Cyprus Education System & Schools
Comprehensive guide to Cyprus education system, international schools, and university options. High-quality education with international standards for expatriate families.
Cyprus Education System Overview
Cyprus invests 7% of GDP in education, leading EU countries in educational spending and providing world-class learning opportunities.
Public Education System
Compulsory Education
Ages 5-15, free for all residents including expatriates
Education Levels
Pre-primary (3-6), Primary (6-12), Secondary (12-18), Higher Education (18+)
Language of Instruction
Predominantly Greek, with Turkish schools in certain areas
High Standards
EU-compliant curriculum with strong academic performance
Private & International Education
International Curricula
British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs
English Instruction
Most international schools teach exclusively in English
Small Class Sizes
Typically 15-20 students per class for personalized attention
Superior Facilities
Modern campuses, labs, sports facilities, and technology
Education Investment
International Schools in Cyprus
British Curriculum Schools
The English School
Nicosia - Established 1900, IGCSE and A-Levels
Foley's School
Limassol - Primary to A-Levels
The Heritage Private School
Limassol - British curriculum with modern facilities
Qualifications
- • IGCSE (ages 14-16)
- • A-Levels (ages 16-18)
- • UK university preparation
- • Cambridge examinations
American Curriculum Schools
The American International School
Nicosia - K-12 American curriculum
American Academy Limassol
Ages 3-18, AP courses available
The American Academy
Larnaca - Elementary through high school
Programs
- • High School Diploma
- • Advanced Placement (AP)
- • US university preparation
- • SAT/ACT preparation
International Baccalaureate
The International School of Paphos
Full IB program, ages 3-18
Med High International School
Limassol - IB Diploma Programme
Cyprus International School
Multiple locations offering IB
IB Programs
- • Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- • Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- • Diploma Programme (DP)
- • Global university recognition
International School Fees
Annual Tuition Range
Varies by school, age group, and curriculum
Average Annual Cost
Typical for comprehensive international education
Additional Costs
Higher Education in Cyprus
Universities & Institutions
Public Universities
University of Cyprus
Nicosia - Premier public university, research-focused
Cyprus University of Technology
Limassol - Technology and engineering focus
Open University of Cyprus
Distance learning and flexible programs
Private Universities
University of Nicosia
Largest private university, medical school
European University Cyprus
Business, law, and health sciences
University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
UK university campus in Larnaca
Cyprus International University
English-language programs
University Education Benefits
EU Recognition
Degrees recognized throughout European Union
English Language
Most programs taught in English
Quality Education
International accreditation and standards
Cultural Diversity
International student body
Preparation Programs
Foundation Year Programs
One-year preparation programs for students who need additional academic preparation or English language development.
School Enrollment Process for Expat Families
Enrollment Steps
Research & School Selection
Research schools based on curriculum preference, location, facilities, and budget. Visit campuses and meet with admissions staff.
Application Submission
Complete application forms, provide academic transcripts, and submit required documentation including passport copies and medical records.
Assessment & Interview
Students may undergo academic assessment and/or interviews. English proficiency testing may be required for non-native speakers.
Acceptance & Registration
Receive acceptance letter, pay registration fees and deposits, complete enrollment documentation.
Integration & Support
Attend orientation sessions, receive academic planning guidance, and access integration support services.
Required Documents
Enrollment Timeline
Application Deadlines
- • January-March: Applications for September start
- • Rolling admissions available at most schools
- • Mid-year entry possible with availability
School Year
- • September to June academic year
- • 3 terms with holiday breaks
- • Summer programs available
Educational Benefits for International Families
International Environment
Cyprus international schools host students from over 50 countries, creating a truly multicultural learning environment that prepares students for global citizenship.
Key Benefits
- • Cultural diversity and tolerance
- • Multiple language exposure
- • Global perspective development
- • International friendship networks
Academic Excellence
High academic standards with excellent university acceptance rates. Students regularly gain admission to top universities in UK, US, Europe, and worldwide.
Outcomes
- • 95%+ university acceptance
- • Russell Group university placements
- • Ivy League acceptances
- • Scholarship opportunities
Extracurricular Activities
Extensive extracurricular programs including sports, arts, music, drama, and academic competitions to develop well-rounded individuals.
Activities
- • Sports teams and competitions
- • Music and drama productions
- • Model UN and debate clubs
- • Community service programs
Language Learning & Support
English as Additional Language (EAL)
Most international schools provide comprehensive EAL support for students whose first language is not English, ensuring smooth academic integration.
Support Services
- • Individual tutoring
- • Small group classes
- • Academic writing support
- • Speaking confidence building
Assessment
- • Initial language assessment
- • Progress monitoring
- • IELTS preparation
- • Academic English development
Greek Language Learning
Many international schools offer Greek language classes to help students integrate with local culture and potentially access Greek higher education.
Beginner to Advanced
Structured progression from basic to fluent
Cultural Integration
Language learning with cultural context
University Access
Preparation for Greek university entrance
Special Educational Needs & Support Services
Learning Support Services
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
International schools in Cyprus provide comprehensive support for students with diverse learning needs, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and other learning differences.
Support Types
- • Individual education plans (IEPs)
- • Learning support assistants
- • Modified assessments
- • Sensory support programs
Professional Team
- • Educational psychologists
- • Speech and language therapists
- • Occupational therapists
- • Specialized teachers
Gifted & Talented Programs
Schools also provide enrichment programs for academically gifted students, including advanced coursework, research projects, and academic competitions.
- Accelerated learning programs
- Independent research projects
- Academic competitions and olympiads
- University partnership programs
Counseling & Guidance
Academic Counseling
- • Course selection guidance
- • University preparation
- • Career pathway planning
- • Study skills development
Personal Support
- • Transition support for new students
- • Social and emotional guidance
- • Peer mediation programs
- • Family counseling services
Additional Fees
Secure Quality Education for Your Children in Cyprus
Navigate Cyprus education system with expert guidance. From school selection to enrollment, we help your family access the best educational opportunities.