International Student Mobility Continues to Transform Higher Education
International student mobility remains one of the most impactful educational experiences for young Europeans. The ESNsurvey XV Czech Republic National Report provides a comprehensive overview of how exchange students experience mobility programmes, particularly Erasmus+, from both incoming and outgoing perspectives.
Based on responses from hundreds of students studying abroad and international students studying in the Czech Republic, the report highlights the strengths of mobility programmes while also identifying areas that require improvement — from financial support and integration challenges to communication and mental health support
International Mobility in the Czech Republic: A Growing Success Story
The report demonstrates that international mobility is thriving among Czech university students. Nearly all surveyed outgoing students had participated in mobility programmes, with Erasmus+ overwhelmingly dominating as the preferred exchange scheme.
Students identified language learning, intercultural experience, and personal growth as the primary motivations for going abroad. At the same time, incoming international students in the Czech Republic generally reported high satisfaction with host institutions, especially regarding orientation services, communication with professors, and social activities organised by ESN sections.
However, the findings also reveal persistent challenges. Students continue to struggle with administrative complexity, delayed financial support, limited interaction with local communities, and emotional stress during their exchange periods
Key Findings for Incoming Students in the Czech Republic
1. Host institutions received high satisfaction ratings
Almost 79% of incoming students reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the services provided by their Czech host institution. Students particularly appreciated welcoming international offices, responsive communication, and orientation activities.
2. Integration with local students remains limited
While international students formed strong friendships with other exchange participants, interaction with local students and communities was significantly lower. Nearly half of the respondents rarely engaged with the local community during their mobility.
3. ESN plays a crucial role in student life
Around 75% of students participated in activities organised by ESN or similar organisations. ESN events were identified as one of the main gateways for social integration and building international friendships.
4. Financial difficulties remain a major challenge
More than a quarter of students reported financial problems during their exchange. Delays in scholarship payments and rising living costs contributed to stress and uncertainty throughout the mobility period.
5. Mobility strongly supports personal growth
Students reported major improvements in language skills, intercultural communication, adaptability, confidence, and global awareness. Personal growth and self-confidence were among the strongest positive impacts of the exchange experience.
Key Findings for Outgoing Students
1. Erasmus+ overwhelmingly dominates mobility participation
Nearly 97% of outgoing Czech students participated through the Erasmus+ programme, confirming its central role in international higher education mobility.
2. Students are motivated primarily by personal and cultural development
The strongest motivations for studying abroad were improving foreign language skills, experiencing different cultures, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and becoming more independent.
3. Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal are the most popular destinations
Czech students most frequently chose host countries with strong academic reputations, attractive lifestyles, and established exchange partnerships.
4. Digitalisation of mobility is progressing but remains inconsistent
Many students used Online Learning Agreements and other digital tools during their mobility. However, awareness and usage of tools like the Erasmus+ App remained relatively low, indicating room for further digital integration.
5. Students expect stronger communication about their rights
More than one quarter of respondents said they were not informed about the Erasmus Student Charter and their rights during mobility. The report highlights the need for clearer and more consistent communication from universities.
Challenges That Universities Still Need to Address
Although the overall perception of mobility remains highly positive, the report identifies several recurring issues across institutions:
- Administrative delays and unclear procedures
- Problems with course recognition and Learning Agreements
- Limited integration with local students
- Mental health and stress-related challenges
- Insufficient support for disadvantaged students
- Delayed scholarship payments
The findings suggest that universities should continue investing not only in academic support but also in social inclusion, psychological support, and transparent communication
Mobility Beyond Academics
One of the strongest conclusions of the report is that international mobility is no longer viewed purely as an academic activity. Students increasingly see exchanges as transformative life experiences that shape their identity, confidence, career ambitions, and understanding of Europe.
After mobility, many students reported feeling a stronger connection to Europe and the European Union, alongside increased interest in international affairs, civic engagement, and intercultural cooperation
Looking Ahead
The ESNsurvey XV Czech Republic National Report confirms that student mobility continues to deliver substantial educational, social, and personal benefits. However, ensuring accessibility, inclusiveness, financial stability, and stronger local integration will be essential for the future development of Erasmus+ and international mobility programmes.
As universities and policymakers continue shaping the next generation of mobility opportunities, the student voice captured in this report offers valuable insight into what works — and what still needs improvement
