FAQ
Questions:
The ESAC program to the Czech Republic is moc dobre! It was a nice blend of academics taught by a diverse qualified staff and fun cultural activities. The program is led by two of the nicest, most helpful people I have met. If you have ever dreamed of spending visiting one of the most beautiful cities in the world, then this program is for you. 
Answers:
How do I know a business program based in the Czech Republic is right for me?
This short-term study abroad program, based in Central Europe, is designed for college students engaged in business, international business, and entrepreneurship. Students from anywhere in the world are encouraged to apply, particularly if interested in a business focused program. Is Prague a safe and user friendly city?
The beautiful capital of the Czech Republic remains one of the most popular destinations for students to participate in educational programs. It is a very safe place to travel and study and it is easy to get around either by walking or public transportation.
How do I get to Prague?
The airport in Prague is Ruzyne International Airport (PRG), which is located approximately 15 kilometers outside of Prague’s historical center and has daily connection from/to major European cities and some cities outside of Europe. It is easy to get to the Czech Republic from anywhere in Europe by train. Remember, in summer the international trains tend to be full and you should book your seat at least a few weeks ahead. Most international trains arrive at Praha Hlavni Nadrazi (Main Station).
Will I have Internet access to keep in touch with family and friends while I am there?
There is 24/7 Internet access from the residence hall for a small supplemental charge, approximately $30 for four weeks of service. If you wish to have Internet, please tell the program directors in advance of your arrival and they will make every attempt to have it activated before you arrive. You should be aware that Internet in Prague does not always function very well. The students in the past have complained of slow connection at times. Although connection in Central Europe is getting better, please do not expect Western standards of internet connection, the system is not as sophisticated as in North America or Europe just yet. If you wish to have internet access, you will need to provide us with an active email address. In order to get email in your room, you will need to bring your own laptop with network card and standard network cable (RJ-45) to connect. It is much less expensive to buy the cable at home rather than in Prague. You are not required to bring a laptop for the ESAC program, it is optional. If you choose not to have the Internet service in your room, you can use wireless or internet cafes around the city as an alternative. It is not expensive and it is very convenient.
When I arrive, will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes! If you arrive the Sunday the day before the program starts, we will be at the airport and provide you with a transfer to your accommodation. Upon arrival at your apartment, ground staff will welcome you and help you check in. That evening there will be a welcome party for the entire group so you can meet your peers.
What can I expect from my classes?
Traditional academic sessions are held on-site in modern classroom facilities, followed by lunch and afternoon site visits to business and industry. Some site visits are scheduled, while others will be arranged based upon an individual student’s interest. Faculty and local staff will assist students in arranging visits to companies they are interested in visiting as part of their program, providing an excellent opportunity for personal networking. A small amount of prep work is required up-front as part of an on-line pre-departure session designed to ensure all students are adequately prepared for their four-week stay overseas.
Will I have any free time to go site seeing or travel independently?
Yes! We recommend that you take full advantage of your free afternoons and weekend to travel around the city of Prague or to nearby villages. Local advisors are on hand to offer you recommendations of some excellent site seeing.
What if I get sick?
First, our ground staff will help you so contact them immediately. There are a number of hospitals centrally located with English speaking doctors and staff on call. One of the most well known hospitals is Na Homolce Hospital, Roentgenova 2, Praha 5, dial 252 922 146, 252 922 191 (8 am - 4 pm) or 257 211 111 (after hours emergency). Directions: From metro station Andel, take bus No 167. This hospital provides medical and dental services and the staff and physicians speak English and German. Visits are relatively inexpensive and if you have a travel insurance policy, the costs are usually reimbursable. Pharmacies in Prague are easy to identify by the bright green medical logo located outside the doors. Pharmacies are well-equipped with medicines for the common cold to prescriptions, all at reasonable prices.
What is the nightlife like in Prague?
