“About Examinations”

The Centre for the Greek Language (CGL) was established in 1994 in Thessaloniki, Greece. It is a non-profit organization supervised by the Greek Ministry of Education and cooperating with the Ministries of Culture and Foreign Affairs. Among the aims of the CGL are the overall support and promotion of the Greek language in Greece and abroad, the organization of teaching of Greek to foreigners in Greece and abroad, the support to teachers of the Greek language in Greece and abroad and the production of all relevant materials that may contribute to the promotion and spread of the Greek language.

The Centre for the Greek Language has four academic divisions: Lexicography, Linguistics, Support and Promotion of the Greek Language, Language and Literature. The researchers at these divisions have undertaken a significant number of projects in the field of language education.

As of May 2011, the Centre for the Greek Language organizes examinations for six levels of attainment in Greek, Α1 (A1 for children 8-12 years old, and Α1 for adolescents and adults), Α2, Β1, Β2, Γ1 and Γ2.

A1, A2, and B1 levels examine all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. B2, Γ1 and Γ2 levels examine all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking plus Use of Language focusing on grammar (morphology and syntax) and on vocabulary.

The levels are linked to the corresponding levels of the Common European Framework (CEFR).

The Certificate of Attainment in Greek for Professional Purposes is intended for professionals who are European Union citizens and who wish to work in Greece and have to prove their proficiency in Greek. Candidates are tested at level A2 of the Common European Framework (CEFR).

Examinations at all levels are usually held once annually, in mid-May. Registration takes place from the beginning of February until mid-March. Arrangements for candidates with special needs might be granted by the Centre for the Greek Language (evidence needs to be submitted along with the application to your test center).

Please make sure you contact the test center of your choice before deciding to prepare for and take an exam.