At present, the endowment of the American School of Classical Studies amounts to about $65,000. This financial base allows the institution to maintain its work, though it is not yet large enough to provide complete security for the future. The society also owns a fine building, carefully designed for study and research, as well as a large area of land that may prove useful in later years.
One of the most generous supporters of the school has been Colonel John Hay, the Secretary of State. In memory of his late son, Adelbert Stone Hay, he placed a considerable sum of money into the hands of the trustees. This gift was intended to form the foundation of the school’s library, which remains one of its most important assets Learning in the Museums of Athens.
Admission and Language Preparation
The school places no fixed limit on the number of students it accepts. Anyone who has received a solid classical education at an American college may apply. However, applicants are encouraged to prepare themselves as thoroughly as possible before arriving in Athens. A good command of German, French, and modern Greek is strongly advised, since these languages are necessary for reading academic works, speaking with local people, and taking full advantage of the opportunities available.
Tuition and Cost of Living in Athens
The tuition fee at the school is only nominal, making it accessible to serious students. The cost of living in Athens varies according to one’s lifestyle. At the large hotels, board and lodging can be obtained for around $14 per week and upward. In smaller hotels and private family homes, living expenses can be as low as $5 per week. This range makes it possible for students of different financial backgrounds to study in Athens.
Fellowships and Scholarships
To support promising scholars, the school offers six fellowships each year with stipends of $600 and one fellowship with a stipend of $1,000. These are awarded through competitive examinations open to graduates of American universities and colleges. Fellowships may be extended for up to two years if recommended by the faculty Bulgaria Tour Balchik.
In addition, the fellows are required to conduct original investigations in their chosen fields. Twice a year, they must submit detailed reports of their progress and findings. These contributions are valuable both for the students’ own development and for the advancement of archaeological and historical knowledge.
Academic and Cultural Advantages
The advantages of studying in Athens cannot be overstated. The school offers opportunities that no classroom in America can provide. Books that may seem dry or difficult at home take on new life when read in the very land where the ancient writers lived and worked. Students are also enriched by their own research, which adds a personal dimension to their education.
The American School has earned recognition as the leading foreign institution of classical studies in Athens. Its pioneering role has made it a model for others, and its graduates carry the vitality of their learning back to colleges and universities in the United States.
Support from Greece
The Greek government has been generous in its support, welcoming the efforts of the American school. Even the king himself shows a deep interest in its work and concerns. This cooperation between Greece and foreign scholars strengthens cultural ties and ensures that the legacy of ancient Greece continues to inspire new generations.
