Have questions about studying at Anatolia American University?
Explore clear answers about our English-taught undergraduate programs, admissions process, degree recognition, tuition and financial aid, student support, study abroad opportunities, and life on our campus in Thessaloniki, Greece.
What is Anatolia American University?
Anatolia American University is the first not-for-profit, non-state university licensed in Greece, based in Thessaloniki and offering English-taught undergraduate programs in partnership with The Open University, UK. It is part of the wider Anatolia educational community and is governed by Anatolia’s Board of Trustees. Its degree programs are recognized by the Greek state as equivalent to those of Greek public universities.
Why Anatolia American University?
Anatolia American University offers students the opportunity to pursue English-taught undergraduate studies in Thessaloniki, Greece, within an academic environment shaped by international standards, real-world learning, and the long educational legacy of Anatolia.
Students study across three academic areas — Business, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Science & Technology — and benefit from small classes, close faculty guidance, academic advising, career support, internship opportunities, and access to a vibrant campus community.
Through its collaboration with The Open University, UK, Anatolia American University offers degree programs recognized by the Greek state as equivalent to those of Greek public universities. In the United States, the institution is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Rooted in Anatolia’s not-for-profit mission and historic presence in Thessaloniki, the University aims to prepare students not only for successful careers, but also for active, responsible participation in a changing world.
At a glance:
- English-taught undergraduate programs in Thessaloniki
- Degree programs recognized by the Greek state as equivalent to those of Greek public universities
- U.S. institutional accreditation by NECHE
- Bachelor’s programs offered in partnership with The Open University, UK
- Academic pathways in Business, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Science & Technology
- Small class sizes and personalized academic guidance
- Internship, study abroad, and service learning opportunities
- A 65-acre campus with the Bissell Library and the Stavros S. Niarchos Technology Center
- Career services, advising, wellbeing support, clubs, sports, and student activities
- A not-for-profit educational legacy with a strong international outlook
About Anatolia American University
1. Is Anatolia American University recognized in Greece?
Yes. Anatolia American University operates within the University Legal Entity framework established by Greek Law 5094/2024, which allows accredited non-state universities to operate in Greece. Its degree programs are recognized by the Greek state as equivalent to those of Greek public universities.
2. Is Anatolia American University accredited in the United States?
Yes. Anatolia American University is accredited in the United States by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), one of the oldest and most respected accrediting bodies in the U.S.
3. What does ULE mean?
ULE stands for University Legal Entity. In Greek, the equivalent term is Νομικό Πρόσωπο Πανεπιστημιακής Εκπαίδευσης. It is the legal framework that allows non-state universities to operate in Greece, beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year.
4. What is the relationship between Anatolia American University and The Open University, UK?
Anatolia American University offers Bachelor’s programs in partnership with The Open University, UK. This collaboration supports the development of academic programs aligned with international standards.
5. Is Anatolia American University the same as ACT - The American College of Thessaloniki?
No. Anatolia American University is not a rebranded ACT. It is an independent university entity that operates in parallel with ACT - The American College of Thessaloniki. ACT continues to support its current students until graduation and, at this stage, Anatolia’s postgraduate programs continue to be offered through ACT.
6. What is the language of instruction at Anatolia American University?
English is the language of instruction for all undergraduate programs at Anatolia American University. This allows students to study in an international academic environment while living in Thessaloniki, Greece.
7. Can I study at an English-speaking university in Thessaloniki?
Yes. Anatolia American University offers English-taught undergraduate programs on its campus in Thessaloniki, giving students the opportunity to study in English while experiencing one of Greece’s most vibrant student cities.
Why Study at Anatolia American University?
8. Why should I choose Anatolia American University?
Anatolia American University combines English-taught undergraduate education, an international academic outlook, and the campus experience of Anatolia in Thessaloniki. Students benefit from academic programs designed to build knowledge, practical skills, and broader perspectives, while receiving support from faculty, advisors, and student services throughout their studies.
