Education Czech Republic

Kindergarten Enrollment

Age restrictions: Children are admitted to kindergartens from the age of 3.

Registration period: The main application intake takes place in March-April. Additional enrollment is possible in August, if there are available spots.

 

Required documents:

- Admission application (form available on the kindergarten's website).

- Child's birth certificate.

- Document confirming the child's legal stay in the Czech Republic (e.g., visa or residence permit).

- Medical certificate from a pediatrician confirming mandatory vaccinations.

 

Registration procedure:

- Choose a kindergarten, preferably near your residence.

- Attend open days to familiarize yourself with the conditions and program.

- Submit the application and necessary documents within the set deadlines.

- Wait for the admission decision, which is usually communicated within a month.

 

Additional information:

In public kindergartens, priority is given to children residing in the area of the kindergarten.

The cost of attending a public kindergarten ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 CZK per month, including meals.

Private kindergartens offer more flexible conditions, but the cost may be significantly higher.

 

Primary School Enrollment

 

Age restrictions: Compulsory education begins at the age of 6 and lasts until 15 years.

Registration period: Enrollment for the first grade usually takes place in April.

 

Required documents:

- Admission application (available on the school's website).

- Child's birth certificate.

- Document confirming the child's legal stay in the Czech Republic.

- Child's medical card.

 

Registration procedure:

- Identify the school related to your residence area.

- Check the school's or municipality's website for registration dates and conditions.

- Submit the application and required documents within the set deadlines.

- The child may be invited for an interview or test to assess readiness for education.

- Wait for the admission decision, usually communicated within 30 days.

 

Additional information:

Parents have the right to choose a school not based on their place of residence, but in this case, enrollment depends on the availability of spots.

Education in public schools is free.

For children who do not speak Czech, some schools offer preparatory courses or language support.

Kindergartens with Foreign Language Instruction

 

Many kindergartens in the Czech Republic offer programs in various languages, including English, German, French, and others. These institutions are often oriented towards international families and provide bilingual or entirely foreign language education.

 

Examples:

International School of Brno: Offers programs for children from 3 years old with education in English.

Riverside School, Prague: Provides education in English for preschool children.

 

Schools with Foreign Language Instruction

 

Several international schools in the Czech Republic offer education in foreign languages, primarily in English. These schools follow international education programs such as the International Baccalaureate or the British national program.

 

Examples:

International School of Prague: Offers education in English with IB programs for upper grades.

Park Lane International School: Follows the British curriculum and offers education in English.

Prague British International School: Provides education in English with IGCSE and IB programs.

 

Benefits of Education in a Foreign Language

International environment: Children learn in a multicultural setting, promoting tolerance and understanding of different cultures.

Preparation for international exams: Many of these schools prepare students for internationally recognized exams such as IGCSE or IB.

High level of teaching: Teachers are often native speakers and have international experience.

Preschool Institutions

 

State Kindergartens

Accessibility: Most kindergartens in the Czech Republic are public and located in every district of the city. 

Cost: Education in public kindergartens is paid, however, the cost is low and varies from 20 to 40 euros per month. 

Language of instruction: Education is conducted in Czech, which facilitates the rapid integration of children into the local culture.

 

Private kindergartens

Cost: Prices are significantly higher, from 100 to 500 or more euros per month, depending on the city and institution. 

Language of instruction: Many private kindergartens offer programs in foreign languages such as English, German, or French, attracting international families.

Programs: Private kindergartens may offer specialized programs, including early language learning, creative activities, and an individual approach to child development.

 

School institutions

 

Public schools

Cost: Education in public schools is free for all children, including foreigners. 

Language of instruction: The main language of instruction is Czech.

Programs: Schools follow the national curriculum, providing basic education.

 

Private schools

Cost: Education is paid, and the cost varies depending on the school and programs offered.

Language of instruction: Many private schools offer instruction in foreign languages, such as English, German, or French.

Programs: Private schools may offer international programs, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), and specialized courses.

Classes: Private schools generally have smaller class sizes, which allows for more attention to each child.

 

Below are some of the most well-known public and private schools in various cities across the country.

 

Prague

 

Public schools

Gymnázium Jana Nerudy: Founded in 1865, it is one of the oldest grammar schools in Prague, known for a high level of teaching and student preparation. 

Archbishop Grammar School: Offers quality education with a focus on humanities and languages.

 

Private schools

International School of Prague : Offers instruction in English under the international IB program, attracting students from around the world.

British International School of Prague : Follows the British curriculum, ensuring a high level of education.

 

Brno

 

Public schools

Gymnázium Kapitána Jaroše : Known for strong preparation in the fields of natural sciences and mathematics.

Gymnázium Vídeň: Offers a wide range of educational programs with a focus on languages and natural sciences.

 

Private schools

International School of Brno : Education in English according to international standards, attracting foreign students.

Czech-English Grammar School: Offers bilingual education with a focus on the English language.

 

Ostrava

 

Public schools

Gymnázium Ostrava-Zábřeh : Provides quality education with a focus on natural sciences and languages.

Gymnázium Ostrava-Hrabůvka: Known for strong preparation in mathematics and computer science.

 

Private schools

1st International School of Ostrava: Education in English following an international program, attracting students from different countries.

Private Grammar School Ostrava : Offers an individual approach to education with a focus on languages and humanities.

 

Plzeň

 

Public schools

Gymnázium Luisa Landová-Štichová : Renowned for its high level of teaching and student preparation.

Gymnázium Mikuláše: Offers a wide range of educational programs with a focus on languages and natural sciences.

 

Private schools

Anglo-German Grammar School: Offers bilingual education with a focus on English and German languages.

Private Secondary School Plzeň: Provides an individualized approach to education with diverse educational programs.

 

These educational institutions are known for their high level of education and diversity of programs offered, allowing students to choose the most suitable place for education based on their interests and goals.

The Czech education system actively supports children with special educational needs, providing them with equal access to quality education and integration into society.

 

Legislative framework

 

In 2016, a legislative amendment was adopted in the Czech Republic that established every child's right to inclusive education. This means that children with special needs can attend regular schools with the provision of necessary supportive measures.

 

The following measures are applied to ensure effective education for children with special needs:

 

Individual Education Plans: Developed considering the specific needs of each child.

Teacher Assistants: Provided to offer additional help in the learning process.

Specialized Educational Materials and Equipment: Used to adapt the learning process to the child's needs.

Consultations with Specialists: Psychologists, speech therapists, and other specialists work with children and their families to support the educational process.

 

Special Educational Institutions

 

In cases where inclusive education cannot fully meet a child's needs, there are special schools and centers that provide specialized education and rehabilitation, for example:

 

Prague

Jedlička Institute (https://www.jus.cz): Founded in 1913; specializes in working with children with physical disabilities; offers primary, secondary education, and vocational training; includes rehabilitation programs and physiotherapy services.

 

School for Children with Hearing Impairments in Prague (http://www.skolavpraze.cz): Specializes in educating children with hearing impairments; uses a bilingual approach (Czech sign and written language).

 

Brno

Lipka Special Primary School (https://www.zslipka.cz): Works with children with intellectual disabilities and autism; offers individualized education and therapy programs.

 

APLA Brno Center for Children with Autism (https://www.aplabrno.cz): Specializes in supporting and educating children with autism spectrum disorders; includes educational and social programs.

 

Ostrava

Special School for Children with Visual Impairments (https://www.specialni-skola.cz): Offers adapted programs for children with partial or total vision loss; emphasis on the use of technology and special teaching methods.

 

ALIS Center (https://www.centrumalis.cz): Provides educational and social support to children with multiple disabilities.

 

Plzeň

LOGO Center (https://www.centrumlogo.cz): An educational and therapeutic institution for children with speech and language development issues; conducts sessions with speech therapists and psychologists.

 

School for Children with Hearing and Speech Disabilities (http://www.skolaplzen.cz): Specializes in working with children with speech and hearing impairments; includes therapy and adapted educational programs.

Preparatory Classes

For children who do not speak Czech, some schools organize preparatory classes. Throughout one academic year, children intensively learn Czech and become familiar with the basics of the school curriculum, which helps them successfully integrate into the main learning process.

 

Integration Centers

In major cities in the Czech Republic, integration centers offer free Czech language courses for children and teenagers.

 

Language Schools and Courses

Many language schools offer specialized Czech language courses for children.

 

Extracurricular Activities

Some schools and organizations hold extracurricular activities aimed at integrating foreign children. These may include language clubs, sports sections, creative groups where children can practice Czech in an informal setting and get acquainted with Czech culture.

 

Support in Schools

Many Czech schools provide additional support to foreign children, including:

Individual Lessons: Additional Czech language lessons to improve language skills.

Teacher Assistants: Specialists helping children adapt and understand the learning material.

Psychological Support: Consultations to ease the integration and adaptation process.

 

These programs and courses aim to create a favorable environment for the education and development of foreign children in the Czech Republic, promoting their successful integration into society.

In the Czech Republic, extracurricular activities for children are organized in a variety of ways, covering different interests and age groups.

 

After-School Programs

After-school programs operate at primary schools and are intended for younger students. They run until late in the evening, providing supervision for children after classes. These programs include various activities:

- Creative activities: Drawing, modeling, crafts.

- Sports games: Active games, outdoor activities.

- Educational activities: Reading, homework help.

Attendance in after-school programs is usually paid, but the cost is low and accessible to most families.

 

Clubs and Circles

Schools and extracurricular institutions offer a wide range of clubs and circles, allowing children to develop their talents and interests:

Sports sections: Football, basketball, swimming, gymnastics.

Music clubs: Playing musical instruments, choir singing.

Technical clubs: Robotics, programming, modeling.

Language courses: Learning foreign languages.

Many of these clubs are organized at schools, children's creativity centers, or specialized centers. Some are free, others require a symbolic fee.

 

Summer and Winter Camps

During school holidays, children's camps offering a variety of programs are popular:

Sports camps: Focused on specific sports.

Language camps: With intensive learning of foreign languages.

Creative camps: With workshops in art, theater, music.

Camps can be either day camps or with accommodation. The cost varies depending on the program and duration.

 

Extracurricular Educational Centers

These centers offer a wide range of activities for children and teenagers:

Courses and workshops: From cooking to programming.

Thematic events: Excursions, exhibitions, competitions.

Centers are located in every district and are accessible to everyone interested.

School Education

In primary and secondary schools in the Czech Republic, a five-point grading system is used:

 

1 — excellent

2 — very good

3 — good

4 — satisfactory

5 — unsatisfactory

 

A grade of "5" is considered unsatisfactory and means that the student has not mastered the material. For a more precise assessment of knowledge, additional symbols like "+" or "-", for example, "2+" or "3-", may be used.

 

Higher Education

In universities and higher educational institutions in the Czech Republic, a grading system based on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used:

 

A — excellent

B — very good

C — good

D — satisfactory

E — sufficient

F — fail

Grades from A to E are considered positive, while F is negative, indicating a failed exam. Some universities may use a numerical grading system from 1 to 4, where 1 is the highest grade and 4 is unsatisfactory.

International students wishing to pursue higher education in the Czech Republic must meet a number of requirements related to the recognition of previous education, language preparation, entrance exams, and visa processing.

 

Recognition of Previous Education (Nostrification)

Prior to enrollment, it is necessary to confirm that your previous education meets Czech standards:

High school diploma: Must be recognized as equivalent to the Czech certificate. The recognition process is called nostrification and is conducted by regional educational authorities.

Higher education documents: Bachelor’s or master's diplomas are also subject to recognition. Universities may carry out this procedure independently.

 

Language Requirements

Studying in Czech

Language proficiency level: Minimum B2 according to the CEFR scale.

Confirmation: Certificate from Czech language courses or successful language examination at the university.

 

Studying in English

Language proficiency level: Usually IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80, but requirements may vary.

Certification: Internationally recognized certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English).

 

Entrance Examinations

Types: Written exams, interviews, portfolios (for creative specializations). Requirements vary; some programs may not require entrance examinations.

Preparatory courses: Some universities offer courses for exam preparation.

 

Application Process

Deadlines: Usually from January to April for the fall semester; check the selected university's website for details.

Method of application: Online through the university system or centralized platforms.

Documents:

  - Completed application form.

  - Motivation letter.

  - Recommendation letters (sometimes).

  - Language proficiency certificates.

  - Proof of payment of the registration fee.

 

Visa and Residence Permit

 

For non-EU citizens: A student visa type D is required for studies over 90 days.

 

For EU citizens: Within 30 days after arriving in the Czech Republic – registration at the place of residence.

