Study in Cyprus

Have you ever thought of studying in an Island country? If yes, then Cyprus is a study destination that you should consider.

Cyprus is the third-largest Island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. It’s an enchanting island with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. The country also has more to offer international students. In recent years, it’s emerged as a hub for higher education.

Its universities are leading at the forefront in research and providing quality education. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia has also ensured that the country becomes multicultural, with many international students choosing Cyprus for their studies.

Students report having a wonderful educational experience and enjoy the warm climate, friendly locals and affordable costs of living.

However, since 1974, the Cyprus question has divided the country into two: the Turkish Cypriots in the North and the Greek Cypriots in the South. For the purpose of this article, we will be focusing on the student experience in Southern Cyprus. We’ll answer all your questions regarding studying in Cyprus with the following topic headers:

• Study in Cyprus Statistics
• Why Study in Cyprus
• Top Universities to Study in Cyprus 2024
• Affordable Universities and Colleges in Cyprus 2024
• Scholarships in Cyprus
• Top In-Demand Careers in Cyprus 2024
• Top Courses to Study in Cyprus 2024
• Grading System in Cyprus
• Eligibility Criteria to Study in Cyprus
• Study in Cyprus Admission Process
• Important Timelines for Study in Cyprus
• Cost of Living and Studying in Cyprus
• Student Life In Cyprus
• Best Cities to Study and Live in Cyprus
• Top Jobs in Cyprus for International Students
• Temporary Graduate Visa in Cyprus
• Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Cyprus
• Conclusion

Study in Cyprus Statistics

According to the latest report from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth in Cyprus (Academic year 2021/2022), there are 28,899 International students in the country.

Although this number is a 4% decrease from the previous year, the number of EU and non-EU students has been steadily increasing over the years as shown below. (2016 to 2019 data derived from the Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education)

Here are other interesting facts about studying in Cyprus that you may find useful as an international student:

• The most selected courses of study in the Country by students in universities and tertiary institutions is Business Administration (31.4%), Education (20.5%) and Health Sciences (11.3%).
• 350 scholarships were provided to Africa and other developing states for the year 2021/2022.
• Cyprus has a high number of people who have undergone tertiary education. According to the European Commission report of 2023, Cyprus has the second highest tertiary education attainment levels in Europe (above 60%)! Only Ireland has more. It has even surpassed the European Union 2030 target of 45%.

Why Study in Cyprus

Apart from the appeal of studying in an Island country, what other reasons should you consider before deciding to study in Cyprus? Find out below.

a) Affordable Universities

Compared to other study destinations in Europe, Cyprus offers one of the best education systems at a friendly budget. Students spend around €5,000 to €10,000 per year on a bachelor’s program.

For this price you’ll get to study a programme that is in line with standards suitable for the new digital age. You’ll also get to study in a world class university that has state of the art facilities.

b) Pleasant Weather

Cyprus’ climate is Mediterranean. It has mild rainy winter and long hot summers that last from May to October. Basically the country has around 300-340 sunny days.

While this is a recipe for beach activities and having fun, students can take refuge in the fact that Cyprus weather isn’t as cold as other European study destinations. A little air conditioning on campus and in your living spaces and you’re sure to have an awesome experience in the country. 

c) Experience a Rich Cultural Heritage

Cyprus culture spans 12,000 years and has influences from the Phoenicians, Ottomans, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Assyrians, and the British. Perhaps the most common influence is from the Greeks which is still present even today. Greek legend has it that Cyprus was the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

As an international student, you’ll experience this culture through museums, temples, castles, cathedrals, theaters, and prehistoric settlements. The preservation of this history is so significant that UNESCO has a number of World Heritage Sites on the Island.

To further showcase this remarkable culture, the island country hosts the Kypria, an arts festival held annually that includes artists mainly from Cyprus and Greece.

d) Cyprus is Safe for International Students

The University of Central Lancashire (UClan) – Cyprus Branch, infers from a report by Insurly that Cyprus is the fifth safest country in the world. This means that international students can comfortably study and live in the Island nation.

e) Plenty of Job Opportunities After Study

Cyprus is a high-income economy that qualifies it to be a first-world country. In fact, the country’s fortunes are so good that the European Commission is expecting robust economic growth in 2024.

The country’s GDP is expected to increase as the inflation rate and unemployment rate reduces. For international students, this is good news as it means that the economy is well placed to absorb students into the job market straight from campus.

Apart from the booming economy, Cyprus universities also have a high employment success rate with their students. For example, at the University of Nicosia, 60% of students get employed in the organisation that hosts them for internship.

