As in the Theological Schools, the bases (points scored at Panhellenic Exams) were also reduced to the Higher Ecclesiastical Academies, reflecting the depressing status not only in higher education but also in education in general.
The bases for admission to the Higher Ecclesiastical Academy and Clerical Studies Program of Athens are typical examples: 8,197 points from 10,071 points a year ago (down 18.6%), with a large decline of 25% at the bases for Religious Relics Management Program.
In recent years the performance of the candidates has been getting worse, which, in the medium term, has a direct impact on the quality of the Schools.
Ecclesiastical education is of great importance because it trains specialized graduates who can become the future potential of the Church.