Study Regulations

The following Regulations constitute the Code of Internal Operation for all levels of education at the Athens Art & Technology Group – Société Anonyme for Education and Training, hereinafter referred to as “AKTO” or “the School.” By enrolling in any level of training at AKTO, every student unconditionally accepts these Regulations, which they are required to know and comply with.

AKTO is a modern private educational institution operating in accordance with the provisions of Law 3696/2008 and its amendments to date (Laws 3848/2010, 4093/2012, 4046/2012, and 4111/2013), and provides three levels of post-secondary education and training: College, Private School of Higher Vocational Training (ISAEK), and Lifelong Learning Centre (KDVM).
In addition to the legislative requirements, AKTO holds ISO 9001 (Quality Management System), 27001 (Information Security Management System), and 27701 (Privacy Information Management System) certifications.

At the “AKTO College” level, undergraduate and postgraduate study programmes operate at higher education level, validated by the British higher education institution Middlesex University London, leading to a BA (Honours) and MA from the University respectively. At the “AKTO ISAEK” level, vocational training study programmes are offered that initially lead to a Training Certificate in the corresponding specialization and, following EOPPEP certification exams, to a State Training Diploma. Finally, at the “AKTO – Training” KDVM level, Lifelong Learning Centre programmes operate, such as programmes with alternative attendance formats, as well as seminars. All of the above lead, upon successful completion, to a Certificate of Attendance for the respective programme.

AKTO – Education and Training is a Société Anonyme and is governed by its Board of Directors, which is the company’s highest administrative body. The Board of Directors, through its authorized representatives, oversees the management of the entire company, its services, and its employees.

Students on all AKTO Study Programmes lasting at least 12 months have the following benefits/rights available to them:

1. Student ID
Upon enrollment, AKTO students are entitled to obtain, following a relevant application, the internationally recognized ISIC student card, which secures them a range of benefits, such as discounts on ferry tickets, discounts on KTEL bus tickets, medical services, shops, and more. ISIC is the only internationally recognized Student Identity Card worldwide, valid in Greece and 133 countries around the world, and recognized by UNESCO.

2. Microsoft Office 365 account
Every student gains access to Microsoft Office 365’s VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) with their own personal account. Microsoft’s VLE includes, among other things: Microsoft Office Pro Plus – all Microsoft Office Pro Plus programmes (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), which can be installed on up to five (5) personal devices (laptop, tablet, mobile, desktop, etc.); OneDrive – cloud storage space for each student; a personal email account – “yourname@aktocollege.gr”; coordination and teaching via MS Teams. Please note that AKTO can only guarantee the security and confidentiality of students’ files, personal information, and creative work if these are transferred through the Microsoft environment. AKTO bears no responsibility for the security of files transferred through third-party applications. Similarly, only electronic communication carried out through the email account provided by AKTO to students and staff members (@aktocollege.gr) is taken into account.

3. Design Software
Students of AKTO College, AKTO KDVM, and AKTO ISAEK gain preferential access, by virtue of their student status, to:

3.1 Adobe Creative Suite – the Creative Cloud All Apps programme, which includes 20+ creative applications and design templates, cloud storage space, and thousands of fonts from the Adobe font library.

3.2 Autodesk – 2D/3D CAD & 3DS MAX

4. Libraries
AKTO’s libraries are the largest private Art and Design libraries in Greece. They are the “core” of the institution, and their mission is to support instructors’ teaching work and serve the needs of students and graduates, thereby contributing to their intellectual development and social growth. They are organized according to international standards and have an online catalogue, where students can browse 40,000 entries of books, journals, audiovisual material, e-books, DVDs, CDs, VHS tapes, and undergraduate and postgraduate theses. Our collection numbers over 40,000 book and audiovisual titles, more than 600 journal titles, and 10,000 student thesis titles, while library services include online access to the collection’s catalogue via OPAC (Open Public Access Catalogue). In addition, through the EDETV Interlibrary Loan System (National Union Catalogue of Scientific Journals), it is possible to order journal articles from the libraries participating in the network. AKTO also offers all its students and instructors access to the international digital library JSTOR, which includes twelve million articles, books, and primary sources. All members of the AKTO community have access, through their dedicated account, to this extremely rich and constantly updated platform, through the subscription covered by the School. In the specially designed library spaces on AKTO’s two campuses (Athens and Thessaloniki), visitors, besides searching for material, can also study at individual workstations (PCs with internet access). The libraries function as reading rooms and have photocopiers, printers, and scanners. The main goal of AKTO’s libraries is to support research, knowledge, and information. As such, they are also accessible to students from other universities as well as external visitors, following consultation with and approval from Academic Administration. Students visiting AKTO’s libraries must comply with the Library Regulations, as posted.

5. Supplementary Computer Labs
Computer labs take place on a weekly basis at scheduled times under the supervision of instructors. They are optional and completely free, aimed at strengthening skills and providing support in using all the software taught, covering design needs including, among others, Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD 2D-3D, Web Design, SketchUp, Rhino, 3DS MAX, and others.

6. e-Registrar’s Office & Student Portal
For better service to our students, an e-Registrar’s Office also operates, through which documents and certificates can be requested without needing to visit in person. All students can access their student account and find information about their studies, as well as their class schedule.

7. Counselling Centre – AKTO Counselling Centre
The AKTO Counselling Centre aims to provide short-term counselling and psychoeducational workshops to support students in managing a range of emotional and psychological difficulties.

8. Fonts.gr Fonts
AKTO provides its students with 120 fonts from the company Fonts.gr. The fonts can also be used from students’ personal devices to work on the projects assigned to them as part of their study programme.

9. Technical Support
Students are provided with technical support, which includes assessing educational needs and helping with the procurement of suitable IT equipment and software, as well as technical support for any issues that arise. The Technical Support Department operates daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

10. Use of Facilities
Members of the AKTO student community have free access to labs, internet studios, PC studios, and classrooms, even after classes have ended. Interested parties can learn more on AKTO’s website about the facilities at the Athens Campus (11A Evelpidon, Pedion Areos) and the Thessaloniki Campus (43 Tsimiski, Plateia Commercial Centre).

11. AKTO College Graduation
Graduating from AKTO College’s programmes, carried out in partnership with Middlesex University London, offers the ultimate study experience with a Graduation Ceremony that follows British educational standards.

12. Email Service
Under the terms and conditions of these Regulations, AKTO provides students with a personal email service, through which it will send announcements of all kinds from Academic and Administrative Management, and, in general, informational messages about current matters concerning the educational process (schedule, exhibitions, lectures, events, conferences, etc.), in order to make communication between students and AKTO direct, secure, and effective.
The username and password are issued strictly for personal use.
The student acknowledges and accepts that all messages sent by the School carry the weight of official communication, and are considered to have been read by the student 24 hours after being sent. For matters relating to the administrative-financial relationship between students and the Company, sent messages carry the legal weight of formal notice under the relevant provisions of the Civil Code.
When using the email service, the student is required to comply with the provisions of the Law and these Regulations, and may not take any action intended to cause harm to the School or to the services it provides, or to reduce their level of security, nor interfere with its telecommunications equipment. Misuse of the service includes, indicatively: attempting to appropriate another user’s password, sending unsolicited and/or large numbers of emails to recipient lists against their wishes (spamming), committing punishable offences, such as distributing illegal, pirated, or pornographic material, and using another user’s personal data, details, or passwords with or without their consent.
If the student fails to comply with these terms, AKTO reserves the right, following relevant notice, at its discretion, to immediately partially and/or fully suspend the service provided. Likewise, the School may exclude the student from the email service when their student status ends or expires (discontinuation of studies, graduation, etc.) or when the student falls into arrears with their financial obligations. AKTO may access the student’s email without requiring their prior permission if it is found that the student has, through the service, violated the Law or these Regulations.
AKTO has the discretion to suspend or terminate the student’s access to all or part of the service, without notice, if it considers that the student is violating any term of the agreement, harassing, or being harmful in any way to other students or to the Company.
The student agrees that the use of the service provided is not a right but a privilege, which they enjoy only for as long as they hold student status.
Under no circumstances, including negligence, is AKTO obliged to compensate for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the service, or from defects, errors, omissions, interruptions, delays in operation or transmission, viruses, leading to the deletion of files or email, or any loss of files, invasion of privacy or confidentiality of private messages, however caused.
AKTO expressly reminds students that the use of the email service is governed by the Personal Data Protection statement, found within these Regulations, which the student accepts.

13. Submitting Class Requests
Students of a class may bring academic requests to the School’s Administration. For a class request to be evaluated, it must be sent in good time by email to the Year Coordinator by the class representative, copying all fellow students in that class, or, if no representative has been designated, by the requesting student, copying all students in the class. Alternatively, requests can be submitted by representatives at the scheduled Boards of Studies meetings. Requests that do not meet these conditions will not be brought before the Administration, and the requesting party will receive a corresponding response.

1. The conduct of students, parents/guardians, those responsible for payment, graduates, as well as anyone else who comes into contact with the school on behalf of a student and/or graduate, on AKTO’s premises, must be impeccable.
2. The conduct of students, parents/guardians, those responsible for payment, graduates, as well as anyone else who comes into contact with the school on behalf of a student and/or graduate, toward members of AKTO’s academic and administrative staff, must be impeccable.
3. If students bring guests to School events or to the premises on any occasion, they are themselves responsible and accountable for their guests’ conduct. Guests are required to follow the rules of conduct as described in these Regulations. In the event of non-compliance, the student may be referred to AKTO’s Disciplinary Committee.
4. AKTO’s educational premises are provided exclusively for educational work. No other event may take place without the Administration’s permission. Any posting of flyers or notices without obtaining the relevant permission is prohibited, as is defacing equipment and the premises of the educational institution in general. Any damage is to be repaired by the person responsible. Students at all levels of education and training must obey the instructions of instructors and the Administration.
5. Students must be aware of and comply with AKTO’s Operating and Study Regulations.
6. Students are required to obey the decisions, orders, and instructions of the Board of Directors, the Financial and Academic Management, instructors, and any responsible person at any structure within the institution.
7. Students at all levels of education and training are required to be aware of matters relating to their studies, and of every decision, order, or instruction from AKTO’s Administration, by following the notice boards found in all buildings and carefully reading all letters and emails they receive from Administration officials. Ignorance of the content of notices is not a valid excuse under any circumstances.
8. Participation by students in trips, fashion shows, exhibitions, and other AKTO events is mandatory as long as they have an educational rather than a purely recreational character, unless otherwise announced.
9. Students must complete assignments given to them consistently and responsibly, within the timeframe set for each module. Failure to submit on time, and correspondingly failure to have the assigned work collected by the person responsible, automatically means the work may not be accepted, or may incur a grading penalty, depending on the Academic Committee’s decision.
10. Entering and leaving classrooms must take place at the time set by the schedule. Students must be present on time for class and must not interrupt teaching without reason. If a student arrives more than a quarter of an hour late, either at the start of class or when returning from a break, they may enter the classroom if permitted by the instructor, but will not be marked present. A student who leaves before the end of class will also not be marked present.
11. Students must submit their work, as defined by the module’s syllabus, for examination and grading by the predetermined submission/examination deadline.
12. Students who have not achieved a passing grade after results are announced follow the procedures set out in the corresponding articles for their respective study structure at AKTO.
13. Smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes are strictly prohibited in classrooms, labs, balconies, and other areas of AKTO’s educational premises.
14. If a student is caught trafficking or using prohibited substances, in addition to the applicable criminal consequences, they will be summoned before AKTO’s Disciplinary Committee, with expulsion as the maximum penalty.
15. Remaining in the library for any reason other than studying is prohibited.
16. Consuming food and drinks is prohibited in all teaching areas and libraries.
17. Attendance at special lectures organized by AKTO’s Administration concerning the relevant level of education each time is mandatory, as they form part of students’ core education.
18. Students are required to make their works available to instructors and/or curators for the annual student exhibition, as this is an integral part of their education. These works remain at AKTO’s disposal during the exhibition and are subsequently collected by their creators. Responsibility for the delivery and collection of the works belongs to the individual student, who, following the School’s instructions and in collaboration with the relevant instructor or curator, arranges the manner, time, and place of proper delivery and collection of the work. AKTO stores these works for a limited period of time, after which works that have not been collected will not be kept. Students are prohibited from taking their works from the exhibition without the permission of the institution’s Administration. A student who refuses to hand over their works for the annual exhibition may be penalized with cancellation of their grade for the works in question.
19. AKTO has the right to keep the originals or copies of all student works in its archive and to display them anywhere, inside or outside the institution, as samples of student work, in accordance with the provisions of Law 2121/1993 on Intellectual Property. AKTO may also publish the above works in its informational materials or in presentations made from time to time in the press, on social media, and elsewhere, without any obligation or other liability. In addition, it retains the right to publish student works in its own special publications.
20. Student works are the intellectual property of their creators. However, AKTO retains the right to use them, without obtaining prior permission from the creator, for educational and promotional purposes, within the context of the institution’s operations.
21. The student, as the creator of the work, remains responsible for the use of third parties’ intellectual property rights. AKTO undertakes to provide the necessary information and guidance for the correct application of intellectual property legislation within the context of its educational activities. When producing works, the student is required to respect the intellectual property rights of third parties. If a case of intellectual property theft by a student arises, they will be referred to the Academic Committee, which will decide on the disciplinary penalty to be imposed. AKTO bears no responsibility for the violation of provisions concerning third parties’ intellectual property rights (Law 2121/1993) by the student.
22. Students are required to actively participate in organizing the exhibitions held to present student work, both inside and outside AKTO’s premises. The exhibition of works is an integral part of students’ education, and they must therefore follow the instructions of their instructors and the respective curators.
23. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and its various applications during studies is governed by AKTO’s policy, as set out in this provision and in the AI Usage Guide, which is provided to AKTO students and which they are required to know as part of their student obligations. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology that leads to the production of images or text without proper citation of the use of the AI tool, as defined in AKTO’s AI Usage Guide, is not permitted and is considered plagiarism.

