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Are you considering studying in CYPRUS? Cyprus is one of the oldest countries in the world with rich cultural history, so it is popular to study in Cyprus for international students. The country is divided into Northern Cyprus, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Southern Cyprus. Northern Cyprus is the least developed part of the country. However, the economy is growing rapidly due to increased tourism. Southern Cyprus is the wealthiest region of the country. Its primary economic activity is agriculture.
Nisitra, the second biggest city in Cyprus, is located near the north coast. In addition to being a tourist hub, it is also a major agricultural centre. Limassol is the capital of Cyprus. It is one of the wealthiest towns in the country. Neapolis is another town located along the southern coastline. It is famous for its archaeological sites, such as the Palace of Menelaus.
Country Information – Benefits to be in CYPRUS
Studying in Cyprus, Visiting Cyprus or moving for work to Cyprus! In recent years, Cyprus, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why.
Does over 300 days of sunshine a year and a summer stretching from May to October, with a Mediterranean climate sound like your perfect study abroad destination? With its rich natural beauty, unique vegetation, golden beaches, and clear waters, Cyprus is ready to accompany you to make your educational and social life abroad a unique experience. Besides its beautiful landscape, Cyprus is also becoming a centre of education in the region with the help of investments from large international organizations.
Cyprus is an island divided into northern and southern parts. The northern part is led by Turkey and it is called the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Southern Cyprus is led by Greece and it is called the Republic of Cyprus. Cyprus is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, located in the south of Turkey. Northern Cyprus is located in the northeastern part of the island of Cyprus. Although the two countries of Northern and Southern Cyprus are on the same island and connected, their laws, culture, and even language are different from each other.
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Cyprus. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Cyprus.
Studying in Cyprus may be interesting for many students, as in addition to the well-ranked universities in the country, the cost of studying in Cyprus is also very reasonable. Cyprus provides a great opportunity for students to study in different fields such as finance, art, music, and medical and paramedical fields. One of the most important things that make studying in Cyprus ideal for many students is the possibility of studying medicine entrance exam to be accepted in this field.
Higher education in Cyprus is provided in both public and private institutions. The Department of Higher Tertiary Education (DAAE) in Cyprus has taken big measures to increase funding, research, and interest for higher education. The DAAE also established a Council of Educational Evaluation-Accreditation which aims to keep a constant level of education in Cyprus and make sure that infrastructure and equipment live up to these standards. Since Cyprus became a member of the EU in 2004 the role of higher education in the country has grown even bigger and the Open University of Cyprus has opened its doors.
Students can choose from different institutions of higher education at which to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree. On average, a bachelor’s degree will take four years, while a master’s can be completed in one to two years. The length it takes to complete a doctorate degree varies widely, but on average, it can take anywhere from three to five years.
If that sounds at all interesting to you, join the over twenty thousand students for an adventure of a lifetime in Cyprus! The education system in Cyprus offers three degrees: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Cyprus offers a wide-range of degree programs in numerous fields and disciplines. As an international student, you are welcome to complete all or part of your education in Cyprus. Like other countries, there are both public and private universities.
- Bachelors Degree: The bachelor’s degree in Cyprus is four years. To study at the undergraduate level, it is necessary to have a diploma along with transcripts. Students must pass at least 250 credits in this course. To study in Cyprus for a bachelor’s degree, one must offer IELTS 5.5 or 6. Of course, studying in Cyprus is also possible without a language degree. In that case, the student’s English level will be determined, through a language test, and depending on their level, an English language course will be held for him/her in Cyprus.
- Master’s Degree: The Master’s degree in Cyprus follows a two-year education system that consists of four semesters. People who want to study for a master’s degree must have a bachelor’s degree related to their field of study. To enter the universities of Cyprus as a postgraduate student you do not need to pass a special exam and admission is based on the student’s academic record. Master’s degree, as well as a doctorate degree in Cyprus, is in English, but an English language degree is not required. If you have an IELTS 6.5 degree or equivalent, you will not be required to take a language test. The list of master’s degree programs at the University of Cyprus is so extensive that all applicants can study in a field of interest that matches their educational background.
- Doctorate Degree: Studying for a doctorate in Cyprus is often done through research, and like the world standard system, it consists of eight courses and a dissertation. Therefore, it takes three to five years to complete a doctorate at a Cyprus university. In order to study for a doctorate, it is necessary for an applicant to provide the necessary documents, including a master’s degree.
