Most regulations and restrictions regarding protection from COVID-19 have been suspended. The Greek authorities will re-evaluate the situation, when and if needed, and some preventive regulations may be reinstated if the number of cases increases in the future. CYA will keep you informed of any such regulations, and of any changes, as they are announced.

Below you will find information regarding current restrictions and requirements imposed by the Greek authorities due to COVID-19.

Use of Masks

Masks are currently mandatory only at places related to health services (hospitals, outpatient units, pharmacies, etc.).

Masks are recommended when using public transportation, inside public places such as banks, supermarkets, etc., as well as in crowded outdoors places such as touristy areas, flea markets, farmers’ markets, tourist spots, crowded Metro stations, shopping malls, etc.

Using a high protection mask suck as KN95, N95 or FFP2 or wearing two masks at the same time is recommended.

The health authorities are continuously evaluating the COVID-19 situation especially as regards to school and classroom environments.  If new regulations are put in effect in the future, CYA will let you know.

Mandatory Measures and Fines

When a mandatory measure is imposed by the government, it is enforced by the police.  Fines for non-compliance start at 300 Euros.  Mandatory Measures and Fines apply to Greek residents as well as third country nationals.

Vaccinations

Currently vaccination is open to all permanent residents of Greece over the age of 5 and booster doses are available to those above the age of 18.   Booster doses are recommended for all whose last vaccination was more than 3 months ago.  Booster shots are mandatory for those over 60 years old whose last vaccination was more than 6 months ago.  Subsequent boosters are also available for certain categories of citizens (seniors, etc.)

Non-residents of Greece: It is now possible for a non-resident to receive a booster shot in Greece.  Students who could not obtain a booster shot before they come to Greece may contact the Student Affairs Office upon arrival to arrange for their booster shot in Athens.

Proof of Vaccination

Proof of vaccination is not mandatory any more, but you may be required to show proof of vaccination or to undergo a COVID test in order to enter health-related spaces, such as hospitals and outpatient units.

Daily life

Masks are recommended when you shop in small establishments or in busy places with many strangers such as supermarkets.  Masks are required in health-related places such as pharmacies, doctor’s offices, outpatient units and hospitals, nursing homes, etc.  Although masks are not mandatory anymore in public transportation, their use is highly recommended when you are using city transportation or the Metro.

Small stores/shops aim to limit the number of customers in the premises in order to ensure a safe environment for their employees and their clientele. Sometimes there may be a line of customers waiting outside a shop.  Do not be surprised or offended if a store owner asks you to wait outside or to wear your mask when you enter their store.

Entertainment (restaurants, bars, cafeterias, nightclubs):  Currently all restrictions have been suspended.  The Health Authorities continue to evaluate the situation and may reinstate restrictions if and when necessary.  CYA will keep you updated.

For those who wish to avoid crowded restaurants, take-out and delivery is abundant, from coffee-shops to all kinds of food/cuisine.  Many food establishments deliver till midnight. Check times when you order online.  Payment by Credit card is accepted by all establishments upon ordering. Some also accept credit card payment upon delivery.

Personal care: Hairdressers/nail salons/ beauty spas/body care may work by appointment only, to avoid crowding.

Arts: Archaeological sites, Museums, Art Galleries are open to the public with no restrictions. Distancing may be recommended by the establishment’s management.

Travel: No restrictions apply to travel, incoming or domestic.

Hospitals: Masks are mandatory.  Visitors may be asked to present proof of vaccination/recovery and/or a negative COVID test performed within 48 hours.  Private clinics, nursing homes and hospices may have stricter rules.

Most regulations and restrictions have been suspended for the summer/fall months but may be reinstated as winter progresses. The Greek authorities will re-evaluate the situation, when and if needed, and some preventive regulations may be reinstated if the number of cases increases due to the colder weather and indoor life. CYA will keep you informed of any such regulations, and of any changes, as they are announced.

Below you will find information regarding current restrictions and requirements imposed by the Greek authorities due to COVID-19. Updates will be circulated and posted as needed.

Use of Masks

Masks are currently mandatory at places related to health services (hospitals, outpatient units, pharmacies, etc.) and in any means of public transportation where seat numbers are not pre-assigned.

Masks are highly recommended inside public places such as banks, supermarkets, public offices, etc., as well as in crowded outdoors places such as touristy areas, flea markets, farmers’ markets, tourist spots, crowded bus stops, shopping malls, etc.

Using a high protection mask suck as KN95, N95 or FFP2 or wearing two masks at the same time is highly recommended.

The health authorities are continuously evaluating the COVID-19 situation especially as regards to school and classroom environments.  If new regulations are put in effect, CYA will let you know.

Mandatory Measures and Fines

When a mandatory measure is imposed by the government, it is enforced by the police.  Fines for non-compliance start at 300 Euros.  Mandatory Measures and Fines apply to Greek residents as well as third country nationals.

Vaccinations

Currently vaccination is open to all permanent residents of Greece over the age of 5 and booster doses are available to those above the age of 18.   Booster doses are recommended for all whose last vaccination was more than 3 months ago.  Booster shots are mandatory for those over 60 years old whose last vaccination was more than 6 months ago.  Subsequent boosters are also available for certain categories of citizens (seniors, etc.)

Non-residents of Greece: It is now possible for a non-resident to receive a booster shot in Greece.  Students who could not obtain a booster shot before they come to Greece may contact the Student Affairs Office upon arrival to arrange for their booster shot in Athens.

Proof of Vaccination

Currently proof of vaccination is not mandatory in order to enter enclosed spaces such as galleries and museums.  CYA will let you know if this regulation gets reinstated.  Proof of vaccination may be required to enter health-related spaces, such as hospitals.

Daily life

High protection masks or double masks are highly recommended when you shop in small establishments or in busy places with many strangers such as supermarkets.

Small stores/shops aim to limit the number of customers in the premises in order to ensure a safe environment for their employees and their clientele. Sometimes there may be a line of customers waiting outside a shop.  Do not be surprised or offended if a store owner asks you to wait outside or to wear your mask when you enter their store.

