Are you considering joining the over 50,000 international students who are doing their Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in the Czech Republic?
You'd make a great decision because the Czech Republic has a rich culture and a long-standing academic tradition.
If you add that living and studying there is affordable and super-fun, then very few things should stop you from studying in this European country.
To prepare you for this study adventure, we have created a simple guide on what you need to do to apply to a Czech university.
Key takeaways:
- Studying in Czech is free at public universities, while English-taught programmes have tuition fees, though usually lower than in many Western countries.
- To apply to a university in the Czech Republic, you need a recognised previous diploma and must often complete a diploma recognition process before admission, especially for international degrees.
- Many universities require additional documents such as a motivation letter, CV, language certificate, and sometimes an entrance exam or interview.
- Send both online and printed documents on time, as Czech universities often require postal submissions before the official deadlines.
1. Choose a study programme in the Czech Republic
Whether your goal is doing an undergraduate or a graduate programme, you should know that there are more than 13 Czech universities in international rankings and a total of 67 higher education institutions to choose from.
Some top picks for English-language degrees include:
- Masaryk University
- Charles University
- Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague
- Brno University of Technology
Interesting fact: the Czech higher education system is among the oldest in Europe. The Charles University in Prague was founded in 1348 - more than 600 years ago.
Find your Master’s programme in the Czech Republic and then we’ll get you ready to apply.
2. Check admission requirements for Czech universities
In order to be eligible for admission to a degree in the Czech Republic, you need to have a recognised diploma from your previous cycle of study:
- To apply for a Bachelor’s: you need a secondary school graduation certificate
- To apply for a Master’s: you need a Bachelor’s diploma
- To apply for a PhD: you need a Master’s diploma
These are the standard admission qualifications. But what is special for applications in the Czech Republic is that your diploma must be recognised by the Czech authorities.
This means you have to submit an application for recognition of previous studies. You can read about this recognition process here.
Then, there are also admission criteria established by each university depending on the degree level, such as:
- An entrance exam or interview (can be online or in person)
- Language proficiency proof
- Letter of motivation / Statement of purpose
- Portfolio
- Writing samples
- Updated CV
- Transcript of records
Once you know that you meet all the admission requirements, it’s time to put together your application file.
Normally, you will first upload them online on the programme portal.
However, for many universities in the Czech Republic, it is also necessary to send the documents by post as a follow-up to the online application.
For proof of English proficiency, Czech universities accept all standard tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge certificates.
| Many universities also accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) to prove your English skills. Check whether your university accepts the DET, as Duolingo is often faster and more affordable than other English exams. |
Note that some universities ask for an application fee or an entrance exam fee, which is typically around 20 EUR.
Tip: Whatever university and programme you choose, our application tips for universities worldwide will get you through everything smoothly!
3. Check tuition fees and living costs of the Czech Republic
Higher education in the Czech language is free of cost for all students, national and international.
However, if you want to study in English or another foreign language, you will have to pay tuition fees. Luckily, these fees are generally much lower than in other European countries.
Life in the Czech Republic is also incredibly cheap for a student.
- Tuition fees for English degrees: 0 – 21,110 EUR/year (The higher fees are at private universities)
- Living costs in the Czech Republic: 430 – 700 EUR/month
To reduce your costs, you should consider applying for study scholarships offered by the university or even the government.
You can also check out the Studyportals Scholarship to get some help on financing your Master studies abroad.
4. Keep track of application deadlines at your Czech university
Remember to take into account application deadlines, especially the printed version of your application, which is sent by post and needs to reach the university before the deadline.
- Application deadline for Czech public universities: February – April
- Application deadline for Czech Art Schools: November
- Application deadline for Czech Technical Faculties: March – April
Keep in mind that there may be entrance exams for certain programmes.
The best way to make sure you don't miss the deadline is to check the information on the official university website.
5. Wait for admission results and the acceptance letter
After you have sent in your application and attended the entrance exam (in case there was one), the hard part is over.
Now, you’ll just have to wait for the admission results, which normally arrive near the end of June.
If you have been accepted, you will get the confirmation via email and post, along with the next steps to enrol at the university.
Tip: Studying in the Czech Republic, you will get the ISIC student card, which is globally accepted. With ISIC, you have discounts on public transportation, cultural events like festivals or concerts and much more!
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6. Get your student visa for the Czech Republic
If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you will need a student visa to study in the Czech Republic.
So, that’s round two of paper-gathering for you. But it’s also the last one, don’t worry.
Take one deep breath, and prepare the following:
- Visa form
- The acceptance letter from the university
- Passport and passport photos
- Proof you are able to support yourself financially during your studies (bank account statement or proof of scholarship)
- Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic.
- Proof of health insurance
- Criminal record
Important: Some of these papers will have to be translated into Czech, so remember to check the exact visa requirements with the Czech embassy or consulate in your country.
7. You’re an international student now!
You have your enrolment proof, you have your visa and you’re ready to pack a big suitcase and move to the Czech Republic.
The best way to make sure you don’t miss out on anything important is to stay in touch with your university. They can help you with information on student services, accommodation, and any other questions you might have.
Remember that the currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech Koruna, so don’t exchange all your money into euros right way.
Also, you can find out more about what it’s actually like being a student in the Czech Republic by reading about other’s experiences:
Frequently asked questions about studying in the Czech Republic
Why study in the Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic is a popular study destination because it combines high-quality education with affordable living costs and a strong academic tradition.
Universities offer a wide range of English-taught programmes, and the country is centrally located in Europe, making it easy to travel.
Students also enjoy a safe environment, vibrant student cities, and a rich cultural life.
Is it free to study in the Czech Republic?
Yes, higher education at public universities in the Czech Republic is free for all students if you study in the Czech language.
However, you usually need at least a B1 or B2 level in Czech to enrol in these programmes.
If you choose to study in English or another foreign language, tuition fees apply.
Can I work while studying in the Czech Republic?
Yes, international students can work while studying in the Czech Republic.
EU/EEA students have full access to the labour market, and non-EU/EEA students can also work without needing a separate work permit in most cases.
The Czech Republic also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, which increases your chances of finding student jobs, especially in cities like Prague or Brno.
