I've been researching foreign medical schools, Charles University imparticular and have a few questions for anyone that can answer.

I plan on applying for the 2005-2006 school year and was wondering, when is the earliest I can apply and take the entrance exam?

I noticed on one of the websites and in the application packet that North American students are supposed to apply through the Jan and Betka Papanek foundation, are they some sort of agent or just a liason to the US?

I recenty went to Prague and saw a handfull of buildings that were part of Charles University (Kralov, I think, in Czech) and was just curious as to where most of the classes take place? Which section of Praha, close to any landmarks?

How tough, I know this a subjective term, is it to get into the first faculty? I've read posts from the past that say that the classes never really fill up and there are open spots, so would it be fair to say that if you meet the entrance requirements, pass the entrance exam, and can obtain a visa, you're in?

After going to Prague and seeing the city I'm really interested in attending Charles and would like to begin to study for the exam and take it as soon as possible, just as peace of mind and to be able arrange alternate plans if I don't get in.

thanks in advance for the help

-matt

Hey there,
Well before I begin, keep in mind that everything that is written here is coming from a student who has only been accepted to the school (the first faculty) and has not yet attended (I will start attending the fall). Keep in mind that Charles' university has many faculties and three of which are in Prague alone. The first faculty (the one I was accepted to) is in the center of Prague.

As far as how early you are allowed to apply, I do not know. The Jan & Betka Papanek foundation, that is only a liason for the school which will help you apply, obtain a visa and mail you the entrance exam (to be proctored of course). The foundation has a lady named Viera who is very kind and helpful. They will not charge any fees whatsoever. All you pay is a $50 application fee. Even after being accepted, she has helped me in obtaining a visa by mailing me the application and calling me to make sure everything is in order.

What amazes me is how some Polish or Hungarian or whatever schools have designated people to charge prospective students outrageous fees for nothing at all.

Also, why do you want to attend 2005/2006? Why not this year?

Word,
A

when you say center of prague, do you mean the area around Wenseslaz (sp?) Square, right near the train station?

I have to complete school before I can attend.

Just curious, where did you take the entrance exam? I live in Virginia, and it would great if I could take it nearby, but driving to NYC would be alright....

Also, how long did it take your application to accepted after you took the exam?

-Matt

most of the classes during the first 3 years are based in or near two main areas...the first is near karlova namesti, which is very close to vaclavske (wenseclas) square. the other area is called albertov, and is about 1 or 2 tram stops away from karlova nam.

getting in is pretty easy. takes about two weeks or so to find out if you are in.

viera pecha is part of tha jan and whoever foundation. basically the school pays them to operate as a north american admissions office. not an agent at all. they will never ask for money from you, other than the application feel. viera helped me a ton, and still does.

basically, study for the entrance exam and you should be fine. it is not a terribly difficult exam. studying at charles is fun, it is a great city, and if you work hard you can get an excellent education, with many incredible opportunities.