9. What makes Anatolia American University different?
Anatolia American University brings together the strengths of an American-inspired educational environment, degree programs offered in collaboration with The Open University, UK, recognition by the Greek state, and U.S. institutional accreditation by NECHE. Its students study in English, on a truly diverse and multicultural campus in Thessaloniki, within a not-for-profit institution with a long-standing commitment to education, access, and social responsibility.
10. What kind of academic environment does Anatolia American University offer?
Students learn in small classes, with opportunities for discussion, personalized attention, and close interaction with faculty. The academic experience emphasizes both strong theoretical foundations and learning in action, through activities such as field work, workshops, conferences, site visits, internships, and practicums.
11. What facilities are available on campus?
Anatolia American University is located on Anatolia’s 65-acre campus in Thessaloniki. Students have access to the 4,500 m² Bissell Library, the Stavros S. Niarchos Technology Center, modern laboratories, study spaces, athletic facilities, and a wide range of student services.
12. What student support services are available?
Students have access to academic advising, career services, wellbeing support, student activities, clubs, sports, and residence life support. All students are assigned an advisor who can guide them on academic matters throughout their studies.
13. Is Anatolia American University a good choice for students who want an international education in Greece?
Yes. Anatolia American University is designed for students who want to study in English, gain an internationally oriented academic experience, and remain connected to Greece and Southeast Europe. Its programs, campus life, study abroad opportunities, and student support services create a university experience with both local relevance and international perspective.
Undergraduate Programs
15. Which academic schools are the programs part of?
The undergraduate programs are offered across three academic areas: Business, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Science & Technology. This structure helps students explore their field through a broader academic environment while building practical, transferable skills.
16.How long does it take to complete an undergraduate degree?
Undergraduate programs at Anatolia American University are designed as four-year, full-time programs. To graduate in four years, students are expected to complete, on average, ten courses per year.
17. What degree will I receive when I graduate?
Graduates receive the Bachelor’s degree corresponding to their program of study, such as a BSc in Business Administration, BSc in Computer Science, BSc in Business Computing, BSc in Biological Sciences, BSc in Psychology, BA in English, or BA in Political Science & International Relations.
Admissions
18. How do I apply to Anatolia American University?
Applicants submit an online application for admission along with the required supporting documents. The exact requirements depend on the applicant’s educational background, such as whether they are applying from a Greek high school, a foreign high school in Greece, or an international school system abroad.
19. Does Anatolia American University have rolling admissions?
Yes. Admission to Anatolia American University is on a rolling basis, and early applications are encouraged. There are two intake periods: one in September and one in January. You can check all Admissions Deadlines here.
20. What documents do I need to apply?
Applicants are generally asked to submit a completed application form, official high school transcripts or diploma, proof of English language competency, a CV, a motivation letter, a reference letter, a passport copy, one passport-sized photo, and the application fee. Applicants should always consult the Admissions page for the most current requirements.
21. What are the admission requirements for Greek high school graduates?
Greek high school graduates from 2022 onward must have taken the Panhellenic Exams and meet the Minimum Admission Threshold, known as EBE, for the relevant academic field. They must also meet the admissions requirements described by the University.
22. Can Greek students apply before their Panhellenic Exam results are released?
Yes. Students may begin the application process before their Panhellenic Exam results are released. Once the results become available, they can submit their scores as part of the admissions process, provided they meet the required Minimum Admission Threshold for their field.
23. Do graduates of foreign high schools in Greece need Panhellenic Exam scores?
No. Graduates of foreign high schools operating in Greece, such as international schools, do not need to submit Panhellenic Exam scores. They follow the admissions requirements that apply to their educational background.
24. What are the admission requirements for international students?
International applicants submit an application with the required documents and follow the admissions standards described by Anatolia American University. Requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s country, school system, academic record, and English-language background.
25. What level of English do I need to study at Anatolia American University?
Because all undergraduate programs are taught in English, applicants are required to demonstrate a good command of the English language. Anatolia American University accepts internationally recognized English language certificates at a minimum level of B2, such as MSU-CELC, TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, and Duolingo, among others.
