Founded: 1799
Founders: Emperor Franz I and his wife Maria Theresa of Naples and Sicily
Significance: It is the oldest art school in the Czech lands and has a rich history of contributing to the cultural and artistic heritage of the region.
City: Prague
Country: Czech Republic
Campus: The main campus is located in a historic building in the Letná district, which has been adapted over time to meet the needs of modern art education.
Programs: AVU offers a range of programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD degrees in various fields of fine arts.
Departments: The academy is divided into several specialized studios, including Painting, Sculpture, Graphics, New Media, and Restoration.
Teaching Method: The academy follows a studio-based teaching method where students work closely with their professors in small groups, fostering a mentor-apprentice relationship.
Facilities: AVU boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped studios, workshops, and galleries for exhibitions.
Prominent Alumni: The academy has produced many notable artists who have made significant contributions to the art world, both in the Czech Republic and internationally. Some of the renowned alumni include painter Josef Mánes, sculptor Josef Václav Myslbek, and contemporary artist David Černý.
Cultural Impact: AVU has played a crucial role in shaping the art scene in the Czech Republic, promoting both traditional and contemporary art forms.
Exhibitions and Events: The academy regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and lectures, contributing to the vibrant cultural life of Prague.
Selective Process: Admission to AVU is highly competitive, with a rigorous selection process that includes portfolio reviews, interviews, and practical exams.
Exchange Programs: The academy participates in various international exchange programs, allowing students to study abroad and gain diverse artistic experiences.
Collaborations: AVU collaborates with numerous art institutions and universities worldwide, enhancing its academic and cultural exchanges.
Duration: 3 years
Focus: Introduction to fundamental artistic techniques and theories. Students choose a studio based on their interest, which becomes their primary learning environment.
Duration: 2-3 years
Focus: Advanced artistic practice and theory. Students continue to specialize in their chosen studio, working closely with their professors to develop their own artistic style and projects.
Duration: 3-4 years
Focus: Research-oriented study culminating in a dissertation and an artistic project. Doctoral students contribute original research to their field of study.
Traditional and Contemporary Techniques
Professors: Leading Czech and international painters guide students through various styles and methodologies.
Materials and Techniques: Stone, metal, wood, and contemporary materials
Projects: Large-scale installations and public art projects
Printmaking and Digital Techniques
Areas of Focus: Illustration, graphic design, and print art
Digital Art Forms: Video, animation, interactive installations, and virtual reality
Cutting-edge Technologies: Emphasis on integrating technology with artistic expression
Conservation Techniques: Methods for preserving and restoring artworks and cultural heritage
Materials: Understanding the chemistry and physical properties of various media
Artistic and Practical Approaches: Combining artistic vision with architectural design principles
Projects: Conceptual designs, urban planning, and practical architectural solutions
Cross-disciplinary Art: Blending different art forms and media
Experimental Approaches: Encouraging innovative and non-traditional art practices
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Painting |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
Sculpture |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
Graphics |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
New Media |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
Restoration |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
Architecture |
3 years |
$6,000 |
|
Intermedia |
3 years |
$6,000 |
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Painting |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
Sculpture |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
Graphics |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
New Media |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
Restoration |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
Architecture |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
|
Intermedia |
2-3 years |
$7,000 |
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Painting |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Sculpture |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Graphics |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
New Media |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Restoration |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Architecture |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Intermedia |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Art History and Theory |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
|
Art Pedagogy |
3-4 years |
$8,000 |
AVU offers a range of programs across different levels:
Bachelor's Programs (BcA): 3 years
Master's Programs (MgA): 2-3 years
Doctoral Programs (PhD): 3-4 years
Painting
Sculpture
Graphics
New Media
Restoration
Architecture
Intermedia
Art History and Theory
Art Pedagogy
The approximate annual tuition fees for international students are:
Bachelor's Programs: $6,000
Master's Programs: $7,000
Doctoral Programs: $8,000
Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your previous work.
Educational Qualifications: Relevant previous educational qualifications (high school diploma for Bachelor's, Bachelor's degree for Master's, and Master's degree for Doctoral programs).
Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, proficiency in Czech or English may be required. Some programs might be available in English.
Entrance Exams: Includes practical exams, interviews, and a review of your portfolio.
Research Proposal: For Doctoral programs, a detailed research proposal is needed.
Czech: Most programs are taught in Czech.
English: Some programs and courses may be available in English. International students may need to prove their proficiency in English if they wish to enroll in English-taught programs.
AVU offers various scholarships and financial aid options for both domestic and international students. These can be merit-based or need-based.
International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by the Czech government or other international organizations.
Studios and Workshops: Equipped with modern tools and materials for various art forms.
Libraries and Archives: Extensive collections of books, journals, and art resources.
