Welcome Office of the University of Crete

Our office serves as a central hub for all incoming foreign students and researchers, providing them with comprehensive support and guidance throughout their academic journey.  

At the Welcome Office, we are dedicated to helping our international community thrive by offering a wide range of services, including language courses, cultural events, accommodation assistance, and visa support. Our goal is to ensure that every international student and researcher feels welcome and at home at the University of Crete and has the resources they need to achieve their academic and personal goals.  

Explore our webpage to learn more about what we offer and how we can help you make the most of your time at the University of Crete. 

support student-visa-applicants

with information through communication with the Greek Consular Authorities, as well as towards their application for a Greek residence permit within 90 days of their arrival in Greece and for communication with the relevant public bodies

support the process of concluding contracts

 the process  that facilitate the granting of residence permits for study purposes

inform about the Modern Greek Language Classes

devoted to the teaching of Modern Greek as a foreign language ​​in cooperation with the competent units of our Institution

OUR MISSION

support the international students during their settlement in the country

for topics such as choosing among  accommodation options, information regarding medical insurance, application for tax identification number, opening of a bank account  and other procedures related to public services.

cooperation with the competent services of the UOC

to serve the needs of international students and assisting them with any other issues that could emerge during their studies

exercise any other competence

that facilitates and contributes social integration of third-country nationals on the Greek territory and into the academic community

Welcome Office of the University of Crete

Our office serves as a central hub for all incoming foreign students and researchers, providing them with comprehensive support and guidance throughout their academic journey.  

At the Welcome Office, we are dedicated to helping our international community thrive by offering a wide range of services, including language courses, cultural events, accommodation assistance, and visa support. Our goal is to ensure that every international student and researcher feels welcome and at home at the University of Crete and has the resources they need to achieve their academic and personal goals.  

Explore our webpage to learn more about what we offer and how we can help you make the most of your time at the University of Crete. 

OUR MISSION

support student-visa-applicants

with information through communication with the Greek Consular Authorities, as well as towards their application for a Greek residence permit within 90 days of their arrival in Greece and for communication with the relevant public bodies

support the process of concluding contracts

 the process of concluding contracts that facilitate the granting of residence permits for study purposes

support the international students during their settlement in the country

for topics such as choosing among  accommodation options, information regarding medical insurance, application for tax identification number, opening of a bank account  and other procedures related to public services.

cooperation with the competent services of the UOC

to serve the needs of international students and assisting them with any other issues that could emerge during their studies

inform about the Modern Greek Language Classes

devoted to the teaching of Modern Greek as a foreign language ​​in cooperation with the competent units of our Institution

exercise any other competence

that facilitates and contributes social integration of third-country nationals on the Greek territory and into the academic community

welcome to our community!

discover the stories…

_

Etini Aniekan Otumo

Postgraduate Student, Nigeria

_

Carina Mkrtchyan

Postgraduate Student, USA

_

Saloni Rawat

Bachelor Student, U.K

_

Moghny Rustum

Bachelor Student, Syria

welcome to our community!

discover the stories…

It is been really fun, I have made a lot of friends. Even though it can get stressful at times, knowing that I have really good professors who are always here to help me no matter what…they are just an email away, so that has been really helpful.

Saloni Rawat

Bachelor Student, U.K

Since I applied, the administration committee was so helpful, so cooperative.’,’They gave me everything I needed, all the information I needed, and they made the way much easier for me as a foreigner coming here for the first time.

Moghny Rustum

Bachelor Student, Syria

I was searching where I could get a comprehensive and holistic knowledge about clinical research. I decided to settle here at UOC. In two words…I would say…amazing and awesome!

Etini Aniekan Otumo

Postgraduate Student, Nigeria

I think the academic program here at the University of Crete, is very strong and very personal to each person. I feel like they are really helping promote my academic career and overall creating a good sense of well-being.  I have always really loved this island.  It is extremely beautiful.

