Study in Czech Republic: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2023
Czech Republic

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Czech Republic in 2023

Browse all PhD programmes in Czech Republic

  • Oct-Jul Academic Year
  • 13 Listed Institutes
  • 18 Ranked Universities
  • 48,000 Int. Students
  • 319,000 Students
  • 10,737,000 Population

Study in Czech Republic

If you’re trying to find the Czech Republic on a map, hopefully, you have an updated version, as you don’t want to be one of those embarrassing tourists who go to the Czech Republic and say, “Do they speak Russian here?”, or “Is this Czechoslovakia?”. Neither of these questions will get you very far.

However, the Czech Republic is actually a place with a unique and interesting history, full of cultural wonders and traditions. Students from everywhere come to the Czech Republic to visit the birthplace of Franz Kafka or to see its wonderful Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Besides that, it is also a wonderful place to pursue your Master’s or Bachelor’s degree. If you’re looking for a brand-new country to explore, located right in the center of Europe, look no further than the Czech Republic for its great universities and exciting places to visit.

Why study in the Czech Republic?

Do you want to study, work, travel, in other words, experience the perfect balance and live your best study-abroad adventure? Make a smart choice and come to study in the Czech Republic! Czech universities offer long-standing reputation, unique conception, and innovative specializations. What's more, Czech research is one of the best in Europe!

These days, over 46,000 international students are studying in the Czech Republic; and as their universities continue to offer a ton of English-taught courses, more and more students are finding interesting options there. Moreover, if you decide to go there, you’ll find a large, exciting community of international students just like you.

Universities in the Czech Republic offer a wide range of programmes at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. level, as well as summer and winter schools and language and preparatory courses. Each university is accredited, meaning their courses are recognized by companies and organizations all over the country and throughout Europe.

In the Czech Republic, you can find one of the oldest traditions of higher education, dating back to the 14th century. It probably also means that the universities are haunted.

Studying in the Czech Republic places you in the middle of Europe and gives you a great opportunity to travel all over the continent. During your studies, you can find a part-time job and after graduation, you can stay and start your own business. The Czech Republic can offer you not only the strategic location, but also a wide expat community and regional headquarters of many international companies.

Which universities and colleges to attend in the Czech Republic?

There are several dozen public and private universities all over the Czech Republic, and many of them offer English-taught degree programmes. They have a very old tradition and a strong reputation all over the world.

Charles University – the oldest in Central Europe – now enjoys a high ranking thanks to the fact it is one of the largest continuously operating universities in Europe.

Here is a list of some excellent universities to attend in the Czech Republic:

What it’s like to study at a university in the Czech Republic?

Czech universities offer great technological background, with modern laboratory equipment and high integration with industry with many practice opportunities. Plus, your instructors will be able to give you extra, individual assistance if you need it.

While you attend university in the Czech Republic, you’ll be able to enjoy a thriving social life outside of your classes. With plenty of museums to visit and wonderful restaurants to try, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the exciting Czech culture, while also getting your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

What to study in the Czech Republic?

Universities in the Czech Republic have a long tradition of educating students in a wide range of fields. From Science and Technology to Anthropology; from Literature and Arts to Law – students can find excellent courses in the fields of their dreams, taught by some of the best experts in the area.

Czech science has always had a very strong voice in the world. The Czech Republic has achieved international renown in areas ranging from Egyptology to high-tech fields such as non-woven nanofibers. There are currently 9 centers of excellence and more than 40 regional research centers in the country. The centers of excellence are focused on the development of laser systems, biomedical and materials sciences, energy research and complex mathematical modelling in natural, medical and technical sciences. 

Here are some great subjects to study in the Czech Republic:

Where to study in the Czech Republic?

Throughout the Czech Republic, you can find more than 60 universities in many towns and cities that offer fun and exciting student life together with unique history and cultural identity.

Take a look at some interesting cities to live in while you study in the Czech Republic:

  • Prague
  • Brno 
  • Olomouc
  • Ostrava
  • Hradec Králové
  • České Budějovice
  • Plzeň

Explore more towns and cities in the Czech Republic where you can study.

How to apply

Each university in the Czech Republic has its own system on their website that allows future students to apply for and enroll in their degree programmes. So, once you select the university of your choice, you can go through their application process and submit your materials there.