Take-out and delivery is abundant, from coffee-shops to all kinds of food/cuisine. Many food establishments deliver till midnight. Check times when you order online.  Payment by Credit card is accepted by all establishments upon ordering. Some also accept credit card payment upon delivery.

Entertainment (restaurants, bars, cafeterias, nightclubs):  Currently, restrictions have been suspended as to the number of people in any entertainment establishment or their vaccination status.  The Health Authorities will re-evaluate the situation and reinstate restrictions if and when necessary.  CYA will keep you updated.

Personal care: Hairdressers/nail salons/ beauty spas/body care may work by appointment only, to avoid crowding.

Arts: Archaeological sites, Museums, Art Galleries are open.  Distancing rules may be in effect.

Travel to and from the islands is currently unrestricted and so is travel by bus or train. Many transportation companies (ferries, buses) may require that masks be worn on board at all times, even if you have been assigned a seat number.

Hospitals: Masks are mandatory.  Visitors may be asked to present proof of vaccination/recovery and/or a negative COVID test performed within 48 hours.  Private clinics, nursing homes and hospices may have stricter rules.

Vaccinations

Currently vaccination is open to all permanent residents of Greece over the age of 5 and booster doses are available to those above the age of 18.   Booster doses are recommended for all whose last vaccination was more than 3 months ago.  Booster shots are mandatory for those over 60 years old whose last vaccination was more than 6 months ago.  Second boosters are available for those over 60.

Non-residents of Greece: It is now possible for a non-resident to receive booster shots in Greece.  Students who could not obtain a booster shot before they come to Greece may contact the Student Affairs Office upon arrival to arrange for a booster shot while in Athens.

Any Measures imposed by the Greek Health Authorities apply to Greek residents as well as third country nationals.

Most measures against the spread of COVID-19 have been suspended for the period June 1, 2022 to August 31, 2022.  At that time the Greek health authorities will re-examine the situation and will decide whether certain measures should be reinstated.

Between June 1, 2022 and August 31, 2022:

Masks are not mandatory either indoors or outdoors; however their use is highly recommended in areas where there may be crowding, such as shopping malls, banks, supermarkets etc., or outdoor places such as farmer markets, flea markets or busy tourist locations.

Masks are mandatory in all means of urban public transportation (metro, bus, trolley, tram) and in health-related places (pharmacies, outpatient clinics, hospitals/hospices, nursing homes, etc.).

Access to enclosed spaces is not restricted, although some locations may still maintain a maximum capacity limit.

No proof of vaccination or of negative testing is required for entering Greece or for travel within Greece.

Taxis: Masks are mandatory for the driver and recommended for the passengers.

Take-out and delivery is abundant, from coffee-shops to all kinds of food/cuisine. Many food establishments deliver till midnight. Check times when you order online.  Payment by Credit card is accepted by all establishments upon ordering. Some also accept credit card payment upon delivery.

Entertainment (restaurants, bars, cafeterias, nightclubs):  Patrons are not required to wear masks or show proof of vaccination.

OTHER

Personal care: Hairdressers/nail salons/ beauty spas/body care continue to work by appointment only.

Arts: Archaeological sites, Museums, Art Galleries are open. No proof of vaccination or negative testing are required.  Distancing rules may still be in effect at some locations.

Travel to and from the islands is allowed without proof of vaccination, or  recent negative COVID Test. Masks are not required, but highly recommended, for travel on out of town buses or trains, or other means of long-distance transportation where the number of passengers is controlled (e.g. numbered seats).

Hospitals: One visitor allowed per patient. Visitors must present proof of vaccination/recovery and/or a negative COVID test performed within 48 hours.  Private clinics, nursing homes and hospices may have stricter rules.  Masks are mandatory in all health-care facilities, private or public.

Vaccinations

Currently vaccination is open to all permanent residents of Greece over the age of 5 and booster doses are available to those above the age of 18.   Booster doses are recommended for all whose last vaccination was more than 3 months ago.  Booster shots are mandatory for those over 60 years old whose last vaccination was more than 6 months ago.  Second boosters are available for those over 60.

Non-residents of Greece: It is now possible for a non-resident to receive booster shots in Greece.  Students who could not obtain a booster shot before they come to Greece should contact the Student Affairs Office upon arrival to arrange for their booster shot in Athens.

Measures and Fines apply to Greek residents as well as third country nationals.

There is no curfew in effect in Greece at this time.  Nevertheless, a night-time curfew may be imposed in certain areas if there is a surge COVID-19 cases.

Certain restrictions are in effect, imposed by the government and enforced by the police.  Violators are fined on-the-spot by the police and fines for non-compliance start at 300 Euros.

Masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces and in public transportation, as well as in crowded outdoors places such as touristy areas, farmers’ markets, etc.  Using a high protection mask suck as KN95, N95 or FFP2 or wearing two masks at the same time is mandatory in supermarkets and in means of public transportation and is recommended for when in crowded indoor or outdoor places (flea markets, farmers’ markets, tourist spots, crowded bus stops, public transportation, shopping malls, etc.).

Access to enclosed spaces and documentation necessary is divided in three categories:

1. No proof of vaccination or negative testing, but high protection masks (see above) are necessary to enter enclosed spaces for purchasing items of immediate need, such as pharmacies, food stores, supermarkets, meat or fish markets, grocery stores, bakeries, pastry shops, liquor stores, etc.
2. No proof of vaccination or negative testing  is required for entering  public or private workplaces, hairdressers’, personal care, etc., or spaces such as museums or galleries, but mask wearing is still mandatory indoors.
3. No proof of Vaccination or negative testing are required in order to enter entertainment spaces such as restaurants, bars, clubs and as well as museums, galleries, cinemas and theaters, gyms, sports arenas, etc. but masks are still mandatory until you are seated, and while you circulate in the premises.

Fines for non-compliance start at 300 Euros per person.

Taxis: Masks are mandatory for the driver and the passengers.

Supermarkets, stores, shops operate normal hours but must maintain a maximum number of customers allowed per square meter at any time. Sometimes there may be a line of shoppers waiting outside a store or supermarket.  High protection masks or double masks are mandatory.