The following cases are distinguished:

1. The use of specific artificial intelligence applications, in cases where this is set out in the module’s syllabus as a skill, is permitted in accordance with the AI Usage Guide, under the guidance of the instructor and with reference to the relevant literature in the corresponding subject area.
2. The use of specific artificial intelligence applications for processing and optimizing authentic, original material produced by the student is carried out a. only at a specific point in the artistic process or the process of completing an assignment, b. provided it is properly cited in accordance with the AI Usage Guide, c. provided all details of its use are fully documented, such as the manner, stage of production of the material in question, timing, etc., and d. provided the choice of artificial intelligence technological tools in the creative process is justified in that specific case. These conditions apply cumulatively.
3. The use of artificial intelligence, in particular Large Language Model (LLM) software, to write written assignments entirely, or generative AI applications to produce images, audio, video, or other material, is not permitted. The same applies to any use of artificial intelligence technologies intended to replace students’ personal work, as this invalidates the educational process and runs contrary to the values and educational goals of AKTO College.

24. Students are required to attend their classes in the manner specified by the Academic Committee and AKTO’s Administration, whether these are in-person classes (physical presence in a classroom), distance learning (e-learning), or held at a location outside AKTO’s specific facilities (new buildings, museum spaces, etc.).

25. The schedule and method of attending classes may be unilaterally modified by AKTO due to emergencies and circumstances, without this giving the student any right to object to the decision.

1. The Study Regulations may be partially amended during the semester. Any changes, like any other information about studies at AKTO, are communicated to students and posted on AKTO’s website, and are applicable from the date of publication. In cases where legislative regulations or terms of the agreement with Middlesex University apply, these may also have retroactive effect and may govern the School’s relationships with former students as well.
2. The Administration of each AKTO level has the right to postpone the start of classes, change the schedule and method of teaching, reduce or increase total teaching hours, and merge classes, if the above are deemed necessary for the School’s operation.
3. The Academic Committee, to the extent permitted by Law, has the right to change the class schedule and detailed curriculum, the examination schedule, as well as the right to extend the teaching periods of semesters, if this is deemed necessary. It also retains the right to set a special schedule during the academic year.
4. During the academic year, in addition to the regular schedule, supplementary/tutorial classes may be organized by decision of the Academic Committee. The schedule of supplementary classes is announced to students in good time, so they can apply to participate and pay the corresponding tuition fees, where required, at least two days before it begins.
5. Year Coordinators at each level are responsible for issuing certificates relating to students’ attendance at AKTO, the fulfilment of their financial obligations, and their grading status, by consulting their records and files. These certificates are issued only upon request by the students themselves or their guardians.
6. Information concerning the operation of a level of study is provided by the administrative staff of the respective structure. Information of an academic nature is provided by instructors and the Directors of the Study Programmes.
7. Any information concerning a specific student at any AKTO level (personal details or conduct during their studies, as well as compliance with their obligations) is confidential and is disclosed only with the agreement of the student concerned. Exceptions are made for information concerning any violations of criminal law by a student during their studies (e.g. damage to others’ property, defamatory acts or words, etc.). In addition, personal information may be disclosed to the relevant authorities and any other interested party, provided they have a legitimate interest, always in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Policy.
8. Urgent matters concerning a student’s participation in the educational process (e.g. prolonged absence, etc.), as well as matters concerning compliance with the student’s obligations arising from the Enrollment Application – Private Agreement (e.g. compliance with financial obligations, etc.), may also be disclosed to the contact details of the persons included in the enrollment application, at AKTO’s discretion.
9. There is no maximum age limit for enrollment at AKTO.
10. If a student wishes to discontinue their studies, they are required to notify the School in writing, by completing the corresponding form, which is obtained from the Year Coordinator of the respective structure.

1. AKTO, with the main strategic goal of providing quality services and protecting the personal data of data subjects and the information it manages, has adopted a detailed Quality, Information Security, and Privacy Policy, aimed at:
1.1 Satisfying all interested parties through the provision of quality educational services.
1.2 Protecting the information and personal data it manages.
1.3 Complying with the European and Greek Legislative and Regulatory Framework on matters of data security and protection.
1.4 Ensuring the trust of the company’s customers, employees, and suppliers.
2. To achieve the above goals, AKTO has defined specific roles and responsibilities internally, so as to achieve the highest possible quality and the protection of personal data and information systems. All personnel have been made aware of quality, personal data, and security issues, developing the knowledge and skills that allow for the immediate identification of threats and the taking of appropriate measures to prevent risks. In addition, AKTO is certified under ISO 27001 and ISO 27701.

3. AKTO takes the necessary technical and organizational measures to ensure the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of the data it processes. In this context, it applies detailed policies and procedures that set out measures for:
3.1 Controlling access to data and information resources.
3.2 Proper management of information resources.
3.3 Physical security.
3.4 Operational security.
3.5 Security incident management.
3.6 Communications security.
3.7 Encryption.
3.8 Supplier management and security.
3.9 Human resources management and security.
3.10 Maintenance of IT infrastructure and equipment.
3.11 Legal compliance.
3.12 Internal organization and assignment of roles and responsibilities.

4. Through a review process, AKTO ensures the continuous monitoring of its security level and the adoption of appropriate preventive measures. At the same time, the proper design and execution of risk assessments of information resources contribute to the safe continuity of business operations in the event of malfunctions.

5. The Quality Officer monitors all Procedures and Policies, so that the company can protect the data and information it processes.

6. AKTO, out of respect for privacy, complies with European and National Personal Data Protection Law with regard to the student, as well as any person named on the Enrollment Application, applying the relevant provisions of European General Regulation No. 2016/679 “on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data” (hereinafter referred to for brevity as the “GDPR”), as specified by national personal data protection provisions, as well as communications privacy legislation.

7. The provision of AKTO’s educational services takes place within the framework of its statutory operation and entails the necessary processing of personal data of various categories of data subjects, such as students, parents/others, and co-liable payers, for lawful and specific purposes, as set out below.

8. AKTO adheres to the principles of lawful processing, ensures the satisfaction of data subjects’ rights as provided for by the GDPR, and at the same time takes appropriate technical and organizational measures for the secure processing of this data against risks such as loss, unauthorized access, or disclosure. It also takes all required safeguards for any transfers of personal data to third parties, third countries, or international organizations.

9. Within this framework, the legal basis for the processing of personal data is AKTO’s legitimate interest, the performance of the Private Agreement relating to the provision of its educational services, the consent of data subjects, such as students, co-liable payers, etc., as well as the fulfilment of AKTO’s legal obligations, such as tax, accounting, etc., depending on the specific purpose of processing in each case.

10. Personal Data Collected
AKTO collects and processes only the personal data strictly necessary to serve specific purposes relating exclusively to students’ enrollment and attendance throughout their student life, and in accordance with the relevant legislative provisions. These include, indicatively:
10.1 Identification details and demographic information (full name of the student and parents, date/place of birth of the student, the class and level of study chosen by the student).
10.2 Contact details (postal address, phone numbers, email).
10.3 Details of a parent or other person designated as the contact person for the student (full name, occupation, address, phone number, relationship to the student, etc.).
10.4 Educational qualifications (Leaving Certificate), choice of programme and year of study.
10.5 Details of the person co-liable for payment (full name, occupation, Tax Identification Number, Tax Office, contact details), as well as their relationship to the student.
10.6 Learning difficulties and health data, submitted along with the necessary supporting documents as required by law for enrollment, are collected only if the student requests special support from the school, as supporting evidence for their request.
10.7 Photographs and videos from student life, attendance, activities (such as artistic work), participation in special programmes, events, student exhibitions, and other related activities. Please note that explicit oral or written consent is requested from students for the publication of photographs and videos on AKTO’s website or on the social media it maintains, and in its print and digital publications, for the purpose of its promotion and to inform the public about its educational activities.

The above personal data is recorded in the student’s individual file, kept in AKTO’s central database. The relevant AKTO Departments may have authorized access to the central record of data held. Every student is required to promptly inform AKTO of any change to their personal details, by contacting the Year Coordinators of the respective structure or by sending an email to gdpr@aktocollege.gr, to ensure the accuracy of the data held and the completeness of their file.

11. Purposes of Processing
The purposes for which AKTO lawfully processes the personal data of the student and parents/others relate exclusively to enrollment and attendance within the context of providing AKTO’s educational services, based on its statutory purposes and the relevant legislative framework. Specifically, these purposes are as follows:
11.1 Informing and enrolling interested students and providing them with educational services, as well as carrying out the related contractual obligations between them, their parents/others, and AKTO.
11.2 Issuing all kinds of certificates and documents, such as attendance certificates and/or detailed transcripts.
11.3 Disclosure through transfer to third parties who are contractually connected to AKTO, where this cooperation relates exclusively to the enrollment and attendance of students (e.g. with the British university Middlesex University).
11.4 Transferring student data to other levels of education, as well as to supervising Public Authorities and Services.
11.5 Producing publications, commemorative photographs and/or videos, yearbooks and other photo albums, and magazines, relating to students’ activities, achievements, and/or performance/awards within the context of student life, following their oral or written consent.
11.6 Posting photographic and video material on AKTO’s official website, www.akto.gr, as well as on the social media it maintains, following their oral or written consent.
11.7 Necessary communication with students and parents/others through the contact details provided.
11.8 Communication with students and/or parents/others to send informational newsletters, invitations, updates about events, graduation ceremonies, special programmes, etc., following their consent.

