Choosing the Top Universities in Greece is one of the smartest study abroad decisions you can make in 2026. Greece offers affordable tuition, rich culture, quality education, and scholarship opportunities for international students from all over the world. Many Greek universities are public institutions with low fees for non EU students, a range of English taught degrees, and strong global rankings that make them attractive for bachelors, master’s, and PhD programs. Tuition for non EU international students usually starts around €1,500 per year for public universities and can vary depending on the program and institution.
The Top Universities in Greece also provide scholarship options such as government scholarships, Erasmus+ funding, and university-specific funding opportunities. These support systems help reduce the cost of study, especially for high achieving and financially needy international students. Key scholarships include the Hellenic State Scholarships Foundation (IKY) and Erasmus+ programs that cover tuition, living costs, and travel in some cases. Many universities also offer merit and achievement-based support directly to international students.
| University | Country | Approx. Annual Tuition (€) |
|---|---|---|
| National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece | €1,500-€5,000 |
| Aristotle University of Thessaloniki | Greece | €1,500-€6,000 |
| University of Patras | Greece | €1,500-€3,500 |
| Athens University of Economics and Business | Greece | €1,500-€5,000 |
| University of Crete | Greece | €1,500-€3,000 |
| University of Ioannina | Greece | €1,500-€3,000 |
| National Technical University of Athens | Greece | €1,500-€5,000 |
| University of Peloponnese | Greece | €1,500-€3,000 |
| Harokopio University of Athens | Greece | €1,500-€3,000 |
| Democritus University of Thrace | Greece | €1,500-€3,000 |
| University of the Aegean | Greece | €1,500-€3,500 |
| Panteion University | Greece | €1,500-€3,500 |
| University of Western Macedonia | Greece | €2,000-€4,000 |
| International Hellenic University | Greece | €4,000-€6,000 |
| Ionian University | Greece | €3,000-€5,000 |
1. National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens is one of the most reputable public universities in Greece and frequently cited among the Top Universities in Greece for international students. It is well known for strong research programs, especially in the sciences, humanities, and medicine, and features collaborations across Europe. The university also has scholarship opportunities for international students focused on merit and academic performance.
2. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is one of the largest and most respected public universities in Greece. It offers a wide range of disciplines including humanities, engineering, sciences, and medicine. Scholarships at this university often cover tuition and may include monthly stipends for eligible international students.
3. University of Patras
The University of Patras is known for its strong research output and growing international profile. International students joining here can often access merit-based scholarships that support tuition costs. The university is also part of Erasmus+ agreements, making student mobility easier.
4. Athens University of Economics and Business
This institution specializes in economics, business, and social sciences. It is highly attractive for international students interested in business and finance careers. Scholarship opportunities are available for students with academic excellence and leadership experience.
5. University of Crete
The University of Crete is recognized for a combination of strong academic programs and beautiful campus life. International students at this university can benefit from scholarship initiatives that consider academic excellence and financial need.
6. University of Ioannina
This growing public university offers programs across sciences, social sciences, and technology fields. Scholarships are available based on academic merit and other eligibility criteria.
7. National Technical University of Athens
One of Greece’s oldest technical universities, NTUA is especially prestigious for engineering, architecture, and science programs. Scholarship funding is available for high-performing international students in technical fields.
8. University of Peloponnese
The University of Peloponnese operates across several campuses and is known for business, humanities, and cultural studies. International students often receive institutional scholarships focused on academic excellence.
9. Harokopio University of Athens
Harokopio University focuses on environmental studies, health sciences, and media studies. International students may access research or performance-based scholarships.
10. Democritus University of Thrace
Located in northern Greece, this university is known for its diverse study fields including engineering, natural sciences, and law. Scholarship opportunities support international students.
11. University of the Aegean
The University of the Aegean has campuses across several islands and is known for environmental science, marine studies, and social sciences. Students may receive scholarships based on academic merit.
12. Panteion University
Panteion University specializes in social and political sciences. It provides scholarship support to international students who show strong academic performance.
13. University of Western Macedonia
This institution serves a wide range of academic fields. Scholarships are available for international students, especially in postgraduate programs.
14. International Hellenic University
This university offers many programs in English for international students, making it popular for global education seekers. Scholarships are available based on program level and performance.
15. Ionian University
Known for arts, music studies, and liberal arts programs, Ionian University also offers competitive international scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Top Universities in Greece?
Top Universities in Greece include National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University of Patras, and others known for strong academics, low tuition, and international appeal.
Can international students work while studying at the Top Universities in Greece?
Yes non-EU students can usually work limited hours during term time and full-time during breaks with the appropriate permit.
Do international students need to speak Greek to study at Top Universities in Greece?
Some programs are offered in English especially at the master’s level but others may require Greek language proficiency.
What scholarship programs are best for international students in Greece?
Popular scholarship programs include IKY scholarships and Erasmus+ funding available at many Top Universities in Greece.
Is tuition free for EU students at Top Universities in Greece?
Yes public universities in Greece generally offer free undergraduate tuition for EU/EEA students.
What documents are needed for admissions to Top Universities in Greece?
Typical documents include academic transcripts proof of English proficiency and a valid passport.