Top Universities to Study in Cyprus 2024

Times Higher Education, a leading expert in higher education matters reports the following universities as the cream of the crop in Cyprus.

Affordable Universities and Colleges in Cyprus 2024

Affordable education is key, and Cyprus gives this option to international students without compromising on quality. Budget-friendly universities that you can study in Cyprus include are as follows.

Scholarships in Cyprus

Do you have a dream to study in Cyprus but require financial support? Scholarships in Cyprus are a good way to obtain an education that you may not have access to otherwise.

International students can take advantage of the following scholarships available in Cyprus.

• The Cyprus State Scholarship Foundation – International students get up to €3,000 per year for undergraduates and up to €4,000 for graduate studies. The scholarship is granted to students based on academic performance and their socio-economic status. 
• Cyprus higher learning institutions also have their own running scholarships. You can get information on a scholarship on a university’s website.
• If you apply through Craydel, you can get the following discounts and scholarships:
  • University of Nicosia – Up to 40% scholarship
  • InterNapa College – Up to €1,300 every semester starting from the second year of studies
  • Frederick University – Up to 25% scholarship

Top In-Demand Careers in Cyprus 2024

Cyprus has a high-income economy mainly fuelled by the services sector. In fact, according to the Press and Information Office, the services sector employed the most people, at 81.5%. Ironically, there is still a shortage of personnel in this sector and other industries.

Earlier in 2021, the labour ministry had stated that it would allow international students to work in Cyprus to ease the growing staff shortage in various industries. Here are five of the careers that are in demand in the country as a result.  

1. Hotel and Catering

According to KNEWS, a news reporting website, the hotel and catering industry has a shortage of 12,000 workers. This has triggered professional associations in the country to appeal to the Ministry of Labour to simplify systems of hiring workers from third countries.

With the service industry mainly driving Cyprus’s economy, it’s an opportunity for international students to make a living from hotel careers. Annual remuneration for hotel jobs starts at around €12,000 per year for waiters and goes up to €30,000 for managers.

2. Health Profession

The Smart Specialization Strategy for Cyprus, developed in 2015, identifies the health sector as needing more skilled workers. It is estimated that demand in the health sector will increase by 4% every year up to 2024. It also points out the following factors will increase demand for healthcare workers:

• An aging population. It is expected that old age dependency will rise from 19% in 2013 to 42% in 2080.
• Implementation of the National Health System (NHS) which will increase the need for highly trained health professionals.

International students can take advantage of studying in health-related fields and get an average annual salary of at least €35,000.

3. Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Professionals

The Smart Specialization Strategy identifies a need for these professionals in the country. It estimates an annual demand increase of 3% per year. The main reason cited for the demand was a lack of skills needed by ICT enterprises in Cyprus.

If you’re passionate about technology, you can take advantage of this deficit in the country to become a skilled ICT professional. For your skills, you’ll get a starting estimated annual salary of €28,000.

4. Finance professionals

The demand for finance occupations is expected to rise by 4.5% every year. This demand is fueled by recent efforts in economic recovery and increased investments in the country.

Due to a thriving economy, salaries for Finance professionals are lucrative and can reach around €40,000 per year and higher. This is a good incentive for international students to consider studying finance courses in Cyprus universities.

5. Higher Education Teachers

The demand for university teachers is estimated to increase by 5% every year in Cyprus. The demand is attributed to:

• The rapid increase of tertiary education schools in the country
• More Cypriot students choose to proceed to university after completing secondary education (3 out of 4 students). In addition, more international students enrol for studies in the country. This has led to high student-teacher ratios increasing the need for more tutors.

To combat this shortage, both public and private universities offer attractive salaries to trained lecturers, which can range around €36,000 per year. International students can take up part-time tutoring jobs as students and continue their studies to gain Lecturer status in Cyprus universities.

Top Courses to Study in Cyprus 2024

There are hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate courses that you can choose to study in Cyprus. However, some courses stand out among the rest as favorites among international students. Here are five of these courses.

1. Business Administration

A course in business administration prepares you to be a manager in a company. It instills in you the skills to effectively manage an organisation’s resources so that they run efficiently and profitably.

Students who pursue the business administration course in Cyprus can specialise in human resources, finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.

2. Education

An education course is a multidisciplinary area of study encompassing different fields such as Psychology, sociology, philosophy, and history. An education degree may specialise in primary, secondary, and tertiary teaching. 

