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Student Services and Support
Moving to a new country for your university studies brings a lot of changes, but you do not have to handle it on your own.
Support at your university
Czech universities and student networks offer support services to help you settle in and feel more at home. They are ready to support you from your first day on campus. The exact services may differ from one university to another, so it is always useful to check your university website or contact the relevant support office.
International Office
International Office is usually your main point of contact for questions related to studies, arrival and practical matters. The staff can help you with questions such as:
- understanding basic university processes
- managing exchange stays
- handling essential paperwork
- providing visa-related or housing guidance
For course registration, exams or study rules, you may also need to contact your faculty or study department.
Welcome Days and Orientation Week
Many universities organise Welcome Days or Orientation Week before the semester starts. These events are a good way to meet other students and get important information before your studies begin. You can usually expect:
- introductory programmes with practical workshops
- faculty tours and campus guidance
- guidance on how the university systems work
- help with making your first contacts
Buddy programme
Many universities, International Offices and student organisations, including local Erasmus Student Network sections, offer Buddy Programmes. In these programmes, an international student is matched with a local student volunteer who helps with the first days and weeks in Czechia. A buddy can help you:
- navigate everyday life in Czechia
- connect with the local student community
- understand basic university routines
find your way around the city
The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is a student organisation that supports international students under the principle of “Students Helping Students”. In Czechia, ESN has local sections connected with universities in different cities. Through ESN, you can often join buddy activities, trips, social and cultural events, workshops or sports activities. It can help you get to know Czech student life and make new friends from different countries.
Find your ESN community
Campus facilities and services
When it comes to your daily studies, you will find a range of campus facilities and services at your university. You will usually need to visit the card centre or another university office to get your university ID or ISIC card first. This card can give you access to libraries, canteens, sports facilities or other university services.
Libraries and study spaces
University libraries often provide:
- collections of scholarly books
- electronic resources and databases
- quiet study rooms
- access to printing and other technical services
- support with finding academic sources
Canteens and student discounts
University canteens offer affordable meals between classes. Your ISIC card may also help you access student discounts on food, transport, culture, cafés and other services.
Sport and student life
Many universities offer sports courses, student clubs, fitness facilities and other activities. Taking part in sport or student events can help you manage stress, keep your energy and meet new people.
Eve
University of Ostrava
What I appreciate most about my university is the sense of community. Whether it was professors, university staff, or fellow students, there was always someone willing to help when I needed guidance. I was pleasantly surprised that some professors even knew students by name and regularly checked in on them, which made the university feel much more welcoming and supportive.
Career services
It is useful to prepare for your future and build your network while you are still studying. University career centres can help you:
- build a strong CV
- prepare for job interviews
- find internships, part-time jobs or career events
Some universities also organise career fairs, employer presentations and networking events directly on campus.
Wellbeing and counselling
If you ever feel overwhelmed by study pressure or adjusting to a new culture, ask what support is available at your university. Many universities provide psychological and social counselling. Some services may be free of charge and available in English. You can ask about support with:
- stress and study pressure
- adaptation to a new country or university
- motivation, time management or concentration
- difficult personal situations
- referrals to other professional services
If you have specific learning, visual, or physical needs, universities often coordinate tailored assistance to ensure an accessible learning environment. In an urgent situation, contact an emergency service, crisis line or local crisis centre that provides immediate help.
Explore More About Mental Care
Support outside of your university
Beyond your campus walls, there is a wider network of organisations ready to help you make the most of your time in Czechia.
Regional Integration Centres
Regional Integration Centres provide official and practical support for foreigners living in Czechia. Their services may include:
- social and legal counselling
- help with housing or basic administration
- information about the health and education systems
- czech language courses
- courses about Czech society and everyday administration
- support from intercultural workers or interpreters
These services can be useful if you face a language barrier at a public office, in healthcare or in another everyday situation.
Find a Regional Integration Centre
Expat centres
Expat Centres are free support services designed to help foreigners settle into life in Czechia. They provide practical guidance on visas, residence permits, healthcare, accommodation, employment, taxes and everyday life, while also organizing networking events. You can find expat centres in several major cities, including Prague, Brno and Ostrava.
Study in Czechia Ambassadors
You never have to feel lost, because you can draw inspiration directly from your peers. Study in Czechia ambassadors are current international students who share their everyday experiences of living and studying in Czechia. Follow their journeys on the Study in Czechia blog, Instagram or YouTube to get practical tips on student life and see what their daily routine looks like.
