Surge in Foreign University Applications as Greece Opens Doors to TNE Campuses

By Ezra April 9, 2025
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Greece is witnessing a historic shift in its higher education landscape as 13 international universities, including 11 from the United Kingdom, have applied to open branch campuses in the country. This development follows a landmark legal reform passed by the Greek government, allowing for the first time the expansion of transnational education (TNE) institutions within its borders.

The applications, submitted on March 31 to the Greek Ministry of Education, also include institutions from France and Cyprus. This reform, described as “historic” by Greek Education Minister Sophia Zacharaki, is designed to respond to rising domestic demand for globally recognised degrees and to attract international students to Greece.

“The reform offers new academic pathways to Greek students and positions Greece as an emerging hub for education in southeastern Europe,” said Zacharaki. She also emphasised the potential of the law to reverse Greece’s brain drain by bringing back Greek scientists and academics currently working abroad.

In 2024, over 40,000 Greek students pursued studies abroad. The government hopes that the arrival of international campuses will not only reduce this outflow but also uplift the quality and global standing of Greek higher education.

Despite this forward push, the law faced strong opposition within the country. Protests erupted across universities as critics argued the move could undermine state institutions and devalue local degrees. Still, supporters claim it will stimulate healthy competition, attract foreign investment, and generate employment.

Pending final approval, many of these new campuses are expected to begin operations by October 2025. Among the British applicants are the University of York, the University of East London, and the University of Greater Manchester. York’s current affiliate, CITY College in Thessaloniki, will transition into the University of York Europe Campus.

UEL’s partner, Metropolitan College, welcomed the move, stating that the initiative would elevate academic opportunities in Greece. Courses will be delivered in Greek to ensure accessibility, while students will gain access to study abroad programmes and international support services.

With this ambitious move, Greece is poised to become a dynamic international education destination in the region.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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