Strict measures are in effect on distancing, disinfection, and maximum number of customers allowed in any store or shop, and owners who do not abide by these measures may be fined upwards of 5,000 Euros. Do not be surprised or offended if a store owner asks you to wait outside or to wear your mask properly when you enter their store.

Take-out and delivery is abundant, from coffee-shops to all kinds of food/cuisine. Many food establishments deliver till midnight. Check times when you order online.  Payment by Credit card is accepted by all establishments upon ordering. Some also accept credit card payment upon delivery.

Entertainment (restaurants, bars, cafeterias, nightclubs): In indoor spaces  masks must be worn until customers are seated, and when they walk through the establishment (on the way to the bathrooms, for example).  All establishment personnel (waiters, bartenders, etc.) must wear high protection or double masks at all times.

OTHER

Personal care: Hairdressers/nail salons/ beauty spas/body care work by appointment only.

Arts: Archaeological sites, Museums, Art Galleries are open. No proof of vaccination or negative testing are required.  Distancing rules may still be in effect at some locations.

Travel to and from the islands is allowed without proof of vaccination, or  recent negative COVID Test. Travel by bus or train is unrestricted but high protection masks must be worn at all times.

Church services: Masks are mandatory for all except officiating priests and cantors/choristers/choir. Maximum number of persons may still be in effect.

Hospitals: One visitor allowed per patient. Visitors must present proof of vaccination/recovery and/or a negative COVID test performed within 48 hours.  Private clinics, nursing homes and hospices may have stricter rules.

Extension of Refund Policy Amendment to include Summer Sessions and Fall Semester 2022

Due to the continuing uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, CYA has amended its Cancellation and Refund Policy for Summer and Fall 2022 as follows:

In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, a Summer 2022 Session or the Fall 2022 Semester program prior to the session’s/program’s Arrival Date, CYA will refund 100% of all monies received including the $600 non-refundable deposit.

At this time booster shots are not available in Greece for third-country residents

CYA would like to remind all incoming students that they should receive their Covid booster shots before they come to Greece. At this time, it is not possible for non-EU residents to receive their booster shot in Greece. Please keep in mind that vaccination certificates are acceptable for one year from the date of vaccination, so those who were vaccinated early in the year may find themselves without a valid proof of vaccination in the middle of the semester. So please make sure you get your booster shots and remember to submit your vaccination documents in the Google Form linked to your accepted students page.

Important policy change – Proof of vaccination is required to attend CYA

CYA has made the decision to require proof of vaccination of all incoming students.  This decision was made after taking into serious consideration the latest measures announced by the Greek government regarding unvaccinated persons which will encumber a student’s daily life, affect attendance of our program, and in general reduce the level of their study abroad experience. The decision not to accept non-vaccinated students has been made in order to inform incoming students but also to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all. Additionally, for the safety of the CYA community, all CYA staff & faculty have been vaccinated. 

The Greek government, in its effort to encourage people to vaccinate against COVID-19, has imposed the requirement of negative rapid tests for the participation of non-vaccinated individuals of all ages in many indoor and outdoor activities, including class attendance and admittance to places of entertainment such as cafeterias, restaurants, theaters and movie theaters, gyms, sports events, etc.  

Given that CYA’s program involves a great degree of hands-on learning at sites and museums, and that the highlights of the program are its educational trips, two of which are 4 to 5 days long, non-vaccinated students would encounter obstacles – and incur extra expenses – simply to attend class, participate in study travel, or to simply enjoy their free time.

Students who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 may upload their vaccination card on the CYA Document Submission form along with their post acceptance materials.  

We appreciate your cooperation with our new policy and look forward to welcoming you to Athens. 

Extension of Refund Policy Amendment to include Winter Intersession 2022 and Spring Semester 2022

Due to the continuing uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, CYA has amended its Cancellation and Refund Policy for Winter and Spring 2022 as follows:

In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, the Winter 2022 Intersession program or the Spring 2022 Semester program prior to the program’s Arrival Date, CYA will refund 100% of all monies received including the $600 non-refundable deposit.

Dear CYA Students,
According to the latest Directive by the Greek Health Ministry, the Education Ministry, and the Civil Protection Authorities, starting today (official start of the academic year in Greece) students who are not vaccinated must do Rapid tests for COVID-19 twice a week, at their expense, and provide their school with proof of negative results.

Since you are all vaccinated, please reply to this message and attach a copy of your vaccination certificate for CYA records. If we do not have your vaccination record on file, you would need to submit negative results of Rapid Tests twice a week.

Reminder: Masks are still mandatory in all enclosed spaces.

Thank you for your understanding,
CYA Administration

On August 3 the CDC advisory raised the level of some European tourist destinations, including Greece, to level 4, due to an increase in the numbers of COVID-19 positive cases.  

Since 2020, when the worldwide situation was at its worst and well before vaccinations were made available CYA established protocols to deal with the pandemic. Regardless of CDC advisory levels at the time, the Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters, as well as both Summer 2021 sessions ran successfully with small adjustments to their schedules when needed. 

CYA will continue updating and enforcing its protocols depending on the situation in Greece at any given time and following recommendations by the WHO and the CDC and any new directives issued by the Greek Government.  CYA staff and faculty have been fully vaccinated. 

CYA expects that all fall 2021 students will be fully vaccinated before they arrive in Athens. CYA has also made students aware of the impediments, inconveniences and expenses which unvaccinated students may have to deal with during their time in Greece and at CYA. 

The current situation in Greece

The early and lengthy lockdown in Spring 2020 and repeated shorter-term lockdowns to-date, have helped Greece to deal with the pandemic with a relatively low number of victims. The death toll percentage in Greece has been among the lowest in Europe. An early and very strong vaccination program has helped the country move back towards normality with vaccinations being now available to those 12 years old or older. 

The recent rise of COVID-19 positive cases in Greece is mainly among younger, unvaccinated individuals, Greeks and tourists. The summer tourist influx and intense nightlife has also raised the number of positive cases in some popular island destinations such as Mykonos, Paros and Santorini.  The Greek government has reinstated stricter measures for these areas and is re-examining the situation of each locality on a continuous basis.  

