English-speaking universities in Prague: a guide for international students

Prague is one of the most popular student cities in Europe, and more and more students come here to study in English. Whether you are moving from abroad or already live in Czechia, this guide to English-speaking universities in Prague gives you an overview of your options, the practical steps, and how to look after yourself while you study.

Public universities with English-taught programmes

Studying in Czech at a public university is free, while programmes taught in English usually charge tuition. Fees differ a lot between universities and fields, so always check the official website of the faculty you are interested in.

• Charles University (Univerzita Karlova): founded in 1348, the oldest university in Central Europe, with English programmes in medicine, dentistry, humanities, social sciences and more.
• Czech Technical University in Prague (ČVUT): engineering, computer science, architecture and design.
• Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE): economics, business, finance and international relations.
• Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (ČZU): agriculture, environmental sciences, economics and management.
• University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (VŠCHT): chemistry, food science and biotechnology.
• Academy of Performing Arts (AMU), including the FAMU film school, and the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (UMPRUM): arts, film and design.

Private universities teaching in English

Several private universities in Prague teach entirely in English and often have smaller classes and a very international student body. Well-known examples include Anglo-American University, the University of New York in Prague, Prague City University and Metropolitan University Prague. Compare accreditation, fees and which degrees are recognised in the country where you want to work later.

Practical steps before you start

• Recognition of previous education: students from outside the EU often need their secondary school diploma recognised in Czechia (nostrification). Start early, as it can take weeks.
• Visa: non-EU students usually need a long-term visa for study. Apply well before the semester starts.
• Health insurance: make sure you are covered from your first day in Czechia.
• Housing: university dormitories fill up fast; if you rent privately, watch out for rental scams.

Looking after your mental health as an international student

Starting university in a new country is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming: a new language, new academic expectations, homesickness and loneliness, money worries and exam stress. Feeling this way is common and nothing to be ashamed of.

• Build a routine early: regular sleep, meals and some movement every day.
• Join student clubs, sports or language exchanges to meet people outside your classes.
• Stay in touch with home, but also invest in new friendships here.
• Ask about the counselling or advisory centre at your university.
• Talk to someone early, before stress turns into burnout.

At Prague Integration, our counsellors and psychologists support international students in English and many other languages, online or in person in Prague 1, with a reduced student price. Find a counsellor and book a free discovery session.

If you are in crisis or think you might harm yourself, call 112 or the Czech crisis line 116 123 (free, 24/7).