12. Data Retention Period
12.1 The retention period for the file containing the personal data provided by the student corresponds, at minimum, to the duration of their studies at AKTO. Beyond this period, personal data is retained to serve students after graduation, such as for issuing copies of diplomas, certificates, detailed transcripts, or attestations, or for AKTO’s compliance with relevant legislative provisions, as well as for producing statistical data or for research purposes, etc.
12.2 The above period may be extended by AKTO, as data controller, in proportion to the corresponding lawful purpose of processing pursued.

13. Transfer of Personal Data
AKTO may transfer personal data of students, or, as applicable, of parents/others, to natural or legal persons and entities affiliated with or collaborating with AKTO. Except for the above cases, AKTO does not transfer the personal data it processes to third parties, unless one of the following exceptional cases applies:
13.1 The explicit consent of the data subject has been provided.
13.2 The transfer is necessary for the fulfilment of AKTO’s contractual obligations within the context of collaboration with third parties, such as the British university Middlesex University.
13.3 The transfer is required for AKTO’s compliance with a legal obligation.
13.4 The processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest.
13.5 The processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by AKTO as data controller or by a third party, under the safeguards of the General Data Protection Regulation.
13.6 The transfer is made to Public Authorities in the exercise of their duties.

14. Rights of Data Subjects
14.1 AKTO respects and upholds all rights of data subjects provided for under the GDPR, taking care to satisfy them lawfully. These rights are as follows:
14.1.1 The right to information and access.
14.1.2 The right to rectification.
14.1.3 The right to erasure (“right to be forgotten”).
14.1.4 The right to restriction of processing.
14.1.5 The right to data portability.
14.1.6 The right to object to further processing.
14.2 The response time set for AKTO to respond to the above requests is 30 days from receipt and identification of the relevant request, unless there is a lawful reason for refusing the request, in which case the relevant decision will be justified in writing.
14.3
AKTO has appointed a Data Protection Officer, whom data subjects may contact to exercise their rights to information, access, rectification, erasure, restriction, and portability, as well as to raise any objections regarding the processing of the personal data provided, and for the effective protection of the personal data it collects and processes for the above purposes, as follows:

Mr. Dimitrios Seloulis,
Phone: (+30) 210 5230130
Email: dpo-akto@aktocollege.gr
Website: www.akto.gr
Postal Address: 11A Evelpidon, 11362

1. The complaints/grievance procedures followed by AKTO comply with current legislation, while specifically for AKTO College, the regulations of the partner university Middlesex University also apply in parallel, as set out in detail in Article 9. Also, for ISAEK, an official Complaints Committee operates, as described in Article 10.

2. Specifically, if a complaint arises regarding any matter, it can be submitted orally or in writing, initially to the person directly concerned, e.g. the instructor. If the outcome is not satisfactory, it is possible to proceed to the next stage of a written complaint, by letter or email, to the Year Coordinator of the respective structure. The address complaints@aktocollege.gr can also be used, which is received directly by AKTO’s Administration, in case the complainant wishes to remain anonymous.
3.
Complaints/grievances are handled seriously, fairly, consistently, and within a reasonable timeframe. Where possible, they are addressed and resolved, at a first stage, orally; however, if deemed necessary, they are escalated to a formal resolution process following the written procedure.

4. In particular, in cases of bullying, harassment, and victimization, more detailed provisions apply, found in Article 12.

1. 1. Students’ tuition fees are set out in their Enrollment Application. AKTO reserves the right to agree a different amount of annual tuition with each student, depending on its discount policy.
   2. Students’ tuition fees are paid according to the method they have chosen in the payment arrangement they signed when completing their Enrollment Application.
   3. Students who have chosen installments as their payment method pay each installment by the date set. The first installment of tuition is paid upon enrollment. The remaining installments are due at the intervals agreed at enrollment. Once the agreed date for each of the above installments has passed, each installment becomes overdue and payable.
   4. In the event of late payment of tuition, the Accounts Office notifies the student and the co-liable payer to settle the debt. If, following notification, tuition is still not paid, AKTO may prevent the student from continuing to attend classes, or from enrolling or re-enrolling. In addition, students with outstanding financial obligations are not entitled to grades and attendance certificates, nor do they receive their qualifications, until tuition has been paid in full.
   5. An extension to the tuition payment deadline is granted only with the approval of Financial Management. A student who is more than a month late in paying tuition beyond the predetermined payment date, without having obtained permission for an extension, may be struck off, with no right to a refund of tuition already paid. This is done only following a decision by Financial Management.
   6. For students with outstanding financial obligations, the School reserves the right not to examine them.
   7. Tuition is due in all cases, unless studies are discontinued. In this case, the student is required, on the one hand, to notify AKTO’s administration in writing, completing the relevant form and stating the reason for discontinuation, and, on the other hand, to pay the tuition corresponding to the academic semester during which the discontinuation takes place, at which point both the student and any guarantors are released from the relevant debt for the following semester. Failure to notify AKTO of the discontinuation of studies does not release the student and the co-liable party from paying tuition for the current semester, which AKTO may pursue by any appropriate means. Tuition prepaid for the semester of study during which discontinuation occurs is not refunded for any reason. In all cases, AKTO will withhold an amount of €500 (five hundred euros) for enrollment costs.
   8. The tuition amount includes benefits AKTO provides to its students (e.g. email account, purchase for the provision of use of technical/material infrastructure, etc.), which remain AKTO’s property throughout the duration of studies and are freely revocable in the event of the student’s default.
   9. In the event of a student’s default, AKTO may, at its discretion, notify both the student and the guarantor/co-liable party, using the contact details declared on this Enrollment Application – Private Agreement.
   10. Tuition is deposited into AKTO’s bank accounts. Alternatively, installments of up to €500 can be paid in cash at AKTO’s offices.
   11. Payment is proven only by a bank deposit receipt or a receipt of payment issued by AKTO in the case of a cash deposit.
   12. Unless otherwise previously agreed or required by Law, tuition is owed as agreed, regardless of the manner in which AKTO provides educational services (in-person education, distance learning, etc.).
   13. The student’s co-liable payer guarantees payment of tuition under the provisions of the Civil Code on suretyship, being jointly and severally liable as a co-debtor with the student, expressly waiving the benefit of discussion (right to require the creditor to first pursue the principal debtor).
   14. Upon the student’s enrollment, when completing this Enrollment Application – Private Agreement, the student or the co-liable party pays the first installment, which is deducted from the total tuition amount.
   15. The amount of annual tuition is not reduced in the case of late enrollment. A student who enrolls late for any reason is required to pay the tuition for the entire year, like all other students.
   16. The agreed tuition amount cannot be modified during the academic year, regardless of any possible changes to the mode of attending classes (e.g. in-person or distance learning), changes to the educational syllabus (e.g. reduction or increase of course material), and the class schedule (e.g. extension or reduction of teaching hours).
   17. If a student is struck off the School for a disciplinary offence, tuition is not refunded.
   18. In the case of supplementary classes given outside the regular teaching schedule due to a student’s personal difficulty (e.g. the student’s inability to consistently follow the academic process) that prevents them from progressing to the next semester of study, they are required to pay tuition proportional to the time of the classes needed. The amount of this tuition is decided jointly by Academic and Financial Management.
   19. AKTO approves and announces its pricing policy to interested parties each year, setting the amount of tuition, the option to pay in installments, any subsidies/scholarships, etc. The pricing policy is set unilaterally by AKTO, is freely revocable, and may be modified at any time, without, of course, affecting existing agreements to the detriment of students.
   20. In addition to tuition, students are required to cover the cost of purchasing the necessary materials and equipment for their studies.
2. SPECIAL FINANCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES FOR STUDENTS
   

   ALL STRUCTURES
   1.	Private lesson	€40 per teaching hour
   2.	Re-enrollment in the same year	100% of the academic year’s tuition
   STRUCTURES: AKTO COLLEGE & AKTO K.D.V.M.
   3.	Special Assignment Extension or Regrading Exam Fees Exam fees are paid by students upon completing the Special Extension Application.   Re-examination of all modules for the semester	€300 to re-examine all modules for the semester
   3a.	Special Assignment Extension or Regrading Re-examination of one module	% of the semester’s re-examination tuition, based on the weight of the credits of the module being examined relative to the semester’s total credits
   4.	Special Assignment Extension or Regrading Exam Fees (in exceptional cases, following approval by the Academic Committee) Exam fees are paid by students upon completing the Special Extension Application.	€40 per assignment to be re-examined
   STRUCTURE: AKTO COLLEGE
   5.	Change to Part-Time	€500 administrative costs
   6.	Repeating attendance of PART A	100% of PART A tuition
   6a.	Repeating attendance of Professional Practice	% of annual tuition, based on the weight of the Professional Practice module’s credits relative to the year’s total credits
   6b.	Repeating attendance of the Research module	% of annual tuition, based on the weight of the Research module’s credits relative to the year’s total credits
   6c.	Extra Research hours for submission in the current academic year (min 4 hours, max 8 hours) Students who Academic Management determines need more than 8 hours are required to repeat the entire module.	% of Research tuition 4 hours = ([Research tuition]/[total Research hours]) x 4 5 hours = ([Research tuition]/[total Research hours]) x 5 6 hours = ([Research tuition]/[total Research hours]) x 6 7 hours = ([Research tuition]/[total Research hours]) x 7 8 hours = ([Research tuition]/[total Research hours]) x 8
   7.	Repeating attendance PART B	100% of PART B tuition
   7a.	Repeating attendance of the Dissertation	% of annual tuition, based on the weight of the Dissertation module’s credits relative to the year’s total credits
   7b.	Extra Dissertation hours for submission in the current academic year (min 4 hours, max 10 hours) Students who Academic Management determines need more than 10 hours are required to repeat the entire module.	% of Dissertation tuition 4 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 4 5 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 5 6 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 6 7 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 7 8 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 8 9 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 9 10 hours = ([Dissertation tuition]/[total Dissertation hours]) x 10

8.1 GENERAL

In addition to the cases referred to in the previous Article 3 (Conduct – Student Obligations), AKTO students also commit a disciplinary offence when they:
1. Violate AKTO’s Operating Regulations.
2. Fail to show due respect toward, and fail to obey the orders and instructions of, administrative staff, instructors, and other officials of the AKTO institution.
3. Copy when submitting assignments, or mislead or attempt to mislead in examinations of any kind and in student assignments, including unauthorized use of AI.
4. Disrupt, through their conduct, order and the teaching of modules, exercises, examinations, breaks, as well as any educational work or AKTO event.
5. Violate the provisions of the Criminal Code or special criminal laws.
6. Destroy AKTO’s property.

8.2 DISCIPLINARY PENALTIES

1. If a student at any level of education or training disrupts a class or displays inappropriate conduct within AKTO’s classrooms, libraries, or labs, the instructor has the right to remove them from the classroom. The student is required to comply immediately and leave, even if they consider their removal unfair.
2. Any deviation from appropriate conduct is reviewed, and the following sanctions may be imposed on the student: a) A warning from the instructor and AKTO’s Administrative bodies, which constitutes an initial notice of a heavier sanction being imposed in the event of a further deviation, b) Removal from that hour’s class, c) Removal for up to three (3) days at ISAEK level, and possibly more at other levels, up to and including d) Discontinuation of studies.
3. In the event of a serious offence or repeated inappropriate conduct, the Academic Committee and the Administrative Management of the respective AKTO level of education and training have the right to convene a Disciplinary Committee. Part of the process involves conducting an investigation to gather evidence, and the student is called to provide a statement in their defence. Any refusal by the accused student to provide a defence does not prevent a decision from being issued. The Disciplinary Committee may impose, as the maximum penalty, the removal of a student from a specific module or their permanent expulsion.
4. At ISAEK level, discontinuation of studies is imposed by a three-member committee, consisting of the Director of AKTO ISAEK, the Deputy Director, if one exists, and the most senior instructor in the department (in the event of equal seniority, the one proposed by the Deputy Director).
5. In the event of copying, or an attempt at deception or plagiarism when submitting assignments, the student is graded with a mark of one for the specific module/assignment, or may even have their grade cancelled for all modules of the semester.
6. In all cases of removal, absences on the days of removal are counted as normal.

