Charles University
Staré Město, Czech Republic
Charles University
Prague, Czech Republic
Founded
1348
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
53,000+
Faculties
17
Discover Charles University: Central Europe's Oldest University
Discover Charles University: Central Europe's Oldest University
Charles University, founded in 1348 by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, is the oldest and largest university in the Czech Republic. It was the first university established in Central Europe and is one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world, modeled on the University of Paris with original faculties in theology, liberal arts, law, and medicine.
Today, Charles University is a modern, research-oriented institution comprising 17 autonomous faculties located across Prague, Hradec Kralove, and Plzen. With over 53,000 students — approximately 20% of whom are international students from 140 countries — the university consistently ranks among the top 1.5% of universities worldwide.
The university is a founding member of the 4EU+ European University Alliance alongside institutions such as Sorbonne University and the University of Heidelberg. It is also the fifth most popular study abroad destination within the entire Erasmus+ programme, reflecting its global academic reputation and vibrant student community.
Key Milestones
- 1348: Founded by Emperor Charles IV as the first university in Central Europe, with a papal bull issued by Pope Clement VI.
- 1882: The university was divided into separate Czech and German institutions during the Czech National Revival.
- 1920: Officially named Charles University under the First Czechoslovak Republic, recognized as the true successor to the original 1348 institution.
- 1989: Students initiated the Velvet Revolution on November 17, leading to the fall of the communist regime and the renewal of academic freedom.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
Charles University is organized into 17 autonomous faculties spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, law, and theology. Each faculty operates independently with its own admissions process, curriculum, and research agenda. The university offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programmes, with over 270 accredited study programmes available in Czech and English.
Faculty of Medicine (Five Faculties)
Charles University has five independent medical faculties — three in Prague, one in Plzen, and one in Hradec Kralove — offering comprehensive medical education with English-taught programmes for international students.
- General Medicine (MUDr.)
- Dentistry (MDDr.)
- Pharmacy
Faculty of Arts
One of the largest faculties, offering a broad range of programmes in humanities, languages, history, philosophy, and cultural studies, with a strong tradition dating back to the university's founding.
- History
- Philosophy
- Linguistics
Faculty of Science
A leading research faculty covering biology, chemistry, geography, geology, and environmental science, with strong publication output and international collaboration.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Geography and Cartography
Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
Renowned for its programmes in mathematics, physics, and computer science, this faculty offers English-taught bachelor's and master's degrees and is a hub for cutting-edge research.
- Computer Science
- Theoretical Physics
- Financial and Insurance Mathematics
Faculty of Law
One of the oldest law faculties in Central Europe, offering programmes in Czech and international law, including English-taught LL.M. degrees for international students.
- Law and Jurisprudence
- LL.M. International Disputes
- LL.M. Law and Business in CZ
Faculty of Social Sciences
Established after the Velvet Revolution, this faculty focuses on political science, sociology, journalism, economics, and international relations with a strong emphasis on research.
- Political Science and International Relations
- Communication Studies
- Economics and Finance
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary education equivalent to Czech maturita; IB and EB diplomas accepted without nostrification
- Entrance ExaminationRequired for most programmes; format varies by faculty (written tests, interviews, or portfolio review)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 85+ or IELTS 6.5+ for English-taught programmes
- Application FeeCZK 940 per application (approximately EUR 40)
- Diploma RecognitionNostrification of foreign secondary school diploma required (arranged by the faculty)
Graduate Admission
- Previous DegreeOfficially authorized copy of Bachelor's or Master's diploma required
- Entrance ExaminationMay include take-home assignments, written tests, or interviews depending on the programme
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 85+ or IELTS 6.5+ (minimum scores vary by faculty)
- Academic BackgroundSufficient academic preparation in the relevant field, demonstrated via transcripts and syllabi
- Diploma RecognitionNostrification of foreign higher education diploma or automatic recognition via international agreements
Primary deadline for most undergraduate and graduate programmes; recommended for non-EU/EEA applicants.
Some faculties accept applications until this date for non-EU/EEA applicants. Check with the specific faculty.
Preferred deadline for submitting officially authorized documents for graduate admissions.
Absolute latest date to submit all required education documents before enrollment is finalized.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Charles University
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Charles University
Studies in Czech are free of charge at Charles University for all students regardless of nationality. Tuition fees apply only to programmes taught in foreign languages such as English. Fees vary widely depending on the faculty and programme, ranging from approximately EUR 40 to EUR 30,620 per year.
| Cost Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Arts/Social Sciences) | EUR 3,400 - EUR 4,200/year | EUR 5,700 - EUR 7,100/year |
| Tuition (Medicine/Dentistry) | EUR 9,000 - EUR 14,000/year | EUR 11,000 - EUR 18,000/year |
| Living Expenses (Monthly) | EUR 600 - EUR 750 | EUR 600 - EUR 750 |
| Total Annual Living Costs | EUR 8,000 - EUR 10,000 | EUR 8,000 - EUR 10,000 |
| Total | EUR 11,400 - EUR 24,000/year | EUR 13,700 - EUR 28,000/year |
Faculty Merit-Based Scholarships
Charles University offers merit-based scholarships and tuition-fee reductions through individual faculties. The Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, for example, offers tuition fee scholarships for Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics programmes.
