Study Abroad Programs in Cyprus

The third largest island in the Mediterranean, “Aphrodite’s” Cyprus offers days of sunshine, Championship Golf courses, inviting beaches, and breathtaking mountain trails.

Although the country has been the center of years of dispute, with Turkish and Greek Cypriots struggling to find common ground, as well as recent economic upheaval-- today’s Cyprus is remarkably safe. The island had recovered its economic stability and it is moving steadily towards unification. Student interested in politics, identity and conflict resolution will definitely be fascinated by Cyprus’ rich past. Students of history and archaeology will swoon at the many archaeological and antique sites scattered around the island, dating from the Stone Age through to the beginnings of the Roman Empire. And EVERYONE will be charmed by the beautiful coastline and pristine beaches surrounding all of the island (most of it unspoiled by people and tourism). Cyprus should be on all students’ bucket lists!

Nicosia is the centrally located capital of Cyprus, and is the most populated city on the island. Hosting most foreign embassies and offshore companies, Nicosia is a welcoming city for students. The sights are mostly concentrated in and around the Old City, with a picturesque star-shaped city wall and moat that has been converted to a elegant park. Numerous museums showcase the best of Cypriot archaeology and collections of Orthodox icons and artwork.

Larnaca has the claim to being the oldest city in Cyprus, inhabited as early as 6000 years ago. Many students interested in diving will love the opportunity to dive and explore the wreck of Zenobia, a ferry that sunk on her maiden voyage in 1980 only a few hundred meters from the harbor. The village is known for its lace and silverware, and many independent jewelers and watchmakers line the streets.

Limassol is the second largest city of Cyprus, as well as the principal sea port and a significant tourist destination. Study abroad students and anyone interested in the history of old towns and cities would be thrilled to be able to explore the Limassol Castle and Olympion gymnasium, as well as the ancient cities of Amathus and Kourion. Students will also have the opportunity to relax on one of the many beaches, to take a stroll on the seafront, and to people-watch while munching on a delicious kebab!

How to Choose a Program

As you’re considering between programs and looking at your finances, here are a few more things to consider when picking a study abroad program.

• Academic Life: Study Abroad programs in Cyprus generally have very flexible timetables. There are usually a very small number of participants to this region, and so there is more interaction between each of the individual students and the instructor. Cyprus offers many business administration classes that are thoroughly international, so that students can learn management insights and skills to achieve success in a highly competitive environment.The Cyprus College of Art offers graduate programs in Studio Arts. It is an internationally recognized center for artists and art students who want to explore their creativity. Amongst the ancient European artifacts, there is much inspiration to be found for artists and art students looking to travel to Cyprus.
• Language: Because the first language in Cyprus is Greek and Turkish, many students and Study Abroad Advisors will incorrectly assume that unless students are fluent in the Modern Greek, they will not be able to succeed here. However, because Cyprus was a British Colony, most of the population is multilingual and English is commonly spoken as a second language. The University of Nicosia uses English as the official language of instruction and administration. Non-Greek speaking students can easily navigate the university, the community, and travel throughout Cyprus.
• Housing: Dorm-style housing is available for students who wish to study abroad in Cyprus. Rooms are designed to fit one, two, or four people. The residence halls are within walking distance of the classroom buildings and the student center. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served 7 days a week at the food hall.

Social Life and Student Culture

Cyprus offers a beautiful escape from the stresses of everyday life. It boasts a myriad of picturesque coves, beautiful broad bays, and citrus groves. Students can enjoy swimming on secluded stretches of sandy beaches in the Karpaz, enjoying numerous activities in private hotel beaches, or scuba diving in one of the nation’s spectacular dive sites.

Study Abroad students can see the many archaeological sites scattered around the island, dating from the New Stone Age through to the Roman Empire. The Troodos Mountains offer beautiful trail walks and quaint little villages. The capital of Cyprus, Nicosia, has wonderful bars and restaurants within the old walls of the city.

Scholarships: Cyprus

Does studying abroad sound fabulous but expensive? While it is true, studying abroad can mean added costs, there are still a variety of ways to offset the extra expenses. If you're not up for opening a lemonade stand, I suggest checking out the following scholarships.

• The Boren Scholarship provides money to students studying language critical to US interests abroad.
• More Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships