Named after the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV, Charles University holds the crown as the best university in Central Europe. Founded in 1348, it has had a lasting impact on European higher education and academic research for almost seven centuries.
What started originally with just four faculties, evolved into the largest research and education institution in the country. Now with 17 faculties and numerous institutes spread around four different cities, Charles University is truly the knowledge hub of Central Europe.
Charles University does not have a central campus; instead, our faculties, dorms, canteens and other facilities are spread around the university cities. Prague, Pilsen, Hradec Králové and Poděbrady each have something unique to offer: historical sights, cultural events, parks, work and sports opportunities, and much more. They all stand out as centres of education, research, business, and culture. All these cities are student-friendly locations offering a pleasant study environment combined with access to a great social life and plenty of leisure opportunities.
At the same time, they are destinations where international students can feel safe. Public transportation is a very convenient and easy way of getting around in all of the cities. Pilsen, Hradec Králové and Poděbrady, although smaller than the capital, Prague, are super vibrant - big enough, but still easy to find your way around. Living costs are lower in Pilsen, Hradec Králové and Poděbrady than in Prague, making these cities a great base for your studies and for life in the Czech Republic.
Join our diverse international community of students and academics and become part of a world-renowned research institution at the heart of Europe. Charles University comprises 17 faculties and offers more than 850 full-degree study programmes at all levels of education. In fact, we provide opportunities for students at every stage of their educational journey. We regularly organise a variety of summer and winter schools or lifelong learning courses. These include everything from language and preparatory courses to specialisation trainings and continuing education for medical professionals, lawyers, and teachers.
To study at Charles University, first you need to decide in which language you wish to study as this decision will shape your next steps. Our programmes in English, German, Russian, and French are all with tuition fees. Those in Czech are completely tuition-free. However, bear in mind that international applicants have to meet the same admission requirements as Czech students and, additionally, are required to demonstrate their Czech language proficiency.