26. Do international students need a visa to study in Greece?
Non-EU students are required to enter Greece with a student visa obtained from the Greek Embassy or Consulate in their home country. Anatolia American University offers guidance with student visa and residence permit procedures.
27. Does Anatolia American University offer housing support?
Yes. Anatolia American University supports incoming students during their first year of studies by offering off-campus, private managed housing. The Student Services Office also provides housing assistance to students interested in finding local housing.
Tuition Scholarships and Financial Aid
28. Are scholarships or financial aid available?
Yes. Anatolia American University offers scholarships and financial aid according to published criteria. Applications are reviewed individually by a committee, with the aim of helping qualified students access university studies.
29. How is financial aid awarded?
Financial aid is awarded according to student or family financial need, as appropriate, and academic merit, within the limits of the University’s available budget. Financial aid is usually provided as a percentage reduction in tuition fees. Students are required to maintain a certain GPA linked to the financial aid award.
30. When should I apply for financial aid?
Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants should submit their financial aid application together with their admissions application.
31. What documents are usually required for financial aid?
Candidates are generally asked to submit a personal statement, income statements for the people financially responsible for the candidate, a completed Financial Aid Application Form, bank account transactions, and to participate in an interview with members of the Financial Aid Committee.
32. Is there financial support for Greek students from outside Thessaloniki?
Yes. Greek prospective students from cities outside Thessaloniki may be eligible for a 30% tuition support scheme, provided their high school diploma was issued by a Greek high school outside the Thessaloniki regional unit.
There is also the option to apply for a Financial Aid Award in the case that the 30% is not enough for the family to support the student.
Student Experience
33. What is student life like at Anatolia American University?
Student life at Anatolia American University combines an international campus environment with opportunities for academic, cultural, athletic, and social engagement. Students can participate in clubs, societies, student government, cultural events, field trips, athletics, workshops, and special lectures.
34. Can students participate in internships?
Yes. Both Greek and international students may be eligible to participate in internships, depending on the criteria of their academic program. Internships help students connect academic learning with professional experience.
35. Can I study abroad during my degree?
Yes. Anatolia operates one of the largest exchange networks with U.S. universities in Greece, and Anatolia American University students are expected to be eligible for study abroad opportunities. Erasmus eligibility is anticipated, with details to be finalized.
36. Are there service learning or volunteering opportunities?
Yes. Anatolia American University offers service learning opportunities in collaboration with NGOs, allowing students to volunteer, engage with the community, and connect their studies with meaningful social contribution.
37. Why study in Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki is one of Greece’s most vibrant student cities and a gateway to Southeast Europe. It combines history, culture, a lively urban lifestyle, and access to destinations such as Chalkidiki, Mount Olympus, and major cultural sites. Students at Anatolia American University can study in English while living in a welcoming, accessible city with a strong student identity.
After Graduation
38. What academic opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates of Anatolia American University have the same academic rights as graduates of Greek public universities. For students from countries participating in the Bologna Process, degree recognition in their home country is subject to the applicable national procedures.
39. What professional rights will I have as a graduate?
Professional rights are equivalent to those of graduates of Greek public universities, in line with the applicable legal and professional framework. Because requirements may vary by field or profession, students should consult the relevant authorities for regulated professions.
40. Does Anatolia American University offer postgraduate programs?
Anatolia American University is in the process of licensing three graduate programs - MBA, Master in Tourism & Hospitality Management, Master in Industrial and Organizational Psychology - awaiting the final decision and approval from the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE).
41. Can non-EU graduates work in Greece or the EU after graduation?
According to the current framework, non-EU graduates of Anatolia American University may be able to work in Greece and the EU for up to one year following graduation. Students should consult the Admissions Office for the most current information and applicable procedures.
Explore Your Next Step
Contact us for more information
Anatolia American University
17 Sevenidi st., P.O.Box 21021
55535, Pylaia, Greece
Tel. No: +30-2310-398-398
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
