Study Abroad in Athens
College Study Abroad
Explore Athens with CIEE
Step into the cradle of Western civilization when you study abroad in Athens, Greece, a city where ancient ruins and modern life coexist. Start your mornings with a fresh koulouri from a street vendor, walk past the Acropolis on your way to class, or sip iced espresso in a shaded square as locals play backgammon nearby. Spend weekends browsing treasures at the Monastiraki Flea Market, hiking to the summit of Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views, or catching a concert in the open-air Odeon of Herodes Atticus. With rich academic offerings, legendary landmarks, and a daily rhythm steeped in history and hospitality, Athens study abroad offers a memorable journey as layered as the city itself.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Athens designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, ecology, sustainability, engineering, technology, and more. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as hospitality, agriculture, manufacturing, and more, gaining valuable international work experience while building intercultural communication skills. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Athens study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing the history, culture, and Mediterranean lifestyle that make Greece so distinctive.
Top Activities Athens with CIEE
Every CIEE Athens study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Athens, excursions may include:
- Going on guided tours of iconic city highlights, including the ancient Acropolis and Parthenon, the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, or the colorful street art scene in the edgy Exarchia district
- Joining a hands-on Greek cooking class and learning how to make traditional dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and baklava from local chefs
- Exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology, and take in breathtaking mountain views
Academics in Athens
CIEE Athens
Our location in Athens places students in the heart of one of the world’s oldest and most historically important cities, allowing you to explore Greece’s rich history and modern culture.
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
New York College in Greece (NYC)
Founded in 1989, New York College in Greece (NYC) offers students the opportunity to study in the heart of Athens while experiencing one of Europe’s most historic and dynamic cities. NYC welcomes a diverse community of Greek and international students, with coursework in fields including business, psychology, computer science, and health sciences. With experienced faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and connections with employers and professionals, NYC offers an engaging international academic experience that allows students to immerse themselves in Greek culture while gaining a global perspective.
Internships in Athens
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Athens. The city’s vibrant work scene is shaped by tourism, archaeology, history, education, and the arts, creating a culturally rich and dynamic professional environment. A mix of established organizations and emerging startups provides opportunities for hands-on experience, collaboration, and meaningful project work in globally relevant sectors. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Agriculture, Food + Natural Resources
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Manufacturing
- Transportation, Distribution + Logistics
Community Impact Initiative in Athens
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Athens by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In Athens, your service work may include:
- Supporting food rescue and redistribution efforts with Boroume, helping reduce food waste and provide meals to those in need
- Assisting with interactive, play-based learning programs for children at the Hellenic Children's Museum
- Participating in environmental clean-ups, recycling actions, and sustainability events through Let's Do It Greece
Athens Study Abroad Programs
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Full-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Full-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Athens, Greece
- Study Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Athens offers the perfect blend of world-class academics, adventure, and rich cultural immersion. As the capital and largest city in Greece, Athens gives students the unique opportunity to live and learn in the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization. Students can enjoy the city's ancient history and iconic historical landmarks, experience authentic and delicious Greek meals, and enjoy the amazing weather on beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Greece is also known for its affordability, which is perfect for students with a budget!
Whether you're interested in history, business, politics, archaeology, or Mediterranean culture, Athens is an unforgettable destination for your study abroad experience.
Read More: 5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Athens, Greece
Absolutely! As Greece’s vibrant capital and largest city, Athens is an incredible place to study abroad. With its unique blend of ancient history, modern culture, and academic opportunities, students can immerse themselves in a city that has shaped philosophy, politics, and the arts for centuries.
Plus, Athens is generally a safe city to explore both day and night, offering a welcoming atmosphere, friendly locals, and plenty of exciting experiences – from historic landmarks like the Acropolis to lively neighborhoods filled with cafés, markets, and street art.
As a tourist in any city, you’ll want to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Research the areas of Athens you’ll be going to, ask friendly locals for their opinions, and learn basic Greek phrases in case of emergency. Stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid walking alone once it’s dark, and always use official transportation services.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
The cost of studying abroad in Athens varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual Athens study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Absolutely – Athens, Greece study abroad has something for everyone! Whether you love exploring ancient ruins, dining at delicious tavernas, dancing the night away at lively clubs, or getting outdoors for a run or mountain biking adventure, you’ll never run out of things to do.
The city is packed with festivals, cultural events, and stunning nature spots, making it a fantastic place to enjoy both new and familiar activities. Plus, studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby – why not try Greek dancing, sailing, or photography while you're here?
No, you don’t need to know Greek to study abroad in Athens. CIEE courses are offered in English, and English is commonly used in academic settings and major urban areas.
That said, learning some basic Greek phrases can make daily life easier and help you connect more with the local community and culture, but it’s not required to thrive during your time abroad.
Read More: Top 10 Greek Slang Words & Phrases
Both Athens and Florence offer incredible study abroad experiences, but the best choice depends on your interests!
- Athens: A dynamic coastal city where you can immerse yourself in ancient history, archaeology, and philosophy while enjoying easy access to beautiful beaches and the stunning Greek islands. It’s also a great place to pick up some Greek language skills and experience a lively Mediterranean culture.
- Florence: A landlocked city famous for its Renaissance art, world-class museums, and thriving fashion, design, and culinary scenes. If you’re passionate about Italian language, culture, food, and history, Florence might be the ideal fit.
No matter which city you choose, you’ll be surrounded by history, incredible food, and endless opportunities for adventure!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Athens to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Other Scholarships
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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How to Study Abroad in Athens
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
CIEE offers a variety of ways to study abroad in Athens, including semester-long sessions, summer study abroad, and J-term, with program lengths ranging from four weeks to 18 weeks. With flexible options, it’s important to select a timeframe that makes sense with your personal and academic schedule.
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
After determining your timeframe, find a program that meets your academic and career goals. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and sustainability, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and more. Choosing a program you’re passionate about will help you make the most of your Athens study abroad experience!
Step #3: Verify Your Eligibility
Make sure you’re eligible to participate in CIEE’s Athens study abroad offerings. Every program has its own requirements, but typically include a minimum GPA and often other course and credit requirements, too.
Step #4: Create Your Budget
While studying abroad in Athens can be an affordable study abroad option, it’s always a smart idea to budget for other expenses, like incurred travel expenses, gifts, and food.
CIEE also offers millions in study abroad scholarships and grants each year based on several factors including financial need, academic merit, and other considerations, to allow you to make a study abroad dream a reality!
Step #5: Apply!
Now that you’ve found your program, you’re ready to apply! The application process is quite simple, but if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Just contact us!
Safety at CIEE Athens
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Athens
CIEE Athens offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Athens housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Athens Staff
Vicky Kynourgiopoulou
Center Director