Here is some useful information that could answer some of your questions. If you are unsure about anything, contact your Buddy or Buddy Coordinator at
buddy@esn-ostravska.czESN cannot make reservations for you, but here are some places we recommend:
Jan Opletal Halls (Hladnov) – University of Ostrava Dormitory
The dormitories are undergoing partial reconstruction, but they are still operating. The work is divided into stages, meaning either Building A or B is always available. Rooms are kept clean, and services such as kitchens, toilets, study rooms, and laundry are still running!
The only downside is for light sleepers, as there might be some noise. Tip: You can visit IKEA after your arrival to buy essentials that can help dampen the noise (plus, you can decorate your room nicely!).
When you arrive, you need to check in at Reception. You will need your passport with visa (for EU citizens we also recommend taking your passport, even though IDs are acceptable too). The dormitory automatically fills out the documents sent to the Immigration Police to confirm you are staying here legally. You don't have to visit the police yourself because the reception takes care of it.
Tap water is drinkable throughout the Czech Republic, so there's no need to buy bottled water!
Kitchens are shared on each floor, so please respect others and clean up after you cook. You will need your own utensils, pans, etc. These can be bought in Ostrava at IKEA or Pepco, or you might find deals from senior students who are leaving!
VŠB Dormitory
VŠB is the second university located in Ostrava. Their campus is in Poruba. Please keep in mind that Poruba is approximately 30 minutes away by public transport from the city center, where most OSU faculties are located.
After your arrival you need to check in at Reception. You will need your passport with visa (for EU citizens we also recommend taking your passport, even though IDs are acceptable too). The dormitory automatically fills out the documents sent to the Immigration Police to confirm you are staying here legally. You don't have to visit the police yourself because the reception takes care of it.
Tap water is drinkable throughout the Czech Republic, so there's no need to buy bottled water!
Kitchens are shared within floors, so please respect others and clean up after you cook. You will need your own utensils, pans, etc. These can be bought in Ostrava at IKEA or Pepco, or you might find deals from senior students who are leaving!
Other Types of Accommodation
Ostrava Expat Centre has a very nice and detailed website which also includes private housing, shared housing, short-term housing, etc., so have a look! 😊
Ostrava Expat Centre ↗
Accommodation Stipend
To apply for the accommodation stipend, the University of Ostrava has set the following requirements:
- You must set up a Czech bank account in Portal
- You must apply through Portal/IS-STAG at the right time (dates vary; ask your Buddy or see the OSU academic calendar)
- You must be an official OSU student for the entire duration of the following periods to be eligible:
- Winter semester: October 1st – December 31st
- Summer semester: January 1st – March 31st or April 1st – July 31st
Note: Summer semester students often have trouble fulfilling the third requirement. If you arrive in early February and leave in late June, you don't meet the criteria for being a student at the start of January or the end of July, and therefore cannot apply. The stipend isn't a huge amount — about 2,000 CZK per period. If you can't open an account, don't worry too much; you aren't missing out on a fortune!