The Czech Republic has seen a remarkable surge in the number of foreign students at its universities since the turn of the millennium. This influx of international students is attributed to the country’s high-quality education, vibrant student life, and a diverse range of study options. However, alongside the benefits, students also face challenges such as the high cost of living, limited income prospects, and the linguistic difficulties of mastering the Czech language.

One such student is Olivia Dimitrisina, who chose to pursue her master’s studies in Brno. Despite not knowing much about the country before arriving, she appreciates the Faculty of Architecture at the Technical University for its technical focus and the freedom to choose subjects aligned with her interests. She is one of over 50,000 foreign students in the Czech Republic today, a significant increase from less than 9,000 at the start of the millennium.

In 2022, the number of non-Czech students enrolled in Czech universities reached an all-time high, making up 18% of the total student population and hailing from 166 different countries. Michal Uhl, director of the House of Foreign Cooperation, sees this internationalization as a significant asset, enhancing the overall quality of education and preparing Czech graduates for a globalized world.

Czech universities actively attract international students through modern teaching methods, a secure environment, extensive partnerships with foreign institutions, and a vibrant social scene. Antonín Janák, spokesperson for the University of Economics, cites these factors as key attractions for applicants.

The most favored fields of study among international students include business, administration, law, health and social care, and information and communication technology. Despite a temporary decline in foreign student numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic, enrollment is on the rise again.

Prague remains the top choice for international students, followed by Brno, Olomouc, and Ostrava. Despite challenges like language barriers and living costs, many international students express a strong desire to stay in the Czech Republic after completing their studies, appreciating the country’s rich culture, unique lifestyle, and educational opportunities, even as financial concerns persist.

Article by Prague Forum