9.1 GENERAL

1. AKTO College collaborates with the recognized University Middlesex University London. Students on its validated Programmes are also considered students of the University and are required to comply with its requirements, as communicated by the College’s competent bodies.
2. Graduates of the Programmes validated by Middlesex University are awarded university qualifications by the University itself, as described in the College’s informational materials.

9.2 STUDY PROGRAMMES LEADING TO:

1. Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degrees

1.1 GRAPHIC DESIGN: VISUAL COMMUNICATION
1.2 GRAPHIC DESIGN: ILLUSTRATION & VISUAL MEDIA
1.3 GRAPHIC DESIGN: DIGITAL INTERACTIVE MEDIA
1.4 INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE: SPATIAL DESIGN
1.5 INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE: SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
1.6 INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE: RETAIL DESIGN
1.7 PRODUCT DESIGN
1.8 FASHION DESIGN
1.9 FINE ART & NEW MEDIA
1.10 PHOTOGRAPHY WITH VIDEO
1.11 COMICS & CARTOON
1.12 ANIMATION

2. Master of Arts Postgraduate Degrees

2.1 MA DESIGN: VISUAL COMMUNICATION
2.2 MA DESIGN: DIGITAL SPACES & INTERACTIVE MEDIA
2.3 MA DESIGN: URBAN VISION & INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
2.4 MA DESIGN: SUSTAINABILITY & PRODUCT INNOVATION
2.5 MA FINE ART

9.3 ACADEMIC STRUCTURE OF THE COLLEGE

9.3.1 Academic Committee (Executive Academic Management Committee)
This is the College’s highest academic body. It examines and determines the College’s overall academic strategy, as well as the course of studies. It discusses, regulates, or redefines educational matters. As appropriate, it is called upon to evaluate and rule on cases of disciplinary offences and the imposition of penalties.

9.3.2 College Management (College Management Team)
Responsible for the course and coordination of all the College’s Study Programmes, as well as for ensuring the proper operation of all College departments. Reports to the Academic Committee.

9.3.3 Academic Board (PL Board)
A body made up of AKTO’s Programme Leaders. It gathers and exchanges views on matters of academic quality and educational methodology and acts in an advisory capacity to the Academic Committee.

9.3.4 Programme Leaders
Responsible for the course and coordination of their Programme. They are members of the Academic Board (PL Board) and respond to External Examiners’ annual reports. They report to the Academic Committee.

9.3.5 Quality Assurance Officer
Collaborates with the University and British authorities on matters of academic quality, re-validation and validation of Programmes, examination boards, and organizes Boards of Studies. Reports to the Academic Committee and College Management.

9.3.6 Link Tutor with Middlesex University
The consistent point of contact with Middlesex on matters relating to the partnership with the University. Works with the holder of the corresponding position at Middlesex, maintaining systematic communication and, among other things, coordinates the Boards of Studies and Exam Boards. Also ensures teaching staff understand, have their questions resolved, and are kept informed about the procedures and quality requirements of the educational process.

9.3.7 BA & MA Coordinators
Coordinate all educational processes of the validated undergraduate and postgraduate study programmes. Responsible for the day-to-day monitoring of the educational process, as well as resolving any academic problems students face. Work with Programme Leaders, instructors, and College Management, to whom they report.

9.3.8 Foreign Liaisons Officer
Handles communication with the University on matters of enrollment, submission of final grades, and issuance of degrees and certificates from Middlesex University. Supports students interested in further studies by providing the relevant documents. Reports to College Management.

9.4 BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

9.4.1 Board of Studies
Gives student representatives from each Programme the opportunity to convey their classes’ experiences and assessments regarding the study programme and the academic process in general. Permanent members include: representatives of the Academic Committee, Programme Leaders, the Quality Assurance Officer, and the Link Tutor between AKTO and the University. Meets once a semester and is convened by the Quality Assurance Officer.

9.4.2 BA (Hons) Degree and MA Degree Admissions Committees
Established for each Programme, they conduct the corresponding interviews and examine cases of students applying for admission via qualifying exams to the BA (Hons) Degree. They also evaluate student applications for admission to postgraduate programmes. Made up of members of the Academic Committee, the Programme Leader of the Programme to which admission is sought, and the BA and MA Coordinator.

9.4.3 Programme Team Council
These committees examine matters relating to the educational process of each Programme, share instructors’ personal experiences and assessments, and draft and improve assignment briefs. Coordinated by the Programme Leader, with instructors participating.

9.4.4 Assessment Board
Meets after the completion of each academic year to ratify the results leading to the award of University qualifications for each study programme. Made up of representatives of the Academic Committee, the Programme Leader of the respective Programme, University representatives, and an External Examiner.

9.5 ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURE

1. General
1.1 For candidates whose native language is not Greek, a B2 level of language proficiency is required.
1.2 Enrollment requires the candidate to complete and sign the Enrollment Application. Payment of the first tuition installment, as set out in the Enrollment Application, is also required.
1.3 Enrollment requires supporting documents from the candidate, such as a prior educational qualification (e.g. Lyceum Leaving Certificate), identification documents (e.g. Police ID Card), as well as residence permit documents for Greece, as required by law and only in cases where the candidate does not hold Greek citizenship.
1.4 If a co-liable payer is named on the Enrollment Application, AKTO’s Administration has the right to keep them informed of the student’s progress.
1.5 Enrollment in subsequent years of study for already-enrolled students requires the fulfilment of their obligations as described in these Regulations.
1.6 AKTO reserves the right not to accept the enrollment application of a candidate or student who has not fulfilled their obligations or who has committed a disciplinary offence.
1.7 Enrollment of students on two study programmes is only permitted in exceptional cases, and provided the student demonstrates, through their grades, an interview with the Programme Leader, their portfolio, or their CV, that they can meet the increased demands entailed in attending and being assessed on two study programmes, to the extent this can be foreseen. In addition, enrollment is only possible if the School’s timetable allows it, so that there is no conflict between teaching hours. It is expressly noted that extenuating circumstances are not recognized for assignment submission deadlines due to any increased workload resulting from attending two programmes in parallel. In all cases, AKTO guides the interested party according to the wishes they express, with the primary concern being their artistic education and completion of studies.
Payment of tuition is governed by AKTO’s pricing policy and by what is set out in the enrollment application. AKTO bears no responsibility for tuition paid in the event of an inability to continue or complete a study programme related to enrollment on two study programmes.
Enrollment on two study programmes is prohibited in all cases where it concerns a first degree at undergraduate level (BA, HEQF level 6) without prior experience in the subject area or at undergraduate study level, and is generally discouraged, due to the increased volume of attendance, assignments, and assessment resulting from combining programmes.
Where it is deemed that an interested party may enroll on two programmes, final responsibility for the enrollment decision rests with them.
1.8 In cases where students enroll in a specific year of study via qualifying admission, granted upon submission of the required supporting documents (detailed transcript of previous studies, portfolio, CV) and following an interview with the Department Leader and the Admissions Counsellor, AKTO retains the discretion to set, as a condition for continuing their studies, attendance of supplementary classes to acquire or strengthen knowledge or skills identified as gaps during their studies, at a time after enrollment. Supplementary classes incur a cost, as set out in AKTO’s pricing policy. The aim of this provision is to support students in successfully completing their studies, in cases where learning needs arise that could not have been foreseen during the enrollment process. This provision applies at any point in time after enrollment at which such gaps become apparent.

2. Undergraduate Study Programmes
2.1 Candidates enrolling on the University Programmes validated by Middlesex University must hold a Greek Lyceum Leaving Certificate or an equivalent secondary education qualification from a school abroad, or an IB Diploma, A levels, GCSE, etc.
2.2 Citizens of countries that are not members of the European Union or the Schengen Agreement must obtain a student visa or residence permit before enrolling.
2.3 Students from post-secondary and university institutions (IEK, Colleges, Greek Universities, or universities abroad), as well as candidates who are already working or have other learning experience relevant to the study programme, may submit an application for transfer/admission via qualifying exams to AKTO’s undergraduate study programmes. The transfer/qualifying admission application must be accompanied by their detailed transcript from their previous educational institution, as well as their portfolio of work. Candidates are invited to a personal interview to determine their level of placement.
2.4 If the candidate is under 18 years of age, their enrollment application must be co-signed by one of their parents or another guardian and/or the co-liable payer. In this case, AKTO’s Administration has the right to keep the parent or guardian informed of the student’s progress.

3. Postgraduate Study Programmes
3.1 Candidates for the Postgraduate Study Programmes must hold a degree in an Art & Design field or another field relevant to design. Candidates who do not hold a degree need to have at least five (5) years of professional experience in a field relevant to design.
3.2 Candidates for the programme go through an interview with an evaluation committee, following submission of the relevant application and the required supporting documents.
3.3 Candidates who do not meet the above, or who are unsuccessful at the interview stage, have the opportunity to attend a 4-month Master Foundation Course, to prepare for their entry into the Postgraduate Programme.

9.6 COLLEGE ENROLLMENT PERIOD
1. The academic year has one (1) intake period (every October) for the morning attendance programme, and two (2) intake periods (every October & February) for the afternoon attendance programme (Open College) and the postgraduate study programmes. Enrollments for both periods can take place throughout the year.
2. After classes begin, all enrollment applications are considered late, and the Academic Committee decides whether to accept them. Students who are accepted and enroll after classes have begun are required to pay tuition for the entire academic year and to follow a special programme of supplementary classes, if this is imposed on them.

9.7 PLACEMENT OF STUDENTS INTO COLLEGE CLASSES
1. Students are placed into a class and schedule based on availability at the time of their enrollment. A change of class or schedule is considered by College Management following a request from the student and provided there is a significant reason.
2. A change of Study Programme is considered by College Management following a request from the student, and is only possible within one (1) month of the start of classes. Students who are accepted for a change of Study Programme must follow a special programme of supplementary classes, if this is imposed on them.
3. On Undergraduate Study Programmes that offer a choice of direction, students are asked to choose the direction they wish to follow in the 2nd and 3rd year by 30 June of the 1st year of study. If they wish to change their initial choice, they may do so until 10 November of the same calendar year.
4. On Postgraduate Study Programmes (starting in October) that offer a choice of direction, students are asked to choose the direction they wish to follow by 30 January of the current academic year. If they wish to change their initial choice, they may do so until 28 February of the same calendar year.
5. On Postgraduate Study Programmes (starting in February) that offer a choice of direction, students are asked to choose the direction they wish to follow by 30 June of the same calendar year. If they wish to change their initial choice, they may do so until 30 October of the same calendar year.
6. Upon joining a postgraduate programme, students who wish to strengthen their theoretical knowledge or technical skills in one of the College Programmes may choose to attend (as auditors) modules from the undergraduate study programmes, with the approval of the Programme Leader, at no financial cost.

9.8 THE COLLEGE’S ACADEMIC AND TEACHING YEAR

1. Undergraduate Study Programmes
1.1 The academic year begins on 1 October of each year and ends on 30 September of the following year.
1.2 For first- and second-year students enrolling to begin studies in the winter semester, the teaching year begins in October each year and is completed with the announcement of grades in June of the following calendar year. Specifically for final-year students obtaining Middlesex University qualifications, the teaching year is completed after the results are ratified by the Assessment Board, which convenes in July. Examined students are required to attend this process in person, with their work files.
1.3 For first-year students enrolling to begin studies in the spring semester, the teaching year begins in February each year and is completed with the announcement of grades in October of the same calendar year. First-year students who begin their studies in February join, as second-year students, the classes starting in October of the same calendar year.

