Representatives from prominent universities in Prague, including the Czech Technical University (CTU), Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CULS), and the University of Chemistry and Technology (UCT), have indicated that they do not plan to increase prices for student accommodation and meals. At CTU dormitories, students will continue to pay rates ranging from CZK 81 to CZK 247 per night, depending on the dormitory. Similarly, CULS and UCT will maintain their existing fee structures for student accommodation.

Demand for dormitory housing remains robust, with most places occupied across universities. CTU, which manages one of the largest student campuses in Europe, reports that its dormitories are practically full, and there are approximately 700 students on a waitlist for accommodation. CULS, where there is currently a demand higher than available beds by about six percent, accommodated around 2,000 applicants at Suchdol dormitories, with an additional 600 beds contracted at external locations.

While some universities have already raised accommodation fees, others are considering doing so. The University of Economics, Prague (VŠE), for instance, has slightly increased its dormitory fees due to factors like inflation and space renovations. VŠE’s spokesperson, Věra Koukalová, cited an annual adjustment of prices to account for inflation and renovation expenses.

Meal costs are subject to ongoing adjustments influenced by current raw material prices. Meal prices at various university canteens typically range from CZK 80 to CZK 140 for a main meal. While there has been a decrease in the number of diners at canteens due to factors like the increase in energy and raw material inputs, students are gradually returning to dining in canteens as pandemic-related challenges abate.

Overall, the stability in housing and meal costs is welcome news for students and underscores the universities’ efforts to provide consistent and affordable services to their student populations amidst changing demand patterns and economic conditions.