ESTIMATED BUDGET 2026-2027
| In addition to program fees, you should budget for the following out-of-pocket expenses | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester | Year | |
| Transport to/from Athens, Greece | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Other estimated expenses (see breakdown below) | $5,600 | $11,300 |
| Out-of-pocket estimates total | $7,100 | $12,800 |
| Breakdown of other estimated expenses | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester | Year | |
| Meals not provided by CYA* | $4,000 | $8,000 |
| Local transportation | $150 | $300 |
| Books & supplies | $150 | $300 |
| Personal expenses ** | $900 | $1,800 |
| Greek cellphone costs*** | $200 | $400 |
| Visa/Residence Permit | $200 | $500 |
Total Other Estimated Expenses | $5,600 | $11,300 |
*The above meals estimate is based on the “moderate” scale from CYA’s Estimated Food Budget. As questions about food costs and budgeting for food arise frequently, CYA put together this guide based on information collected from previous students and the current cost of food in Greece. This budget guide refers only to food and not to any incidentals or other personal expenses. When in Athens, semester students receive a midday meal, Monday-Friday. While on Field Study, semester students receive breakfast as their daily meal. All other meals (weekday breakfasts and dinners, lunches and dinners on field study days, and all meals on weekends, holidays, and recesses) are not provided.
**Please note that personal expenses (entertainment, laundry, incidentals) vary widely from student to student and can range between €40 and €100 per week. Visit OANDA for currency conversion between US Dollars ($) and Euros (€).
***While it is not required, students are encouraged to use a Greek cellphone plan for the duration of their stay in Greece, as it is the most affordable and accessible option for maintaining a fully functioning cell phone. CYA offers guidance on obtaining and activating a basic pay-as-you-go plan through one of the local providers. If students opt to use an international plan, note that costs will be significantly higher.
| Total cost of attendance | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester | Year | |
| Estimated out of pocket Expenses | $7,100 | $12,800 |
| Total Billable Fees **** | $26,500 | $47,950 |
| TOTAL COST OF ATTENDANCE | $33,600 | $60,750 |
**** Again, please check these fees with your home study abroad office.
Independent travel outside of Athens has not been calculated in the above cost of attendance. There is a weeklong recess each semester and a number of free 3-day weekends during which most students choose to travel on their own. In planning a budget students should also take into account their own individual travel costs.
Please note that the Visa costs given can vary due to changes in Greek government requirements and/or exchange rates.
Damage Deposit: CYA issues you a set of keys for your apartment, a remote control for the clima unit (heating/cooling) in your bedroom, and books and course materials for your personal use during the semester. A $250 deposit will be collected from each student prior to arrival to cover the damage or loss of items issued. The deposit will be returned after items have been returned in good condition. The $250 does not cover the replacement cost for all items issued; therefore, failure to return all items issued by the end of the semester may result in replacement costs beyond the deposit amount. Please be aware that a transcript will not be issued until all items are returned or replacement costs, if necessary, are paid.
Full-Year Students
Students who attend College Year in Athens for two consecutive semesters receive a 25% discount on tuition for the second semester. Full-year students are permitted to remain in student housing, at no extra charge, during the interval between semesters. The dining room, however, is not open between semesters, so students should budget for meals for this period as well as any travel they may wish to do (or for a second transatlantic airfare if they choose to go home).