2. Postgraduate Study Programmes
2.1 The academic year begins on 1 November of each year and ends on 31 October of the following year.
2.2 For students enrolling to begin studies in the winter semester, the teaching year begins in October each year and is completed with the announcement of grades in December of the following calendar year. The teaching year is completed after the results are ratified by the Assessment Board, which convenes in November. Examined students are required to attend this process in person, with their work files.
2.3 For students enrolling to begin studies in the spring semester, the teaching year begins in February each year and is completed with the announcement of grades in December of the following calendar year.

3. College Official Holidays
AKTO’s operating schedule includes the following official holidays*:

▪ 28 OCTOBER (also 26 & 27 October for the Thessaloniki branch)
▪ 17 NOVEMBER
▪ 24 DECEMBER – 6 JANUARY (Winter Break)
▪ CLEAN MONDAY
▪ 25 MARCH
▪ EASTER (Spring Break)
▪ 1 MAY (May Day)
▪ HOLY SPIRIT DAY (Whit Monday)

*Holiday dates may be amended by directive of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports.

9.9 STRUCTURE OF THE COLLEGE STUDY PROGRAMME – PROFESSIONAL EQUIVALENCE

1. Full-time studies

1.1 Undergraduate Study Programmes
The educational process progresses through modules, each containing one or more courses, theoretical or lab-based, as presented in the Programmes’ study handbooks. The 3rd year of study includes, among other courses, the Research Project (second-to-last semester) and the Dissertation (final semester). Successful completion of the 3rd year of study also leads to the award of the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degree from Middlesex University.

1.2 Postgraduate Study Programmes
The educational process progresses through modules, each containing one or more courses, theoretical or lab-based, as presented in the Programmes’ study handbooks. The programme includes, among other things, a Research Project and Dissertation. Successful completion of studies leads to the award of the Master of Arts Degree from Middlesex University.

2. Part-time studies

2.1 Undergraduate Study Programmes
At AKTO, the option of part-time studies is offered only to final-year students on Undergraduate Programmes, allowing them to complete their final year of study over two years (instead of two semesters). Upon enrolling in the third year, students declare their choice regarding their mode of attendance to the Year Coordinator. If they wish to change their initial choice, they may do so until 10 November, and are required, in all cases, to pay any difference in tuition. In exceptional cases, they may request a change to part-time attendance until 10 March. In this case, students or the co-liable payer are required to pay administrative costs, as listed in the table in Article 7 – Students’ Financial Obligations. It is clarified that after 10 November, returning to full-time attendance is not possible. Students must be aware of the adjusted timelines and requirements of their programme, as set out in the corresponding study handbooks with the BA (Hons) guidelines provided to them. The External Examiner will view these students upon completion of their studies together with the other final-year students of the same year and under the same terms.

2.2 Postgraduate Study Programmes
Students on Postgraduate Programmes may change their mode of attendance to part-time. Upon enrolling on the Postgraduate Programme, students declare their choice regarding their mode of attendance to the Year Coordinator. If they wish to change their initial choice, they may do so until 10 November, and are required, in all cases, to pay any difference in tuition. In exceptional cases, they may request a change to part-time attendance until 10 March. In this case, students or the co-liable payer are required to pay administrative costs, as listed in the table in Article 7 – Students’ Financial Obligations. It is clarified that after 10 November, returning to full-time attendance is not possible. Students must be aware of the adjusted timelines and requirements of their programme, as set out in the corresponding study handbooks with the MA guidelines provided to them. The External Examiner will view these students upon completion of their studies together with the other final-year students of the same year and under the same terms.

3. Recognition of Professional Equivalence
In accordance with the applicable legislative framework (Presidential Decree 38/2010, as amended and in force), the professional equivalence of university qualifications issued by universities abroad partnering with Colleges is recognized as equivalent to the corresponding qualifications of Greek Universities. Recognition takes place following an application by the graduate to the Autonomous Department for the Application of European Legislation (ATEEN) of the Ministry of Education, responsible for examining applications for the recognition of professional equivalence.

9.10 ATTENDANCE – PRESENCE

1. Acquiring knowledge on all of AKTO’s Study Programmes requires students’ continuous, regular, and active participation in classes and educational activities, as set out in the School’s schedule.
2. Following a proposal from the Programme Leader and approval by the Academic Committee, a student may be exempted from attending certain modules and take part directly in their examination.
3. Presence and active participation in classes are among the assessment criteria taken into account in each module’s final grading.
4. Students who, for any reason, attend 50% or less of the teaching hours for a module are subject to review by the Academic Committee and their Study Programme’s Management, who will decide whether the student needs to attend supplementary classes in order to be permitted to sit the exam for that module. Tuition is charged for attending supplementary classes. This process helps ensure the quality of the educational process and the achievement of learning objectives.
5. Students who, for any reason, attend 40% or less of the total teaching hours for the semester are subject to review by the Academic Committee, which reserves the right either not to allow submission of assignments for examination for that semester’s modules, or even not to allow them to continue their studies. In this case, re-enrollment will be necessary. This process helps ensure the quality of the educational process and the achievement of learning objectives.
6. Attendance is calculated from the start date of classes. Special cases are settled by decision of the Academic Committee.
7. In the event of an emergency change to the schedule, attendance is recorded for the module that was actually taught, not the one scheduled. Attendance is also recorded for AKTO educational activities in which student participation is mandatory, as these are considered an integral part of the educational process. It is recorded within the teaching hours of the specific module scheduled at that time.

9.11 STUDENT ASSESSMENT – GRADING

1. Students’ performance in each module is assessed by the instructor, based on predetermined assessment criteria. During the semester, students receive an assignment brief for each piece of work they are expected to submit for assessment, which includes instructions for completing the assignment, the learning outcomes, and the assessment criteria. Each assessment criterion is graded with an absolute number on a scale from one (1.00) to ten (10.00).
2. Students’ performance, as well as the passing grade for each module, is measured on a grading scale from one (1.00) to ten (10.00). The minimum passing grade (pass mark) both for each module individually and for student progression is three (3.00). The scale for the final grade of modules is:

9 – 10: Excellent

7 – 8.9: Very Good

5 – 6.9: Good

3 – 4.9: Satisfactory

1 – 2.9: Failing grade

3. Final-year students on Undergraduate Study Programmes must adhere to the timeline and requirements regarding the choice of topic for their Research Project and Dissertation, completing the assignments, submission and presentation requirements, and examination subjects, as described in the corresponding guideline handbooks provided to them in their final year (BA Hons).

4. The final semester grade for each module is formed from the individual grades in the courses that make up that module, on which they are examined. Each of these contributes a different percentage to the module’s final grade, which is stated in the Course Syllabus. For attendance on a module to be considered successful, the student must have achieved a passing grade in all courses within that module.

5. On Postgraduate Programmes validated by Middlesex University, final examinations for the award of the university qualification (MA Degree) take the form of presenting all the work completed by each student over the course of the entire year of study.

6. The above apply to internal grading at AKTO College, while for obtaining:

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degree from Middlesex University, the corresponding grading scale is:

90% – 100%: First Class

70% – 89%: Upper Second Class (2.1)

50% – 69%: Lower Second Class (2.2)

30% – 49%: Third Class (3rd)

Master of Arts Degree from Middlesex University, the corresponding grading scale is:

90% – 100%: Distinction

70% – 89%: Merit

30% – 69%: Pass

7. Students must submit their work, as defined by the course syllabus, for examination and grading by the predetermined submission deadline. Submitting work within ten days after the predetermined submission date incurs a grading penalty of 0.2 points per day of delay.

8. Students who have not achieved a passing grade after results are announced must, within five (5) working days, apply for a Special Extension of the submission deadline for their work. The Special Extension Application must be accompanied by the relevant supporting documents. If the application is accepted by the Academic Committee, an extension is granted for submission of up to thirty (30) days from the date of approval. If the student’s work is deemed to meet the passing standard based on academic criteria, grading penalties will be applied only up to the point where the final grade does not fall below the pass mark (3.00). The Special Extension Application incurs an exam fee.

9. Extenuating circumstances: Extenuating circumstances are defined as cases in which:

a. Students have additional learning needs, supported by a relevant assessment from a healthcare professional, and are handled on a case-by-case basis according to the needs of the individual student. Indicative examples include: oral or other alternative assessment where possible, extension of assignment submission deadlines without a grading penalty, etc.

b. If a student who failed to meet the set submission date for assignments can demonstrate very serious reasons that prevented adequate preparation (by providing the relevant supporting documents), the Academic Committee retains the discretion not to impose a grading penalty on them. Indicative examples of such cases include: an unforeseen serious health issue, participation in judicial or electoral proceedings that cannot be postponed, the loss of a family member or close person, direct involvement in an accident. The loss or damage of technological equipment (i.e. the student’s personal devices, computer, or other device) used to complete assignments, difficulty using the assignment submission system (Teams), or a heavy workload due to concurrent studies or employment do not constitute valid grounds for failing to submit assignments on time. Misreading deadlines does not, by itself, constitute a valid reason for failing to submit assignments on time.

10. Students are entitled to apply for regrading if they believe the grade they received in a course or module (or modules) does not reflect their actual performance. They must submit the application within five (5) working days after results are announced, and at the same time pay the corresponding exam fee. It should be noted that the grade resulting from regrading is final for that module, even if it is lower than the original grade (i.e. before regrading).

11. Exempted from the above procedure are the grades for the 3rd year of study and the grades for postgraduate programmes, as these are announced after ratification by the Assessment Board, since they are the product of discussion and joint assessment by the School’s assessors, the External Examiner, and Middlesex University representatives, and fall under the regrading procedure as defined by Middlesex University.

12. Special cases arising in relation to grading and student assessment in general are settled by the Academic Committee.

13. Students who wish to request a special mode of examination other than the one predetermined by the course syllabus can do so via a Special Application within one (1) month of the start of the semester. A prerequisite for the application is a diagnosis of a documented learning difficulty. The Academic Committee will examine the application and decide as appropriate. In the 3rd year of Undergraduate programmes and on Postgraduate programmes, where written assignments are a requirement for obtaining the Degree, additional time for submitting these written assignments is granted following approval by the Academic Committee.

9.12 STUDENT PROGRESSION – PREREQUISITE MODULES AND OUTSTANDING REQUIREMENTS

1. Student Progression

Students are promoted to the next year of study when they have achieved a grade of at least 3.00 (pass mark) in all the modules of the semesters of the year they attended.

2. Outstanding Modules

2.1 If a passing grade is not achieved in all the modules of the year, the student is not permitted to enroll in the next year of study, or to receive a certificate of attendance or degree, respectively, if they are a final-year student, but must re-enroll for these modules, paying the corresponding tuition.
2.2 The above students are required to re-enroll to attend these modules within a maximum of the next two academic periods. After this two-year period has passed, continuing studies is possible as follows:
2.2.1 1st-year students are required to attend the entire study programme again from the start.
2.2.2 2nd- or 3rd-year students enroll via qualifying admission into the corresponding year of the current validated Study Programme.
2.3
If a final-year student does not appear before the Assessment Board, the Board has the right to reject them, even if they have passed the College’s internal examination.

3. Financial obligations for re-examined modules

3.1 In the case of re-enrollment in the same year of study, and provided the agreed tuition has been paid in full, students pay the total tuition amount as set for the year of their re-enrollment.
3.2 Students who have not achieved a passing grade by the end of the academic year are subject to review by the Academic Committee, which decides whether they will be allowed to attend additional supplementary classes for these modules, or whether they will need to repeat the entire semester/year in which they failed. In all cases, re-examination of the student is scheduled, along with tuition based on the table in Article 7.

