Charles University summer schools: Language learning for adults and university preparation for teens

A summer break in Czechia can mean different things depending on where you are in life. For teens, it may be a chance to explore what could come after secondary school, including moving on to university locally or abroad. For adult expats, it's a practical time to improve on their Czech or think about returning to university life.

Charles University’s Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies (UJOP) offers summer schools in Czech and English and foundation programs built around different needs. Some are designed for younger learners looking to test-drive university life, while others are open to adults wanting to integrate themselves further into life in Czechia.

Here are three ways UJOP’s programs can help students and expats move forward this summer.

Very few teens know what they want to study, but having a trial run before university can quickly sharpen interests and narrow choices.

UJOP’s Charles University Summer School: Discover Your Future program brings together an international group of peers who get to explore different academic programs through interactive lectures, free-time activities, and cultural outings. Designed to give students aged 15–18 a taste of university-style learning, participants have access to some of the courses offered by Charles University in English.

Students get a sneak peek into fields like medicine, social sciences, humanities, engineering, and natural sciences. Others value the experience beyond academics.

I joined the program to experience university life in Prague,” adds Dechlan from Ireland. “I made friends and great memories.”

The program has been recognized by the Czech National Agency for International Education and Research for its flexibility and innovation. Applications close June 8. Later applications may be possible, and it is also possible to book the summer school without accommodation. To check availability, contact charlessummer@ujop.cuni.cz.

UJOP’s Czech language courses are suited to different goals and proficiency levels, with several summer programs that combine learning with cultural immersion. The following programs are open to teens and university-level students as well as adults looking to fine-tune their existing Czech language skills.

Two additional programs take place in Poděbrady, a spa town just outside Prague:

For students who want to build on what they started over the summer, UJOP’s Foundation Programmes offer a clear next step. They combine language training with subject-specific preparation in fields like medicine, humanities, economics, technical fields, and the arts.

The UJOP Foundation Programmes can also support students who want to study in Czechia but need more preparation, including those who did not achieve the results they hoped for this year. The programs help students strengthen language skills, adjust to academic study, and prepare for future entrance exams, including in demanding fields such as medicine.

The aim is to help students pass entrance exams and adapt to a new academic system.

“These courses helped me develop my language skills and strengthened my knowledge in biology, physics, and chemistry,” says Nodir from Uzbekistan. “It was crucial for me to pass the entrance exams to the medical faculties, and with the support of UJOP I was able to succeed.”

Ivona from Croatia describes a more personal impact: “In the portfolio class I feel that I am working on things that matter to me and prepare me for my future studies in Czechia.”

Applications are open until Aug. 25 for students who do not need a visa.

Not every summer needs a clear goal. But for students considering Czech universities, expats working toward stronger Czech, or adults weighing future study options, a few weeks of focused learning can make the next step clearer.