The National Higher Education Authority (ETHAAE) is racing to assess 12 applications from foreign private universities aiming to open branches in the country by September.

The review process has been delayed due to a high volume of study programs, staff shortages, and bureaucratic hurdles, officials said.

Α government source reportedly told an ETHAAE executive this can’t occur, reflecting mounting pressure from the Prime Minister's Office.s

Thirteen European universities have applied – 12 seeking to open this fall with 39 faculties and 162 undergraduate programs, mostly in business and law. Evaluations on institutional criteria finished in June, but program certifications are behind schedule. The government insists results be announced by late July, ahead of national university entrance grade releases on July 25.

Some applicants argue that licensing decisions can proceed individually, even if program evaluations lag. Delays threaten campaign planning and staff recruitment for the new campuses. ETHAAE hopes to meet the deadline, or miss it only slightly.