9.13 COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE – APPEALS

1. In order for a student to be able to use Middlesex University’s “Complaints in relation to collaborative partner institutions” procedures, which are published in the University’s Regulations, AKTO’s procedures must first have been exhausted.
2. Appeals concerning a request to re-evaluate an Assessment Board decision (and therefore, the grading outcome) due to special circumstances must follow Middlesex’s regulations (Middlesex University Regulations, Section G: Appeal Regulation and Procedures).
3. Appeals concerning a request to re-evaluate an admissions decision may be submitted to AKTO by email to ba_ma@aktocollege.gr or ba_ma.thess@aktocollege.gr, stating the student’s personal details, the study programme, and their arguments. Each case will be assessed individually by the Academic Committee, and the response to the student’s request will be sent by email.

Graduates of non-compulsory secondary education, i.e. General Lyceums and Vocational Lyceums, as well as holders of equivalent qualifications, may enroll at ISAEK.

AKTO ISAEK’s programmes are drawn up by the General Secretariat for Vocational Education, Training, Lifelong Learning and Youth (G.S.V.E.T.L.L.Y.) in accordance with the legislative framework in force at any given time (https://gsvetlly.minedu.gov.gr/).

ISAEK STUDY PROGRAMMES LEADING TO A VOCATIONAL TRAINING CERTIFICATE (VTC)

• INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE, DECORATION AND OBJECT DESIGN
• MOVING IMAGE – DIGITAL GRAPHIC DESIGN TECHNICIAN
• PRINT AND DIGITAL MEDIA GRAPHIC DESIGN
• ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY
• ILLUSTRATOR – SKETCH ARTIST
• GARMENT AND FOOTWEAR TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN – FASHION DESIGNER

ISAEK STUDY REGULATIONS

1. Training Year and Semesters

1. The educational year at the Private School of Higher Vocational Training (ISAEK) begins on 1 September and ends on 31 August of the following year, and includes two independent training semesters, winter and spring.
2. Each teaching year includes two independent semesters of attendance, winter and spring, each lasting as many training hours as set out in the approved Study Guide for the theoretical, laboratory, and mixed courses provided. The first (winter) semester begins on 10 October, or the next working day, of each year and ends on 10 February of the following year, while the second (spring) semester begins on 18 February each year, or the next working day, and ends on 30 June of the same year.
3. The duration of the teaching hour for all courses is set at forty-five (45) minutes. The maximum number of teaching hours is set at eight (8) hours per training day. The weekly training schedule may be increased or decreased during the semester, in order to cover the required number of hours, in accordance with the approved Study Guide.
4. In any case where teaching does not take place for any reason, training is made up by increasing the hours of the daily or weekly schedule.
5. Dates are subject to change in accordance with the instructions of the General Secretariat for Lifelong Learning (G.S.V.E.T.L.L.Y.).

2. Breaks – Holidays

Teaching does not take place and exams are not held during the following periods of the educational year:

a) Christmas break, from 24 December to 7 January inclusive.
b) Easter break, from Holy Monday to Thomas Sunday.
c) Summer break, from 1 July to 31 August inclusive.

The following are designated as ISAEK holidays:

a) all Sundays,
b) the religious feast of the Holy Spirit,
c) the national anniversaries of 28 October and 25 March,
d) Clean Monday,
e) 1 May, and
f) holidays applicable, under current provisions, to the seat of the ISAEK, due to a local religious or national holiday.

3. Enrollment
1. Graduates of non-compulsory secondary education, i.e. General Lyceums (G.E.L.) and Vocational Lyceums (E.PA.L.), as well as holders of equivalent qualifications, may enroll at ISAEK institutions.
The following documents are required to enroll at AKTO ISAEK:
▪ A relevant application stating the candidate’s full name, identification details, and home address, with copies of their Tax Identification Number and Social Security Number. [mandatory]
▪ The applicable original educational qualification (leaving certificate or diploma), of which a photocopy will be issued by ISAEK for use in the selection process, with the original returned to the candidate. If it is not possible to provide the original qualification, either an original proof of qualification issued by the candidate’s graduating School Unit, stating the final graduation grade, or any other document provided for under the applicable legislation, will be submitted instead. [mandatory]
▪ Police ID Card or Passport or other document provided for under the applicable legislation, a photocopy of which may also be certified by ISAEK. If a Police ID Card or Passport is unavailable, a Municipal Certificate will be submitted instead. [mandatory]
▪ A certificate from EFKA or a Public Service, stating any prior work experience (working days or years) the candidate has completed in a specific profession and specialization, or a certificate from the Public Tax Office (D.O.Y.) stating the length of time the candidate has practised a specific occupation.
▪ Proof of prior work experience is the sole responsibility of the candidate.
▪ Specifically for the enrollment of foreign nationals from countries outside the EU, within the EU, and of Greek expatriates, different provisions apply, as set out each time in the Government Gazette publication governing the operation of all ISAEK institutions.
▪ Candidate trainees from EU or third countries are required to have at least a B1 level of Greek language proficiency.
2. To finalize the enrollment of selected candidate trainees, the necessary supporting documents must be submitted to AKTO ISAEK in good time, and enrollment is finalized upon obtaining a Special ISAEK Student Code. At initial enrollment, the candidate signs, with an authenticated signature, an Educational Contract that takes into account their educational and financial characteristics, governs all training semesters, and states that they have been made aware of the regulations, obligations, and rights involved.
3. Re-enrollment of trainees in a training semester class, other than the initial one, is carried out by submitting the relevant application and proof of tuition payment, always before the start of training for each semester. In cases of re-enrollment after the start of training for the new semester, the absences accumulated up to the date of re-enrollment are recorded and counted toward the trainee’s attendance status, provided this delay is due to their own fault.
4. A trainee is enrolled in the next training semester, provided the conditions are met, by submitting an application to the School’s Registrar’s Office, by the day classes begin for the following training semester. Progression to the next semester of study within the same academic year may take place on the basis of the original enrollment application, unless the student expressly objects.
5. Holders of a VTC from ISAEK institutions and of the Post-Lyceum Year – Apprenticeship Class may be placed into related ISAEK specializations, with exemption from courses they have already been taught, or may be placed into a semester beyond the 1st in related ISAEK specializations. For this purpose, they submit a relevant application to ISAEK from 1 to 30 September of each year for the winter semester, accompanied by an identification document and the Vocational Training Certificate they hold. For the spring semester, the corresponding period is from 1 to 15 February.
6. Trainees in specializations that have been discontinued may be placed into corresponding new specializations to continue their studies, by submitting a placement application to ISAEK from 1 to 30 September of each year for the winter semester. For the spring semester, the corresponding period is from 1 to 15 February. The application must be accompanied by an identification document and the trainee’s individual record card, and is subsequently approved by the Ministry of Education.

4. Transfers
1. A trainee at a Public or Private ISAEK who wishes to transfer to AKTO ISAEK may follow the prescribed procedures a) from 1 to 30 September of each year for the winter semester, and b) from the release of the winter training semester’s results until the start of classes for the spring semester.
2. The trainee submits their application to AKTO ISAEK, providing their individual file, which they obtain within five (5) days following a request to the ISAEK where they were originally enrolled.
3. If an ISAEK’s license is revoked, or it is unable to provide services for any reason during the semester, neighbouring public ISAEK institutions are required to accept the transfer of any enrolled trainees who wish this and declare it in response to a special call from the G.S.V.E.T.L.L.Y.
4. Transfers into the 1st training semester are not permitted.

5. Attendance
1. Attendance is mandatory for all courses (theoretical, laboratory, and mixed).
2. Attendance at ISAEK institutions covers a total of five (5) semesters, divided into four (4) semesters of theoretical and laboratory training, of a total duration in hours as set out for the specialization by the approved Study Guide, and one semester of Internship or Apprenticeship, of a total duration of 960 hours. Attendance may begin in the winter or spring semester for graduates of non-compulsory secondary formal education, or graduates of a level higher than this, or graduates of S.E.K. institutions. The maximum number of trainees per instructor is set at thirty (30), for laboratory, theoretical, or mixed courses.
3. Training for graduates of vocational secondary education (E.PA.L.), as well as holders of equivalent vocational education qualifications, lasts at ISAEK institutions from two (2) to three (3) semesters, including an internship or apprenticeship period, provided the qualification is in a specialization within the vocational field from which they graduated from E.PA.L. or an equivalent secondary vocational education structure.
4. Training for each semester is considered complete once the hours set out in the study programme have been fulfilled.

6. Internship or Apprenticeship:
1. Attendance at ISAEK institutions includes an internship period, or an apprenticeship programme is implemented, both of which are a necessary condition for successfully completing training and for the award of a Vocational Training Certificate.
2. The internship or apprenticeship is carried out under the terms and conditions set out in the applicable provisions.
3. Trainees who have completed the final semester of theoretical and laboratory training and wish to complete their internship in an area outside the seat of their ISAEK may submit a transfer application to the nearest ISAEK in the area where they wish to carry out their internship, at any point during the educational year.
4. ISAEK trainees who have completed at least one hundred and twenty (120) working days, or at least one hundred and twenty (120) days of insurance contributions, in the specialization in which they are enrolled, are exempted from the obligation to attend the internship or apprenticeship period, following submission of a relevant application and a Sworn Declaration (under Article 8 of Law 1599/1986 – Government Gazette A’ 75) to ISAEK and the relevant decision/approval by the ISAEK Director, at which point they are awarded the VTC upon completion of the semesters of theoretical and laboratory training.
5. Trainees who have already completed an internship or apprenticeship for another ISAEK specialization, or a work-experience acquisition programme (stage), or an internship for another Vocational Education and Training structure, are not exempted from the obligation to attend the internship or apprenticeship.
6. The Internship or Apprenticeship has a total duration of 960 hours, unless otherwise provided for in the Study Guide.
7. ISAEK trainees may carry out their internship or apprenticeship with individuals (owners of sole proprietorships and/or self-employed professionals), legal entities under public law, legal entities under private law, public services, first- and second-tier local government organizations, and businesses, under the terms and conditions set out herein, under the responsibility of the ISAEK they attend. The internship period may be continuous or carried out in parts, following successful completion of the theoretical and laboratory training of the fourth semester, unless otherwise specified in the Training Guides, and must in all cases be completed within thirty-six (36) months of the end of the final semester of theoretical and laboratory training.
8. Supervision, coordination, quality assurance, and evaluation of the Internship are carried out under the responsibility of the Director of AKTO ISAEK, or another person designated by them as Internship Coordinator. The Internship Coordinator is responsible for monitoring the trainee’s attendance, ensuring the quality of the trainee’s working environment, conducting on-site inspections of the business, and maintaining an individual Internship file with the relevant monthly progress reports.
9. A file fee is charged for AKTO to take on supervision of the Internship, in accordance with AKTO’s applicable pricing policy.

7. Attendance Status
1. Attendance is mandatory for all courses (theoretical, laboratory, and mixed).
2. Attendance in each course is considered sufficient if the trainee recorded a number of hourly absences less than or equal to 20% of the total scheduled teaching hours for that course during the semester, rounded to the nearest whole number.
3. In any other case, attendance is considered insufficient.
4. This percentage may reach up to 30% upon submission of an official medical certificate of illness.
5. Trainees’ attendance status is determined after teaching for the semester’s courses has ended and before final exams. AKTO ISAEK’s Administration announces the attendance status results to trainees on the day after teaching for the semester’s courses ends, so that those entitled to do so can take part in the final exams.
6. If, during the semester, a trainee accumulates a number of absences exceeding the permitted limit in two or more courses, AKTO ISAEK’s Administration, by decision of the Director, discontinues their attendance. In the case of a trainee liable for military service, the competent Recruitment Office is notified.
7. A trainee does not have the right to sit the final exams of the training semester for courses in which their attendance was deemed insufficient. They are required to attend these courses again. If there is more than one such course, they do not have the right to enroll in the next semester.
8. A trainee who, for any reason, wishes to discontinue their attendance submits to ISAEK an application/sworn declaration, digitally signed or with the signature authenticated by a competent authority.

