Study Abroad on Paros Island, Greece

The Quintessential Greek Island Experience
Tucked in the heart of the Cyclades Islands, Paros is a sun-drenched island paradise that blends postcard-perfect beauty with authentic Greek charm. With over 120 kilometers of dazzling coastline, crystal-clear azure waters, and more than 10,000 warm, welcoming residents, Paros offers a truly unforgettable escape.

 

The landscape is pure Mediterranean magic—rolling hills, fertile valleys, and serene countryside scattered with whitewashed chapels, ancient monasteries, and olive groves. Along the coast, golden sandy beaches stretch for miles, offering tranquil retreats and lively seaside spots alike. Whether you're looking to swim, sail, sunbathe, or simply soak in the views, Paros delivers at every turn.

 

But Paros is more than just beautiful—it's vibrant and full of life. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets in Parikia or Naoussa, where bright pink and red flowering trees spill their blossoms onto white sugar-cube buildings. Every corner leads to a hidden café, cozy taverna, or artisan boutique. Savor the island's culinary delights, from freshly grilled seafood straight from the Aegean Sea to creamy Greek yogurt, flaky baklava, and savory gyros, all served with a side of authentic Greek hospitality.

 

Steeped in history, Paros is dotted with ancient ruins and medieval landmarks that invite exploration. And thanks to its location, the island is a close to the mainland and a perfect base for Greek island hopping—just a short ferry ride from Athens and neighboring gems like Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos.

 

The island’s heart beats in Parikia, its charming capital and main port. Built on the foundations of the ancient city, Parikia is both the cultural and commercial soul of Paros, alive with energy, tradition, and discovery. It’s also home to the Hellenic International Studies in the Arts (HISA), where students immerse themselves in creativity and culture in one of Greece’s most inspiring settings.

 

Whether you're drawn by the rich history, irresistible food, sun-soaked beaches, or the warmth of its people, Paros is a place that captures the spirit of Greece—and your heart.

 

A typical program will have anywhere from 5-20 students on the program.  If you are looking for independent travel, the semester program does have open weekends that allow for travel.  For the summer programs, so much is included in the program, so there is not as much time available for independent travel. Many summer students choose to stay after the program ends if they are interested in independent travel. 

 

 

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Academics & Eligibility

Learn about the academic opportunities and requirements for this program.

Course Information

Language Requirement: None. Classes are taught in English.

 

**Students are advised to APPLY EARLY for the best course selection, as classes are assigned on a first come, first served basis. If you are concerned about getting into a particular class, please call us at 617-327-9388 to confirm availability.

Credit Information

Summer U.S. Credits: 3-6 credits. Most courses are worth 3 U.S. semester credits. Normal course load is 1-2 courses. Students who enroll in more than the maximum credits allowed will be charged an additional fee per credit.

Semester U.S. Credits: 12-15 credits. Most courses are worth 3 U.S. semester credits. Normal course load is 4-5 courses. Students who enroll in more than the maximum credits allowed will be charged an additional fee per credit.

Final Transcript: Issued by the Hellenic International Studies in the Arts (HISA). An official U.S. accredited transcript may be requested prior to the start of the program for an additional fee.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Minimum GPA 2.5 (Students with GPA below 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • Language Requirement: None. Courses are taught in English
  • At least 17 years of age
  • Must have graduated from high school. Open to all gap-year and undergraduate students, as well as those who have recently graduated with their undergraduate degree.
  • Transcript from your college or university (unofficial is ok)
  • Personal Statement (1 page) describing your personal and academic reasons for wanting to study abroad at Hellenic International Studies in the Arts.
  • ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
  • Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. A scan of your valid passport, is required at latest 2 weeks after the application deadline if you’re applying for an academic year abroad, or at latest 4 weeks after the application deadline if you’re applying for a semester abroad. If you don’t have a valid passport, confirmation of an expedited passport application is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.

Course Finder

You MUST have DOUBLE the number of classes approved by your home institution than you actually plan to take. This will give you back-ups in case of changes in availability or schedule conflicts. When you pre-register for classes (this happens after you are accepted), you will list your first choice courses, as well as one alternate course for each one on your registration form.

 

**The summer program includes extensive experiential learning opportunities and organized excursions as part of all coursework, many of which take place on both weekdays and WEEKENDS. As a result, there is limited time for independent travel.

