Geographically, the Czech Republic is located in the center of Europe. It has borders with Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east.
The Czech Republic seen its fair share of conflict and cultural upheaval over the course of its history, surrounded, as it is, by such powerful neighbours. What this means for the adventurous study abroad student is that they get to experience a charming mix of cultures and histories.
Academically, the Czech Republic offers many options for students who wish to study abroad here. There are more than a dozen universities that are perfect for foreign students, though Charles University is the standout as one of the most highly-regarded institution throughout the world.
The Czech Republic is a country rich in culture, breathtaking in its physical and architectural beauty (notably Prague), and forward-thinking in its attitude. Its universities are excellent, and its language is not terribly difficult to learn. So with a little bit of preparation and a sense of adventure and whimsy, there is no reason not to consider the language schools, universities and colleges of the Czech Republic for an unforgettable study abroad experience. Your life will be richer for having done it!
About the Czech Language
The main language spoken is, not surprisingly, Czech. The Slovak language can also be often heard, as there is a sizable Slovak minority and both languages are mutually intelligible (at first, you might think they are dialects of each other).
Czech people are very proud of their language, and thus, even in Prague you will not find many signs written in English (outside of the main tourist areas).
Many older people, especially outside the large cities, are also unable to converse in English, so it’s good to learn some Czech or Slovak before your arrival. However, most young people speak at least some English, as it has been taught in most schools since 1990.
Is Czech Difficult to Learn?
The Czech and Slovak languages are very difficult for English-speakers to grasp, as they, like their sisters, can be tongue-twisting languages to learn (especially Czech) and take time and practice to master, especially if you’re not really familiar with the other Slavic languages, including Russian.
However, if you can learn the alphabet (and the corresponding letters with accents), then pronunciation is easy as it is always the same – Czechs and Slovaks pronounce every letter of a word, with the stress falling on the first syllable. The combination of consonants in some words may seem mind-bogglingly hard, but it is worth the effort!
The Czech language has many local dialects, especially in Moravia. Some dialects are so different that they can be sometimes misunderstood even by a native Czech speaker from a different region. However all Czech people understand the standard Czech (as spoken in TV, written in newspapers and taught in schools) and should be able to speak it (but some are too proud to stop using their local dialect).
Other Languages Spoken in Czech Republic
Most Czechs speak a second and often a third language. English is the most widely known, especially among younger people. German is probably the most widely spoken second language among older people.
Russian was taught very extensively under communist rule, so most people born before c. 1975 speak at least some Russian (and often pretty well). However the connection with the communist era and the Soviet led invasion in 1968 (as well as today’s Russian-speaking criminal gangs) has given this language some negative connotations. It is also not very useful with younger people, as it is not, despite the common misconception, mutually intelligible with Czech (beyond some similar words and simple sentences).
Other languages, like German, French or Spanish, are also taught in some schools, but you should not count on it. People may also understand some basic words or simple sentences in other Slavic languages (Polish, Serbo-Croatian, etc).
Popular Places to Study
- Prague, the capital.
- Olomouc, a vibrant university town with the second largest historic center after Prague. Member of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
- Český Krumlov – A beautiful city with castle.
Study in Prague
For students searching for the best of European medieval charm with the energy of a modern city, Prague will take you there and so much further.
Prague is more than history and legends, however. Today’s arts and cultural scene is extremely vibrant and active with countless art galleries, festivals, concerts, musical performances, poetry readings, museums, and more. The active social life available to students in Prague is a mixture of young Czechs coming to the city as well as a varied group of students and young people from around the world. While some complain that the influx of people is destroying the charm of Prague, the city clearly maintains its traditions while integrating the modern.
The 1990s saw the end of communism in the Czech Republic, and Prague has become an increasingly popular tourist destination since then. In the midst of this revitalization, Prague is also beginning to reemerge as one of the leading centers of culture and thought in Europe. Throughout its history, Prague has acquired a number of nicknames including, “city of a hundred spires”, “the golden city”, “the Paris of the Twenties in the Nineties”, the “mother of all cities”, and “the heart of Europe”.
Whether you choose to study in Prague to experience the romanticism of the Czech Republic’s golden city, learn from the history and cultural richness of its past, or enjoy the vibrancy of its present and the bright promise of its future, Prague is sure to deliver what you seek.
Reviews
If you have studied in the Czech Republic get in touch to share your experience.