About Central European Studies in Prague Program
Immerse yourself in the charming, cosmopolitan city of Prague for a transformative semester abroad at the Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE), one of Central Europe's most prestigious business institutions. Founded in 1953, VŠE enrolls nearly 20,000 students and holds the exclusive Triple Crown of accreditation—EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB—placing it among the world's elite business schools. You'll study in the heart of Prague, steps away from historic sites, Gothic churches, baroque architecture, and the famous Old Town Square, while gaining insight into Central and Eastern European economies, societies, and politics through courses taught in English by native Czech professors and business professionals.
The program offers flexible academic options with up to 12 semester credits across multiple disciplines. You can take up to four courses in the Central European Studies program (each worth 3 recommended credits and 52 contact hours), or supplement with regular university courses in economics, finance, marketing, trade, and related fields taught in English. This flexibility allows you to customize your academic experience while integrating with the broader Czech student community at VŠE. No prior Czech language experience is required, making the program accessible to all international students regardless of linguistic background.
Your experience extends far beyond the classroom. You'll live in a modern student residence hall with other AIFS Abroad and international students, complete with shared kitchenettes, a full-sized common kitchen on each floor, 24-hour security, gym facilities, and laundry services. European-style breakfast is included Monday through Friday, and you'll receive a Czech SIM card and public transport pass to navigate Prague's excellent transit system. The AIFS Abroad office, located in the historic city center, serves as your hub for academic advising, cultural resources, and 24/7 emergency support.
Beyond academics, you'll participate in an extensive cultural calendar designed to deepen your understanding of Czech life. Weekly activities range from Prague city walks exploring different neighborhoods to visits to the Jewish Museum, opera and theater performances, sports events, Czech cooking classes, castle trips, and seasonal festivals. You'll also have opportunities for meaningful volunteer work—teaching English in schools for students with disabilities, tutoring, or working with community organizations. Optional excursions take you beyond Prague: a 3-day trip to Kraków and the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial in Poland (estimated $375), a 2-day spa town experience in Karlovy Vary (estimated $275), or a 2-day Moravia tour featuring wine country, castles, and historic sites (included in program fee).
The program is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA. The inclusive program fee of $15,990 covers tuition, housing, breakfast, excursions, cultural activities, comprehensive insurance, and access to professional development tools like the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment. Optional round-trip flights from 25 U.S. cities range from $1,820 to $2,240 depending on your departure city. AIFS Abroad provides visa processing services for applicants who enroll by the visa deadline, and carbon offsetting for all participants' flights supports the organization's green initiative. With rolling admissions, you can expect acceptance confirmation within 2 working days of submitting all required materials.