List of Top Cyprus Universities:
- University of Cyprus
- Cyprus University of Technology
- Eastern Mediterranean University
- Near East University
- University of Nicosia
- European University Cyprus
- European University of Lefke
- Frederick University
- Cyprus International University
- Girne Üniversitesi
- Girne Amerikan Üniversitesi
- American College
- Alexander College
- City Unity College Nicosia
- Akdeniz Karpaz Üniversitesi
- College of Tourism and Hotel Management
- A. College
- The CTL Eurocollege
- ARTE Music Academy
- Cyprus Fulbright Commission
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Cyprus? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Cyprian university.
English Language Tests for International Students: Cyprus English Proficiency Test Certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL are not a compulsory requirement to prove command over English language. The applicants who are not native of an English-speaking country can either prove their proficiency in English language through IELTS or TOEFL test or take University’s English Placement Test (EPT) after arriving in Cyprus. If in the Cyprus University’s English Placement Test (EPT) the applicant fails to prove proficiency in language or fails to attain required passing grade they will be offered to take an additional course of English language in Cyprus along with their other study programme. The required scores in IELTS or TOEFL or University’s English Placement Test (EPT) are as follows:
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. The most common requirement to study in Cyprus in an English-language Masters or Bachelor’s degree programme. Undergraduate applicants are required to achieve a minimum of IELTS 6.0 with 5.5 in each component or equivalent. Postgraduate applicants are required to achieve a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 in each component or equivalent. When applying to universities in Cyprus, keep in mind that the minimum IELTS score required may vary depending on the institution and program.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Cyprus universities and colleges. 213 in computer based TOEFL test and 79 in internet-based test, 550 in paper-based test. The minimum required TOEFL score varies depending on the institution, with a typical range of 70 to 90.
- DUOLINGO: Going a bit virtual, Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test gaining popularity among Cyprian universities. The Duolingo test also measures the same four language skills but in an adaptive format. The minimum accepted score varies, but most universities require at least 65. But as compared to the other two, Duolingo offers an affordable and accessible option for students who need to prove their English proficiency.
- PTE: PTE is accepted by 60% of Cyprian schools and universities. It is usually available in over 50 countries. However, it is currently available in 10 countries, including India and Nepal. Results are available immediately. The minimum PTE score required in Cyprus is 58 and it may go up to the highest depending on the course level.
- University’s English Placement Test (EPT): EPT is organised by university itself and the minimum grades must be C or above. This test is conducted in certain conditions and criteria is as per the individual university.
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Cyprus for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Cyprus but wants to study in Cyprus requires a Cyprus Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Cyprus will require a student visa.
If you’re a non-EU citizen looking to study abroad in Cyprus, you’ll need to apply for a student visa and a temporary residence permit. Student visas allow you to legally enter and remain in Cyprus for up to 90 days. If your program of study lasts longer than 90 days, you must get your visa converted into a temporary residence permit after your arrival.
Type of Visa for Cyprus
- Student Visa:International students from countries other than EU/EEA member states and Switzerland will need to apply for a Student Visa for study. So, once you are enrolled to a university, you have to apply for a student visa.
- Temporary Residence Permit: TRP is mandatory for all student visa holders. The application process for this type of visa requires more paperwork than the previously mentioned type of visas. You will need to provide proof of financial resources and medical insurance. After obtaining a Cyprian student visa, international students should also apply for a student residence card within a month after arrival.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way. If you’re from a country outside the EU, you need to have a recognized high school certificate. This certificate serves as a confirmation that your diploma is valid according to the requirements in Cyprus. You can easily have your diploma validated at the Cyprian embassy in your country. Cyprian embassies will provide you with a Volante Accreditation which can be used to apply to the university of your choice.
Additionally, you will have to pass an entrance exam, called selectividad or Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad. You can take this exam twice a year in your country of residence. Once passed, you will be eligible to study at any public or private Cyprian university.