The education course is a rewarding career path where you will share and transfer knowledge that shapes and inspires future generations. While teaching is the main career option after undertaking the education course, you may also apply your degree in other areas like community, care, and policy settings.

3. Health Sciences

The health science course deals with studying the physical and mental well-being of human beings. It combines principles of biology and social sciences to address health-related issues in society. The course prepares you for entry-level positions in the health industry. 

In addition, students may use the health science course as an entry point to earn professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and nursing.

4. Hospitality and Tourism Management

The hospitality and tourism management course deals with the study of managing the delivery of services (accommodation, transport, food) to customers (tourists), mostly in a hotel, restaurant, or cruise ship setting. In Cyprus, this is a booming industry, and the need to train more professionals in this field is ever-rising.

Holders of this degree go on to become hotel managers or hold middle-level positions in the hospitality industry. Some even become hoteliers and set up their own hotels and establishments.

5. Computer Science

Computer science is the study of computers and how their system works. In this course you’ll learn about programming, algorithms, data structures, and networks.  Since computer science is a more broad subject, you can choose to specialise in artificial intelligence, software engineering, game development, networks, and data science.

Grading System in Cyprus

The Cypriot grading system is numerical ranging from 0 to 10. The minimum passing grade in this scale is 5. An Incomplete grade (I) is awarded to students who have maintained passing grades in the course of study but haven’t fully completed the coursework needed.

This system is consistently used by most universities in Cyprus. However, other schools may choose to use a Grade Point Average (GPA) system or a 0-40 scale. Here is a table representation of the Cypriot grading system.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Cyprus

International students who wish to enrol to their dream university in Cyprus must meet the following conditions.

• A twelve-year schooling certificate which is equivalent to a high school certification. You must also have a satisfactory grade required to undertake your course
• University degree and transcripts if enrolling in a masters programme
• A duly filled application form
• A clear copy of your passport
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Other documents that may be required include:
  • CV
  • passport-size photographs
  • Portfolio relating to the studies you’re undertaking
  • Personal statement
  • Recommendation letters
  • Some universities like CTL Eurocollege may require additional documents like attested medical certificate and police certificate

Study in Cyprus Application Process

The application process for studying in Cyprus is straightforward, especially if you do it through Craydel. We have expert counselors who will ensure that you enroll in your dream university on the island nation of Cyprus.

1. Choosing a Course and Academic Institution

It is the first and most important step that sets the pace for the whole application process. By visiting the Craydel website, you can access hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered at different Cyprus institutions. The filtering tool is a great way to kickstart your search to arrive at your specific course and university.

To land at your ideal course, your counselor will guide you through various options based on your grades, interests, and personality using tools like Craydel’s Career Match Assessment.

2. Making the Application

Applications are made directly to higher education institutions. Your counsellor will help you understand all the necessary admission requirements, including details like documents needed for submission, tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities.

When all the requirements are in order, the application is submitted for review by the institution’s admissions office.

3. Getting a Conditional Offer Letter

After the admissions office evaluates your academic documents, they send a conditional offer letter. With this letter, you’ll need to send additional documents specified by the university. 

4. Receiving an Official Admission Letter

The university or college sends an admission letter within a week of approval from the Ministry of Education and Culture of Cyprus. With this letter, you can now proceed to book your visa interview at the Cyprus consulate or embassy in your country.

5. Applying for an Cyprus Study Visa

All non-European Union students wishing to study in Cyprus must get a student entry visa. It’s issued by the Migration Office of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus. Requirements needed to get the visa include:

• Attested copies of academic documents
• English language certificate
• Attested bank letter showing that the student or sponsor has enough funds to support their stay in Cyprus. The sponsor can only be a parent or first-degree relative.
• A bank statement showing a balance of at least €7,000 is required
• Passport size photographs
• Attested copy of passport
• Duly signed acceptance or official admission letter declaring that you accept the terms of study of your chosen university
• A visa application fee stated by the university
• A Medical report or certificate not older than four months prior to making the application

After the visa is approved, you’ll receive a copy, which you must produce in order to travel. Your visa will be issued in Cyprus.

6. Preparing for your Stay and Enrollment

Your chosen university will usually provide key information regarding accommodation on or near campus so that you can make adequate preparations. During this period, you’ll also need to book your flight, which will take you to either Larnaca or Paphos International airports.

After you arrive in Cyprus, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residence permit from the Civil Registry and Migration Department within 7 days. The duration of the permit can be one year, subject to renewal every academic year until you complete your studies. The application fee is €70.

