Charles University
Prague, Czech Republic • Founded 1348 • World Rank #301
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1348, the Univerzita Karlova (Charles University) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Prague (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants).
This institution also has a branch campus in Hradec Kralove and Plzen. Officially recognized by the Ministerstvo kolství, mládee a telovýchovy Ceské republiky (Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic), Univerzita Karlova (UK) is a very large-sized coeducational Czech higher education institution.
Univerzita Karlova (UK) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 675-year-old Czech higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations.
The acceptance rate range is 30-39% making this Czech higher education organization a very selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. UK also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Charles University are gathered below for quick reference. Most enquiries route through the admissions team unless noted otherwise.
Academic Details
Charles University's institutional metrics — useful for sizing it against other shortlisted universities. The proportion of academic staff with doctorates correlates with research output and graduate-school admissions.
Academic Structures
Charles University's academic backbone. Endowed schools (named after donors) may differ from general units in funding levels, scholarships available, and curriculum focus.
Unit 17 items
- Catholic Theological Faculty
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
- Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové
- Faculty of Medicine in Plzen
- Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- First Faculty of Medicine
- Hussite Theological Faculty
- Protestant Theological Faculty
- Second Faculty of Medicine
- Third Faculty of Medicine
Programs Offered
Below: Charles University's programme list by level. Programme intakes vary — some offer multiple entry points per year (Sep, Jan, May), others a single annual intake.
51 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Czech Republic
Bachelor's Degree 23 programmes
Showing 10 of 23.
Master's Degree 24 programmes
Showing 10 of 24.
Doctorate 2 programmes
Other Programs 2 programmes
How to apply to Charles University
A practical five-step guide to applying to Charles University, from programme research through submission and follow-up.
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1
Research programmes at Charles University
Charles University's catalogue includes 51 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Charles University's admissions process.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Lodge your application
Submit your completed application through Charles University's official website at cuni.cz. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +420 224 491 111. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Charles University
Short Q&A on the institutional facts that matter most when shortlisting Charles University as a study destination.
When was Charles University founded?
Charles University was established in 1348 (approximately 678 years ago).
Where is Charles University located?
Charles University is located in Prague, Czech Republic.
What is Charles University's control type?
Charles University operates as a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Charles University?
Student enrolment at Charles University is around over-50,000.
What is Charles University's ranking?
Charles University is ranked #301 globally and #1 in Czech Republic.
How many faculties does Charles University have?
The institution comprises 17 academic units.
Is Charles University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from Ministerstvo kolství, mládee a telovýchovy Ceské republiky.
What is Charles University's official website?
Charles University's official website is cuni.cz.
Members of Coimbra Group
The universities below share Charles University's Coimbra Group membership, often coordinating on academic standards. Coordination simplifies credit transfer and joint-programme delivery between member institutions.
Faculties at nearby universities
Looking at higher education options close to Charles University? These nearby campuses share similar academic structures and may suit students prioritising proximity to home or family. Regional ties also affect access to internships and local employer networks.
Where Else to Study Medicine
Other universities in the Czech Republic that teach Medicine appear below — useful for comparing programme depth against Charles University. Programme structures differ even within the same country, so detailed comparison is worth the effort.
Universities Compared with Charles University
Students considering Charles University frequently compare it against the universities listed below. The comparison set reflects revealed-preference data from how applicants actually build shortlists.
Studying in Czech Republic: guides and resources
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