Most people can teach themselves a great deal through the use of books, tapes, videos and even CD-ROM computer-based courses.
However, even the best students require some help. Classes are offered by language schools, local and foreign colleges and universities, private and international schools, foreign and international organisations, local associations and clubs, and private teachers. Tuition ranges from courses for complete beginners, through specialised business or cultural courses, to university-level seminars leading to recognised diplomas
Many Greek universities offer language courses and many organisations run residential holiday courses in the summer months, particularly for children and young adults (it’s best to stay with a local Greek family).
There are many language schools in Greece, although the majority are located in Athens and other large towns, and on the islands during the summer. Most schools run various classes depending on your language ability, how many hours you wish to study a week, how much money you want to spend and how quickly you wish to learn.
Courses are usually open to anyone over the age of 18 and some also accept students aged from 14. Courses are graded according to ability, e.g. beginner, intermediate or advanced, and usually last from 2 to 16 weeks. Most schools offer free tests to help you find your appropriate level and a free introductory lesson.
Don’t expect to become fluent in a short time unless you have a particular flair for languages or already have a good command of Greek. Unless you desperately need to learn quickly, it’s best to schedule your lessons over a long period. However, don’t commit yourself to a long course of study, particularly an expensive one, before ensuring that it’s the right course for you. Language classes generally fall into the following categories:
| Category | No. Of Hours Per Week |
| Extensive | 4-10 |
| Intensive | 15-20 |
| Total immersion | 20-40+ |
Some schools offer combined courses where language study is linked with optional subjects, including business Greek, Greek art and culture, reading and commentary of a daily newspaper, conversation, Greek history, and traditions and folklore. Some schools also combine language courses with a range of cultural and sports activities such as visits to monuments, tennis or water sports.
The most common language courses in Greece are intensive courses, providing four hours tuition a day from Mondays to Fridays (20 hours per week). The cost of an intensive course is usually quite reasonable, e.g. a four-week intensive course costs around €200. The highest fees are charged in the summer months, particularly during July and August.
Commercial courses are generally more intensive and expensive, e.g. around €400 for three weeks and a total of 60 hours tuition. Courses that include accommodation are usually good value and some schools arrange home stays with a Greek family (full or half board) or provide apartment or hotel accommodation.
Those for whom money is no object, can take total immersion courses where study is for eight hours a day, five days a week. Whichever course you choose, you should shop around as tuition fees vary considerably. For more information contact the Greek national tourist office or embassy in your home country.
You may prefer to have private lessons, which are a quicker, although more expensive way of learning a language. The main advantage of private lessons is that you learn at your own speed and aren’t held back by slow learners or left floundering in the wake of the class genius. You can advertise for a teacher in local newspapers, on shopping centre/supermarket bulletin boards, on university notice boards, and through your or your spouse’s employer. Don’t forget to ask your friends, neighbours and colleagues if they can recommend a private teacher.