Greece’s Deputy Minister of Education, Nikos Papaioannou, told ERTNews that no final decisions have yet been made regarding which non-state universities will be permitted to operate in the country. Papaioannou said the Ministry of Education is awaiting official evaluations from the relevant authorities, with August 9 set as the deadline for the final recommendations.
At the heart of the process are 12 foreign universities that have submitted applications to establish branches in Greece. However, Papaioannou emphasized that the Ministry has not received any decisions from the National Authority for Higher Education (ETHAAE) or the National Organization for the Certification of Qualifications & Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP)—the two bodies responsible for reviewing the proposals.
Despite leaks and speculation circulating in the media, he reiterated that no information has been officially relayed to the Ministry. He also defended the timeline, saying that the process “is being carried out correctly, transparently, and in full accordance with the law.”
Papaioannou stated that once files are officially approved, institutions that have fulfilled all requirements will be allowed to begin operations immediately. He noted that each university has submitted different academic programs, which must undergo individual evaluation as part of the licensing process.
The move to allow non-state universities to operate in Greece marks a significant shift in higher education policy and is being closely watched both domestically and internationally.