Some restrictions are still in place country-wide. Measures are stricter for those who are not vaccinated; significantly less so for those vaccinated. As an example, those who are fully vaccinated, and upon presenting their vaccination certificate, have access to places or services (such as museums, indoor dining, etc.) while those unvaccinated do not, or must present a recent negative COVID-19 test.

The Greek government’s repeatedly stated resolution is to allow life -and the economy-  to continue as close to normal as possible, while measures will continue to be imposed locally, as needed and when needed. 

Date: February 23, 2021
Subject: Amendment of Refund Policy for Fall 2021 due to COVID-19

Due to the continuing uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, CYA has amended its Cancellation and Refund Policy for Fall 2021 semester as follows:

In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, the Fall 2021 program prior to the program’s Arrival Date, CYA will refund 100% of all monies received including the $600 non-refundable deposit.

Date: February 12, 2021
Subject: Weekly Rapid Tests for COVID-19

CYA will provide weekly Rapid Tests to Spring 2021 students and faculty. Weekly testing will continue for as long as deemed necessary.

Date: November 13, 2020 12:31 (GMT+02:00)
Subject: A message to our students

Dear students,

We are now at almost the two thirds point of a successful semester during which you managed to reap all the benefits that study in another country could offer you, albeit the difficult circumstances of the pandemic. Thanks to your good nature and your collaborative spirit, you completed, without jeopardizing your health or that of your faculty and staff, the field study in Crete and the Peloponnese, as well as the orientation field trip to Delphi and Meteora. You had the benefit of some additional field experiences, not originally scheduled, to Eretria-Marathon and the sculpture art tour at the First Cemetery. Your mid-term exams were another step to the completion of the academic experience at CYA.

As you are aware, the second wave of Covid 19 is upon us, not just in Greece but even more intensely all over Europe. I am writing this note from the US, which is also experiencing the effect of the severity of this second wave. The Greek government has implemented as of today and until November 30 stricter measures of partial lockdown. The two measure mostly affecting your lives is the curfew from 9:00 pm to to 5:00 am and of course the ban on travel to other parts of the country. It is the price we have to pay to see us through this extremely dangerous phase. You have been given directions on how to move from your apartments by using the appropriate SMS code and obtaining the required instant permit.

We are making every effort to keep some of your small classes on in-person teaching mode, always adhering to the rules of social distancing and mask wearing. Some sessions of your other classes will need to be held with synchronous online teaching for a while and you will be accordingly informed by your professors who are working with you to offer you the best in this challenging time. Your meal plan is continuing by having the meals delivered so that you do not have to use the cafeteria facility and expose yourselves to possible risk.

I am writing today to thank you for your admirable stance and to encourage you to persist with the social responsibility that you have shown so far. Your compliance with all the Covid 19 regulations of the government is imperative. The CYA staff is always here to explain and assist. We all owe it to each other to continue in the same spirit so that there will be no Covid infection in our community that would disrupt this memorable semester.

Alexis Phylactopoulos
President

Date: September 18, 2020
Subject: Spring Semester 2021 Fees Reduced and Withdrawal Penalties Waived

CYA offers a fee reduction for Spring 2021, similar to the one offered in Fall 2020: The Total Semester Fees for Spring 2021 are reduced by $350, bringing the total to $21,500.

Additionally, the no-penalty withdrawal policy is extended to the Spring 2021 semester in order to alleviate some of the financial concerns and uncertainties caused by COVID-19. In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, the Fall 2020 or the Spring 2021 program prior to Arrivals Day, CYA will issue a 100% refund including the $600 non-refundable deposit.

Date: August 3, 2020
Subject: Students from the U.S. allowed entry to Greece on a student visa

We have been informed that although EU countries, including Greece, are not accepting tourists from the U.S., Greece is allowing entry to those who have obtained a student visa.

Normally a student visa would not be necessary to attend CYA’s Fall program which has been condensed to under 90 days. Under the present circumstances, however, a student visa is recommended and beneficial, as, besides allowing entry to Greece, it would enable the students to travel within the EU during their semester at CYA.

CYA has been in contact with all Fall students helping them with the visa documentation and process.

Date: May 15, 2020 10:09 AM
Subject: Cancellation of Summer 2020 On-line Courses

As we continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19, we want to thank you for your patience and understanding during these past few months. These are unprecedented times and COVID-19 has taken its toll causing us to regretfully cancel courses due to low enrollment.

Unfortunately, CYA’s online summer 2020 courses (ARCH 347 OL and LIT 348 OL) have been cancelled. Any students who have submitted payments will receive a full refund. If you are interested in deferring to a future semester please let us know.

We hope to welcome you to Athens in the near future!

Thank you again, for your continued support.

Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: CYA is determined to offer its students an outstanding experience this Fall semester, in spite of COVID-19.

Visit our COVID-19-related FAQ page to find out some details of our plans for Fall 2020

Date: April 22, 2020
Subject: CYA Cancels all Summer 2020 in-person courses

As the COVID-19 situation continues to remain fluid and challenge the education abroad community, CYA has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel all in-person summer 2020 courses.

Students are given the option to withdraw, defer to another term, or take one or both of the following on-line courses:

On-line courses offered in lieu of on-site courses for Summer 2020

1. ARCH 347 OL – When Egypt Meets the Aegean: Interconnections in the Bronze Age Eastern Mediterranean
2. LIT 348 OL – Becoming a Traveler: Writing on Greece

Program costs will be $1,200 per course.

Courses will run from July 1-29th. These courses will be offered through a mix of synchronous and asynchronous classes.

These are certainly extraordinary times and we deeply appreciate your patience and understanding. The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff remains our number one priority. Although we cannot welcome you to Greece this summer we hope to welcome you back some time in the near future.

Date: April 14, 2020
Subject: Fall Semester 2020 Changes

As we continue to combat COVID-19 and adjust to this changing global landscape, CYA is announcing the following changes to the fall 2020 program.