8. Course Classification – Course Duration – Attendance – Number of Instructors
1. Training includes the following types of courses:
▪ Theoretical: Courses are classified as theoretical when taught by a single instructor, only in classrooms, and aim to convey the knowledge necessary for students to understand the subject matter of their training.
▪ Laboratory: Courses are classified as laboratory-based when they aim to consolidate the theoretical part of training and to teach skills, and are carried out exclusively in lab spaces, and may be provided to all or part of the enrolled students in each class.
▪ Mixed: Courses are classified as mixed when they require simultaneous training and skill acquisition.
2. The duration of the teaching hour for all courses is set at 45 minutes. The maximum number of teaching hours per training day is set at eight (8) hours.
3. The duration and number of breaks are set by ISAEK Management.
4. Once the instructor has entered the classroom or lab space, trainees are no longer permitted to enter.
5. Attendance must be taken every training hour, 5 minutes after the start of the teaching hour, under the responsibility of the respective instructor.
6. The maximum number of trainees per instructor is set at thirty (30) for theoretical and mixed courses, but may be increased by 10% for the purpose of properly distributing trainees. In laboratory courses, when the number exceeds fifteen (15), a second instructor may be assigned, if provided for by the corresponding study guide.
7. The presence of non-trainees within the classroom or lab space is not permitted.

9. Knowledge Assessment
1. Assessment of trainees’ knowledge, abilities, and skills per course includes the following: a) Progress assessment, b) Individual/group assignments, and c) Final examination.
2. Regarding progress exams, the following applies: In all courses of each training semester, one (1) progress assessment per course is mandatory, with topics set and graded by the instructor.
3. A trainee who is justifiably absent from a progress assessment due to illness or another documented serious reason, upon submitting an application to ISAEK Management, is examined at a time and place set by ISAEK Management.
4. Trainees are informed of their performance under the responsibility of AKTO ISAEK’s Administration, which also handles the management of any disputes.
5. The following applies to the organization and conduct of final exams:
a) final exams for each course take place after training courses for the semester have been completed,
b) final exam topics and examinees’ answers to them are set and graded by the instructor,
c) the duration of each final exam is two (2) teaching hours, unless otherwise specified in the Training Guide,
d) a trainee who is justifiably absent from a final exam due to illness or another documented serious reason, upon their own application submitted to ISAEK Management before the results of the semester’s final exams are released, is examined during the current exam period, at a time and place set by ISAEK Management.
The exam includes at least four (4) essay-type topics and/or at least twenty-five (25) automatically graded questions, such as multiple choice, true/false, matching, or fill-in-the-blank questions, unless otherwise specified in the specialization’s Training Guide.
For assessing laboratory and mixed courses, a written, oral, or practical test, or a combination thereof, may be carried out.
6. Regarding the assessment of trainees’ participation in group and individual assignments, the following applies: a) topics are set by the instructor, b) guidance on their subject matter is provided by the course’s study guide and/or the instructor, and c) these assignments may be individual or group-based.
7. For both progress exams and final exams, topics are written on a sheet stating the name of the ISAEK, the specialization, the date, the training semester and year, the title of the course being examined, and the full name of the instructor-examiner. The time allowed for the exam and whether the topics carry equal weight in grading are also stated.
8. Clarifications on topics and any instructions are given only in writing, on the topic sheet itself. Further clarifications should be avoided and should preferably be given in writing, with renewed approval from AKTO ISAEK’s Administration.
9. Trainees may give their answers on the sheet(s) containing the topics, or on separate sheets, which are handed to examinees at the same time as the topics, on which they write their full name, registration number, specialization, semester, class, course, and exam date.
10. Trainees are informed of their grades for each exam, per course, by AKTO ISAEK’s Registrar’s Office, under the responsibility of Administration.
11. Trainees who are unable to sit a written exam because they: a) are blind, under Law 958/1979 (A’ 191), or have a visual disability rating of at least sixty-seven percent (67%), or are visually impaired with a visual disability rating of at least sixty-seven percent (67%), b) have a permanent or temporary mobility disability of at least sixty-seven percent (67%) affecting the upper limbs, c) suffer from spasticity of the upper limbs, d) suffer from a fracture or other temporary injury to the upper limbs that makes writing impossible, e) present specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, reading difficulty, or spelling difficulty, f) are trainees on the autism spectrum, are examined orally, upon request.
For cases a) to c), a medical assessment issued by the health committee of the Disability Certification Centre (KE.P.A.) of the Unified Social Security Fund (E.F.K.A.) is required. Specifically for trainees under case a), assessments may also be issued by the Medical-Educational Services of the Centre for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind (KE.A.T.).
For case d), the trainee must provide a medical certificate from a Public Hospital bearing the stamp of the Director of an N.H.S. Clinic, Laboratory, or University Department, or from a Public Health Centre, bearing the stamp of the Centre’s Director, or a medical certificate from a Private Hospital bearing the signature and stamp of the attending physician and the Administrative Director of the Private Clinic, showing the trainee’s inability to take part in a written exam. In addition to the fracture or temporary injury, the certificate must expressly certify the inability to use the upper limb for writing and must state the period of its validity, which must cover the period of the final exams.
For cases e) and f), a certificate is required from the relevant Educational and Counselling Support Centres (K.E.S.Y.) or the Community Mental Health Centres for Children and Adolescents under Article 51 of Law 4547/2018 (A’ 102), or from Medical-Educational Centres (IPD) certified by EPAI.TH, which must state precisely the trainee’s specific learning difficulty, in exact accordance with cases e) and f), as well as their referral for oral examination. Any certificates issued by KEDDY relating to the above specific learning difficulties are accepted.
12. The above trainees are examined on the same topics as other trainees and at the same time. The exam is conducted orally by the course’s instructor, in the presence of the Deputy Director.
13. A trainee who fails to attend exams without justification is graded with a mark of one. Likewise, the written work of trainees who either disrupt the orderly conduct of the exam, or copy in any way, is graded with a mark of one.

10. Grading
1. Trainees’ performance during the year, in individual/group assignments as well as in the final exam, forms the semester grade for the course.
2. The final course grade (F.C.G.) is made up of eighty percent (80%) from the final exam grade (F.E.G.) and twenty percent (20%) from the individual/group assignment grade, rounded to the nearest whole number.
3. When a laboratory course is taught by more than one instructor, each grades independently. The average of these grades forms the exam grade, progress or final (P.G. or F.E.G.).
4. The grade for a mixed course’s exam, progress or final (P.G. or F.E.G.), is the average of the individual exam grades for the theoretical and laboratory parts, rounded to the nearest whole number.
5. No final grade is issued for a course for which the trainee’s attendance has been deemed insufficient.
6. The sum of the final grades for all courses, divided by the number of courses, forms the trainee’s overall grade average (O.G.A.) for that semester.
7. Where exemption from courses is provided for, the number of such courses is not counted when calculating the O.G.A.
8. The grading scale is set from 1 to 10.
9. Trainees are informed of their grades under the responsibility of ISAEK Administration.
10. Regrading of any exam is not permitted. A trainee may request to view their exam paper, which takes place in the presence of the ISAEK Deputy Director.

11. Exam Conduct Rules
1. Students must arrive and enter the exam rooms 15 minutes before the start time set out in the exam schedule.
2. Students may only leave the exam room after one hour has passed.
3. In courses examined on a computer, students are expressly prohibited from opening programmes not required for their exam, or from communicating with another student via computer.
4. Students are not permitted to smoke inside exam rooms, or to bring drinks and food.
5. Students are not permitted to talk to each other or use mobile phones.
6. Students’ communication with the examiner takes place quietly and up close, without the student speaking their question aloud.
7. For any course requiring a CD or other portable electronic file, students must bring their own.
8. Students caught copying in any way will be graded with a mark of one.

12. Trainee Progress
1. A trainee is enrolled in the next training semester, provided they are not required to repeat a course, and one of the following conditions applies: a) their final grade in each course is at least five (5), b) they have failed only one course out of the total courses for the current semester.
2. In the above case 1b, the trainee is required to be re-examined in the course they failed in a subsequent exam period. The grade from this exam, if equal to or greater than five (5), becomes their new final grade for that course.
3. In any other case, the trainee does not gain the right to enroll in the next semester, and is required to repeat attendance of the courses of the current semester in which they fell short, or the course(s) in which their attendance was insufficient.

13. Trainee Certificates
1. During their attendance, a trainee may, upon application to ISAEK’s Registrar’s Office, obtain a Certificate of Attendance, as well as an individual trainee record card. Specifically, during the first month of attendance, a trainee may request and obtain an Enrollment Certificate.
2. For male trainees, one (1) week after training begins, a certificate for military service purposes may be issued.
3. Upon successful completion of attendance in the specialization they have chosen, trainees receive a Vocational Training Certificate (V.T.C.), and it is no longer possible to issue a certificate of attendance.

14. Offences
1. A disciplinary offence is committed through an intentional act of the trainee, which can be attributed to them. A disciplinary offence may also be committed through negligence, where this is specifically provided for. The following constitute offences for trainees:
a) violating the integrity of exams,
b) plagiarism or concealing the direct or indirect contribution of other persons to the subject of scientific work or research in question,
c) destroying the property of the educational structure, movable or immovable,
d) obstructing the smooth operation of ISAEK, including its educational or administrative operation, the operation of its services, and the use of its facilities and equipment,
e) using ISAEK’s indoor or outdoor spaces, facilities, infrastructure, and equipment without the permission of its competent bodies,
f) culpably polluting, in any way, ISAEK’s indoor or outdoor spaces, including noise pollution,
g) using prohibited substances, falling under Law 4139/2013 (A’ 74), within ISAEK, and any contribution to their trafficking.
2. Penalties
The penalties imposed by the ISAEK Director on a trainee, if they commit an offence, are as follows:
a) written reprimand,
b) removal for the hour, imposed by the instructor, recorded as absent in the daily attendance register with a corresponding note in the “Remarks” field of the register,
c) temporary or permanent ban on using ISAEK equipment or facilities, imposed by the ISAEK Director,
d) removal from one (1) to three (3) days, imposed by the ISAEK Director, recorded as absent in the daily attendance register,
e) temporary suspension of trainee status from one (1) to six (6) months, and
f) permanent expulsion.
For the imposition of penalties under cases e) and f), a three-member committee is formed, consisting of the ISAEK Director and Deputy Director, as well as the instructor of the class who teaches the most hours in that specialization at ISAEK.
The disciplinary penalty imposed may be reviewed by the Directorate for the Supervision of Private Vocational Training and Lifelong Learning Providers of the General Secretariat for V.E.T.L.L. and Y.
For the offence under case c), in addition to the penalty imposed, the trainee is required to fully repair any damage caused.
All of the above penalties are recorded in the trainees’ sanctions register by the body imposing them.

15. Participation in National, European, International Programmes – Educational Visits
1. Participation by trainees, instructors, and administrative staff in national, European, and international programmes that promote the aims and objectives of vocational training takes place in accordance with the provisions of the guide for the respective programme and the applicable provisions in force.
2. An educational visit, which supplements the theoretical and laboratory training provided at ISAEK institutions, is defined as the organized movement of trainees, from one or more specializations, to locations or production facilities that further the subjects of their training.
3. Trainees, instructors, the Director, Deputy Director(s), and administrative staff of ISAEK institutions may organize and take part in programmes and educational visits within Greece or abroad, whether one-day or multi-day, during the training year. The ISAEK Director is responsible for planning and implementing the above.

16. Information about the Regulations
1. Upon their initial enrollment at AKTO ISAEK, trainees are made aware of the regulations and relevant legislation, and sign an acceptance declaration that will govern all training semesters, stating that they have been made aware of their rights and obligations, the schedules for all semesters, and these Regulations.
2. A draft text of the educational contract is drawn up by the General Secretariat for Vocational Education, Training, Lifelong Learning and Youth (G.S.V.E.T.L.L.Y.) and is customized based on the specific characteristics and educational needs of trainees.

