Study Abroad Programs in Prague
While Western European cities continue to be a traditional destination for college students studying abroad, recently, Central European cities are gaining in popularity due to the fact that they offer an eclectic range of high quality educational opportunities and unique cultural experiences. Most importantly, while the region is now a full-fledged member of the European Union as of 2004, the costs associated with study abroad in Central Europe are far less expensive, making this region an excellent destination for college students.
Prague, located in the Czech Republic in particular is a favorite for students providing a host of cultural experiences with the beautiful backdrop of the Prague Castle. Prague, the country’s capital city also serves as an excellent launching pad for surrounding cities such as Berlin, Bratislava, Krakow, Warsaw, and Budapest. Prague is a must see destination, offering some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe and of course, serving up some of the best beer in the world.
For undergraduates in particular, the Prague setting is not only the political, economic, and cultural heart of the state, it is an excellent city for any college major. Student life in Prague is a thrill as the city itself serves as a classroom; whether students are studying art or history, exploring amazing architecture, music, literature or art, or learning about business and marketing in an emerging market.
During free time, students can make their way through the crooked streets of the city, relaxing in pretty gardens or cafes, or take in the breathtaking views of Charles Bridge overlooking the Vltava River. Hint: try out of the boat trips. Make your way down to the river front and you’ll find a wide variety of different trips; lunch and dinner cruises, jazz boats and of course, party boats. It is an excellent way to get a different perspective on the city.
Prague is the center of academic and vocational education in the Czech Republic, the seat of the Academy of Sciences and of a number of other research and scientific institutes. The historic town center has been included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Scientific Heritage list since 1992, making this city a huge outdoor classroom. A must do is a visit to the headquarters of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, located in Prague 10 (have an appointment and bring your passport) and of course a visit to the Museum of National History at the top of Wenceslas square (which is in fact a street, not a square!)
Most student housing is located in the districts just outside of the center of Prague, with excellent transport to the center. Students can feel safe traveling by metro or tram, even late at night (try to avoid taking costly taxis). Students should also explore the residential neighborhoods near their accommodation where excellent, inexpensive restaurants can be found that serve up local cuisine items such as goulash and dumplings and some of the best beer in the world to wash it down.
Because studying abroad is an expensive process, it is great to know your scholarship options!
- The CEEPUS is the Central European Exchange Program for University Studies. Check them out as they cover mobility grants for students and teachers.
- The EU created the Erasmus scholarship program specifically to increase the number of foreign students studying in Europe, including the Czech Republic.
- More Study Abroad Grants and Scholarships »