The fall semester will now begin three weeks later, on September 21st and will conclude on December 18th. This new schedule will still preserve the required number of contact hours and the overall richness and quality of the CYA experience. This change will also eliminate the student visa requirement for U.S. passport holders coming to Greece, as the semester duration does not surpass the 90-day limit.

CYA understands that most students utilize their free time throughout the semester as an opportunity to travel throughout the continent. With that in mind, this adjusted schedule will still offer a good number of long weekends, national holidays and a 9-day fall recess to travel and take advantage of their time in Europe. Nevertheless, a note of caution is that this kind of travel should be done only after careful scrutiny of the health conditions prevailing in each destination.

Additionally, CYA’s fees for fall 2020 have been slightly reduced by $350, bringing the total to $21,500, and the refund policy has been amended to alleviate some of the financial concerns and uncertainties caused by COVID-19. In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, the fall 2020 program prior to Arrivals Day, CYA will issue a 100% refund including the $600 non-refundable deposit.

We understand how challenging and uncertain these times are and therefore we hope that these adjustments will ease some of the stress and concern for our students and their families.

CYA will continue to closely monitor the situation and work with our students and partners to prepare for the upcoming semester. We very much look forward to welcoming all to Athens this fall.

Date: April 9, 2020
Subject: Amendment of Refund Policy for Fall 2020 due to COVID-19

Due to the uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,
CYA has amended its Cancellation and Refund Policy for Fall 2020 as follows:

In the event that a student withdraws from, or CYA cancels, the Fall 2020 program prior to Arrivals Date, CYA will refund 100% of all monies received including the non-refundable deposit.

Date: March 24, 2020
Subject: Summer Programs Start Date moved to July 1, 2020

The health and safety of our students has always been CYA’s highest priority. During the current COVID-19 outbreak CYA has been constantly monitoring the situation and following closely the developments and announcements by the CDC, the U.S. State Department, and the Greek Authorities.

At this time, due to the COVID-19 impact on travel between the U.S. and Europe, CYA has decided to move the start date of both its Summer I and Summer II sessions to July 1, 2020. This in effect means that students will be able to take only one course during Summer 2020. Students enrolled in courses on both sessions will be contacted by the Registrar in the next days to discuss their choice(s).

Due to the fluidity of the situation, CYA reserves the right to cancel a summer course by May 15, in which case all deposits will be returned.

Final payment due date is extended to May 22.

Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Subject: CYA’s Continuing Education Plan for the Spring 2020 Semester due to COVID-19

Click here to download the full Plan sent to Study Abroad Advisors

Sent: Wednesday, March 18, 2020 9:04:50 PM
Subject: Message to CYA Spring 2020 Students

Dear CYA Students,

It has been a sad week for us, saying goodbye to you so soon after we welcomed you to Athens and to our school’s life. The rapid sequence of events has forced many into a hasty departure, with several of you having to catch flights over the weekend or in ungodly hours. Some of you are preparing to leave this week, some are still traveling, and those of you who are already back home are still trying to adjust to this sudden change in your daily life and school schedule.
As you have already been informed, starting March 30 your academic program will continue with on-line courses. The V.P. for Academics is working closely with your professors to ensure that you will be able to complete ALL your courses on-line. We will keep sending instructions and will offer you assistance until the completion of each of your courses. Feel free to communicate with your professors and with the Registrar at any time if you have any questions.

Let me assure you that CYA is and will remain your school for the rest of your semester, even from afar. Your professors have been working non-stop to prepare material for your on-line courses, and the Athens staff have been doing their best to help you have a smooth departure from the program.

We know that many of you have had questions about financial and other issues that you did not have a chance to clarify before you left.

1. Return of your Damage Deposit: In the next days the Housing Department will collect books left in your apartments and the Library will process their return. As soon as this process is completed, the list of names who have returned books but did not have a chance to collect their Damage Deposit in Athens will be sent to the CYA Bursar in North American office, who will then start the process of refunding the deposits to you.
2. Refund for Optional Trips to Rhodes and/or Crete: The full amount will be refunded to participants. Again, these refunds will be processed through our North American Office.
3. Refund for Housing and Board: Despite the fact that CYA cannot recuperate its expenses for the remainder of the semester, CYA will be refunding a total of $1,000 per student. This amount represents a portion of your housing and board and will be refunded either directly to you or to the institution that paid on your behalf.

These are extraordinary times, and we thank all of you for your perseverance and for your understanding and support.

Alexis Phylactopoulos
President

Sent: Friday, March 13, 2020 9:51:37 PM
Subject: Important message from CYA

Dear students,

The Greek government has announced today the indefinite closing of museums, archaeological sites, cultural centers, shopping malls, as well as restaurants, bars, cafeterias, gyms, athletic facilities and stadiums, and small neighborhood businesses. It is also expected that schools will remain closed well beyond the initial 14 days announced last Sunday.

This new development, comes a day after CDC raised all Schengen countries to Level 3, causing unfortunately the recall of the students of many U.S. institutions and depleting CYA of the largest part of this wonderful Spring 2020 group of students. This new situation is preventing us from offering those of you who were planning to remain in Greece a meaningful, academically rewarding, and pleasant experience. We had hopes that we could continue the program in Athens with a sizeable group of students by offering synchronous teleconferencing courses to those who would stay. The new restrictions in the daily life of all citizens in Greece obliges us to change course. There is really no point, with so many obstacles on the way, to continue our efforts to provide the academic semester in Athens that we feel you deserve.

It is with great sadness that CYA has decided to suspend all on-location activities effective Friday, March 20. As promised, you will be able to finish your academic semester and receive credit for all your courses online. Teleconferencing classes will be held, as previously announced, during the week of March 16. Online courses will be available on Moodle starting Monday, March 30.

In order to give students sufficient time to book flights and prepare to leave, CYA housing will be available until Monday, March 23. Take-out lunch service will continue until Friday, March 20.

Additional information pertaining to all Spring 2020 students on practical, academic, and other issues will be available on Monday.

