Higher education in Czech Republic for international students
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Sam Jones.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_the_Czech_Republic
- https://www.studyin.cz/plan-your-studies/higher-education-system/
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from 4950.00 € / year
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from 3200.00 $ / year
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from 1000.00 $ / year
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Czech RepublicČeské BudějoviceCurrently watching: 1from 1800.00 $ / year
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from 5300.00 $ / year
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from 3500.00 $ / year
Currently, the Czech Republic stands out as a top choice for international students seeking options for educational tourism. It draws students from abroad with its exceptional educational offerings, an extensive selection of universities and colleges, and vibrant cultural experiences. SMAPSE presents a list of the top 15 prestigious higher education institutions in the Czech Republic, where global learners can pursue quality and balanced education that enhance their career prospects.
Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts as they are always ready to answer all your questions.
Alternative destinations
Higher education in the Czech Republic. Guide for international students
The country is celebrated for its outstanding educational standards, featuring advanced academic and language courses. Renowned for its effective communicative and integrative teaching methods, the focus here is on practice-oriented specialties, incorporating innovative technologies and online resources.
Internationally Recognized Degrees
Graduates from Czech institutions enjoy global recognition, especially in Europe. This eases the path to employment within the EU, as their degrees are readily accepted without the need for additional validation.
Cost-Effective Learning Opportunities
Notable for its affordability, the Czech Republic offers numerous educational discounts and benefits to international students. State-run programs, particularly those taught in Czech, are often tuition-free.
Living Standards and Cultural Exposure
The Czech Republic provides a comfortable living environment, marked by friendly locals and efficient infrastructure. The rich cultural tapestry and strategic location offer students a unique experience to explore various European cultures during their study period.
Career Prospects for Graduates
Students graduating from Czech higher education institutions have equal employment rights as Czech citizens, with many securing successful careers post-graduation.
Supportive Environment for International Students
With well-furnished residences, state-of-the-art facilities like language labs, multimedia centers, and digital libraries, the educational institutions here ensure a conducive learning environment.
Multilingual Learning Opportunities
A plethora of language courses are available, catering to the diverse linguistic needs of students. The country's multicultural setting and proximity to other European nations make it ideal for learning languages such as Czech, English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese.
Adaptation and Student Support
Newcomers are provided with support to ease their transition into the Czech academic environment, including guidance from experienced curators.
Diverse Academic Programs
The Czech Republic's educational institutions offer a wide array of programs in fields such as medicine, economics, management, and biomedical engineering, including unique specialized areas.

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?
It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.
Higher Educational Structure in the Czech Republic
Higher education in the Czech Republic is usually structured to include three to four years for bachelor's degree programs and two years for master's degrees, more focusing on giving students freedom to choose their subjects.
Admission Process to universities in Czech Republic
- Direct Entry Post-High School: Students can directly enroll in higher education after completing secondary school.
- Application Period: Generally, applications are accepted in January and February.
- Application to Multiple Institutions: While students can apply to several institutions, each application may require a separate fee.
- Health Certification and Credential Recognition: A health certificate and official recognition of foreign educational qualifications are prerequisites.
- Individualized Entrance Exams: Entrance exams are conducted from May, with each institution setting its own criteria.
Affordability of Czech Higher Education
The fees for educational programs are competitively priced, especially for courses conducted in English, providing cost-effective options for international students.
General statistics on education in the Czech Republic - rankings, specialties, universities
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
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