Hope, Real Estate and Investment Expert, on April 29, 2025