Carina Mkrtchyan

Postgraduate Student, USA

Create your tomorrow with us, today!

get started below

English Programs

Explore Our English Programs: A World of Academic Opportunities at the University of Crete

Visiting Guide

A comprehensive guide for your journey through all steps ,before ,after arrival and accommodation

University at a Glance

Quick insights into our university's history, achievements, education and campus culture

Living in Crete

Explore the local culture, lifestyle, and community as you make this beautiful island your home

Explore and Connect:

Discover Our University Departments and Educational Resources

University of Crete

official site

Summer Schools

organized by the University of Crete

Exchange and Mobility Programs

managed by The International Relations Dept. of the University of Crete

Postgraduate Studies Programs

find in this UOC's site the programs that will help you to make the right decision

International Program in Medicine

an english-taught program in medicine for international students

Student services 

Student's Counseling Center of UOC

personal and group counseling for undergraduate and post graduate students that go through personal or educational issues

Student Affairs

supporting UOC student life, development, and welfare

Student Ombudsman

aka student advocate

Career and Liaison Office

supports the University’s academic mission through comprehensive services that aim to empower, guide, and prepare students for the next step in their professional development

Gender Equality Commitee of UOC

an advisory body to the UoC Senate and to the Schools and Departments authorities for the promotion of equality and inclusiveness in all aspects of the academic life

Modern Greek Language Courses

The University of Crete offers Modern Greek language courses throughout the year

Accessibility Center

for individuals with disabilities at the University of Crete" has as its mission to ensure the full participation of members of the university community who are disabled and people with special educational needs in all educational, research and administrative activities carried out at the University of Crete.

UOC’s Research Centres & Observatories

UOC Recearch Center (UCRC)

The Center for Research and Studies of the University of Crete for the Humanities, Social and Educational Sciences (KEME-PK)

Institute of Theoretical and Computational Physics

A University Research independent unit focused in the areas of Nuclear and Plasma Physics but since 2008 it targets primarily research in Theoretical and Computational Physics.

Skinakas Observatory

A joint research facility of the University of Crete and the Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH) in Astrophysics

Finokalia Atmospheric Observatory

FKL, a monitoring station of the Eastern Mediterranean atmosphere, operated by the Environmental Chemical Processes Laboratory (ECPL) of the Department of Chemistry of the University of Crete

Knowledge Transfer Office

With sustainable development and social welfare as guide,Knowledge Transfer Office's goal is to help researchers turn their original ideas into innovations.

Research Directory

Find the resources available for research and research training throughout the University.

UOC News and Events

Create your tomorrow with us, today!

get started below

English Programs

Explore Our English Programs: A World of Academic Opportunities at the University of Crete

Visiting Guide

A comprehensive guide for your journey through all steps ,before ,after arrival and accommodation

University at a Glance

Quick insights into our university's history, achievements, education and campus culture

Living in Crete

Explore the local culture, lifestyle, and community as you make this beautiful island your home

Explore and Connect:

Discover Our University Departments and Educational Resources

University of Crete

official site

Summer Schools

organized by the University of Crete

Exchange and Mobility Programs

managed by The International Relations Dept. of the University of Crete

Postgraduate Studies Programs

find in this UOC's site the programs that will help you to make the right decision

International Program in Medicine

an english-taught program in medicine for international students

Student services 

Student's Counseling Center of UOC

personal and group counseling for undergraduate and post graduate students that go through personal or educational issues

Student Affairs

supporting UOC student life, development, and welfare

Student Ombudsman

aka student advocate

Career and Liaison Office

supports the University’s academic mission through comprehensive services that aim to empower, guide, and prepare students for the next step in their professional development

Gender Equality Commitee of UOC

an advisory body to the UoC Senate and to the Schools and Departments authorities for the promotion of equality and inclusiveness in all aspects of the academic life

Modern Greek Language Courses

The University of Crete offers Modern Greek language courses throughout the year

Accessibility Center

for individuals with disabilities at the University of Crete" has as its mission to ensure the full participation of members of the university community who are disabled and people with special educational needs in all educational, research and administrative activities carried out at the University of Crete.

UOC’s Research Centres & Observatories

UOC Recearch Center (UCRC)

The Center for Research and Studies of the University of Crete for the Humanities, Social and Educational Sciences (KEME-PK)

Institute of Theoretical and Computational Physics

A University Research independent unit focused in the areas of Nuclear and Plasma Physics but since 2008 it targets primarily research in Theoretical and Computational Physics.

