by Celeste Moreno Palmero, Ph.D.

For students looking to study medicine in Europe, Charles University in Prague stands out as one of the best choices. Established in 1348, it is not only one of the oldest universities in the world, but also one of the most respected, particularly in the field of medicine. With five different medical faculties, each offering its own approach to education, students have the flexibility to choose a program that best fits their learning style, career goals, and budget—so why wouldn’t you study medicine in Czechia? Here is our rundown of the programs and some tips on how to choose the right one for you!

First Faculty of Medicine: A Legacy of Excellence in the Heart of Prague

Located in the very heart of Prague, the First Faculty of Medicine is the oldest and most prestigious medical school in the Czech Republic. With its own yearly Student’s Research Conference, the many Research Centers––such as the Imaging Centre for Biomedicine and Medical Nanotechnologies––and a curriculum that places a strong emphasis on scientific rigor and clinical training, this faculty is ideal for students who want to study in a highly competitive, research-driven environment. Students here receive early exposure to hands-on clinical practice, working in some of Prague’s top hospitals from the beginning of their studies––as a first-year student told me, as she rushed to her nursing practice at the nearby hospital.

The First Faculty is also known for producing graduates who consistently achieve high scores on international medical licensing exams, including the USMLE, which makes it a great choice for students considering a future in the United States or other competitive medical markets. However, the prestige of this faculty comes with a higher tuition fee of €24,250 per year, making it the most expensive option at Charles University. Admissions are also highly competitive, with entrance exams taking place between December and April, and additional testing available in London for international applicants. While this faculty offers unparalleled academic prestige, its demanding nature requires students to be highly motivated and resilient in their studies.

Second Faculty of Medicine: A More Personal Approach with a Pediatric Focus

For students who prefer a smaller, more supportive learning environment, the Second Faculty of Medicine is an excellent choice. Based at Motol University Hospital, one of the largest and most modern hospitals in Central Europe, this faculty offers a more personalized approach to medical education, with a lower student-to-teacher ratio than the First Faculty. Historically, this faculty was known for its specialization in pediatric medicine, and although it now offers a general medicine degree, students with an interest in working with children will still find unique opportunities here.

A key advantage of the Second Faculty is that students benefit from easier access to hospital training, thanks to its direct connection to Motol University Hospital. This allows for more hands-on clinical experience, making it a great option for students who want an early introduction to practical medicine. The faculty also boasts an impressive 98-100% pass rate on the USMLE, making it a top choice for those considering medical careers abroad. Another advantage is the lower tuition compared to the First Faculty, at €17,000 per year, which makes it a more affordable option while still maintaining high educational standards. The admissions process includes a written test in biology, chemistry, and physics, but students with AAA at A-Level or 19 points in the IB (with HL Biology and Chemistry) may be eligible for an exemption from the entrance exam altogether.

Third Faculty of Medicine: Problem-Based Learning and an Innovative Approach

Unlike the more traditional methods of the First and Second Faculties, the Third Faculty of Medicine is known for its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, a style of medical education that integrates multiple disciplines into case-based learning. This means that instead of studying anatomy, histology, and biochemistry separately, students at this faculty study medicine in Czechia in a more holistic way, covering all aspects of a specific topic at once. For example, when learning about the heart, students will study its anatomy, physiology, histology, and pathology simultaneously, allowing for a more interconnected and logical learning process.

One of the key benefits of this faculty is its early emphasis on clinical experience, with students starting practical training in history-taking and working with simulated patients from their very first month. This approach is particularly beneficial for students who prefer a more dynamic and interactive learning environment, as opposed to rote memorization and traditional lectures. However, the program requires students to be highly organized and adaptable, as the PBL method demands independent learning and problem-solving skills.

The tuition for the Third Faculty is €16,000 per year, making it one of the more affordable options in Prague. Admissions are based on a 90-question multiple-choice test in biology and chemistry—previously, the test included physics and mathematics, but these have now been removed. Students with AAB at A-Level or 19 points in IB HL may qualify for direct entry. One of the highlights of this faculty is the collegial atmosphere, which is strengthened by a unique orientation camp in Dobrenice before the academic year begins, allowing students to build friendships across the Czech and English streams.

Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen: Modern Facilities and a Lower Cost of Living

For students looking for a high-quality medical education and a lower cost of living, the Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen is an attractive option. Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner beer located about 90 km from Prague, offers students a more affordable lifestyle, while still providing the same internationally recognized medical degree as the Prague faculties. This faculty is particularly strong in medical research, boasting a state-of-the-art biomedical centre, which specializes in organ replacement and regenerative medicine research.

Despite being outside of Prague, the faculty offers extensive hands-on clinical training and a more individualized student experience due to its smaller size. This makes it an excellent choice for students who want access to top-tier research facilities but prefer a less hectic urban environment. The tuition at Pilsen is between €13,000-€14,000 per year, making it one of the most affordable faculties at Charles University.

Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové: A Science-Driven and Research-Focused Education

For students passionate about biomedical research and technology-driven medicine, the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové offers an exceptional academic environment. Located 100 km from Prague, this faculty is well known for its strong emphasis on biomedical research, with initiatives such as the Biological Material Bank, and close collaborations with leading research institutions. Students here benefit from modern laboratories and high-tech facilities, making it an ideal choice for those who want to be at the forefront of medical innovation.

The curriculum places a strong focus on scientific methodology and technology integration, which prepares students for careers in both clinical practice and research. This faculty is particularly appealing to students who want to engage in scientific discovery and medical advancements while still pursuing a traditional medical degree. The tuition is approximately €14,000 per year, positioning it between the more expensive Prague faculties and the more affordable option in Pilsen.

Which Faculty Should You Choose?

Each medical faculty at Charles University offers something unique, making it important for prospective students to carefully consider their learning style, career aspirations, and budget:

• The First Faculty is ideal for those who want prestige, rigorous scientific training, and strong USMLE success rates.
• The Second Faculty provides a more personalized environment with a strong clinical focus.
• The Third Faculty is perfect for students who prefer problem-based learning and an interactive approach.
• The Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen offers a lower cost of living and excellent research opportunities.
• Finally, the Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové is best suited for students who are passionate about biomedical research and technological advancements in medicine.

Regardless of which faculty you choose, studying medicine at Charles University means receiving a world-class education in one of Europe’s most historic and dynamic regions. With its diverse range of programs, internationally recognized degrees, and strong global reputation, Charles University continues to be one of the top destinations for aspiring doctors from around the world.