Secondary education in Cyprus follows six years of primary school and is divided into two stages:
Lower Secondary Education (Gymnasium, ages 12–15) – compulsory
Upper Secondary Education (Lyceum or Technical/Vocational Schools, ages 15–18)
Education is compulsory from ages 5 to 15.
General Lyceum – academic pathway leading to university admission
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) – career-oriented programs
Graduates of the Lyceum receive the Apolytirion (School Leaving Certificate), which qualifies them for admission to universities in Cyprus and abroad.
Cyprus has over 130 secondary schools (public and private).
English is widely used in private and international schools.
Literacy rates exceed 99%.
Cyprus offers both public schools (primarily Greek-speaking) and a strong network of private international schools following British or IB curricula.
Cyprus has developed into a growing higher education hub in the Mediterranean region, attracting students from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Public universities (such as the University of Cyprus and Cyprus University of Technology)
Private universities (including University of Nicosia, European University Cyprus, and Frederick University)
Bachelor’s degrees typically last 4 years.
Master’s degrees usually take 1–2 years.
Many programs are taught entirely in English.
Degrees follow the European Bologna system and are internationally recognized.
Cyprus hosts over 55,000 higher education students.
International students make up a significant proportion — in some private universities, they represent over 40% of the student body.
Higher education is one of the country’s fastest-growing economic sectors.
Cyprus is particularly strong in medicine, business, hospitality management, shipping and maritime studies, and international relations.
Cyprus offers a range of summer camps and short-term academic programs, especially during the peak tourist season.
English or Greek language classes (15–20 hours per week)
Cultural and historical excursions
Beach and outdoor activities
Business or pre-med summer courses at private universities
Accommodation in student residences or host families
English is widely spoken across the island, making it accessible for international students.
The country is considered one of the safest study destinations in Europe.
Summer programs in Cyprus combine academic study with a Mediterranean lifestyle, offering students a balance of education, culture, and leisure in a warm climate.