Exhibition Spaces: Galleries for student exhibitions and public events.
Accommodation: AVU does not have its own dormitories, but students can find housing in student residences or private accommodations.
Cultural Life: Prague is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, offering numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events.
Student Organizations: Various student organizations and clubs are available for extracurricular activities and networking.
Exchange Programs: AVU participates in exchange programs like Erasmus+, allowing students to study abroad for a semester or year.
Collaborations: Partnerships with art institutions and universities worldwide provide additional opportunities for international exposure.
Decide on the specific program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral) and department (Painting, Sculpture, Graphics, New Media, Restoration, Architecture, Intermedia, Art History and Theory, or Art Pedagogy) you are interested in.
Each program has specific admission requirements. Generally, you will need:
Previous Educational Qualifications: High school diploma for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s degree for Master’s, and Master’s degree for Doctoral programs.
Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your previous work. This is a critical part of your application.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Czech or English, depending on the language of instruction for the program. Some programs may require proficiency in Czech, while others may be available in English.
Entrance Exam: Many programs require you to pass an entrance exam, which can include practical tests and interviews.
Research Proposal: For Doctoral programs, a detailed research proposal is needed.
Gather all necessary documents:
Completed application form (available on the AVU website)
Academic transcripts and certificates
Portfolio of your work
Proof of language proficiency (if required)
Research proposal (for Doctoral applicants)
Letters of recommendation (if required)
Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Application Deadline: Be aware of the application deadlines for your chosen program, which are typically early in the year for enrollment in the fall semester.
Submission: Applications are generally submitted online through the AVU website or sent directly to the admissions office.
Practical Exams: Depending on the program, you may be required to complete practical exams in your chosen discipline.
Interview: You may also need to attend an interview with faculty members. This is an opportunity to discuss your portfolio, artistic vision, and motivation.
Notification: After the evaluation of your application, portfolio, entrance exams, and interview, the admissions committee will make a decision.
Offer Letter: If accepted, you will receive an offer letter from AVU with details about enrollment procedures.
Student Visa: Once you receive your offer letter, you will need to apply for a student visa at the Czech embassy or consulate in your home country. Required documents typically include:
Valid passport
Proof of admission to AVU
Proof of financial means to support yourself
Health insurance
Accommodation confirmation
Processing Time: Visa processing can take several weeks, so apply as early as possible.
Registration: Upon arrival in Prague, complete the registration process at AVU. This typically involves submitting original documents for verification, paying any required fees, and attending orientation sessions.
Start of Classes: Attend the orientation for new students and begin your classes as per the academic calendar.
Application Deadlines: The application deadlines typically vary by program and can change from year to year. Generally, applications for the fall semester (which starts in September) need to be submitted early in the year.
Academic Calendar: The academic year at AVU usually starts in September and ends in June, consisting of two semesters.
Educational Qualification: Completion of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent).
Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, proficiency in Czech is usually required. Some programs may offer courses in English, in which case proficiency in English will be necessary.
Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your artistic abilities and previous work.
Entrance Exam: Includes practical tests and possibly an interview to assess your skills and motivation.
Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Czech or English, depending on the language of instruction for the chosen program.
Portfolio: A comprehensive portfolio that demonstrates your advanced artistic skills and projects completed during your Bachelor’s program.
Entrance Exam: Includes practical exams, portfolio review, and an interview.
Educational Qualification: A Master’s degree in a related field of study.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Czech or English, depending on the program's requirements.
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining your intended area of research and its significance.
Portfolio: A portfolio that highlights your most significant work and projects.