Here are some of the basic requirements you’ll need for every application:

  • A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree)
  • A transcript/record of your previous courses
  • A scan of your passport and/or birth certificate
  • Your CV
  • Testing scores
  • Evidence of scholarship or funding
  • Letters of recommendation (between 2-3)
  • Portfolio and/or writing samples

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for a university in the Czech Republic

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice;

Improve your English by taking advantage of an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in the Czech Republic you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. Some universities will require Czech, while others will require strong English skills. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

To apply to study in the Czech Republic, you’ll need to provide proof that you have an English proficiency diploma.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in the Czech Republic are:

Still, you should always check your university’s website, just to check what the exact requirements are.

Living in Czech Republic

Let's take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in the Czech Republic:

Tuition fees for universities in the Czech Republic

There are two types of universities in the Czech Republic: public and private institutions.

  • Public universities are cheaper; however, the tuition cost can vary depending on the language of instruction. If you enrol in a programme taught in the Czech language, you can study for free. For English-taught programmes you'll pay between 0 and 20,000 EUR per year.
  • Private universities are usually more expensive, because they’re free to set their own tuition costs.

Keep in mind that the Czech Republic does not offer special benefits to EU/EEA students. They will have to pay the same tuition as non-EU/EEA students.

Living costs in the Czech Republic

Compared to the rest of Europe, the Czech Republic is relatively inexpensive. But, living costs can also be different depending on where you go.

For example, going to a city like Prague is likely to be more expensive than some of the smaller, less-known cities. The average living costs are estimated at 300–650 EUR/month.

Here is a breakdown of the average living costs in the Czech Republic:

  • Rent (single or shared apartment): 200–600 EUR/month
  • Utilities: 170–190 EUR/month
  • Monthly transportation pass (metro, bus, train, etc.): 20 EUR
  • Three-course meal for 2 people at a mid-range restaurant: 24 EUR
  • Milk: 0.70 EUR
  • Bread: 0.90 EUR
  • Cappuccino: 1.80 EUR

About Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in the middle of Europe. The country is bordered by Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. The Czech Republic is divided into three regions: Bohemia, Moravia, and a part of Silesia. The total area is 78,866 square kilometres and the country’s population is around 10.4 million people. The capital city is Prague, with 1.2 million inhabitants, and there are 5 other metropolitan cities with a population exceeding 100,000. The country is surrounded by extensive mountain ranges, which form most of the border. The highest point of elevation is the peak of Mt. Snežka (1,602 m).

The Czech Republic has moderate climate with four seasons corresponding to the temperate climate zone.

Interesting facts about Czech Republic
  • Czech people are the world’s heaviest consumers of beer. A perfect place to go to university if you ask me!
  • 90% of Czechs have completed at least secondary education, which scores them quite high among their EU neighbors.
  • You can find over 2,000 castles, keeps, and castle ruins in Czech Republic. After Belgium and France, this is one of the highest densities of castles in the world.
  • The people in Czech Republic are notoriously hard workers. Part-time workers have the biggest number of weekly hours (2h hours/per week average) compared to the rest of the EU.

Interesting programmes for you

Find PhDs Degrees in Czech Republic

What subject to study in Czech Republic?

Recent international policies promote international university cooperation and student exchange between countries worldwide. High-quality study and PhD degrees are made more available to students in order to create a global educational network, achievable through student and staff mobility. Career and research oriented programmes support international student development.

University cooperation enables students study worldwide, for instance in Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States and provides ways of recognizing previous degrees. Different study options offer appropriate alternatives to students, depending on their preferred mode of study.

Many study programmes in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America are English-taught. The most popular international student destinations include the following countries: Australia, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, the United States, and more. However, these are not the only countries offering English-taught education. The rest of the world is full of endless study choices, from highly ranked to smaller, more specialized, universities.

PhD (postgraduate) Degrees

If you want further education beyond the undergraduate level or if you want more personal development or a career in academia, you could obtain a PhD degree. PhD degrees are postgraduate programmes that usually follow a Master's, MPhil or MRes, but there might be additional requirements depending on the university. Students are required to do their own research in a chosen topic. With the help of a supervisor, you develop knowledge and analytical skills in a specific or multidisciplinary field and you carry out independent research. The duration of a PhD degree differs per country and institution. Sometimes your own research is accompanied by work for the department such as giving seminars or small group teaching.

PhD students are required to study on campus under close supervision, but there are universities that accept students enrolled into a part-time distance education PhD degree. Studying on campus can also be full-time as well as part-time, in which case the part-time variant is normally twice as long as the full-time study.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
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