 

Use the filters above to search for courses or click "View All Courses" to browse available courses on this program.

Costs & Dates

Program pricing and important dates.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA’s control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

 

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program’s arrival and departure date.

 

ASA is a small program, but that’s what makes it so great. The personal attention can’t be beat and I made plenty of friends outside of the group.

Chelsea Francis

I would recommend ASA to other students because not only was it a great price for what you get, but it was so much fun and the site director was great.

Morgan Pecknold

ASA is a very thorough program. It is well organized and structured, yet allows for plenty of independent activity and personal responsibility. There were many times where I felt foreign, but I rarely felt like a tourist. I engaged in the culture with the ASA program, I didn’t just take a picture and a souvenir

Aaron Bannasch

Housing

Your home away from home.

Shared Apartment

Summer students will stay in double-occupancy apartments but may request a single room for an additional fee of $800. Subject to availability. Meals not included.

Studio Apartment

Students who attend the semester program stay in single-occupancy rooms in Cycladic studio apartments located within a 5-10 minute walk from the town and just a few meters from the beach. Housing includes a private patio, full bathroom, Wi-Fi access, and kitchenette. Meals are not included. Linens are provided, as well as twice weekly cleaning. There is a washing machine on-site, as well as local laundromats. The lodging building also has communal spaces where students share a full kitchen; a lounge area (with WiFi); a lovely rooftop garden; a large, covered rooftop patio (complete with BBQ area); and various spaces to build artistic and personal relationships with each other.

Housing FAQs

You may request to live with a friend by emailing ASA at hello@academicstudies.com and we will do our very best to accommodate you. Roommate requests must be mutual, so be sure your friend requests you back.
Semester programs: Rooms are single occupancy. Summer programs: Rooms are double occupancy.
ASA will notify you of your living arrangements via email approximately 1-2 weeks before the start of your program. If there is another ASA student in your housing we will include their name and email address.
A detailed list of what to bring (and what not to bring) will be included in your ASA pre-departure handbook, which will be emailed to you about a month before your program begins.
No, meals are not included but students will have access to a kitchen.
The food is great and will be typical of your host country. Be prepared to try new things! If you have any food allergies or dietary needs, please let ASA know as soon as possible and we'll be happy to advise you on your options.
Students will live a short walk away from campus (roughly 5-10 minutes).

Excursions

Explore the region with organized trips and cultural activities.

ASA semester programs on Paros Island include 2 overnight excursions and 3 day excursions. Summer programs include 1 overnight excursion and 2 day excursions. A sample of standard trips included for both the summer and semester programs include Mykonos, Santorini, Delos, and Naxos.

 

Mykonos

Mykonos

One of the most popular Greek islands, famous for its beautiful beaches. Mykonos is also known for its place in Classical Greek literature. It was here that the battle between Zeus and the Titans took place. We will visit the archeological museum, the impressive 14th century church, Panagia Paraportiani, a true Byzantine jewel, and most likely come across one of the town landmark pelicans!
Santorini

Santorini

With its dramatic landscape and breathtaking views of the Caldera, or volcanic lake, Santorini is an unforgettable destination. During our study excursion, we will explore the entire island, including the famous Minoan city, Akrotiri, which is now open to the public once again. The main towns of Santorini, Fira and Oia, are both precariously perched on multi-layered steeply rising terraces. We will hike along the edge of the volcanic rim, boat out to the volcano itself, and have class on the cliffs of Oia, while the sun sets before us.
Delos

Delos

Few locations in Greece compare with Delos, birthplace of Artemis and Apollo and the sacred island of ancient times. The Classical ruins exist in a magical surrounding that is unmatched both for its historical significance and its spiritual serenity.
Antiparos

Antiparos

The island of Antiparos lies just across the bay from Paros. Reached by a small ferry in only a few minutes, it otherwise takes us back to another moment in time. Known for its distinctive Cycladic beauty with white houses, cobbled streets and narrow streets devoid of vehicles, it presents a truly laid back atmosphere, more common of the Greek islands some fifty years ago. We will also visit the uninhabited and dramatic islet of Despotiko, site now of an extensive archaeological dig, and from there to the sea caves and calm hidden lagoons.
Naxos

Naxos

Home to the god Dionysus. The arch at the harbor of Naxos marks the gateway into Dionysus' mythical realm: HISA students will explore the villages of the high mountain interior, hike isolated trails, and wander through the Castle district of the old town before relaxing over mezes at the port cafe.