Important Timelines for Study in Cyprus

If you wish to study in Cyprus, it’s important that you note the following dates and deadlines.

Popular Intakes for Study in Cyprus

Most universities in Cyprus have two main intakes for international students.

• September Intake for the Fall Semester 
• February Intake for the Spring Semester

Students take a break during the summer from the beginning of June to around 15 October.

When Should You Apply?

To avoid last-minute rushes, delays in your application, or missing out on an intake, you should set aside time to make applications during the following periods in an academic year.

• September Intake – The deadline to apply is in May or early June 
• February Intake – The deadline to apply is in October or early November

It’s important to note that all applications are made to the individual university online platforms since there is no unified system to make the applications. As a result dates for making the applications may differ slightly.

Course Duration for Study in Cyprus

The time taken to study bachelor courses (also known as first cycle courses) at Cyprus universities is four years, equivalent to eight semesters. However, medicine requires a minimum of 12 semesters.

Masters Programs (also known as second-cycle programmes) take one or two academic years to complete.

Cost of Living and Studying in Cyprus

A major advantage of studying in Cyprus is the low tuition fees, which usually range from €5,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the programme and university. However, does this also extend to living costs?

Even though Cyprus is a first-world country, its living costs are reasonable and affordable compared to other European nations. International students spend monthly costs of between €700 and €1,000, which include food, transport and accommodation.

The cost is usually lower, especially for students who choose to reside in student halls on campus and shared residences outside campus.

Student Life In Cyprus

As an international student in a new country, you should have a wholesome academic and social life. Cyprus offers many benefits to students in this regard.

Extracurricular Activities

Cyprus universities have student-led activities and clubs that offer opportunities to make connections and memories with like-minded individuals.

Cyprus’s appeal is more pronounced away from the classroom. In your free time, you can enjoy several outdoor activities, such as hiking in the mountains, water sports, and beach activities in warm blue waters.

Climate

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate marked by dry summers and mild winters. Unlike most European study destinations, you’ll enjoy warm weather for a large part of the year (Around 25°C). However, you’ll be surprised to know that during winter, you can also enjoy snow in the Troodos mountains located centrally in the Island.    

Culture

Cypriots are also generally hospitable and take a keen interest in foreigners, showing them around and explaining their Greek-influenced culture. Speaking of cultures, while you’re in the country, you should check out one of the biggest celebrations in Cyprus, the Limassol Carnival, which happens in February or March.

Safety

You can study in Cyprus without worrying about security, as the crime rates are very low. However, international students should still exercise caution and be on the lookout for petty crimes. By dialing 119/112, you can easily reach emergency services like the police, ambulance, and fire brigade.

Best Cities to Study and Live in Cyprus

When looking for the best city to settle in, students look for safe places, affordable towns, cities with friendly locals, cities with the most employment opportunities, and the general culture and way of life in the city.

The following cities in Cyprus accord international students with all or some of the abovementioned factors. 

Nicosia

Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus with a population of around 200,000. This is about 16% of the country’s total population. Often referred to as the brightest capital of Europe, here are other areas where it shines bright for international students.

a) The city hosts top institutions

Three of the top four universities, the University of Cyprus, the University of Nicosia, and the European University of Cyprus, are located in the city.

Other notable universities include Frederick University, which has one of its campuses in Nicosia. These institutions of higher learning stand as beacons of scholarly excellence in Nicosia and the whole of Cyprus.  

b) The city has plenty of social amenities nearby 

Need a place to hang out with friends after school – no problem. Located close to all major universities in the city are restaurants, cafeterias, pubs, shops, malls, cinemas, fitness centers and sports venues. As an international student, it’s almost impossible to get bored while in the city.

c) It has a large student population

The concentration of universities in Nicosia means that the city has an equally large number of students. Over 27,000 international students from over 100 countries worldwide live in the city. 

d) Nicosia is safe

Nicosia’s safety index is 70.67, which ranks it 30th out of 181 countries according to the Global Residence Index. International students enjoy safety even when walking at night as the city has fewer crimes. 

e) Nicosia is well-connected

The city is centrally located in Cyprus. Many road networks to other parts of the country start and end in Nicosia. In fact, most of the other major destinations and cities are only an hour’s drive away. Therefore, international students can freely move in the country while they live in the capital.

If you wish to explore Nicosia by foot or bike, the Pedieos walking trail is a good route to take. It will take you along a 14-kilometer route along the river through most of the city, and it is a good way to relax and enjoy the vibrant city.

