11 reasons to study in Cyprus

The demand for students to study in Cyprus increases every year due to its prime location and proximity to Arab and European countries. Below, we will discuss 11 reasons to study in Cyprus,  the advantages of studying at universities in Cyprus and many other aspects that attract students from all over the world.

Location and establishment of Cyprus

Before discussing 11 reasons to study in Cyprus, let's take a quick look at the location and establishment of Cyprus.

Cyprus is located 70 kilometers north of Turkey, 100 kilometers east of Syria, 370 kilometers south of Egypt, 950 kilometers northwest of Greece, and 170 kilometers southeast of Lebanon.

The island of Cyprus entered into a war in 1963 as a result of social and cultural differences between the Turkish Cypriot community and the Greek Cypriot community. This war ended after the Turkish army entered Cyprus in 1974.

The war resulted in the division of the island into two independent states: the northern part, known as Turkish Cyprus, and the southern part, known as Greek Cyprus.

Northern Cyprus, or Turkish Cyprus, is one of the most beautiful cities on the Mediterranean. Cyprus is known as a prime tourist destination and has recently gained a reputation for education, welcoming many students from all over the world.

Find Out More: Living costs in Turkish Cyprus for students 2025

The education system in Cyprus

Bachelor's studies at universities in Cyprus take 4 years and 2 years for a master's degree, while a doctorate takes from (3 : 5 ) years, and each year is divided into two semesters.

This system is adapted from the European education system known as the "credit and hour system."

11 reasons to study in Cyprus

Universities in Cyprus have several advantages, there are 11 reasons to study in Cyprus:

1. Universities in Cyprus have a strong infrastructure, as they are built on modern foundations and systems.
2. Advanced educational programs that meet and even compete with international standards.Turkish Cypriot universities have a good reputation in education, following international standards in academic programs and encouraging research and development.
3. It includes an elite group of academics with extensive experience in teaching worldwide.
4. Universities in Cyprus have the latest laboratories equipped with advanced equipment and tools that guarantee quality education for students.
5. The university provides many scholarships that reduce the financial burden on the student.
6. Universities in Cyprus offer numerous cultural centers and sports clubs that develop students' physical and intellectual skills.
7. The study costs are relatively moderate.Turkish Cypriot universities are an economical option for students looking for a reasonable tuition fee, as the cost of studying there is low compared to European countries.
8. Ease of obtaining residency in Cyprus once the student obtains acceptance into one of its universities.
9. Universities in Cyprus provide transportation services for students for almost free, making it easier for students to move from the university to their place of residence.
10. Universities in Cyprus place great emphasis on practical training.
11. Most universities have many recognitions and accreditations from European countries.

Read More: Medical specialties in Turkish Cyprus

Disadvantages of studying in Cyprus

Despite the 11 reasons to study in Cyprus that characterize universities in Cyprus, the most important of which we have mentioned, there are some disadvantages that we will mention below

1. One of the most significant drawbacks of studying in Cyprus is the lack of job opportunities.
2. The costs of studying and living can be high if you study in other countries.
3. Some countries do not recognize the certificate issued by Cyprus due to the lack of international recognition of the Republic of Northern Cyprus.
4. Relying on English as the primary language of study may be difficult for some students.
5. Life in Cyprus is more European, which can be a challenge for some students to adapt to the new environment.
6. Lack of specializations available in some universities.

The most important university majors in Cyprus

There are many specializations in universities in Cyprus, and we mention the most important of them

1. Human Medicine. 
2. Veterinary Medicine. 
3. Dentistry. 
4. Pharmacy. 
5. Software Engineering. 
6. Business Administration. 
7. Civil Engineering. 
8. Architecture and Design. 
9. Oil and Gas Engineering.
10. Artificial Intelligence Engineering.
11. Biomedical Engineering.

The best private universities in Cyprus

We will present a list of the best private universities in Cyprus and talk about each of them in some detail

1. Near East University

• Near East university is one of the first and oldest universities to offer medical education in Cyprus, it has the largest hospital in the country.
• A member of the Federation of Islamic Universities. 
• A member of the Association of European Universities and UNESCO.
• One of the largest universities in Cyprus, its most prominent specializations include veterinary medicine and electric automotive engineering.                       

