Study in the Czech Republic: International Students’ Views

Most international students in the Czech Republic agree that their study experience was very positive, concludes the StudyPortals International Student Satisfaction Awards 2014. Almost 7,000 students worldwide shared their impressions about universities in Europe, on the world’s largest database of international student experiences, STeXX.eu.

Out of all reviewers, over 220 students commented on their experience of what it was like to study in the Czech Republic, rating it an overall score of 9 out of 10, and placing the country in sixth place in terms of international student satisfaction. These student reviews provide valuable information about what it’s like to study in the Czech Republic, and will hopefully help prospective students decide on their future study destination.

All five awarded universities in the Czech Republic received the Certificate for Excellent International Student Satisfaction, with an average rating of 9 out of 10. Most students were pleased with the overall study experience at Brno University of Technology, which ranked first in student satisfaction. Charles University and Masaryk University were awarded second and third places, followed by Palacky University and the Technical University of Ostrava.

What do international students enjoy about studying in the Czech Republic?

The majority of international students in the Czech Republic enjoyed their experience a great deal. All students appreciated the low costs of living and were pleased with how easy it was to find accommodation. They appreciated the cultural richness and the diverse student activities organized by universities in the Czech Republic. Usually, locals are willing to help foreigners get accustomed with the Czech way of life. While some students were impressed with the atmosphere in the big cities, others were also pleased with the quieter, more relaxed lifestyle offered by the smaller towns.

“Prague is a fantastic city, full of opportunities and culture. Prices are affordable and life is cheap. Culture is everywhere in all its form. I appreciated a lot Czech passions for museums and musical events.” – student from Italy

“Brno is a wonderful city where you can find anything you want, from cheap drinks, parties for Erasmus students and beautiful landscapes – close to nature. Moreover, the city is very well connected to all of Central Europe, so you can travel a lot without problems. Regarding the university, it’s quite modern and well-structured and organized. Staff help exchange students pretty much.” – student from Spain

 Many students also commented on how their experience of study in the Czech Republic played an important role in their personal development. Teaching quality was considered above the European average and students were generally satisfied with the university staff and efforts to integrate foreign students. Student reviewers also appreciated the wide variety of subjects offered by some universities in the Czech Republic.

“The university is very welcoming to international students and makes sure you have all the information ahead of your stay. They are very helpful concerning accommodation and most exchange students are staying in the same building. There are many activities for exchange students, mostly provided by ISC Brno. The quality of the classes is good and I experienced a different way of teaching – small groups with lots of interaction.” – student from Belgium

“I met there wonderful people not only from the Czech Republic, but also from Cambodia, Egypt, India, Bangladesh, Taiwan, the Philippines. I've improved my language skills – at the university I was speaking in Czech, in my dorm mostly in English. Even now, I still keep in touch with these guys. I also think MU teachers are really professional. I was studying Czech language and literature and my level of knowledge and skills is much higher and better.” – student from Poland

What to keep in mind before deciding to study in the Czech Republic

What aspects of studying in the Czech Republic were reviewed less favourably? International students in the Czech Republic mainly complained about the services offered by the university. They also found that the range of specializations wasn’t so wide, and the lack of English-taught courses was an additional reason for less positive experiences. Some students also said the level of English of the teachers and academics could have been higher.

Unexpected surprises can easily be avoided by asking universities in the Czech Republic for detailed information about available English-taught courses.

For more information about the International Student Satisfaction Awards and universities in the Czech Republic, visit the StudyPortals country overview. Prospective international students can find over 100 master’s programs taught in English in the Czech Republic, as well as some English-taught bachelor’s programs.