We have been your local family these past months and we continue being committed to offering you all our help. Your professors and the administration will be next to you, even if we are not physically close to you. Our hope is that we will be seeing you back in Athens some day, under pleasant conditions.

Alexis Phylactopoulos
President

Sent: Thursday, March 12, 2020 5:02:11 AM
Subject: Dept. of Homeland Security Announcement

Dear CYA students and parents,
The following announcement by the Department of Homeland Security was brought to our attention:

Release Date: March 11, 2020
(WASHINGTON) Today President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Proclamation, which suspends the entry of most foreign nationals who have been in certain European countries at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival to the United States. These countries, known as the Schengen Area, include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. This does not apply to legal permanent residents, (generally) immediate family members of U.S. citizens, and other individuals who are identified in the proclamation.

Statement from DHS Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf:
“Protecting the American people from threats to their safety is the most important job of the President of the United States. The actions President Trump is taking to deny entry to foreign nationals who have been in affected areas will keep Americans safe and save American lives. I applaud the president for making this tough but necessary decision. While these new travel restrictions will be disruptive to some travelers, this decisive action is needed to protect the American public from further exposure to the potentially deadly coronavirus.

“In January and February, the Administration issued similar travel restrictions on individuals who had been in China and Iran. That action proved to be effective in slowing the spread of the virus to the U.S., while public health officials prepared. In the next 48 hours, in the interest of public health, I intend to issue a supplemental Notice of Arrivals Restriction requiring U.S. passengers that have been in the Schengen Area to travel through select airports where the U.S. Government has implemented enhanced screening procedures.”

Sent: Thursday, March 12, 2020 4:27:03 AM
Subject: US ban on flights from continental Europe

Dear CYA students,
We understand that U.S. President Trump has just announced a 30-day ban on flights from Continental Europe to the United States effective midnight Friday (ET).

If any of you wish to depart Greece before the ban, please send a message to the Registrar, [email protected] stating the date of your departure from the program, and your intention to continue or not your coursework via online courses in order to receive credit.

Those of you who have flights to leave early in the morning of Thursday before the Academic Center opens, please leave your books and your keys in the apartment before you leave. Attention: Before leaving your keys in the apartment, MAKE SURE that the building’s main door/exit to the street is unlocked.

CYA’s program will continue as normal for those who remain in Greece.

The CYA Administration

Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2020 7:15:08 PM
Subject: Greek Government ordering schools closed for 14 days – CYA Contingency Plan going in effect

Dear CYA students,

As expected, the Greek government decided to order schools closed for 14 days, starting tomorrow, as a proactive measure to limit the spread of Coronavirus.

As we have been discussing, CYA has been preparing for this eventuality. This is a temporary measure and like so many schools in the US and in other countries, CYA will operate in an on-line mode until it resumes normal operation.

Midterm Exams
You will be notified by your faculty as to how Wednesday’s and Thursday’s midterms will be completed for each course.

Classes
Starting Monday, March 16, classes will be held via teleconferencing for the next two weeks (Monday-Wednesday and Tuesday-Thursdsay only, no Friday or Saturday classes as previously announced). The teleconference of each class will be taking place at the day and time your class was scheduled for. Over the next few days, you will be receiving additional information and instructions on how to join the teleconference from your apartment. Please be aware that some faculty may request that you go around the city or sites to look at material on your own – not in a group – in preparation for your class.

Lunch
Starting tomorrow, lunch boxes will be prepared and ready for pick-up between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m. In order to avoid crowding, please arrange with your apartment-mates so that one of you comes to pick-up the lunchboxes for the whole apartment.

The CYA Administration

Sent: Monday, March 9, 2020 7:37:49 PM
Subject: Coronavirus update

Dear CYA Students,

You are an exceptional group of CYAers. Your instructors and the CYA staff made this observation from the very first weeks of your semester here. We all understand and share your frustration and disappointment over the disruption caused by COVID-19. But these are undoubtedly extraordinary times.

We are living through a global crisis which is affecting almost every country and all forms of human activity. It is to be expected that study abroad cannot remain immune and therefore your experience here is not going to be as you have planned it. We will do our very best however to preserve first of all the safety of each and every one of you and of our school community as a whole, and to make it possible for you to enjoy the academic benefits of this semester and not suffer the loss of your academic credits.

It is at times like these that we need to make wise decisions and plan accordingly and for this we need to have reliable information. This is the purpose of this set of guidelines.

Please read this message in its entirety:

Field study in northern Greece
The Greek authorities announced yesterday (Sunday) a 2-week ban of all educational excursions within Greece, therefore, the field study in northern Greece unfortunately has to be postponed. In order to cover as much academic ground as possible while conditions allow it, classes will be held regularly during the week of March 16, utilizing Friday [for M/W classes] and Saturday [T/Th classes]. This will also give us the flexibility to possibly re-schedule the trip later in the semester during class days, when permission for educational excursions is reinstated.

On-line courses and academic credits
The CDC and the US State Department assign Greece alert Level 1. CYA does not plan to cancel its program at this point. If the Greek authorities order schools to be closed, CYA will offer its courses via teleconferencing so that you can attend classes from your apartment. If Greece reaches Level 3 or students are requested by their home institutions to leave Greece, CYA will make its courses available on-line so that students may complete the semester and earn full credit.

CYA will also make a distance-learning option available to those students who decide to leave the program voluntarily, so that they, as well, can earn credit for their courses. This option will be available to students a few weeks from now. It is imperative however that students first discuss a voluntary departure with their home institution to ensure that they will be granted credit for on-line courses. Students must keep in mind that it is the home institution’s decision to approve credit transfer based on a student’s voluntary withdrawal from a study abroad program.

Personal travel plans
We recognize that traveling around Europe in your free time is one of the advantages of studying abroad in Greece. But as stated previously, these are extraordinary times and all of us need to adjust our thinking and if necessary alter our plans. Your well-being is our absolute highest priority. Thus, you are strongly advised to avoid all international travel in the coming weeks so as not to jeopardize your health and safety and that of our school community. If, in spite of all this, you do travel to a country with a CDC level 3 travel warning, or is designated as level 3 for coronavirus while you are traveling, please be aware that you will be required upon your return to self quarantine for 14 days.