Program Inclusions

What's included in your program fee.

What's Included

  • Exclusive "A World of Care" Student Support Suite
  • Housing in a student apartments with kitchen facilities. Meals not included. See housing tab for more info.
  • Tuition for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee.

  • Academic Credits: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.

  • Official Transcript: Final transcript is issued by Hellenic International Studies in the Arts (HISA). Students who require a transcript from an accredited U.S. institution may request that their final transcript be issued by Whittier College. There is no additional fee for this. ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution.

  • Excursions: Semester programs include 2 overnight excursions and 3 day excursions. Summer programs include 1 overnight excursion and 2 day excursions, locations to be decided.

  • Internet Access: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.

  • Airport Pick-Up: Group ground transportation is provided from Athens (ATH) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.

  • Site Director: Students will have an on-site director to assist them with any academic or cultural difficulties they may encounter.

  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.

  • Visa Advising: Students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their visa (if required for their term), but ASA will provide detailed, helpful information upon acceptance about which visa students will need and how to go about applying for one. Please click here and scroll down to "Student Visa Information" to find out if a visa is required for your program.

  • Pre-Departure Handbook & On-Site Orientation

  • Subscription to Safeture Safety-Enhancing Mobile App

  • Subscription to Mindhamok: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about Mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs

  • $150 Returning Student Credit toward your next ASA Summer program! (Up to 2 Summer programs)
  • $350 Returning Student Credit toward your next ASA Semester program! (Up to 2 Semester programs)

Not Included

  • Round-trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location.

  • Books, materials, lab fees

  • Local transportation

  • Personal expenses

  • Meals

  • Laundry

  • Meals on excursions.

  • Visa, if required.

  • Transportation from the airport if the student does not arrive on the official arrival date by the designated time.

  • Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program.

For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing, medical insurance, and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students, medical insurance during winter break can be purchased for an additional fee, if it is required to get your visa.

Program Calendar

Important dates and deadlines for this program.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA's control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program's arrival and departure dates.

  1. September 11, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Athens (ATH) airport on Friday, Sept. 11 between 9am-4pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. September 12, 2026

    HISA Excursion - Athens

  3. September 13, 2026

    Travel to Paros & HISA Orientation

  4. Mon, Sept. 14

    Classes begin

  5. TBA

    HISA Excursions - Locations TBA

  6. Mon, Dec. 7

    Last day of final exams

  7. Tues, Dec. 8 (Students must complete housing check-out by 12pm)

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. March 6, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Athens (ATH) airport on Friday, March 6 between 9am-4pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. March 7, 2026

    HISA Excursion - Athens

  3. March 8, 2026

    Travel to Paros & HISA Orientation

  4. Mon, March 9

    Classes begin

  5. TBA

    HISA Excursions - Locations TBA

  6. Mon, June 1

    Last day of final exams

  7. Tues, June 2 (Students must complete housing check-out by 12pm)

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. TBA

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Athens (ATH) airport on TBA between 9am-4pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. TBA

    HISA Excursion - Athens

  3. TBA

    Travel to Paros & HISA Orientation

  4. TBA

    Classes begin

  5. TBA

    HISA Excursions - Locations TBA

  6. TBA

    Last day of final exams

  7. TBA (Students must complete housing check-out by 12pm)

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. June 7, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Athens (ATH) airport on Sunday, June 7 between 9am-4pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. June 8, 2026

    HISA Excursion - Athens, ferry to Paros, & Housing Move-in

  3. June 9, 2026

    HISA Orientation & Classes begin

  4. TBA

    HISA Excursions - Locations TBA

  5. Sun, June 28

    Last day of final exams

  6. Mon, June 29 (Students must complete housing check-out by 12pm)

    Housing move-out; students depart

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are committed to making study abroad accessible to all students.

Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please contact us.

  • Culture & Ethnicity

  • Disability Accommodation

  • Food & Diet

  • Financial Aid & Money Matters

  • First Generation

  • Gender Identity & Sexuality

  • Mental Health

  • Non-traditional Students

  • Religion

Ready to Apply?

Take the next step in your study abroad journey. Contact our team to learn more about our programs and start your application today.

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