With its wonderful castles and chateaus, charming historic cities and natural treasures, the Czech Republic is a must-visit place. You can come to this small country in the heart of Europe and enjoy it as a tourist, but it's even better to study here!
The Czech Republic has become an increasingly popular student destination thanks to the high quality study programs to choose from, in combination with affordable living costs and enjoyable student life, all in one safe place. If you're looking for a truly unique experience as an international student, here are seven smart reasons why the Czech Republic should be at the top of your study abroad list.
1. Quality of higher education and research
Czech universities rank among the best in Central Europe and offer a wide range of options, whatever you want to study. Whether you choose to come for a summer school, an exchange program or to pursue a full degree program, you will always find something that suits your study needs best. International student Ahmed Salem from Yemen, who is studying at the Faculty of Chemical Technology at the University of Pardubice, shares his experience: “Education always plays a big role in every student’s life, vision, ambitions and long-term goals. One of the main reasons why I’m here almost graduating with a degree in medical laboratory is the quality of education. Universities provide a great methodology of teaching and involve technology to a greater level of understanding.”
Czech higher education dates back to the fourteenth century and, along with the long-standing reputations of Czech universities, international students have access to unique conceptions and innovative fields of study. Moreover, Ashley George from India, who is studying her Master´s in chemical engineering at the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, appreciates the university's focus on expanding students’ practical skills: “I was able to choose a laboratory to work in for my final thesis during my second year of studies and noticed that those mandatory practices did train me very well for my research. Supervisors and PhD students are happy to guide and mentor the students during their projects. Laboratories are modern and equipped with state-of-the-art instruments that we can use any time. This whole educational experience prepares graduates for the real industry and creates a path for success in the scientific community.”
2. Value for money
For courses taught in the Czech language at public universities, you don't pay tuition fees. But you don't have to be fluent in Czech to study in the Czech Republic. There are over 1000 degree programs available in English, and the fees are very reasonable. Ashley explains: “I was amazed that I could finish the entire bachelor's and master's program at a price equivalent to a one year study at some universities abroad. We are also able to get a scholarship based on our study results as well as current financial situation. Students are not required to purchase any textbooks, all the materials are provided online for free.”
The old town of Prague is famed for its beauty, history and welcoming atmosphere.
3. Affordable living costs
The Czech Republic is a budget friendly place for international students. Depending on your location, lifestyle and spending habits, your monthly living expenses will range from €300 to €600 per month, including meals, accommodation, public transport and some leisure activities. “All universities are directly accessible by the most reliable transportation system in the world. It seems unbelievable that students get such a big discount (under 5 euros a month) for their transportation pass. Prague is a city that just keeps on giving”, says Ashley.
4. Top student cities in the world
In 2019, Prague and Brno repeatedly made it into the ranks of the Top 10 Best Student Cities. The capital of the Czech Republic was praised for the "affordability of everything and the fantastic sights”, meaning that international students can enjoy this incredible city without breaking the bank. Brno, the second-largest city, had the highest student populations, indicating that it is a city with a large student community, which is great for meeting new people!
5. One of the safest countries
Besides the affordability of Czech higher education, there is one more thing that you might want to share with your parents: the Czech Republic ranks as one of the top 10 safest countries in the world. Ashley adds: “There hasn't been a single time when I've felt afraid living in Prague. When I first moved here, I already felt like I was home. In my view, locals are very accepting of the international community and are interested in learning more about your background.”
6. Great location
Student life should include lots of adventures and joyful moments. Studying in the Czech Republic will allow you to live your life to the fullest! There’s always so much to do in the historic but lively cities or in the amazing countryside. Additionally, studying in the Czech Republic places you in the middle of Europe and gives you a great chance to travel around. It only takes about 2.5 hours to go to Munich, Krakow or Vienna.
Mariia, Ahmed and Ashley - they love studying in the Czech Republic as international students. (Photo: Czech National Agency International Education and Research (DZS))
7. Student jobs and career opportunities
International students can work while studying, and having a part-time or summer job is quite common as Masaryk University student Anjanette Jianna Umali from the Philippines confirms: “Not only am I studying right now, but I also work part-time - I am in marketing and help out with social media and press releases. On top of that, I also teach English, as many people in Brno want to learn English from a native speaker.” After graduation, there are countless opportunities to build your career as you will have free access to the job market.
All of that sounds like a smart choice, doesn't it? Are you ready to make your own one? Come to the Czech Republic and taste this perfect balance for yourself!
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