 

Czech Republic is famous for its prestigious universities, many of which are internationally recognized. Below are the leading universities in the country:

 

Charles University: Founded in 1348, it is the oldest and largest university in the Czech Republic; ranks among the top 300 universities worldwide according to QS World University Rankings.

 

Masaryk University: Located in Brno, it is the second-largest university in the country; known for its programs in humanities and social sciences.

 

Czech Technical University in Prague: One of the oldest technical universities in Europe; offers a wide range of engineering and technical programs.

 

University of Economics in Prague: A leading university in the fields of economics and business; recognized as one of the best in Central and Eastern Europe.

 

Technical University of Ostrava: Known for its programs in mining, metallurgy, and engineering.

 

Useful Links

Study in Czech Republic: www.studyin.cz

Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports of the Czech Republic: www.msmt.cz

Foreign applicants must verify their previous educational qualifications for admission to Czech universities. This process, known as nostrification, ensures the recognition of foreign diplomas and certificates in the Czech Republic.

 

What is nostrification?

 

Nostrification is the official recognition of foreign education, confirming its equivalency to Czech educational standards. This process is required for admission to most Czech universities.

 

Nostrification Procedure

 

Stages of foreign education recognition

 

Determining the competent authority:

 For secondary education (certificates), contact regional education authorities.

 For higher education (bachelor's, master's degrees), contact the chosen university directly or the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports of the Czech Republic.

 

Preparation of necessary documents:

   Certified copies of diplomas and their supplements.

   Official translation of documents into Czech, done by a certified translator.

   Proof of payment of the administrative fee.

 

Application submission: Complete the appropriate application form. Submit all necessary documents to the competent authority.

 

Application review: The process can take from 30 to 60 days. In some cases, additional exams or documents may be required.

 

Receiving the decision: In case of a positive decision, you will receive a certificate of recognition of education, which is necessary for university admission.

 

Recommendations

Start the process in advance: It is recommended to begin the nostrification procedure several months before the planned admission to avoid delays.

Contact the chosen university: Some universities may have their own diploma recognition procedures; clarify the requirements directly with the admissions office.

 

Useful Links

Information on qualification recognition: [Recognition of qualification and education in the Czech Republic](https://www.msmt.cz/eu-and-international-affairs/recognition-of-qualification-and-education-in-the-czech-republic)

ENIC-NARIC Czech Republic: European Network of Information Centres in the Recognition of Qualifications: www.enic-naric.net

In the Czech Republic, the adult education system offers a wide range of additional courses and programs aimed at developing language skills, professional competencies, and personal growth.

Language Courses

Czech for Foreigners

Intensive Courses: Designed for rapid language acquisition, often necessary for integration and employment.

Specialized Courses: Focused on professional vocabulary, such as medical or technical Czech.

Foreign Languages

English, German, French, and others: Many language schools offer courses for adults, including intensive programs and evening classes.

Professional Courses and Retraining

Technical and Craft Specialties

Advanced Training Courses: For professionals wishing to update or expand their skills in a specific area.

Professional Retraining: Programs for those who want to change careers or acquire new qualifications.

Business and Management

Courses in Project Management, Marketing, Finance: Offered by both universities and private educational centers.

Information Technology

Programming, Web Design, Cybersecurity: Courses for beginners and advanced users.

University Programs for Adults

Bachelor's and Master's Degrees: Many universities offer programs adapted for adult students, including evening and part-time study formats.

Doctorate: Opportunity to continue an academic career or deepen knowledge in a chosen area.

Online Courses and Distance Learning

International Platforms: Such as Coursera, edX, offer courses from leading global universities with the possibility of earning certificates.

Czech Online Platforms: Offer courses in Czech language on various topics.

Personal Growth and Hobby Courses

Creative Workshops: Painting, music, photography.

Culinary Courses: Study of national and international cuisine.

Sports Sections: Yoga, dance, martial arts.

Preparatory Courses for University Admission

Language Preparation: For those planning to study in Czech.

Preparation for Entrance Exams: Courses on specialized subjects necessary for admission.

Educational institutions offer a variety of programs tailored to the needs of adult students. It is important to note that some courses may be free or subsidized by the state, especially if they are aimed at integrating foreigners or improving qualifications.