10 Reasons to Choose
Palacký University Olomouc

Imagine a city where every fourth resident is a university student, where stunning baroque architecture meets world-class research centres, and where a vibrant international community feels like home. That’s Olomouc — often called the “Czech Oxford.” Compact, walkable, and full of life, it’s consistently ranked among the best student cities in Central Europe.

You’ll share the streets with students from over 100 countries, enjoy morning runs through parks in the city centre, grab coffee at a university café, and unwind on a rooftop terrace overlooking historic spires. Olomouc offers big-city culture with small-town comfort — and living costs that are a fraction of Prague or Western European capitals.

Founded in 1573, Palacký University is the oldest university in Moravia and one of the top three universities in the Czech Republic. Among universities in post-2004 EU member states, it ranks in the top 10. In global rankings, it consistently appears between the 500th and 800th positions worldwide.

With eight faculties — Theology, Medicine, Arts, Science, Education, Physical Culture, Law, and Health Sciences — the university offers a wide range of programmes taught in English at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels. A degree from Palacký University is recognised and respected across Europe and beyond.

Life at Palacký University goes far beyond the classroom. The university hosts Europe’s largest popular-science film festival (Academia Film Olomouc), student culture festivals, concerts, open-air cinema, and Moravia’s biggest half-marathon. There is always something happening.

Over 40 student clubs and organisations cover everything from journalism and app development to theatre, radio, sustainability, and community volunteering. Getting involved is the fastest way to build friendships, practise your Czech, and make the most of your time in Olomouc.

Palacký University provides modern, recently renovated dormitories with 4,800 beds across two campuses — right next to faculties, libraries, sports facilities, and student hangouts. Dormitory rooms start from approximately 95 EUR per month, and a full meal in a university canteen costs around 3 EUR. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available daily.

If you prefer private accommodation, Olomouc’s rental market is very affordable compared to other European university cities. Whether you choose a shared flat or a room in a centuries-old townhouse, you’ll find the cost of living refreshingly low.

Whether you’re a competitive athlete or just looking to stay fit, the university has you covered. Facilities include a sports hall, swimming pool, boathouse, gyms in every dormitory, and access to three large parks in the city centre. In winter, a ski slope is just minutes away by bus.

The Academic Sport Centre offers semester passes to dozens of courses — from classics like volleyball and swimming to canoeing, ballet, and even laughter yoga. University teams compete at national level in volleyball, basketball, hockey, and futsal.

Palacký University actively supports its students financially. Last year, over 80% of students received some form of scholarship — including merit-based, accommodation, social, and research scholarships. International students can also apply for specific funding opportunities.

Beyond the classroom, you’ll gain practical experience through internships, field trips, and mandatory placements. The university itself employs students at its science centre, university shop, and during its many events and festivals. It’s easy to build your CV while you study.

Palacký University is home to a wide network of research centres and institutes spanning natural sciences, medicine, humanities, social sciences, and law. The university has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research tackling global challenges — from nanotechnology and biotechnology to environmental science and cultural heritage preservation.

As a student, you can join research teams, contribute to published work, and access state-of-the-art laboratories. If you’re considering a career in academia or R&D, Olomouc is an excellent place to start.

Olomouc sits in the geographic heart of Europe. Prague, Vienna, Krakow, and Bratislava are all just a short train or bus ride away — perfect for weekend trips. Through the Erasmus+ programme and hundreds of bilateral agreements with universities worldwide, you can also spend a semester studying in Japan, Chile, Indonesia, or dozens of other countries.

Every year, nearly 2,000 international students arrive in Olomouc, and over 2,000 local students head abroad. The university’s global network means your education will be truly international, no matter which programme you choose.

Whether you complete a full degree or join us for an exchange, a short course, or a research stay, you become part of the Palacký University alumni family. The Alumni Programme keeps you connected through international meet-ups, lectures, lifelong-learning opportunities, career support, and mentoring.

We’re looking for students who embrace challenges, think independently, and want more than just a diploma. Palacký University values individuality and supports unconventional ideas. We treat every student as a unique person, not a number.

If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime in one of Europe’s most charming university cities — Olomouc is waiting for you. Apply today and write your own reason to be here.