4 of the smartest reasons to study abroad in the Czech Republic

Sponsored by Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS)

Located in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic is often considered to be one of the most beautiful countries on the continent with unique charm and character, architectural treasures and rolling hilltop landscapes. It’s no wonder the Czech Republic has grown to become a popular study destination attracting thousands of international students every year.

The country’s reputation for academia and research is also well-deserved. Some of the world’s top 1000 universities can be found in the Czech Republic and are featured in the recent QS World University Rankings and QS EECA University Rankings 2021 (a dedicated ranking of top universities in Emerging Europe and Central Asia).

TopUniversities spoke to four international students to find out more about their university experience and what makes the Czech Republic a special place to study abroad.

Its rich history, colorful culture and vibrant student life

With a population of just over 10 million, the Czech Republic is packed full of hidden gems. And while it is rich in tradition and culture, it is still a very forward-thinking nation.

In between studying, assignments and exams, students can take the opportunity to bask in one of the country’s many luxurious spas or tick off visiting the country’s 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and numerous medieval castles and monasteries.

The country’s almost fairytale-like atmosphere intertwined with a contemporary flair makes for an exciting study abroad experience like no other.

Mariia is originally from Russia and is studying for her bachelor’s in agriculture biotechnology at the University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice. She has fond memories of visiting the Czech Republic, and Prague in particular, when she was nine years old.

“Prague left a great impression on me – the city looked like a fairy tale!” she recalls. 

There are over 20 cities and towns in the Czech Republic where you can study! So whether you’re in Prague, Brno, Písek, České Budějovice – wherever you choose to go – you can be sure that the internationally diverse student communities will give you the opportunity to meet students from other locations, cultures and walks of life – some of whom you may make lifelong friendships with.

“I enjoyed meeting new people from all over the world, becoming friends with them, as well as having different opinions and points of view,” said Peruvian student Fernando who is studying a mechanical engineering master’s degree at the Technical University of Liberec.

Jacob is from the United States and is an undergraduate filmmaking student at the Film Academy of Miroslav Ondříček in Písek. He echoed Fernando’s sentiments:

“I’ve enjoyed meeting many different people from all over the world. It’s interesting to talk to people from other countries that I know little about.”

It offers a good quality of life and a more affordable cost of living

Mariia and Jacob love studying and living in the Czech Republic. Image credit: DZS

The cost of living in the Czech Republic is known to be more affordable compared to other popular study destinations in Europe. Students should expect to budget £250-540 per month to cover all of their expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation and social activities.

“Most things are comparable in price to the United States with a few things being substantially cheaper such as rent and public transport,” said Jacob.

Don’t forget as well – wherever in the world you study – the power of student discount should never be underestimated.

“Student ID (like the ISIC card) is very handy to have in the Czech Republic. Having one gives you massive discounts on all kinds of things, from food, to transport, to even books,” Jacob added.

But what else makes the Czech Republic such a great place to study abroad?

Mariia and Hakan believe it’s the quality of life here.

The blend of old and new, plus the efficient public transport, public services and health care are all things which Mariia holds in high regard when it comes to living in České Budějovice.

“It is a pleasure to live here!” she said.

Hakan, who is from Turkey and first moved to the Czech Republic in 2017 as an Erasmus student at Charles University in Prague, where he is now studying for his PhD in Geophysical Engineering, enjoys the green parks, nature and calmness of the capital.

“It's not a crowded city and whenever you’re bored, you can go for a walk along the river or in one of the many parks,” he said.

The quality and variety of degree programmes (often taught in English)

As we’ve already said, if you’re looking for academic excellence then you’re in the right place. The Czech Republic has a renowned reputation for high-quality education, exceptional academic opportunities and access to industry-based opportunities once you graduate. 

“I would say this is the best place to study in the world,” said Fernando. “The professors are always happy to help and teach.” 

Although the country’s official language is Czech, there are more than 1,000 English-taught degree programmes offered among public and private universities.

It is important to be mindful that tuition fees can vary widely – but they are generally very reasonable. To study an English-taught degree at a public university in the Czech Republic can cost up to £17,000 per year (depending on the university and degree programme). Private universities can choose to set their fees as high or as low as they deem appropriate – and are usually higher compared to public universities.

Of course, it is possible to study for free. If you are fluent and would like to study in Czech there is no cost to study a degree at a public university – which is what Mariia is doing!

“The quality of education and the professors is great,” she said. “You can even choose to study the subjects you are interested in. The diploma is also recognised in every EU country, which is a great benefit!”

“I would describe it as the highest education and living quality for the value you can get when studying in Europe,” added Fernando.

It’s a chance to explore Europe and enjoy short city breaks and weekends away

Being in the heart of Europe means opportunities to explore nearby cities that you may not otherwise have. The luxury of living so close is a chance for easy and affordable getaways that travel enthusiasts cannot miss!  

Interrailing is popular among students and young people, and with the Czech Republic sharing borders with Germany, Slovakia, Poland, and Austria it’s never been easier to hop on a train for a quick weekend break.

Of course, if you want to explore more of what is on your doorstep in the Czech Republic there is plenty to see and do! Its picturesque countryside and well-preserved historical cities and towns offer ample opportunities for both exploration and relaxation.

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If we’ve got you interested in studying abroad in the Czech Republic, the Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS) is a publicly funded organisation that offers excellent study abroad opportunities, including student exchanges and Erasmus schemes for students looking to expand their global insights.

DZS´s initiative, Study in the Czech Republic, provides essential information about the higher education system, study opportunities and student life in the Czech Republic.