Macquarie University’s School of International Studies has marked a major milestone, hosting a record 125 candidates for the 2025 Certificate of Attainment in Greek Language exams from 20–22 May.

The strong turnout has positioned the university as the largest examination centre for the certificate in the Southern Hemisphere. Since 2022, Macquarie has been the only certified Greek language exam centre in New South Wales, officially recognised by the Centre for Greek Language (CGL) in Thessaloniki.

The certificate, which is the sole state-recognised qualification for Greek as a second or foreign language, is accredited by the Greek Ministry of Education and recognised across the European Union and by the NSW Education Standards Authority.

Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Head of the Examination Centre, highlighted the growing interest in higher-level exams and praised the collaborative effort behind the program’s success. “This year’s record participation, particularly at the advanced levels, was remarkable,” she said, noting the crucial support of Greek government agencies, local schools, educators, and community groups.

She also thanked the Macquarie University Greek Association and the many volunteers who supported the smooth running of the exams, acknowledging the candidates’ dedication and the educators’ vital role in promoting Greek language learning in the diaspora.

Here is a breakdown of this year’s participation:

Greek Language Level and Number of Candidates
A1: 30, A1+: 19, A2 : 35, B1 : 28, B2 : 10, C1: 1, C2: 2, Total: 125

A candidate’s perspective

Samedh Chirravuri, a 15-year-old student who sat the A2 exam this year, shared his experience:

1. What inspired you to learn Greek and take the exams for the Greek Language Certificate?

My Greek language journey began when I was seven years old, and I had many Greek friends. I decided to begin attending language classes offered by St Nectarios Church Burwood at my school, Trinity Grammar School. After several years of community Greek school, my teacher suggested that I consider taking the exam. While neither I nor anyone in my family is Greek, I was deeply inspired by the Greek community. I sat the A1 exam in 2024 and A2 in 2025.

2. What did you find most challenging and most rewarding during your preparation for the exam?

In my preparation for the exam, the most challenging facet was the fact that I am not Greek, and have had to learn Greek as a foreign language, instead of a community language. The most rewarding part of this journey was that the Greek community also took pride in my studies and encouraged me and celebrated with me along the way.

3. How will you use the Greek language in the future?

I look forward to visiting Greece again and being able to communicate with other Greek people both in Greece and in Australia. I will also use my Greek studies during university in studying international relations.

4. What would you say to someone who is thinking of starting to learn Greek?

Have confidence in your ability to learn a new language and go for it. You are capable of more than you may realise. You’re building a new body of knowledge and it’s a goal worth pursuing.

For more information about the exams, visit the Macquarie University Greek Language Examination CentreMacquarie University Greek Language Examination Centre.