Limassol

Limassol is Cyprus’s second most populous city with a population of around 184,000 people. It’s a popular student city due to the following factors.

a) Limassol is an education hub

There are plenty of top-rated institutions of higher learning like the Cyprus University of Technology which is the third-best university in the country according to Times Higher Education Rankings.

Other notable universities include CTL Eurocollege and Frederick University which has a campus in Limassol.

b) Limassol has a thriving maritime industry

Its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea especially along the busiest shipping lanes makes the city a hub for maritime activities. As a result, the city attracts many companies dealing in logistics and trade. This is an advantage for students who get employment in the City’s port during and after school.

c) You’ll love the city’s delicacies

Limassol is often celebrated as the gastronomic capital of Cyprus. In the city, you’ll enjoy a mix of Mediterranean fusion cuisine and South American, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Street food is also popular and you’ll find food like burgers, noodles, tacos, and pizzas.

If you like coffee, then the Cypriot lifestyle in Limassol will suit you. The old town section of the city is a hotspot for coffee lovers with traditional and modern-style cafes and coffee shops.

d) The city has interesting sites

All year round, Limassol attracts thousands of tourists and with good reason. They flock to the city to see various attractions and sites of cultural significance. As an international student, you’ll have the privilege to experience these sites which are in the city or nearby.

In your free time, you can visit the Molos promenade, Amathus Archaeological Site, Limassol Medieval Castle, Curium Amphitheatre and the Old Town Hub.

e) Limassol is safe

The city’s safety index is 68.28, which ranks it 45 out of 181 countries according to the Global Residence Index. This means that the probability of students encountering a crime during their stay in the city is relatively low.

 Sotira

Sotira is a small town in the Famagusta district on the eastern side of Cyprus Island. Its population is about 7,000. Students study and live in the city for the following reasons.

a) It is home to an excellent higher-learning institution 

Sotira is home to InterNapa college. The location of the institution offers a strategic advantage to international students as the school is right in the middle of a tourist hotspot (Ayia Napa and Protaras). Students taking the hospitality course benefit the most from internships and jobs. 

b) It has stunning beaches

The town is the largest coastal town in the Famagusta district of Cyprus. It has a coastline of more than two kilometres. Like most beaches on the Island, the town has beautiful beaches with blue waters. It’s a nice way to unwind after a long day in the classroom.

c) You’ll appreciate its history

The town developed during the Byzantine years. As a result, you’ll find plenty of influence of this culture in the town in the form of buildings. One such structure is the Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour.

As an international student, you’ll experience the historical significance of such sites and how they contribute to the locals’ way of life.

d) Sotira has plenty of events all year long

As an international student, you can never get bored in the seemingly small town. You’ll experience events such as the Pancyprian Festival, the Summer concert of the Municipal Orchestra and Choir of Sotira, and the Sotira Traditional Festival.

e) Enjoy the town’s agricultural products

While in the town, you’ll get to experience the Kolokasi Sotiras. It’s a taro root vegetable similar to a potato but with a unique nutty flavour. It’s a popular dish in the town and in Cyprus in general. The area around Sotira has red soil which supports growth of other produce like watermelons, pomegranates and figs.

Larnaca

Larnaca is a coastal city located in the southeastern part of Cyprus. It is the country’s third largest city with a population of about 144,000. International students choose to study and live in the city for the following reasons.

a) Affordable cost of living

Students studying and living in Larnaca spend about €600 to €800 per month, covering costs like food, transport, and accommodation. This is low compared to studying in the capital Nicosia which can be up to €2,000 per month.

b) Larnaca has amazing beaches

In Larnaca, you’ll get to experience amazing beaches where you can unwind during your free time. The Finikoudes beach is the city’s famous promenade lined with palm trees along its 600-metre stretch. Other beaches near the city that offer fine sand and calm waters include the Kastella Beach Blue flag and Mackenzie Beach.

c) The city is religiously significant

Muslim and Christian students find much to appreciate in the city, which has important sites for their respective religions. Muslims have the Mosque of Hala Sultan, which was built to honour Prophet Mohammed’s aunt. Christians have the church of Saint Lazarus. Tradition has it that he lived in the city after his resurrection.

d) The city is well connected to the global world

Larnaca hosts the country’s main international airport (Larnaca International Airport). Many international students enter the country through the city. It’s convenient for students to travel to their home countries and back.

e) Larnaca offers diverse cuisine

Since the city is at the crossroads of Asian, African, and European continents, the food and drink scene is heavily influenced by foreigners. International students usually find cuisines that are familiar when they choose to study and live in the city.