As far as your traveling around Greece is concerned, the Greek authorities recommend that we all avoid unnecessary travel to some regions of western Peloponnese (roughly from Patras to Olympia) because of increased COVID-19 cases in that region. We strongly suggest that you check with CYA before you start on a trip.

Alexis Phylactopoulos
President

Sent: Thursday, March 5, 2020 11:55:41 PM
Subject: Travel Warning for Italy – Check destinations before you book flights

Dear CYA students,
Two days ago, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) raised Italy’s level to “Warning- Level 3: Avoid All Unnecessary Travel” due to the Coronavirus outbreak in northern Italy.

There are no similar warnings issued for any other European countries at the moment, but please check the CDC’s and the State Department’s Travel pages for current information before you make arrangements for a trip outside Greece, either for an upcoming weekend or for Spring Break.

Sent: Saturday, February 29, 2020 1:46:19 AM
Subject: CYA Coronavirus Update

Dear Study Abroad Partners,

Thank you for the support you have expressed throughout this uneasy week. As we are coming to the end of it, we would like to give you a brief update.

In an effort to keep CYA students, staff and faculty well informed, yesterday we held a Town Hall meeting where a doctor gave an overview of the COVID-19 virus and an update of the current situation in Greece. Students were reminded to follow the precautionary measures suggested by the WHO and the CDC, and were advised to remain in Greece for the upcoming long weekend and enjoy the local festivities of Monday’s holiday. A long Q&A session followed, where students’ questions and concerns were addressed.

CYA continues to operate normally and has no plans to discontinue the program at this time. Life in Athens continues as usual; the four confirmed Coronavirus cases are contained and are continuously being monitored by the authorities.

In the event that CYA is forced to close temporarily due to government regulations, courses will continue online for as long as necessary and students will be able to work online from their apartments. If conditions change, rest assured that we will do all possible so that by using other course teaching delivery methods our students can complete their courses and their academic semester.

As always, our on-site team is ready to offer support to our students. We know these are challenging times and we thank you for your confidence and understanding. We will continue to follow the situation closely, monitoring US and Greek directives, and update you in the coming days.

Sent: Wednesday, February 26, 2020 8:59:43 PM
Subject: Town Hall Meeting tomorrow, Thursday 27 February at 2:00 pm

Dear CYA students,

As you may already know, today we have had the first confirmed case of Coronavirus in Greece. The announcement was made by an official from the Ministry of Public Health who reported that the patient is in very good condition, the incident has been contained, and that there is no reason for the public to worry.

Nevertheless, the unexpected outbreak in northern Italy has understandably caused apprehension and worry throughout Europe.
CYA is calling a Town Hall meeting tomorrow, February 27, at 2:00 p.m. in the Auditorium, to discuss the latest developments, and the situation with Coronavirus in general. Please be there.

Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 8:52:57 PM
Subject: Re: Travel to Italy & Europe

Dear students,
Several of you wrote asking my opinion regarding travel to various European destinations this weekend, either directly or via Italy. Instead of a response, I would like you to consider the following scenarios and think of what your situation would be if you found yourselves in any one of them:

1. Not being allowed to leave Greece if a sudden travel ban to the country you were planning to visit were to be issued.
2. Not being able to enter into a certain country by the authorities of that country, as you may be coming from/through a country that they consider “at risk” (especially if you are planning multi-city/country travel).
3. Being placed into mandatory quarantine in the country of your destination, either because you arrived there through a country that’s considered “at risk”, or because of an outbreak while you are there.
4. Being placed into mandatory quarantine in Greece when you come back, because you show symptoms of Coronavirus, or simply because you come – even only on a connecting flight – from a country that Greece would consider, at the time of your return, “at risk”.

Let me repeat that the situation is very volatile, and countries may announce travel restrictions or other bans at any time. Our suggestion that you avoid traveling the next couple of weekends does not only have to do with Italy, nor with your getting infected while traveling, it has more to do with the situation you may find yourselves in while traveling.

I am sure that you will consider all factors and you will consult with your parents before you decide what to do.

Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 7:54:01 PM
Subject: Coronavirus situation in Europe and CYA measures

Dear Study Abroad partners,

I am sure you are aware of the Coronavirus situation in Europe, where isolated cases have been reported in several major European cities, but especially of the recent outbreak of the virus in northern Italy over this past weekend, which caused some regions to be placed in quarantine and schools to be closed.

Greece is lucky to not have any cases of Coronavirus yet, but viruses do not stop at borders. Since the onset of the Coronavirus outbreak at the end of January, CYA has been preparing to be in a position to limit as much as possible the spread of the virus among our students, faculty and staff, to offer support to students that may be affected, and to ensure that the virus would cause minimum disruption to the academic program.

Keeping students informed:
– On January 30 CYA sent out a message to all students about the outbreak, advising them to check the State Dept’s Travel advisory and the World Health Organization’s pages before they make travel plans. Subsequently messages and updates were sent, the most recent one about the dangers of traveling to Italy or, for that matter, to any European destination with confirmed Coronavirus cases, where the situation may go from normal to quarantine at any moment, as happened in Italy. The focus is to minimize the possibility of CYA students being quarantined in a foreign country for undetermined periods of time, away fromCYA’s support network.

CYA preparedness:
– Procedures on how to handle a suspected Coronavirus incident have been established, and are being reviewed and updated continuously as new information is disseminated by the CDC, the WHO, the Greek National Health Association, and of course the local authorities. Frequent training and update sessions are being held for those staff members who are involved with student care and emergency response.
– The Student Affairs department is keeping a watchful eye on those who have a cold, and tries to monitor students’ symptoms & progress, especially those who went on the optional study trip to Venice, Italy, two weekends ago.
– The Academics department has been working on plans to keep classes going via teleconferencing and by utilizing our electronic Library resources, in case the Greek authorities order schools closed, as is happening now in Italy, or in the event that a professor cannot hold a class in person. This system was tested successfully yesterday.

