Recognition of Foreign Education in the Czech Republic

Last updated: April 2026
Handled by the Registrar’s Office, University of New York in Prague (UNYP)


What is Recognition of Foreign Education (Nostrification)?

If you plan to study at a university in the Czech Republic, whether public or private, and enroll in a Czech-accredited program, you must meet the admission requirements for UNYP programs, including having your prior education (high school or secondary school) officially recognized. This process is called “nostrifikace” (nostrification).

At the University of New York in Prague (UNYP), this requirement applies to students pursuing Czech-accredited bachelor’s programs while also receiving an American degree.

Nostrification is required for the following programs:

  • International Relations
  • Psychology
  • Communication and Media
  • Business Administration

UNYP supports students throughout this process and provides guidance based on extensive experience with international applicants.


Types of Nostrification

The recognition of prior education can be completed through one of two pathways:

  • Internal Nostrification (UNYP Admission Purposes Only)
  • General Nostrification (State-Issued Recognition)

Internal Nostrification for UNYP Admission

Internal nostrification is processed directly by the University of New York in Prague and is valid only for admission into UNYP’s Czech-accredited programs.

This option is typically:

  • Faster
  • Administratively simpler
  • Designed specifically for UNYP applicants

UNYP’s nostrification coordinator assists students throughout the entire process.

Required Documents

To complete internal nostrification, you must submit:

  1. A notarized copy of a legalized high school diploma
  2. An original or notarized confirmation from your graduating school stating that you are eligible to apply for Bachelor-level studies in that country

Additional documentation may be requested by the university if necessary.

Translation Requirements

Documents not issued in English, Czech, or Slovak must be:

  • Officially translated into Czech
  • Completed by a court-certified (sworn) translator
  • Attached to authenticated copies of the original documents

UNYP can assist with arranging certified translations.


General Nostrification

General nostrification is an official recognition issued by Czech authorities and may be used beyond university admission.

It is processed by:

  • Regional Authorities
  • The Metropolitan Authority of the Capital City of Prague
  • The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports

This process is governed by Czech educational legislation and may take longer than internal nostrification.

More information is available on the official Prague authority website:
https://praha.eu/web/eng/w/recognition-of-foreign-education


Exceptions (When Nostrification Is Not Required)

You may not need nostrification if you hold one of the following:

Equivalent to the Czech “Maturita”

  • Slovakia – Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške
  • Poland – Swiadectwo Dojrzalosci
  • Hungary – Gimnáziumi Érettségi Bizonyítvány, Szakközépiskolai Érettségi-Képesítő Bizonyítvány, Érettségi Szakiskolai Bizonyítvány
  • Slovenia – Splošna Matura, Poklicna Matura
  • Germany – Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife

International Diplomas

  • European Baccalaureate Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does nostrification take?

Internal nostrification is typically faster, as it is handled directly by UNYP. General nostrification timelines depend on the Czech authorities and may take several weeks

What is the difference between internal and general nostrification?

Internal nostrification is valid only for admission to UNYP. General nostrification is state-recognized and can be used across institutions

Do I need nostrification if I have an IB diploma?

No, International Baccalaureate diplomas are generally exempt.

Do all documents need to be translated?

Yes, unless they are originally issued in English, Czech, or Slovak.


Contact Information

Internal Nostrification Coordinator

Daria Khomiakova
Registrar’s Office
University of New York in Prague

Email: nostrification@unyp.cz
Phone: +420 224 221 261 / 281


Need Help With Nostrification?

UNYP supports students through every step of the process—from document preparation to final submission. If you are unsure which type of nostrification applies to you, contact the Registrar’s Office for guidance. You can find more details about the application process under the Admissions section.

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Contacts

University of New York in Prague
Londýnská 41, 120 00 Praha

ID no: 25676598
Phone: +420 224 221 261
Email: unyp@unyp.cz


Kazakhstan

UNYP Representative Office
Yelebekov Street 10/1
BC Venus, Block 1
Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan
Phone: +7 777 557-59-87

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