- Apply for a school in Cyprus
- Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC
- Attend Visa Interview
- Visa Approve or Decline
1. Apply for a school in Cyprus
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Enrol at a university in Cyprus: The university will send you a formal admissions letter and might ask you to pay an enrolment fee. Send documentation to your university: Your university will ask for a completed visa application form, four passport-sized photographs, a record of your academic qualifications, proof of your English proficiency, and a copy of your passport.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Letter of Acceptance from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay some fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
- Once you receive your acceptance letter then you can apply for a student visa. In this case, you actually need a visa on the basis of studying.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
- University makes a visa appointment on your behalf: Once they’ve received the documentation, your institution arranges an interview for you at a Cypriot embassy, mission or consulate in your home country. You’ll need to bring several documents along to your appointment, so it’s best to get these in order first. If you apply in person then similarly you will be asked to submit your fingerprints and pay the fee. You might also be asked to sit for an interview. The interview is just to get a feel of your personality and your reasons why you want to study in Cyprus.
4. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). Attend the interview.A member of staff will ask you about your reasons for travel, your personal details, and information about your studies. You’ll then submit your documentation. Then, you must wait to receive an answer whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- Once you submit your application you must patiently wait for an answer. The Cyprian Immigration Office evaluates students’ applications as a top priority so the processing time will be done as soon as possible.
- The process is relatively quick and efficient, with most applicants receiving a decision within a month. Begin temporary residence permit application: After you’ve arrived in Cyprus, you must visit the Cyprus migration department and submit the documents stated in the section below. As part of the application process, staff at the migration department will collect your biometrics and take your signature. Have medical examination: International students must undergo medical testing for hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDs, and syphilis.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply six months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Cyprus student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Cyprian Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Cyprus you must fulfil the following conditions. These are some of the documents you need to submit during the application for a residence permit:
- A valid passport to be current throughout the whole time of stay in Cyprus.
- Cyprus entry visa application form, completed and signed.
- Your passport, which must be valid for at least one more year, starting from the date of arrival into Cyprus. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa to be affixed on.
- Four recent passport-sized pictures, taken in front of a white background.
- Letter of acceptance from the Cyprus educational institution.
- Originals of prior academic qualifications along with certified copies of them translated into English.
- Proof you have sufficient financial means to sustain yourself in Cyprus, such as bank statements, a scholarship, or a letter of sponsorship.
- Certificate of police clearance issued in the past six months from police authorities in your country.
- If you have a sponsor: A bank guarantee, issued by your sponsor’s bank, stating the sponsor will cover your costs of living and studying in Cyprus. The bank guarantee must be issued in the last six months.
- Travel health insurance.
- Any additional documents that your educational institution requires that you submit.
- Additionally, after you enter Cyprus, you are also required to:
- Get health insurance in Cyprus, to cover the duration of your stay.
- Undergo a medical examination for hepatitis B and C, HIV and Syphilis and get a chest X-Ray to prove you do not have tuberculosis.
- Copy of marriage certificate with notarized translation into English. (if applicable)
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal.
Dos and Don’ts for Cyprus Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Cyprus student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course.
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details.
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form.
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa.
- Do not provide any false information.
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application.
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Cyprus? Cyprus remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Cyprus to cover tuition and living expenses.
- How much are the tuition fees in Cyprus?
- How to prove funds for Cyprus?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Cyprus?
- How much does it cost to live in Cyprus?
- What financial support is available to international students in Cyprus?
- How much are the TUITION FEES in Cyprus?
- Cyprus is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is much cost effective.
- You could pay an annual tuition fee of up to $7,950 if you are not from an EU/EEA country. All international students at the Master’s level pay fees ranging from $5,288 to $11,577 per year. These tuition costs are far less expensive than universities in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and China. The cost of living varies greatly depending on where you study in Cyprus. For example, living in the capital city of Nicosia is more expensive than in smaller towns.
- How to prove FUNDS for Cyprus?
- In order to pursue your studies in Cyprus, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following:
- You’ll need to show that: 1) Receipt of payment and 2) Certified copy from a banking institution.
- You should include a copy of your receipt to show that you have paid the necessary fees to the institution.
- To get a student visa for Cyprus, you need to demonstrate that you have the financial capacity to shoulder your studies in Cyprus. You may do so by providing a certified true copy from a bank in your country of residence.
