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Czech Republic

Did you know? Prague is the defenestration capitol of the world. Two of the most famous defenestrations in world history both occurred in Prague. Search it up!

Enquire about Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, particularly its vibrant capital Prague, is a major European tourist destination, and with good reason – for a country which has only (officially) been around since 1993, it sure knows how to show visitors a good time! The country is culturally and historically rich, with countless religious monuments, museums, catacombs and even underground tank factories used by the Nazis during WWII.

It is also incredibly scenic, with treetop walks, wetlands, caves, ice climbing, mountain tourism and the Prague Zoological Gardens, which specialises in breeding endangered animals. Prague is a magical, liberal, buzzing city, with diverse districts offering lots of different experiences. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, packed with theatres, restaurants, parks, galleries and museums. The city is famous for its nightlife, and visitors come from all over Europe to party in Prague. Hiking, skiing and vineyards across the country will remind you of New Zealand – why not check it out soon?

Eligibility Requirements

You must be 16, 17 or 18.

What's included in your experience

  • Airfare
  • Airport Pick-up
  • Host Family Placement
  • Housing
  • Meals
  • School Placement
  • Medical Insurance
  • 24/7 Emergency Support
  • Assistance with Application Process
  • Visa Application Assistance
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Orientations during your time abroad
  • Access to Alumni Network
  • Continuous Support
  • Worldwide Presence
  • 70 Years Experience

What you are responsible for

  • Vaccinations
  • Visa and Passport Fees
  • School Uniform
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Host family and culture

Czech people value direct communication, friendliness and modesty. One of the things you’ll notice in the Czech Republic is that people say hello and goodbye to strangers in various situations, such as small shops, lifts or train compartments. A little insider’s tip: remember to take your shoes off when you go into a Czech home.

You will probably be hosted in the rural areas of Bohemia and Moravia, although AFS students have also lived in Prague and Brno. Czech families rarely have more than two children and will warmly welcome you. They are usually close-knit, and it’s common for extended family members to live together, especially grandparents. In small towns, people live in apartment blocks but enjoy visiting their country cottages during the weekend.

Czech people enjoy their cuisine, which is a mix of German, Hungarian, and Polish influences. Dumplings, meat, potatoes and rice are very popular. Most dishes are topped with a thick sauce and vegetables or sauerkraut. Caraway seeds, bacon, and lots of salt are common flavorings. While meat is a big part of the Czech diet, vegetarianism is also pretty widely accepted.

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Language and school

The main language spoken in Czech Republic is Czech, many people are quite proficient in English and also speak Slovak, Polish, German or Russian. Having a basic knowledge of English will be an asset in the beginning and will help you learn the local language. AFS will organize language courses in the first few months or provide you with materials to learn the language on your own before going on your exchange.

You’ll most likely attend a local public high school called a gymnasium, which prepares students for University. You can expect to spend your school day with a “tree class”—a group of students who attend all their classes together. You don’t need to wear a uniform but it’s typical for students to change from shoes into slippers when entering school.

Let AFS guide your intercultural experience

Kick-start your future with AFS and discover who you really are, make new lifetime friendships and immerse yourself in a fascinating intercultural experience.

This programme begins at your home country with a pre-departure orientation and continues with orientations, other supported learning activities and facilitated conversations which will help you maximize your experience, cope with the challenges of navigating a new culture and community as well as gain knowledge, skills, and a global understanding throughout your time abroad, and as you return to your home country. AFS volunteers will be there to support and guide you and your host family the whole way through.

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