A total of 125 candidates from NSW and the ACT sat for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek Language exams, held at Macquarie University on 20 – 22 May.
This record level of participation has established the School of International Studies as the largest examination centre in the Southern Hemisphere.
The School of International Studies of Macquarie University is the only certified Examination Centre for the Greek language certificate in NSW by the Centre for Greek Language (CGL) in Thessaloniki since 2022.
The Certificate of Attainment in Greek is the only official state certification by the Greek Ministry for Education, Religious Affairs and Sports confirming the knowledge of Greek as a foreign/second language at six levels, corresponding to the Common European Framework (CEFR) levels. It is recognised by all member states of the European Union, and by NESA (New South Wales Education Standards Authority).
The first day of examinations was dedicated to levels A1 and A2, while levels B1 to C2 were conducted over the following two days. Statistical information from this year’s exams:
Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Lecturer in Global Cultures and Languages in the School of International Studies at Macquarie University and Head of the Examination Centre, stated, “For the fourth consecutive year, Macquarie University has been the largest examination centre for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek in Australia.”
“This year’s record participation, particularly at the higher language levels, was remarkable. A total of 28 students sat for the B1 level, a significant increase compared to just six candidates last year. This achievement reflects the ongoing dedication and effective partnerships between Macquarie University and key Greek government bodies, schools, community organisations, and educational institutions, all working together to advance the reach and recognition of the Certificate of Attainment in Greek,” Dr Koromvokis added.
“For the transparent organisation of the annual exams at Macquarie University, we have cooperated smoothly with the Centre for the Greek Language in Thessaloniki, the Consulate General in Sydney, the Greek language schools in NSW, the Education Office in Melbourne, and the SICLE (Sydney Institute of Community Languages Education), with which we co-organised a professional development workshop in April.”
Dr Koromvokis added, “Profound gratitude is owed to the Macquarie University Greek Association for the help on the days of the exams. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the Greek language educators who contributed their time and expertise as invigilators and examiners during this year’s exams. Their commitment plays a vital role in sustaining Greek education across the diaspora. A well-deserved acknowledgment also goes to every candidate who dedicated months of preparation to take part in the exams; their effort is commendable regardless of the outcome. Wishing them all the very best as you await your results!”
Samedh Chirravuri, a 15-year-old candidate, took the A2 exams in May 2025 and shares his experience.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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, visit the Macquarie University’s Greek Language Examination Centre website.