- It should be issued not less than six months before your application date. Additionally, it should show the running transactions in the last two months. For visa purposes, you need to show that you have the money (EURO 7000 or $8285) to pay for your tuition fees and accommodation. Likewise, you need to present a bank guarantee that will cover the cost of repatriation, as required. If you will study under a scholarship, you must provide a confirmation letter in place of a bank certificate.
- If someone else is covering your costs (like your parents), you’ll need a notarized letter assuming financial responsibilities.
- How much does the student ACCOMMODATION costs in Cyprus?
- Student should expect on average, to spend somewhere between €80-90 a month before rent. Housing in a student dormitory will typically cost an additional €400 – 600 if you plan to study in a city. Keep in mind that Cyprus has specific rules and regulations when it comes to working on a student permit..
- How much does it cost to LIVE in Cyprus?
- The cost of living in Cyprus varies by location, but in general it is easy to live well in Cyprus on a student budget. North Cyprus offers moderate living expenses. Estimated average living expenses for international students are 350-600 USD per month.
- Food and drinks bought from shops instead of eating out in restaurants can significantly be cheaper. All shopping items as well as services are very affordable in North Cyprus. North Cyprus offers very affordable living conditions for students and this is among the top reasons why Cyprus is fast becoming a student hub for students from many different countries and cultures.
- The cost of living in Cyprus is based on one person, when sharing it reduces the cost of living when it comes to food bills and accommodation as students generally buy and share food and bills to save money. it is cheaper to buy food in bulk than singularly.
- Basic utilities: Electricity, Water, Heating, Garbage will cost you around 115 EURO/month. Internet: 30 EURO/month.
- Food costs: Food products and groceries from a super market will cost you about 180 EURO to around 250 EUR. Restaurants bills depends on your visit to it per month, but on an average, it can cost you around 350 EURO
- Extra and supply costs: It should also be considered in your budget plans. How much money you will have to spend on them vary. On average, you will spend around €200 per month.
- What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Cyprus?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Cyprus, there are 2 main ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees.
- Are you an international student aiming to study in Cyprus with a fully funded scholarship in Cyprus? Here’s how to seize this opportunity. Numerous government-backed scholarships in Cyprus are available for PhD, Bachelors and Masters programs, without IELTS scores required. These fully funded Cyprus scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances. We’ll guide you through the straightforward application process and the necessary steps for immigration and student visa procedures for Cyprus. Don’t miss this chance to further your education in Cyprus. Apply now for these scholarships and embark on an enriching academic journey.
- Cyprus West University for Postgraduate, Undergraduate in Business Administration, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, electronic engineering, Information Systems, Psychology +3 More: A Fully Funded, Partial Funding scholarship in Cyprus for International Students. Cyprus West University Cyprus is offering a Fully Funded, Partial Funding scholarships in Business Administration, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, electronic engineering, Information Systems, Psychology, Tourism Management, Civil Aviation Management, Logistics for degree level Postgraduate, Undergraduate to International Students. Apply now for Tomorrows Leaders Scholarship – Cyprus West University, Cyprus before the deadline closes.
- Cyprus Science University – Scholarship Awards for International Students for Masters in all Subjects: A Full tuition fee scholarship in Cyprus for International Students. Cyprus Science University Cyprus is offering a Full tuition fee scholarships in All Subjects for degree level Masters to International Students. Apply now for Cyprus Science University – Scholarship Awards for International Students before the deadline closes.
- Neapolis University Scholarships for BSc in Civil Engineering in Cyprus, 2019 for Bachelor in Civil Engineering: A scholarship in Cyprus for International Students. Neapolis University Cyprus is offering a scholarship in Civil Engineering for degree level Bachelor to International Students. Apply now for Neapolis University Scholarships for BSc in Civil Engineering in Cyprus, 2019 before the deadline closes.
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Cyprus has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Cyprus. Working in Cyprus as an international student. International students in Cyprus can earn somewhere between 500 Euros to 1200 Euros a month. In most of the cases, international students in Cyprus can earn an average of 750 Euros a month.
- Working hours for international students in Cyprus: Legally, an international student can only work 20 hours a week, but that’s not the case in most situations. They work somewhere between 6 to 10 hours a day in Cyprus. The law has changed now. You don’t need to wait for six months to work. You can work with your pink card now. It might take up to 3 months for your pink card to arrive. When you have your pink card, you can ask your college to give you a work letter.
