Primary, secondary education in Czech Republic for international students

Nowadays, education in Czech schools is compulsory for all students up to grade 9. Students can study in gymnasiums, narodni skola and zakladni skola. Children begin their education after the age of 6: the initial stage lasts 5 years, and another 4 years - the average. After receiving an incomplete secondary education, you can continue to study or begin to work.

Secondary education in Czech schools can also be obtained in English - this format is possible in British and American schools under the IB (International Baccalaureate) programme. Foreign students can enter the international programme from 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 years old.

SMAPSE offers you to choose from 10 best primary and secondary schools in the Czech Republic, where foreign students can get high-quality primary and secondary education. 

The Czech Republic offers a comprehensive secondary education through various types of institutions:

• United Secondary Schools

These schools blend academic studies with professional programs, providing students with foundational knowledge across multiple professional fields.

Gymnasiums (Gymnazium)

Students attend these for either 4 or 6 years, depending on the curriculum. Graduates often pursue university education, as the preparation level is sufficiently high for successful admission.

Secondary Technical Schools (Střední Technická Škola)

Ideal for students aiming for technical college education, these 4-year programs conclude with a specialized maturity exam.

Secondary Vocational Schools (Střední Odborná Škola)

Offering 2.4 or 5-year programs, these schools prepare students for immediate employment after successful exam completion.

The academic year runs from September to June. Schools provide a core curriculum with optional subjects, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What would you say is the most important when choosing a school?

This is the quality of support and work of the management, the opportunity to study at IB, the prestige of the school and the percentage of successful completion of the diploma stage of IB, recommendations for further universities. It is worth considering the national "recruitment" of campus students, opportunities for extracurricular development and activities, the availability of medical services and consultations, opportunities for language immersion. Is education at the chosen school based on the values you share? Is the school a close-knit community? Is academic support good?

Our list of the best schools in the Czech Republic includes distinguished institutions offering both primary and secondary education. Detailed descriptions, program costs, ratings, and student reviews are available to assist in selecting the most suitable option.

Secondary Education for International Students in the Czech Republic

After completing 9th grade, students can opt for employment or continue their education at leading Czech colleges or gymnasiums. Elite gymnasiums are particularly beneficial for those aiming to study at prestigious universities abroad. Admission often requires competing in rigorous entrance exams.

Specialized Study Streams in Czech Gymnasiums

Gymnasiums may focus on humanities, natural sciences, or mathematics. Students graduating with a Maturity certificate are well-placed for admission into top universities in the Czech Republic.

Variations in Czech Vocational Education

The duration and focus of vocational education vary. Four-year programs combine secondary education with vocational training, providing multiple pathways for graduates.

The Unique Role of Czech Conservatories

Conservatories, another form of vocational education, range from 6 to 8 years, focusing on arts like music, dance, and drama. These institutions also offer pathways to higher education.

• Cultural and Linguistic Immersion: An environment conducive to mastering the Czech language.

• Recognized Certificates: Czech secondary education certificates are acknowledged across Europe.

• Simplified University Admission: Graduates from advanced gymnasiums often bypass entrance exams for Czech universities.

• Dedicated Programs for Foreign Students: Services like “graduating class in Czech Republic” and intensive language courses cater to international students.

• Support for Non-Czech Speakers: Schools accommodate students with varying levels of Czech proficiency, offering multiple exam attempts.

Popular programs like the one at Charles University in Podebrady focus on intensive study in technical, humanities, and natural sciences. Annual tuition fees average around 5,000 euros, with specialized courses available for those preparing for Bachelor's, Master's, or postgraduate programs.