Academy of Fine Arts in Prague
About the university
The Academy of Fine Arts in Prague (AVU) is the oldest art university in the Czech Republic, founded in 1799. It is a highly selective public institution focused on fine arts education, including painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, new media, and restoration. The academy offers mainly master’s and doctoral programmes, often in a continuous study format, with strong emphasis on individual studio work under renowned artists. Teaching is based on artistic experimentation, critique, and independent creative development. AVU is deeply integrated into the Czech and European art scene through exhibitions, research centres, and collaborations with galleries and institutions. Its Academic Research Centre contributes to art theory and history, while international partnerships support exchange opportunities.
Key information
- Location: Prague, CZ
- Ranking #22
- National ranking #25
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Drawing
- Printmaking
- New Media
- Architecture
- Art Restoration
Programs (29)
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- History
- Linguistics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Education
- Fine Arts
- Music
Student body
- Total students: 300
- Graduate: 260
- International students: 10%
Campus life
Campus life at AVU is centered around studio work and artistic production rather than traditional campus infrastructure. Students spend most of their time in ateliers working on individual projects, participating in critiques, and preparing exhibitions. The academy operates galleries such as Galerie AVU, where students present their work to the public and engage with curatorial practice. Located in Prague, students benefit from access to a rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and festivals. The environment fosters independence, experimentation, and integration into the professional art world.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: €600 - €1,200 / per month
Housing options
- Private rentals
- shared apartments (limited dormitory access)
Student clubs and organizations
- Art collectives
- exhibition groups
- student initiatives
Sports
- Recreational sports
- fitness activities
Career & internships
Partner companies
- Art Galleries
- Museums
- Cultural Institutions
- Creative Studios
Internships: Students gain professional experience through exhibitions, gallery collaborations, and project-based work rather than traditional corporate internships. Partnerships with cultural institutions and international exchanges provide exposure to the global art scene.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- Secondary diploma
- portfolio
- entrance exams
- language certificate
- transcripts
Tuition costs
- €1,500 - €3,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 10.00%
- Scholarships available: AVU students can access Erasmus+ mobility grants and Czech government scholarships. Financial support is often provided through international exchange programmes, research grants, and art project funding. Additional support may come from cultural institutions and foundations supporting artistic work and exhibitions.
- Additional costs: Books €60-120/year, Student card €15
Quick facts
- Founded: 1799
- Teaching languages: Czech, English, czech
- Study formats: offline, hybrid
Contact
- Website: https://www.avu.cz
- [email protected]
- +420 220 408 211