- Per-hour wage for international students in Cyprus: The average earning is 5 Euros per hour. International students in Cyprus can earn somewhere between 4 Euros to 6 Euros per hour. The average earning is 5 Euros per hour. It depends upon what sort of job you are doing. If you are a European, you might earn more than that. In some cases, they get their salary at the end of the month. If they are working in a restaurant or a hotel, they can earn somewhere between 700 Euros to 1000 Euros.
- Fields an International student could work in Cyprus: High-profile jobs in Cyprus are mainly reserved for Cypriots and Europeans. According to the Ministry of Labor, international students in Cyprus are allowed to work in the following sectors: Trade-Repairs, Health and Social Care, Household Activities, Manufacturing, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Fishery, Food Industry, Restaurants, Recreational Centres,
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyprus Visa
- Can I study in Cyprus for free as an international student?
- It is free to study in Cyprus except if you are an EU/EEA national. Public higher education (undergraduate level) is entirely free for Cypriots and European Union (EU) nationals because the government pays the costs established by university councils. Undergraduate and postgraduate international students from outside the EU must pay tuition fees.
- What is the cost of studying in Cyprus?
- Tuition fees in Cyprus tend to be lower than the UK or US, and you could expect to pay between $10,000 and $15,000 per year for a bachelor’s program. The cost of living in Cyprus varies depending on where on the island you’re studying, for example the capital Nicosia tends to be more expensive than other small towns. Overall, the cost of living is on a par with the rest of Europe, and you may need to budget around $12,000 a year.
- Where can you study in Cyprus?
- The capital Nicosia is a popular destination for international students, and is home to some of Cyprus’s biggest universities. It offers students a vibrant social scene, and is a cultural hub with numerous museums, galleries and theatres. There’s also the option to study by the sea on the north coast in the harbour city of Kyrenia, or the ancient city of Limassol on the south coast of the island.
- How long does it take to process a Student Visa to Cyprus?
- A student visa for Cyprus takes about a month to be processed once the Cypriot authorities handling your application receive your completed documents. You should take into account the time your documents will take to be sent by post or whether there’s any mistake which needs to be corrected. As such, you should start applying for a Cyprus student visa 2-3 months before you intend to travel to Cyprus.
- What is the duration of a Cyprus Study Visa?
- The temporary Cyprus student residence permit you receive is valid for only 1 year. However, it can be renewed annually for the entire duration of your studies.
- Can I work with a Cyprus Student Visa?
- Yes, it is possible to work with a Cyprus student visa but under specific conditions. You may only work up to 20 hours per week in certain industries/positions.
- Can I visit other EU countries with a Cyprus Student Visa?
- No, since Cyprus is not yet a member of the Schengen Agreement, a Cyprus visa, student or otherwise, does not allow you to travel to any country within the Schengen zone. However, you can travel to Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania – other EU member states which are scheduled to join Schengen in the near future.
- Can my family members travel to Cyprus too?
- If you’re a non-EU student who’s been granted a temporary residence permit, your spouse and children (under the age of 18) can apply for a family reunification permit. These permits are usually granted for one year but can be renewed annually. They also take a little longer to process, so be prepared to wait up to nine months for a decision. EU citizens have the right to live and work anywhere in the EU, including Cyprus. So as long as your family members follow the residence permit application process and submit all of the required documents, they’ll be able to join you on your international adventure.
- Can international students work in Cyprus?
- International students from EU member states are permitted to work alongside their studies for up to 20 hours per week. However, this is only allowed in certain sectors, like manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality. These permissions are automatically granted to you, so you don’t need to worry about applying for a work permit. Unfortunately, non-EU citizens aren’t normally permitted to work in Cyprus. Although the government does make some exceptions, these are rare.
- What if my Cyprus student visa is rejected?
- Receiving a visa refusal is frustrating and it can feel like your study abroad plans have been derailed. However, there are a couple of things you can do to get your international adventure back on track. If your application is refused, you’ll receive a letter detailing the main reasons for your rejection. After three months, you can reapply–but make sure you fix the issues that led to your initial refusal first. If you believe your application was unfairly rejected first-time round, you can send an appeal letter to the Cypriot embassy. This should clearly state your reason for appealing and include all your relevant personal details. It’s best to appeal within 30 days of receiving your rejection letter.