Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic (or Czechia), is a beautiful city and an unmissable tourist destination in Europe; this is a well-known fact. But talking about a less well-known fact – did you know that the sugar cube was invented here? There should be no surprises here: with buzzing student cities, high-ranking universities and affordable living costs, Czechia is a pretty sweet deal for international students.

Universities in the Czech Republic

Through the Bologna Process, degrees awarded by Czech universities are recognised everywhere in the EU. Czech universities are some of the highest-ranking in the region. The best university in Czechia is Charles University. Founded in 1348, the university today has its main campus in Prague and faculties also located in Hradec Králové and one in Plzeň (Pilsen). Among the other top-ranked universities in the country are Masaryk University in Brno and the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague.

In Prague, in particular, students can also find a high-quality teaching experience at private institutions with an American teaching model. Most notably, these include the Anglo-American University in Prague as well as the University of New York in Prague.

The list of English-taught Bachelors and Masters in Czechia is growing, and so is the number of international students, with currently around 50,000 students from Europe and around the world.

Typical tuition fees for programmes in English range from low amounts at public universities up to €20,000 per year at private universities – but many of the courses are a lot cheaper.

Student life

Most of the country’s higher education institutions are concentrated in a handful of cities, including Prague and Brno. You know what this means: university city life! If you happen to be tired of the hustle and bustle, you can choose to visit one of the UNESCO Heritage Sites or a National Park – or sweat your worries away in one of the many spas. And don’t forget you are literally in the heart of Europe.

Students, both EU and non-EU, can work during their studies. While Czechia is part of the EU, it does not use the Euro. The currency is the Czech crown (koruna). Compared to other European destinations, the cost of living is rather low. The average living costs sit between €320 to €700, with a yearly student season ticket for public transport in Prague costing around €60.