As Cyprus looks to expand its educational landscape and aims to become a hub for higher education, reforms to the legal framework surrounding the establishment and operation of foreign university branches are under review.

Current Legal Framework

The establishment and operation of universities and other institutions of Tertiary Education in Cyprus is overseen by the Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education (the “CYQAA”).

In addition to the above, the CYQAA is responsible to examine applications of universities registered abroad who wish to establish a branch in Cyprus.

In an attempt to foster an attractive environment for international universities while ensuring equitable standards and safeguarding quality within Cyprus’ higher education sector, a proposed bill was recently submitted by the Ministry of Education of Cyprus.

Following consultation with the Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus, the Ministry of Educations is ready to propose a revised bill.

Abolition of Requirement for Letter of Guarantee

The initial proposed bill for setting up and operating foreign university branches included a provision requiring a €2 million guarantee per university and an additional €500,000 for each department to be provided.

The Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus deemed this as potentially discriminatory. Unlike other universities, to which this requirement does not apply, foreign institutions would be disadvantaged by this additional financial burden, prompting calls for a more balanced regulatory approach.

The Ministry of Education aims to remove these financial requirements for the establishment of foreign university branches in the revised bill to be submitted, to eliminate any suspicion of discrimination and to facilitate the setting up and operation of foreign university branches in Cyprus.

Ranking Indicators

A provision for the introduction of ranking indicators for universities was also included in the initial bill, as a safeguard to maintain quality standards among institutions entering the Cyprus educational system. Despite its intent to ensure reputable universities enter Cyprus, the provision for the introduction of ranking indicators faces scrutiny and may potentially be removed from the revised bill.

The proposal of the revised bill is currently under discussion by the Parliamentary Education Committee, with interested parties advocating for clear yet fair requirements.

Should you wish to find out more, contact our team at info@paraschou.com.cy.