17. Complaints Committee
For any complaint a student may have, they must address it in writing to the Complaints Committee, through ISAEK’s Registrar’s Office, which will convene to examine it accordingly.
The Committee is made up of:
• The ISAEK Director
• The ISAEK Deputy Director
• An ISAEK Administrative Officer
If the complaint is directed against a member of the Complaints Committee, that member is replaced by the most senior ISAEK instructor.

1. GENERAL

Enrollment

Enrollment at the Lifelong Learning Centre takes place throughout the year, up until the start of the teaching year. Enrollment requires completing an application and paying the minimum enrollment fee, which is set each academic year. This amount is not refunded if attendance of classes does not begin, unless this is due to the School’s fault.

Teaching Year

There are two teaching years: one begins in the first half of October and ends in mid-June of the following year, and the other begins in the first half of February and ends in the first ten days of October (approximately, each year), with a break in August in between. Each teaching year is divided into two independent semesters of study, 16 weeks each. No classes take place on the holidays described in Article 9, paragraph 8. Teaching hours and weeks may be unilaterally changed, if there is a serious reason, following a proposal from the Academic Committee.
Academic Structure
The highest academic body of AKTO KDVM is the Academic Committee, which works with the Programme Leaders and coordinators and the Director of the level. It is responsible for all academic matters and may rule on special cases.

2. PROGRAMMES AT AKTO-TRAINING KDVM

• Distance Learning: complete distance studies lasting 3 years
• Online Courses – Pro Diplomas: specialized study through online attendance, which can be combined with in-person attendance at the School where deemed necessary
• Short Courses

3. THE DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME

Study Programmes

The programmes offered through Distance Learning attendance, upon successful completion of which the “AKTO Training” Certificate of Attendance is awarded, are as follows:

• Graphic Design
• Interior Design
• Comics
• Animation
• Fine Art
• Photography

Graduates of the Distance Learning programme are given the opportunity to continue their studies in an advanced year of a validated programme at “AKTO College,” following an interview and portfolio presentation, in pursuit of a Bachelor of Arts degree from Middlesex University.

Communication with the School

For any matter relating to their studies, students on the Distance Learning study programmes should contact the programme coordinator at distance@aktocollege.gr

Exams – Student Progression

1. Student exams take place as they do on the College Study Programmes. Special cases are referred to the Academic Committee.
2. The Distance Learning programme consists of a set of courses that are self-contained and do not form modules together.
3. The method of progression and failure, as well as the financial obligations for supplementary and tutorial teaching, are the same as those described for the College Programmes.

Attendance

Students attend classes one day each week, every Thursday between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM, using an appropriate platform, which is provided to students free of charge. For each semester, mandatory attendance of 75% of the teaching hours per course applies. Exceeding this limit may result in a grading penalty, or in the loss of the ability to take part in an exam, following a decision by the Academic Committee.

Rescheduled Classes

If a class does not take place due to the instructor being unable to attend, it is rescheduled either for the following Wednesday or the following Friday, following notification from the programme coordinator. When a class does not take place due to a student’s absence, it is not rescheduled.

5. PRO DIPLOMAS PROGRAMMES

Depending on the type, subject, duration, and level of these classes, the educational process includes theoretical presentations, laboratory applications, exercises, and, in certain cases, studies of special topics.
The mode of delivery and duration are announced within a reasonable period before they begin. At the end of the programme, which can last from 1 to 2 semesters, and following successful participation, a Certificate of Attendance for the respective class is issued.

6. SHORT COURSES

AKTO organizes short-term seminars on various subject areas, of different durations and modes of attendance, which are announced before each one begins. Attending some of these may require prior knowledge/familiarity with a subject. Following successful participation, a Certificate of Attendance for the respective class is issued.
NOTE: In addition, seminars or lectures on special subjects are organized during the academic year. These specialization and further-training seminars are aimed at business and organization executives, professionals in the field of Applied & Fine Arts, Marketing, etc., AKTO students and graduates, as well as those of other schools, private and public.

7. OTHER PROVISIONS

1. For classes that begin after the official start of the official teaching period, e.g. seminars, corresponding enrollment periods are set.
2. Certain classes may begin later, by decision of the Academic Committee. In this case, the teaching year is extended accordingly for them, unless supplementary classes are held.
3. For specialization and further-training seminars for professionals, any prerequisite knowledge for those enrolling is determined by decision of “AKTO-Training” Management.

AKTO is a private Art and Design educational institution, bound up with specific ideas, and, through the study programmes it offers, promotes nothing other than the values of Art, as well as educational values consistent with international human rights standards. In addition, AKTO’s values are shaped by the rules and laws governing higher education and AKTO’s obligations toward Middlesex University London. In this context, there is no place at AKTO for any form of discrimination against its students based on gender, age, religion, racial or ethnic origin, appearance, cultural customs, sexual orientation, or physical condition.

Students who, for any reason, feel they have been the victim of discrimination are invited to discuss the matter with AKTO’s Administration, which, in collaboration with the Programme Director and instructors, will make every possible effort to resolve the issue.

The School’s staff must encourage students with special needs, who may require materials or information in an alternative format, to contact the Registrar’s Office. Instructors should also be aware that students who may need guidance regarding specialized organizations, in order to address a specific problem affecting their studies, such as alcoholism, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health issues, etc., are encouraged to contact the Registrar’s Office to obtain the necessary information. AKTO undertakes to handle all of the above with confidentiality.

All members of the AKTO community (instructors, students, administrative and other staff) must be aware that no form of discrimination based on gender, racial or ethnic origin, religious or other beliefs, disability, age, or sexual orientation is tolerated by AKTO, and that the principle of equal treatment must be ensured.

No form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimization, bullying, or sexual harassment is tolerated by AKTO. In the workplace and study environment, all categories of AKTO community members must behave with due respect, and free of any form of victimization, bullying, discrimination, and harassment.

The purpose of this AKTO policy is to promote the development of an inclusive, free, and safe environment, where expression, creativity, personal, academic, and professional development, and solidarity prevail, in which harassment and bullying are prohibited and where students and all categories of teaching and administrative staff can be certain that their problem will be handled with discretion and responsibility.

Negative social behaviour also occurs in higher education and in the workplace and is often linked to bullying/victimization and/or harassment behaviours. Bullying is generally the deliberate and methodical causing of distress/fear, based on a specific pretext (characteristics perceived as weaknesses), and is directed against a person’s sense of security and dignity. It is based on a power imbalance and often creates a hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Victimization is the result of bullying behaviours and concerns individuals who have suffered physical and/or psychological violence. Harassment is an action that causes a feeling of discomfort in the target individual and constitutes an apparently mild form of bullying, which, however, may still cause significant distress.

AKTO is committed to combating sexual harassment in its workplaces and in the spaces it provides for the education of its students. All employees and students have the right to be treated with dignity. Sexual harassment is not permitted or tolerated. Employees and students have the right to lodge a complaint and are encouraged to report any incident of sexual harassment they experience from supervisors, colleagues, instructors, students, or third parties who come onto AKTO’s premises, or that comes to their attention. Sexual harassment constitutes a disciplinary offence and is prosecuted in accordance with current legislation. AKTO will make use of the relevant provisions in order to punish offenders.

Sexual harassment, in accordance with Article 2(d) of European Directive 2006/54, is “any form of unwanted verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person, in particular by creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.”

Employees, instructors, students, and other AKTO staff are required to implement AKTO’s policy and to take measures to ensure compliance with it by all employees, students, and instructors. Instructors, students, administration, and other AKTO staff have a duty to comply with the Law and must not engage in acts of sexual harassment, and must report to AKTO’s administration any acts of sexual harassment against colleagues or students that come to their attention in the course of carrying out their duties.

AKTO is committed to working to improve study conditions, so as to prevent the emergence of abuses of power between instructors and students, a situation that may be considered conducive to incidents of sexual harassment.

AKTO encourages its students to report any negative conduct committed against them, or against a third party that has come to their attention, following the procedure set out in these Study Regulations and in AKTO’s Operating Regulations.

AKTO handles every complaint and report with due care, discretion, and confidentiality.

Complaints phone line: 2105201730
Complaints email: complaints@aktocollege.gr

The sexual orientation or gender identity of the complainant does not justify/permit handling an incident of harassment or sexual harassment in a different way from how such an incident is generally handled.
Complaint Submission Procedures

Anyone who is subjected to sexual harassment should, if possible, inform the alleged perpetrator that the conduct is unwanted. AKTO recognizes that sexual harassment can occur in unequal relationships (i.e. between an instructor and a student) and that it may not be possible for the victim to inform the alleged perpetrator.

If a victim cannot approach an alleged perpetrator directly, they may approach AKTO’s Administration, which is responsible for receiving sexual harassment complaints.

When AKTO’s Administration receives a sexual harassment complaint:
▪ It will immediately record the dates, times, and facts of the incident(s).
▪ It will ascertain the victim’s views regarding the outcome they wish for.
▪ It will ensure the victim understands AKTO’s procedures for handling the complaint, as well as their rights under the Law.
▪ It will discuss and agree on next steps.
▪ It will keep a confidential record of all discussions.
▪ It will respect the victim’s choice.
▪ It will ensure the victim knows they can submit the complaint outside the company through the relevant legal framework.

Throughout the complaint submission process, a victim is entitled to be assisted by a Counsellor within AKTO. AKTO has appointed a Counsellor and has provided them with special training, enabling them to assist victims of sexual abuse. AKTO recognizes that, because sexual harassment can occur in unequal relationships within the institution, victims often feel they cannot come forward. AKTO understands the need to support victims when submitting complaints.

Formal Complaints Mechanism

If the victim wishes to submit a complaint, the formal complaints mechanism should be used to resolve the matter.

AKTO’s Administration, having received the complaint, will refer the matter to the Board of Directors to proceed with a formal investigation.

The person appointed to conduct the investigation will:
▪ Obtain the views of the victim and the alleged perpetrator separately.
▪ Obtain the views of third parties separately.
▪ Decide whether the incident or incidents constitute an act or acts of sexual harassment.
▪ Draw up a report detailing the investigations, findings, and any recommendations.
▪ If harassment took place, decide on the appropriate way to address it, in consultation with the victim.
▪ Ensure that recommendations are implemented, that the conduct has stopped, and that the victim is satisfied with the outcome.
▪ If unable to establish that harassment took place, may still make recommendations to ensure the proper functioning of the workplace.
▪ Keep a record of all their actions, ensuring that all records relating to the matter are kept confidential.
▪ Ensure the process is completed as quickly as possible.

Sanctions and Disciplinary Measures

Anyone found to have sexually harassed another person, under the terms of this policy, may be subject to any of the following sanctions:
▪ Verbal or written warning
▪ Unfavourable evaluation
▪ Salary reduction
▪ Demotion
▪ Suspension from work
▪ Dismissal (for an employee)
▪ Expulsion (for a student)

The nature of the sanctions will depend on the severity and extent of the harassment. Appropriate deterrent sanctions will be imposed to ensure that incidents of sexual harassment are not treated as trivial. Certain serious cases, including physical violence, will result in the immediate dismissal of the harasser.

AKTO aims to provide a safe environment for its students, in which they feel and are safe. Radicalization is the process by which individuals come to support terrorism or violent extremism. Staff should use their own judgement, as well as discuss with colleagues, if they have any concerns about student behaviour. AKTO recognizes the positive contribution that protecting its students from radicalization and violent extremism can have, and strives to promote open dialogue with the aim of supporting shared values.

Any case not provided for under these Regulations may be settled by decision of the Management of the respective AKTO level, always in compliance with any applicable legislative provisions.