International Schools in Greece: What Every Investor Moving with Children Needs to Know

When a family decides to move to Greece, the first question is almost never about real estate, but about the children.

Where will they study?

Over recent years, I have accompanied dozens of families purchasing real estate in Greece. And I can say that choosing the right school is often more important than the neighborhood where the home is located.

That is why we always advise deciding on children’s education first, and only then choosing a property to buy.

Public or International School?

If a child doesn’t speak Greek, studying at a public school can be a source of significant stress.

Even with adaptation programs, the child has to learn a new language, adjust to a new school system, and adapt to a different culture all at the same time.

Therefore, most foreign families opt for international schools with English-medium instruction.

The Best International Schools in Athens

Today, several schools operate in Athens that rank among the best in Europe.

Among them:

• Campion School
• ACS Athens
• St. Catherine’s British School
• Byron College

Most of them follow the British curriculum or the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Their diplomas are recognized by universities in Europe, the UK, the USA, Canada, and Australia.

If a family plans to live in Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, or Ellinikon, almost all schools offer their own school buses, which greatly simplifies daily logistics.

What About Crete?

On Crete, the choice of international schools is smaller than in Athens, but they do exist.

The main advantage of Crete is a peaceful atmosphere, high level of safety, mild climate, and a more measured lifestyle.

For many families, this quality of life becomes the deciding factor when choosing the island.

When to Apply?

This is one of the most common mistakes foreign families make.

Many start looking for a school after buying real estate.

In practice, good international schools accept applications well in advance, and some grades have waiting lists.

Therefore, it is best to start the admissions process several months before moving.

Typically, the school requests:

• report cards from previous years;
• a student reference/recommendation letter;
• test results (if required);
• an interview with the child and parents;
• identification documents.

How Much Does Tuition Cost?

The cost depends on the school, the child’s age, and the educational program.

On average, tuition at international schools in Greece ranges from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, and at some prestigious schools, it can be higher.

In addition to tuition fees, you should consider expenses for school bus transportation, meals, uniforms, educational materials, and extra extracurricular activities.

Why School Selection Affects Real Estate Choice

Over years of work, I have noticed a pattern.

Families who choose the school first and then the property adapt to life in a new country much faster.

That is why AILIT Group helps clients not only select a villa, apartment, or land plot, but also evaluate the neighborhood’s infrastructure: proximity to international schools, medical centers, sports clubs, and other amenities essential for the family.

We believe that buying real estate is not just an investment in square meters. It is an investment in your children’s future and your family’s quality of life.

Learn more about AILIT Group projects: https://ailitgroup.com/en/projects/

Contact our team: https://ailitgroup.com/en/contact/

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Article reviewed by Alexey Fatuev — expert in construction and real estate development in Greece.