- Type: Tuition fee coverage or reduction
- Value: Up to CZK 140,000 per academic year
- Eligibility: Based on academic merit; varies by faculty and programme
Czech Government Scholarships
The Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports offers government scholarships to students from selected developing countries. Additional scholarships are available through the International Visegrad Fund for students from V4 countries.
- Type: Full or partial funding for tuition and living costs
- Eligible Countries: Bosnia & Herzegovina, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, Zambia, and others
- Application: Apply through the Czech Ministry of Education or the International Visegrad Fund
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Charles University does not have a single centralized campus. Instead, its 17 faculties and numerous institutes are distributed across Prague's historic center and surrounding neighborhoods, with additional campuses in Hradec Kralove and Plzen. This urban layout means students experience Prague itself as their campus.
The historic seat of the rector and Academic Senate, located in Prague's Old Town. Established in 1366, it is one of the oldest university buildings in Central Europe.
The university's botanical garden serves as both a research facility and a peaceful retreat for students, featuring diverse plant collections from around the world.
Charles University maintains extensive library collections across its faculties, providing students with access to millions of volumes and digital research databases.
Housing and Dining
Student Dormitories
University dormitories are available to all international students throughout their studies. They offer affordable, secure, and convenient living options close to faculty buildings.
- Single and shared room options with Wi-Fi and laundry facilities
- 24/7 security and on-site support services
- Vetrnik and Hvezda dormitories popular with exchange students
Dining and Daily Life
Prague offers an exceptionally affordable cost of living compared to most Central and Western European capitals, with a wide variety of dining options near each faculty.
- University cafeterias (menza) offering subsidized meals
- Abundant affordable restaurants and cafes throughout Prague
- Monthly living costs estimated at EUR 600 to EUR 750 including meals and transport
Student Life at Charles University
Student Life at Charles University
With over 53,000 students from 140 countries, Charles University offers a vibrant and diverse student community. The university's urban setting in Prague provides unparalleled access to cultural events, nightlife, and historical landmarks, making student life both academically stimulating and personally enriching.
Prague: A Historic European Capital
Prague: A Historic European Capital
Living in Prague
Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, renowned for its stunning architecture, rich cultural scene, and affordable cost of living compared to other Western European capitals. The city offers excellent public transportation, a thriving international community, and a central location ideal for exploring Europe.
Affordable Living
Students typically spend between EUR 8,000 and EUR 10,000 per year on total living costs including housing, food, transport, and leisure activities.
Excellent Public Transport
Prague boasts one of Europe's most reliable and affordable public transit networks, with metro, tram, and bus lines connecting all parts of the city.
Cultural Hub
Home to world-class museums, theaters, music venues, and a UNESCO World Heritage historic center, Prague is a cultural capital of Central Europe.
Gateway to Europe
Prague's central location makes it easy to travel to Berlin, Vienna, Munich, and other major European cities by train or budget airlines.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Charles University Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
International students from outside the EU/EEA need a student visa. The university provides guidance on visa applications, and the student visa comes with a work permit allowing part-time employment during studies.
Tailor-made and discounted health insurance plans are available specifically for Charles University international students, providing comprehensive coverage during your stay in the Czech Republic.
The university operates a Psychological Counselling Centre that provides services to help students deal with emotional, interpersonal, and academic challenges. Special needs support and disability services are also available.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Charles University World Rankings
Charles University World Rankings
Charles University consistently ranks as the top university in the Czech Republic and among the leading institutions in Central and Eastern Europe. It places within the top 1.5% of universities worldwide across all major international ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | EduRank | #244 in the World |
| Biology | EduRank | #263 in the World |
| Geography and Linguistics | QS Subject Rankings | Top 150 in the World |
| Computer Science | EduRank | #414 in the World |
Features
Founded in 1348, Charles University operates as a leading research institution in the Czech Republic. The university currently supports a population of 56,000 students across 17 diverse faculties. A professional academic staff of 4,057 members facilitates world-class teaching and innovative research. Known for its historical significance and high graduate employability, the institution remains a global center for academic rigor and cultural heritage in Central Europe.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - April
3 week
Location
Ovocný trh 560/5, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
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