Admission to the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a popular choice: free tuition in Czech, a low cost of living and the chance to work while you study.

Visa types

To study, you apply for a long-term visa (processing takes up to 4 months), so apply well in advance.

Free tuition in Czech

The main draw: studying in Czech at state universities is free for international students. English-taught programmes are fee-paying.

Language requirements

For free tuition you need a Czech certificate at B2 level (the CCE exam); one-year preparatory courses are available. For English-taught programmes — IELTS 6.0–6.5.

Academic requirements and documents

A Bachelor's requires a school certificate with nostrification (recognition); a Master's requires a Bachelor's degree. Documents needed: passport, diplomas with notarised translation, language certificate, statement of purpose, criminal record certificate, medical insurance and proof of funds.

Admission

Choose a programme. If you don't speak Czech, take a one-year course. Sit the entrance exams (tests or an interview). Deadlines fall in February–March for the autumn semester.

Getting the visa

Receive an offer from the university, apply for the visa at the embassy in person, give your biometrics, and provide insurance and proof of funds. Once you arrive, register with the police within 3 days.

Work for students

You may work up to 20 hours a week without a separate permit, and full-time over the summer.

Admission timeline (12–14 months ahead)

12 months ahead — choose your university. 10 months ahead — start learning Czech. 8 months ahead — enrol on a course. 6 months ahead — gather and translate your documents. 4–5 months ahead — submit your application. 3–4 months ahead — apply for the visa. 1 month ahead — collect the visa and fly out.

Common mistakes

Weak Czech. Applying for the visa too late. No nostrification. The wrong medical insurance. Missed deadlines.

How Edunation helps

We find you a university and programme free of charge (including free Czech-taught options), help with nostrification and documents, enrol you on language courses, arrange the visa, and organise your transfer and accommodation.

With Edunation, admission to the Czech Republic is realistic and within reach. Start with a free consultation.