Accessibility
Accessibility at FSV UK
The CU Faculty of Social Sciences (FSV UK) warmly welcomes students with physical or mobility impairments, including wheelchair users. Please read carefully the information on accessibility below, and do not hesitate to get in touch with us should you have any questions.
Welcome
We are committed to creating an inclusive, barrier-free environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We try to provide tailored support, accessible spaces, and individual approaches in collaboration with Charles University's Carolina Centre.
First thing first
We are aware that the same set of arrangements may not be applicable for two students with similar mobility impairment, or two wheel-chair users. An individual approach is crucial, which is why we like to put emphasis on the importance of an informational online meeting - this online call will be organised by a member of the International Office at FSV UK, who may invite relevant colleagues from our support services to discuss your needs and our abilities to meet them.
Accessibility at Charles University
We strive to make our buildings as accessible as possible, although our attempts can run into obstacles given the fact that the University's workplaces are located in dozens of buildings all over Prague, often very old and listed.
FSV UK has 5 institutes in total (and a language centre) located in 3 faculty buildings across Prague. You can have a look at their locations to see where the courses relevant for your study field would take place - based on which institute offers the course.
(More on how to search for courses available to incoming students here.)
Do you need any other educational adjustments?
If you require support in educational adjustments that are not related to physical or mobility impairments, e.g., due to dyslexia, anxiety, Crohn's disease, etc., please consult the webpage HERE.
Charles University has a functional model for supporting students with specific educational needs, a tool called functional diagnostics (in the form of an interview carried out by specialist centers authorised for this task). Its purpose is to identify the needs of the student and subsequently propose suitable mechanisms and modifications to the conditions of study in order to meet or compensate for these needs.
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Support during studies
Together, we can find solutions that support your success and comfort throughout your studies. Our support includes:
- individual meetings - an online call is possible already prior to your nomination/application for the exchange
- barrier-free options at the CU dormitories
- adjusted study conditions - assistance during study, digitalisation of study texts, loan of aids, special information, counselling services, etc.
- cooperation with Carolina Centre
Is there something specific missing that you would prefer or need to have arranged during your stay with us? Please contact the relevant faculty exchange coordinator, provide them as much relevant information as possible, and they will see if we are able to meet your needs.
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Barrier-free accommodation at CU
Charles University has 11 dormitories in Prague, some of which offer barrier-free rooms adapted for individuals with mobility impairments. We recommend applying for accessible rooms as early as possible.
You can learn more about the accessibility of CU dormitories on the Centrum Carolina website, where you will also find a virtual tour for each of the available dormitories.
If you encounter any trouble with your CU accommodation, please contact Simona Kostelanská from the Carolina Centre and your faculty coordinator as soon as possible so that they can assist you.
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Buddy programme
Buddy programme connects local and international students at Charles University.
A "buddy" is a local student and a volunteer who takes the role of a guide and a friend for an international student. Buddies can help you get oriented in the new environment, take care of your first errands after arrival, and also help you discover the Czech Republic and the people, places, food, and culture here.
We recommend applying for a buddy in the app Broaddy as early as possible. A buddy can be of great help to you in the first days in Prague, can assist you with the check-in at your accommodation, or during your first commute to the faculty premises.
How to request support
To support you better, we highly recommend scheduling an online meeting with your faculty exchange coordinator and relevant persons at Charles University.
- Contact the relevant faculty exchange coordinator based on the type of exchange (or exchange programme) you wish to pursue.
- Schedule an online meeting with them to discuss your needs. It is recommended to provide the faculty exchange coordinator with as much relevant information in advance so that they can invite other colleagues from support services to the meeting.
- Together, we will see if we are able to support you and will make a list of necessary arrangements for your exchange.
- We will keep you updated on the progress in the time before your arrival.
- During your exchange, we will keep in touch to make sure you are supported and enjoying your exchange.
All communication is confidential and respectful of your privacy.
Relevant contacts
Charles University is decentralised and has 17 faculties in total. Some matters of your exchange may be managed centrally, while others will be taken care of on a faculty level - your faculty exchange coordinator is your primary contact.
We work as a team to secure a smooth exchange and tailor all arrangements to your needs and preferences prior to your arrival in Prague and during your stay.
RESPONSIBLE PERSON | WHAT THEY CAN ASSIST YOU WITH |
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Faculty exchange coordinator at FSV i.e., Barbora, Martina, or Antonella contact info HERE |
your primary point of contact and support during your exchange will organise an online call for better support during exchange - recommended long before the application period should be cc'd on all email communication |
Lucie Pištěková specialni.potreby@fsv.cuni.cz website section HERE |
faculty coordinators - support for students with special educational needs can help you apply certain study adjustments from your home university to your time at FSV |
Simona Kostelanská simona.kostelanska@ruk.cuni.cz |
university coordinator of services for students with physical disabilities mapping accessibility of buildings - including dormitories counseling for outgoing/incoming students with special needs |
Barbora Hirtová barbora.hirtova@ruk.cuni.cz |
member of the CU European Office, incoming Erasmus+ students focuses on accessibility and inclusion in the field of incoming students with mobility impairments |
Student experience
Erasmus+ student Shakil spent his summer semester 2024/2025 at the CU Faculty of Social Sciences. At the end of his stay, he was kind enough to share his experience with the UK Forum magazine. Read the full article here!
Useful links
Carolina Centre - support for students with special needs, including psychological counselling & peer groups
Accessibility of faculty buildings at Charles University (including virtual tours)
Accessible Accommodation at Charles University (including virtual tours)
Hollar, Opletalova, Jinonice - get to know the FSV UK buildings