Practical details:
– WHO posters on how to prevent the spread of a disease have been posted at various locations in CYA buildings and in student apartments.
– Hand disinfectant containers have been placed prominently throughout the CYA buildings and in all student apartments.
– Surgical masks have been purchased, for the use of students who have cold or flu symptoms, as well as thermometers for the use of students who develop a fever.
– The Maintenance department is now using strong disinfectants daily throughout the CYA buildings, and on frequently touched surfaces such as desks, doorknobs, railings, etc. The same disinfectants are used for the weekly cleaning of student apartments.

I hope that the above will help alleviate your concerns somewhat. CYA is taking all measures to be prepared and to minimize the effects if Coronavirus reaches our school or its students.

Please feel free to contact us if you would like additional information.

Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 7:54:01 PM
Subject: Coronavirus situation in Europe and CYA measures

Dear Study Abroad partners,

I am sure you are aware of the Coronavirus situation in Europe, where isolated cases have been reported in several major European cities, but especially of the recent outbreak of the virus in northern Italy over this past weekend, which caused some regions to be placed in quarantine and schools to be closed.

Greece is lucky to not have any cases of Coronavirus yet, but viruses do not stop at borders. Since the onset of the Coronavirus outbreak at the end of January, CYA has been preparing to be in a position to limit as much as possible the spread of the virus among our students, faculty and staff, to offer support to students that may be affected, and to ensure that the virus would cause minimum disruption to the academic program.

Keeping students informed:
– On January 30 CYA sent out a message to all students about the outbreak, advising them to check the State Dept’s Travel advisory and the World Health Organization’s pages before they make travel plans. Subsequently messages and updates were sent, the most recent one about the dangers of traveling to Italy or, for that matter, to any European destination with confirmed Coronavirus cases, where the situation may go from normal to quarantine at any moment, as happened in Italy. The focus is to minimize the possibility of CYA students being quarantined in a foreign country for undetermined periods of time, away fromCYA’s support network.

CYA preparedness:
– Procedures on how to handle a suspected Coronavirus incident have been established, and are being reviewed and updated continuously as new information is disseminated by the CDC, the WHO, the Greek National Health Association, and of course the local authorities. Frequent training and update sessions are being held for those staff members who are involved with student care and emergency response.
– The Student Affairs department is keeping a watchful eye on those who have a cold, and tries to monitor students’ symptoms & progress, especially those who went on the optional study trip to Venice, Italy, two weekends ago.
– The Academics department has been working on plans to keep classes going via teleconferencing and by utilizing our electronic Library resources, in case the Greek authorities order schools closed, as is happening now in Italy, or in the event that a professor cannot hold a class in person. This system was tested successfully yesterday.

Practical details:
– WHO posters on how to prevent the spread of a disease have been posted at various locations in CYA buildings and in student apartments.
– Hand disinfectant containers have been placed prominently throughout the CYA buildings and in all student apartments.
– Surgical masks have been purchased, for the use of students who have cold or flu symptoms, as well as thermometers for the use of students who develop a fever.
– The Maintenance department is now using strong disinfectants daily throughout the CYA buildings, and on frequently touched surfaces such as desks, doorknobs, railings, etc. The same disinfectants are used for the weekly cleaning of student apartments.

I hope that the above will help alleviate your concerns somewhat. CYA is taking all measures to be prepared and to minimize the effects if Coronavirus reaches our school or its students.

Please feel free to contact us if you would like additional information.

Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 3:35:49 PM
Subject: Travel to Italy & Europe

Dear CYA students,
Further to yesterday’s message:
It has come to our attention that many of you are planning to travel to Italy and other European destinations this upcoming 4-day weekend. Please note that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has brought Italy to Warning-Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel.

We strongly advise that you do not travel to Italy, particularly Northern Italy, and that you should reconsider your travel plans to any countries that have confirmed Coronavirus cases. The extent and seriousness of the sudden outbreak in Italy this past weekend only proves that the situation is very fluid and that an area that is considered safe today may be not considered safe tomorrow. Let me remind you that you run the risk of being quarantined for 14 days or longer by some local authority, whether you have symptoms or not.

Please try to stay in Greece which does not have any confirmed cases yet, and where you have CYA’s network of support. Continue taking the simple precautions that the World Health Organization suggests and report to CYA any health problems that may develop, especially flu-like symptoms.

Sent: Monday, February 24, 2020 6:35:42 PM
Subject: Coronavirus and your travel plans

Dear CYA students,

As many of you are planning – or have already planned – weekend trips to Europe, we would like to stress to you the need for caution regarding the rapidly involving epidemiological situation with the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). There have been confirmed cases in many major European cities, and a serious outbreak in northern Italy over the weekend has caused certain areas near the cities of Milan and Venice to be placed under quarantine.

There has been no official announcement restricting travel to Italy or to any other European city for that matter, nevertheless, you should seriously reconsider your travel plans, especially since an outbreak may cause you to be quarantined and not allowed to travel back to Athens.

Although no incidents of coronavirus infection have been reported in Greece, you should be aware of the symptoms which are very similar to those of the seasonal flu. Attached you will find a World Health Organization schematic describing these symptoms. If, at any time, you feel that you may be suffering from any flu-like symptoms or suspect that you may have contacted the coronavirus during your travels, please let us know and we will help you to make an appointment to be examined by a doctor.

Sent: Thursday, January 30, 2020 8:58:54 PM
Subject: Coronavirus update

Dear CYA students,

I am sure you have all heard/read about the new coronavirus (Novel coronavirus 2019nCoV) that is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness that may lead to death, which began in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China and has started spreading to other countries throughout the world. Isolated incidents have been reported in some European countries.

According to the Greek Ministry of Health the risk levels for Greece are still very low, but necessary preparations have been made at airports and hospitals, of course. We will keep you informed if there are any developments or instructions for the public.

If you are planning to travel outside of Greece on your free time, please do not forget to review the State Department’s Travel Advisory for the countries you are planning to visit.

Prevention is most important in all cases of transmittable diseases. Please heed the World Health Organization’s advice and take some simple precautionary measures.

Enjoy your semester in Greece,
CYA Administration