In addition there are several fast food chains and restaurants that are budget-friendly even to students.

Paphos

Paphos is a coastal city on the southwest side of Cyprus. It’s the 4th largest city in the country, with a population of 35,961. Traditionally, it’s associated with being the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love. Today, it’s more than that, with many students worldwide choosing to live in the city. Here are the reasons that make it attractive to international students.

a) It’s a youthful city

Compared to other Cypriot cities, Pafos has a high population of 18-35-year-olds. This could be due to the city’s student population. Making friends is easy, as the locals are also friendly. In Paphos, you’ll fit in easily.

b) It has the best waterpark in Cyprus

If you like unwinding with water-related activities, you’ll love the city of Paphos. It’s home to the famous Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark. The waterpark is ranked as the best in Cyprus and the 5th best in the world.

c) Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage site

The city’s cultural and historical significance has granted it status as a world heritage site that will be protected for future generations. The city is valuable not only to history lovers but also to students who get to understand the influence of Greco-Roman culture in the city. In fact, in 2017, Paphos was the European capital of culture alongside Aarhus. 

d) The city has an international airport

Paphos has an international airport that handles both domestic and international flights. Students can conveniently travel to their home countries and explore other cities on the island. It’s also very near to the city. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the airport from the city centre by bus.

e) It’s a tourist city

The tourist sector mainly drives the economy of Paphos. There are plenty of resorts like Kato Paphos, Latchi, Aphrodite Hills, and Coral Bay. This means international students get plenty of job opportunities in hotels and resorts. Hospitality students also have an easy time finding a place to get internships.

Top Jobs in Cyprus for International Students

Many students wonder whether they can work while they study in Cyprus. The answer to that is yes, they can. Following directives of the European Union, you can work up to 20 hours in a week during a school session and up to 38 hours during school breaks while holding a student visa.

The economy of Cyprus is well-suited to support students in various sectors. In addition, the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance sets the minimum wage at €885 gross per month.

It is important to note that after gaining employment, you need to present the following documents to a District Employment Office for approval.

• An employment contract duly signed by you and your employer
• A valid temporary residence permit (Pink Card)
• Proof of registration in a Cyprus university and a calendar of studies that doesn’t coincide with your working hours
• An application form

International students get financial relief to their living expenses by working in the following positions in and outside their chosen universities.

On-Campus Jobs in Cyprus

You can get these jobs right at the university where you are enrolled. They mainly include academic-related and student service jobs like:

• Personal assistant for disabled students
• Assistant tutor
• Private tutor
• Student cafe attendant
• Lab Assistant
• Library assistant
• Student event planner
• Student Information Assistant

Off-Campus Jobs in Cyprus

These jobs are outside your university and may even require a short commute. While most of them are available throughout the year, the summer period opens up more of these jobs due to the influx of domestic and international tourists. They include:

• Porter
• Hotel receptionist
• Waiter
• Customer service assistant
• Office clerk
• Building cleaner

Temporary Graduate Visa in Cyprus

Immigration laws allow students who have completed a master’s degree to continue residing in the country after they complete their studies in a Cyprus university.

However, you’ll need to make a relevant application for a residence permit that grants you temporary stay in the country for an additional 12 months. Application for renewal of residence permit is usually €55. It’s important that you make the application at least one month before the expiry of your current residence permit.

You can use this period to look for employment or set up a business related to your field and level of study.

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Cyprus

It’s possible to get a long-term Residence permit in Cyprus valid for five years. However, you must meet the following conditions:

• You must have held a valid and legal residence permit before making the application 
• You must prove that you have continuously resided in the areas controlled by the government for a period of five years
• You must show that you are not a threat to public security by submitting a certificate of criminal record
• You must show proficiency in the Greek language (Level A2)
• An application fee of €30 is required
• Documents needed to make the application include:
  • A passport
  • A valid residence permit
  • Income tax returns for the last five years
  • Bank account statements
  • Academic certificates and qualifications
  • Health Insurance policy certificate

It takes 6-12 months to examine an application for long-term residency, so it’s paramount that you make the application early enough within the valid timelines of your current residence permit.

Conclusion

Wondering where you can get quality education on a budget? Cyprus offers this and more. The country’s strategic location between the continents of Africa, Europe and Asia is ideal for most international students who can travel easily to and fro their countries of origin.

In addition, at Craydel, we have expert counselors who can guide you in selecting the best universities in Cyprus. They also guide you in getting affordable housing options around your chosen campus. Contact us today and kickstart your dream of studying in an Island nation.