Prague has an amazing assortment of restaurants, pubs, clubs, and discos. You can either settle in for a night at the opera or theatre, or you can explore one of the many fine dining or more casual restaurants around the city. When you have had enough pork and dumplings, head off to Jama for some truly good Mexican food for a change of pace. Czech out Jama at http://www.jamapub.cz
What if I arrive early or wish to extend my stay in Prague at the dorms?
No problem. If you wish to arrive early and settle in, you can contact ESAC directly and we can arrange for you to check in as early as you like. Likewise, if you wish to extend your stay or have guests come visit you after the program ends, you can make those arrangements directly with the dorm space once you arrive. Please note, extra nights are at your own expense and the price will be set by the dorm provider. Usually these rates are quite reasonable.
Do I need a visa for the Czech Republic?
North Americans do not need a visa for any country in Europe. If you are participating and you are not sure if you need a visa, you can check with the local Czech consulate in your country. They can advise you if a visa is necessary, how long it will take to process and how much it will cost. You should also check to see if you require a visa for the excursions destinations (Germany) and any other countries you wish to visit in Europe on your own. Is the plane ticket included?
No, the cost does not include your plane ticket. If you check with STA Travel or other student travel agencies well in advance, they can usually help you secure a student discount rate. Remember, July is high season for flights to Europe, so begin checking around early. Consider all your options; you may find it better to fly through London, Amsterdam, or Vienna depending on where you are coming in from. How much extra money should I bring and how should I exchange it into Czech currency?
Prague is still relatively inexpensive in comparison to other European destinations. A rough estimate would be to bring along an extra $1000 to $1500 for spending money. The best way to get cash is through withdrawals from ATM machines in Prague. This ensures you the best exchange rate and you avoid the hassle of exchanging traveler’s checks and the danger of carrying around cash. It is always wise to have a credit card just in case you see something you just have to buy. Are scholarships available?
ESAC provides a limited number of scholarships for students from emerging markets such as Eastern Europe, CIS, and others. They are granted on a competitive need basis. Students who apply before December 15 may request a scholarship in their essay. Notification of scholarships will be given within 10 working days. Several other useful scholarship sites you can search through include:
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International Education Financial Aid - premier resource for financial aid, college scholarship and grant information for international students wishing to study abroad. |
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International Student Loan - provides loans and financial aid to international students around the world. |
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The Gilman International Scholarship Program offers a competition for awards for undergraduate study abroad and was established by the International Academic Opportunity Act of 2000. This scholarship provides awards for U.S. undergraduate students who are receiving federal Pell Grant funding at a 2-year or 4-year college or university to participate in study abroad programs worldwide. |
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Additional scholarship information can be located here. |
What is the residence hall like?
Housing for this term is located in the residential neighborhood of Holesovice, in a recently renovated early 20th Century building, close to public transportation. Travel time from the dorms to the classroom is about 20 minutes using public transportation. There is a large park across the street and numerous restaurants and pubs nearby. All rooms have 24/7 access to Internet if you bring your own laptop. The residence hall is clean and spacious but it is not a five star hotel. The rooms have a comfortable bed, a desk, and a wardrobe for hanging clothes for each student. It comes with one set of linens which you can exchange bi-weekly or wash them in the laundry facility provided in the building. You must bring your own towels. Irons, desk lamps and fans can be checked out. Some rooms are equipped with full bathroom facilities and others have shared facilities. You will be rooming with another ESAC participant of the same gender in double or triple rooms. Yes, you can pick your roommate if you want to. There are other students form different programs also living in the hall so noise levels must be kept within reason after 11:00p.m..
Are my laptop and personal belongings safe in the residence hall?
Yes, your personal items are secure in the residence hall as long as you always lock your door when you and your roommates are not there. All rooms have locked cupboards where you can lick your laptops and personal items. There has never been a theft related incident in the residence halls to date. However, you are strongly advised not to bring expensive clothing or jewelry to Europe when traveling. You should always bring with you things you are not attached to as there have been cases of students forgetting their handbags or luggage on trains and buses.