Two exams, not one
A Cyprus citizenship file needs two different exams, and they get confused with each other constantly. This site covers the culture exam — the political and social realities of Cyprus. This page is about the other one: the Greek language exam. Passing either does nothing for the other.
For the language requirement, standard naturalisation asks for B1. Under the fast track for highly skilled applicants it is B1 at four years' residence and A2 at five. For permanent residence there is no single level — it depends on the category you apply under, which is why any page quoting one number for it is guessing.
Cyprus accepts either of two certificates, and for a file at A2 or B1 they are equivalent:
| Ελληνομάθεια | University of Cyprus | |
|---|---|---|
| Awarded by | Centre for the Greek Language | School of Modern Greek |
| Sittings | once a year, in May | several a year |
| Levels | A1–C2 | A1–C2 |
| Fee | €90 (A1–B1), €100 (B2–C2) | €90 or €100 |
| Validity | for life | for life |
Choosing between them is choosing a date, not a standard. Miss the May Ελληνομάθεια window and the next Cyprus sitting is twelve months out; the University of Cyprus usually has another a few months away, if you get a place.
Accurate as of 9 September 2026. Requirements change — check the Ministry of the Interior, moec.gov.cy and the School of Modern Greek before you apply.
The full detail is on GreekBrain
We keep the Greek language exam on our sister site, so that each subject has one page rather than two half-pages:
- Levels, dates and cost — the pillar
- Which level you need — including the two different A2 exams
- Registration windows — 1 February to 14 March 2027 for the May sitting
- Results and appeals