Interview: An interview with the admissions committee to discuss your research proposal and artistic vision.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage |
Application Deadline |
Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Academy of Fine Arts Prague Scholarship |
International and domestic students enrolled in any program at the Academy |
Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses |
April 30 (Annually) |
Portfolio submission, academic transcripts, letter of motivation |
|
Government Scholarships for Developing Countries |
Students from developing countries enrolled in bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs |
Tuition fees and a monthly stipend |
September 30 (Annually) |
Proof of citizenship, academic records, personal statement |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
EU and partner country students for exchange programs |
Travel, accommodation, and living expenses |
(usually January/March) |
Enrollment in an exchange program, academic records, learning agreement |
|
Visegrad Fund Scholarships |
Students from Visegrad Group countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia) |
Tuition fees, travel expenses |
November 15 (Annually) |
Proof of enrollment, research proposal (for postgraduates), academic records |
Facility |
Description |
Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Located in the historical center of Prague, features modern studios, workshops, libraries, and exhibition spaces. |
N/A |
|
Student Dormitories |
Affordable on-campus housing available for both domestic and international students. |
Approximately €150-€300 per month |
|
Private Accommodation |
Options include renting private apartments or shared flats in Prague. |
€400-€800 per month |
|
Library and Study Rooms |
Extensive collection of art literature, journals, and digital resources. Quiet study areas available for students. |
N/A |
|
Cafeteria and Dining |
On-campus dining facilities offering a variety of meals at student-friendly prices. |
€2-€5 per meal |
|
Art Studios and Workshops |
State-of-the-art facilities for painting, sculpture, graphic design, multimedia, and other art forms. |
N/A |
|
Exhibition Spaces |
Galleries and exhibition halls for student and faculty art showcases. |
N/A |
|
Fitness and Recreation |
Gym and recreational facilities available to students. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
Student Support Services |
Academic advising, career counseling, mental health services, and international student support. |
N/A |
|
Public Transport Pass |
Discounted public transport passes available for students to navigate Prague easily. |
Approximately €10-€20 per month |
Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Cultural Scene |
Prague is rich in history and culture, offering students access to museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events. The academy itself hosts numerous exhibitions and art events. |
|
Extracurricular Activities |
Various clubs and organizations for students, including art clubs, photography groups, and performance arts societies. Students often participate in local art projects and collaborations. |
|
Workshops and Seminars |
Regular workshops, seminars, and guest lectures by renowned artists and professionals from around the world. |
|
International Community |
A diverse student body with international students from various countries, fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment. |
|
Language Support |
Czech language courses available for international students to help them integrate and navigate daily life in Prague. |
|
Student Exhibitions |
Opportunities for students to showcase their work in exhibitions both on and off-campus. The academy has dedicated spaces for student-led exhibitions. |
|
Networking Opportunities |
Frequent networking events, allowing students to connect with alumni, visiting artists, and industry professionals. |
|
Local Amenities |
Close proximity to cafes, restaurants, bookstores, and shops. The campus is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore Prague. |
|
Accommodation Community |
Living in student dormitories provides a community atmosphere, with shared facilities and common areas encouraging social interaction and collaboration. |
|
Student Support Services |
Comprehensive support services, including academic advising, career counseling, mental health resources, and assistance for international students. |
|
Public Transport |
Convenient and affordable public transport options, including trams, buses, and metro, making it easy to commute and explore the city. |
|
Sports and Recreation |
Access to fitness facilities and recreational activities. Students can join sports clubs or use nearby parks for outdoor activities. |
|
Events and Festivals |
Participation in local and international art festivals, providing exposure and opportunities to engage with the broader art community. |
Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Career Services |
The academy offers dedicated career services, including job search assistance, resume and portfolio reviews, and interview preparation. |
|
Internships |
Opportunities for internships with local and international art institutions, galleries, museums, and design studios. |
|
Industry Connections |
Strong connections with the local and international art scene, providing networking opportunities with artists, curators, and industry professionals. |
|
Alumni Network |
A robust alumni network that offers mentoring, networking events, and job placement assistance. |
|
Job Fairs |
Annual job fairs and career events where students can meet potential employers and learn about job opportunities in the art and design fields. |
|
Workshops and Seminars |
Regular career workshops and seminars focused on professional development, including topics like freelancing, gallery representation, and art marketing. |
|
Exhibitions and Showcases |
Student exhibitions and showcases provide exposure and opportunities to connect with art buyers, gallery owners, and curators. |
|
Collaborative Projects |
Opportunities to work on collaborative projects with external organizations and companies, enhancing practical experience and professional connections. |
|
Freelance Support |
Guidance and resources for students interested in pursuing freelance careers, including legal advice, business planning, and marketing strategies. |
|
Post-Graduation Support |
Continued career support for graduates, including access to job listings, alumni events, and career counseling. |
Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Acceptance Rate |
Approximately 10-20% (varies by program and year) |
|
Selectivity |
Highly selective due to the strong reputation and competitive applicant pool. |
|
Application Process |
Involves submission of a detailed portfolio, academic records, letters of recommendation, and a motivation letter. |
|
Entrance Exam |
Applicants typically need to pass an entrance exam or an interview, which may include practical tasks and a portfolio review. |
Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
U Akademie 4, 170 22 Prague 7, Czech Republic |
|
Neighborhood |
Situated in the Bubeneč district of Prague 7, an area known for its cultural and historical significance. Close to popular attractions like Stromovka Park and Letná Park. |
|
Accessibility |
Well-connected by public transport, including trams and buses, making it easy to commute from various parts of the city. |
|
Nearby Landmarks |
Near the National Technical Museum, Prague Exhibition Grounds (Výstaviště Praha), and the Vltava River, providing a scenic and inspiring environment for students. |
|
Local Amenities |
Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, shops, and art supply stores, offering convenience for students. |
|
Cultural Attractions |
Proximity to numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural centers, enhancing the artistic and cultural experience for students. |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
