Czech Republic

The Czech Republic - a country with a vibrant history located in the heart of Europe. The Czech Republic borders Germany, Poland, Austria, and Slovakia, making it an excellent location for exchange opportunities. As a YFU student, you will have the opportunity to experience Czech culture in all its forms, from puppet festivals to historic churches to the more than 2,000 preserved castles and chateaux located throughout the country (more per square mile than any other country in the world!). Additionally, the Czech Republic is home to 12 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The diversity of the Czech Republic brings together several European traditions. Some of the oldest cities in the Czech Republic were founded during the middle ages, at the crossroads of major trading routes. Since the Velvet Revolution in 1989, the Czech people have enjoyed freedom of expression through literature, art, and theatre. If you were to ask a Czech what his country is known for, he would likely say ice hockey, opera and classical music. You can explore these and other unique aspects of the Czech culture during your time in the Czech Republic.

One significant way that you will experience Czech life is through attendance at a Czech high school, called a Gymnázium. The core high school curriculum includes subjects such as math, literature (and Czech grammar), physics, and languages such as English, German, Spanish, French, and Russian.

Language

Czech. Previous language study is not required. A language course is offered in two parts. The first part takes place during the arrival orientation. The second part takes place once students are with their families. Students placed near Prague will attend this part of the course as a group at the YFU office, and those placed further away will have the option of an individual course or to live with a temporary host family in Prague while attending the group course.

Host Family

Throughout the Czech Republic, mostly in smaller towns but also in cities or the countryside.

School

School begins and ends in the summer. Students will be placed in Gymnáziums as part of a group of 25-30 students.

Trips

All orientations are included, one is a joint meeting and ski trip with YFU Slovakia. Students will also have the opportunity to visit various towns and cities throughout the Czech Republic, including Olomouc, Pilsen, and Prague. Trips and additional costs will vary.

Pastimes

Cross-country skiing is popular, and so is soccer, biking and hiking. People often go to festivals and the theatre to enjoy art and culture.

Program	Departure	Cost (CAD)
Year	Mid-August	$8,995