2. Cyprus International University 

• Cyprus international university offers state-of-the-art chemical and medical laboratories and classrooms that rival those of European universities.
• The university has a huge library that includes many books and references that students and faculty members need, in addition to a number of computers that help students in research and other work.
• It is worth noting that its tuition fees are moderate and suitable for many students.

3. University of Kyrenia

• It is a branch of the Near East University. 
• It has approximately 36 years of teaching experience and Scientific Research.
• Its curricula are adapted from European curricula.
• It offers special scholarships to students studying medicine.

4. Girne American University 

• One of the largest universities in terms of the number of students who obtain doctorates.
• Recognized by many European countries.
• IACBE accredited by the International Association of Business Administration.
• NARIC is accredited by the National Equivalency and Information Centre in the United Kingdom, and this accreditation demonstrates the importance of this accreditation for students who wish to complete their studies in the United States of America.

Read more about: Girne American University 

5. Middle East Technical University 

• This university specializes in engineering disciplines.
• Its tuition fees are moderate. 
• It offers numerous scholarship programs, up to 100%, for outstanding students.
• It relies on modern equipment and advanced technologies. 
• Perhaps the drawback of this university is the lack of medical specialties.

Study costs in Cyprus

The cost of studying varies depending on the university, the major you choose, and the undergraduate level. The cost of studying medical fields is higher than other fields, and a year of studying for a master's degree is more expensive than a year of studying for a bachelor's degree.

1. Tuition Fees

The annual tuition fees for general and engineering majors are approximately $2,900, while the tuition fees for medical majors are $7,000. These are acceptable and not high when combined with the various advantages offered by Cypriot universities.

2. Additional Costs

There are some expenses you will need to incur when deciding to study in Turkish Cyprus, such as residency permit fees, health insurance, and textbook costs. However, these costs are modest and not high, amounting to as little as $100 per year.

3. Scholarships

Some universities in Turkish Cyprus offer full or partial scholarships to international students, depending on the value of the scholarship.

4. Living Costs

There are basic living costs in Cyprus, such as rent, food, and transportation. These vary depending on the location of the university and the area in which you live. These expenses can range between $300 and $500 per month.

Study conditions in Cyprus

1. High school GPA is not required.
2. Proficiency in the English language, as it is the primary language of study at universities in Cyprus, and having a TEFL or IELTS certificate enhances the chances of acceptance to study there.
3. Passing the YOS exam is not required.

Documents required to study in Cyprus

1. A copy of your high school diploma. 
2. A copy of your high school transcript. 
3. A translated copy of your passport. 
4. Certification of English proficiency, such as a TOEFL or IELTS score, or enrollment in a university preparatory year. 
5. A personal photo.

Cost of living in Cyprus

The costs of food, drink, and housing in Cyprus are acceptable and not high. However, it should be noted that electricity, water, and gas bills are relatively high.

It is preferable for students to live on campus, as this is more economical and contributes to alleviating the student's living burden.

Language of study in Cyprus

The language of study in Cyprus is English. Those who are fluent in Turkish can also study it.

The university conducts a test to determine the student’s level in English or Turkish. If the student does not pass the test, training courses are held to improve the language for the students.

Scholarships in Cyprus

There are many scholarship programs at the universities of Cyprus. Each university has its own group of scholarships. The conditions for these scholarships vary from one university to another.

However, in general, universities offer full scholarships of up to 100% and partial scholarships that cover part of the tuition fees to ease the burden on students.

How can New Horizons help you to study at University?

TheNew Horizons Team provides a range of services to students who wish to study in Türkiye.

1. Assisting the student in preparing the necessary documents for application and translating them into English and Turkish.
2. Helping students obtain scholarships and how to apply for them.
3. Assisting the student in obtaining suitable housing according to his financial ability and close to the university in which the student is studying.

Contact us now for more information about studying in Turkey.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, and with impartiality, we can overlook the drawbacks of studying in Cyprus, given its advantages that can offset them.

Cyprus is a country considered both an academic and tourist destination. Students enjoy their academic journey and discover a new country with numerous tourist attractions and breathtaking natural landscapes.