The Athens Center: Faculty & Administration

48 Archimidous Street, Athens 11636, Greece
Phones:(+30) 210 7012-268 (+30) 210 7015-242
Fax: (+30) 210 7018-603

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any visa requirements for Greece?
No visa requirements for EU residents. USA nationals, do not need a visa but must renew their residency permit after three months..
Otherwise check with local Greek Embassy/Consulate for visa requirements.

Is it safe in Greece?
One of the safest. No problem walking the streets alone or at night.
One has to be careful, though, of unruly drivers and motorbikes.

What is the weather like?
April through November warm and balmy.
June/July very hot (classes are air-conditioned)
November to March cold, rainy but many warm days with sunshine (coat needed).

Can I get a refund?
Greek language programs: full refund prior to course beginning.
Housing: Usually full refund.
University Programs. Check with each university for their refund policy.

Can I change course levels/time/ after I register?
Yes, if a class, or level is available

What if I cancel after I have paid fees and or deposit?
Full refunds available prior to commencement of class.

Do you provide housing in Athens, how far from the Athens Centre?

The Athens Centre advises participants where and how to find housing. In the neighborhood there are Small self-contained basically furnished apartments with kitchenettes available for short lets; five minutes walk from the Centre.
Fans, no air-conditioning. No phones. Laundry facilities close by.
Moderately priced hotels located in the vicinity.

Do I need public transport?
Apartments are located five minuets walk from the Athens Centre.
Downtown Athens, Plaka, Syntagma, also walking distance.
Taxis are inexpensive. A new Metro system links Omonia,
Syntagma, the Megaron Concert Hall and Pireaus.

Can I call out of Greece with my mobile phone?
GSM system only. But one can rent a mobile GSM system by the week for basic rates.

What electricity current is there in Greece; do I need a transformer/plugs?
220 Volts, US appliances need a transformer and an adapter plug.
Europe- only an adapter is needed, which is available in Greece.

What about computer e-mail use?
Internet cafes in the neighborhood. You can receive e-mail messages at the Athens Centre at: athenscr@ath.forthnet.gr

Can I pay by check?

Checks are welcome as are Visa and Mastercharge.

Is English spoken in Greece?
Most Greek people speak some English/French and German.Staff at the Athens Centre are multilingual.

Where can I receive mail? Phone/Fax / e-mail messages
Letters can be addressed to:
The Athens Centre
48 Archimidous Street
Athens 116 36
Greece

Phone: (+30) 210 701 2268 and (+30) 210 7015242
Fax: (+30) 210 7018603
Mobile Emergency: (+30) 6932 269 010
E Mail: greekciv@compulink.gr

Where can I get information on travel in Greece?
The Athens Centre staff will be pleased to advise.

You can also link to: Information on Greece

What about medical care?
Recommend medical and travel insurance. Good medical care in Athens.
Inadequate facilities on the islands. Avoid renting motorbikes

What credit cards are used in Greece?
Most major credit cards accepted

What about personal checks? Eurochecks?
Hard to cash. Better get traveler's checks

What about prescriptions, drugs?
Check with you doctor prior to departure.
Bring a short term supply of your
needed prescription/drug.

Who are the other students?
Greek language program participants are of all nationalities with age ranges from 18-75; average age between 30-40 years old.

Are the University Programs accredited?
Each university/college accredits its own program.

Will I like it?
Most people love it; the Centre is small and friendly.
Classes are enjoyable; the staff is responsive to participants' needs.

Are they any hidden expenses?
Expenses as per program listing. Books for Greek language must be purchased separately at local bookshop
The Centre offers free coffee/tea. We don't sell anything.