In response to the growing interest in examinations in the Czech language and regional studies, the Institute for Language and Professional Preparation at Charles University (ÚJOP) is increasing its capacity. This year, 50 per cent more exam places will be offered than last year. In 2024, interest in the examinations required to apply for Czech citizenship reached an all-time high.
Last year, the Institute for Language and Professional Preparation at Charles University (ÚJOP) recorded a new record number of registrations for Czech language and culture examinations. According to a report by the ČT24 news channel, a total of 4,783 foreigners registered for the language exam in 2024, compared to 3,624 the previous year. Meanwhile, 5,130 candidates took the regional studies exam, up from 3,550. The largest group of candidates came from Ukraine: 2,452 registered for the language exam and 2,572 for the regional studies exam.
The second-largest group last year was made up of Slovaks: 723 took the language exam and 818 the regional studies exam. Russian nationals followed in third place, with 629 registrations for the language exam and 767 for the regional studies exam.
According to ÚJOP, nearly one-fifth of participants failed the language exam last year. In contrast, almost all candidates passed the regional studies exam — 98 per cent.
Compared to the language exam, preparation for the regional studies exam is easier. The questions and answers are publicly available, similar to a driving theory test. All questions and their correct answers are published on the website of the National Pedagogical Institute. For each exam date, the institute selects thirty questions from this pool. The language test, by contrast, depends heavily on an individual’s prior knowledge of the language.
Criteria for Obtaining Czech Citizenship
Anyone wishing to apply for Czech citizenship must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Czech language as well as an understanding of the legal system, social order, and living conditions in the Czech Republic. According to the Ministry of the Interior, individuals who have received instruction in Czech at a primary, secondary, or higher education institution for at least three years are exempt from this requirement. Language skills may also be proven by recognised language certificates or a Czech school-leaving certificate.
Another requirement is the duration of legal residence in the Czech Republic: EU citizens must have held permanent residence for at least three years, while non-EU citizens must have done so for at least five years.