Skinakas Observatory

A joint research facility of the University of Crete and the Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH) in Astrophysics

Finokalia Atmospheric Observatory

FKL, a monitoring station of the Eastern Mediterranean atmosphere, operated by the Environmental Chemical Processes Laboratory (ECPL) of the Department of Chemistry of the University of Crete

Knowledge Transfer Office

With sustainable development and social welfare as guide,Knowledge Transfer Office's goal is to help researchers turn their original ideas into innovations.

Research Directory

Find the resources available for research and research training throughout the University.

UOC News and Events

Active CallAcademic News
Online Course: Artificial Intelligence for Humanities and Social Sciences
Online Course: Artificial Intelligence for Humanities and Social Sciences

Online Course: Artificial Intelligence for Humanities and Social Sciences

The Centre for Training and Lifelong Learning (K.E.DI.VI.M) of the University of Crete  organizes a course titled:  Artificial Intelligence for Humanities and Social Sciences. The programme will be implemented in English. The program is conducted online (80% asynchronous and 20% synchronous)....

News
Strong Presence of the University of Crete at the Greek University Panorama in Amman
Strong Presence of the University of Crete at the Greek University Panorama in Amman

Strong Presence of the University of Crete at the Greek University Panorama in Amman

The Greek University Panorama in Amman, held in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, concluded with remarkable success, drawing strong interest from students, parents, and educators exploring high-quality study opportunities abroad. The University of Crete participated actively throughout the...

News
The University of Crete Welcomes NUAA Delegation in Voutes Campus
The University of Crete Welcomes NUAA Delegation in Voutes Campus

The University of Crete Welcomes NUAA Delegation in Voutes Campus

The University of Crete (UoC) hosted a distinguished delegation from the Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (NUAA) in Voutes Campus in Heraklion, on November 19, 2025, reinforcing the growing academic partnership between the two institutions. The visit centered on discussions...

News
The University of Crete Hosts Exhibition on the Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage
The University of Crete Hosts Exhibition on the Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage

The University of Crete Hosts Exhibition on the Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage

The University of Crete proudly hosted the exhibition “City and Countryside: The Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage” on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Voutes campus in Heraklion. The event celebrated the enduring richness of Chinese architectural tradition and further...

Academic News
University of Crete Kicks Off Chinese Language Classes in Heraklion & Rethymno
University of Crete Kicks Off Chinese Language Classes in Heraklion & Rethymno

University of Crete Kicks Off Chinese Language Classes in Heraklion & Rethymno

The University of Crete is delighted to announce the launch of its Chinese language classes, which officially began on Monday, 10 November, across both campuses. At Voutes Campus, participants started lessons with Ms. Ding Yanyu, while at the Rethymno Campus classes are taught by Ms. Gao Ying....

Events News
Architecture exhibition: “City and Countryside – The Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage”
Architecture exhibition: “City and Countryside – The Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage”

Architecture exhibition: “City and Countryside – The Vitality of China’s Architectural and Cultural Heritage”

The University of Crete invites you to the Architecture Exhibition taking place on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the N. Petridis Auditorium (University of Crete, Heraklion). The exhibition features models of traditional Chinese architecture (e.g., the Yellow...

News News
University of Crete welcomes delegation from Shandong Jiaotong University to explore academic cooperation
University of Crete welcomes delegation from Shandong Jiaotong University to explore academic cooperation

University of Crete welcomes delegation from Shandong Jiaotong University to explore academic cooperation

The University of Crete welcomed a delegation from Shandong Jiaotong University (SDJTU) from the province of Shandong, China, with the aim of initiating institutional cooperation and developing joint activities in education and research. The delegation was formally received by the Rector,...

Academic News
Tsinghua University Chemistry Delegation Visits the University of Crete to Strengthen Academic Collaboration

Tsinghua University Chemistry Delegation Visits the University of Crete to Strengthen Academic Collaboration

On 16 October 2025, the University of Crete (UoC) hosted a delegation of four faculty members from the Department of Chemistry at Tsinghua University, Beijing, marking another important step in the growing academic collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation included Prof....

AcademicAnnouncements News
University of Crete Students Participate in the YES Program at Leading Chinese Universities
University of Crete Students Participate in the YES Program at Leading Chinese Universities

University of Crete Students Participate in the YES Program at Leading Chinese Universities

Students from various departments of the University of Crete had the opportunity to visit several prestigious universities across China through the YES (Young Envoys Scholarship) Program.During their stay, they attended academic and cultural activities, strengthening educational and...

Welcome Office of the University of Crete

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