Are you considering moving to Prague with your family and wondering about the cost of schooling? One of the most common questions asked by expats is whether schooling in Prague is free. In this article, we will explore the education system in Prague and shed light on whether schooling is indeed free in this beautiful city.
The Education System in Prague
Prague has a well-established education system that provides quality education to its residents. The system consists of three levels: primary education, secondary education, and tertiary education.
Primary Education
In Prague, primary education is compulsory for all children aged 6 to 15. Public primary schools are funded by the state and offer free education to Czech citizens and European Union (EU) citizens with permanent residence in the Czech Republic. These schools follow the national curriculum and provide a solid foundation for further studies.
However, it’s important to note that:
- Non-EU citizens: Non-EU citizens may need to pay tuition fees for their children’s primary education in public schools. The specific fees vary depending on each school’s policy and should be confirmed directly with the school authorities.
- Private Schools: Private primary schools are also available in Prague. These schools generally charge tuition fees regardless of citizenship status.
Secondary Education
In Prague, secondary education is divided into two stages: lower secondary school (ages 15 to 18) and upper secondary school (ages 18 to 19). Lower secondary education is compulsory for all students who have completed primary education.
The cost of secondary education:
- Public Schools: Public secondary schools in Prague are partially funded by the state. Czech citizens and EU citizens with permanent residence in the Czech Republic can attend these schools for free.
However, additional costs may apply for textbooks, school supplies, and extracurricular activities.
- Non-EU citizens: Non-EU citizens may need to pay tuition fees to attend public secondary schools. The fees vary depending on each school’s policy.
- Private Schools: Private secondary schools in Prague charge tuition fees for all students, regardless of nationality.
Tertiary Education
Prague is home to several prestigious universities and higher education institutions. Tertiary education is not free in Prague, even for Czech citizens or EU citizens with permanent residence. Tuition fees for tertiary education vary depending on the institution and the specific program of study.
In Conclusion
To summarize, while primary education is generally free for Czech and EU citizens with permanent residence in Prague, there may be tuition fees involved for non-EU citizens and private school options. Secondary education in public schools is also mostly free for Czech and EU citizens, but additional costs may apply. Private schools typically charge tuition fees at both primary and secondary levels.
If you are considering tertiary education in Prague, it’s important to research the specific costs associated with your chosen institution and program of study.
Remember to contact the respective educational institutions directly to obtain accurate information regarding any potential tuition fees or costs.
Prague offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, ensuring that residents have access to quality education at various levels; however, it’s essential to plan accordingly based on your individual circumstances.