The compulsory final departmental English exam in doctoral studies comprehensively tests the language competence of the applicant. The examination tests general knowledge of the English language at an advanced level, as well as the ability to read, summarise and discuss professional texts in the applicant's specialisation.

Students sign up for the examination in SIS, where they must register under the relevant examination code (NDZK001) in the Doctoral Study Department. Dates for the examinations are offered during the examination period, usually 14 days before the end of the semester.

Preparation for the examination

For the actual exam students must prepare:

• 200 pages of a specialized text from their field of study
• 30 pages of original work (the student's own professional publications, articles, papers, bachelor/master thesis, etc.) In the case of co-authorship, the number of pages must be increased proportionally with regard to the number of authors.
• Curriculum Vitae (1–2 pages)

Students are asked to bring all required materials to the oral part of the examination. Students are NOT permitted to bring electronic materials (books on laptops, tablets or smartphones). Only original books or hard copies will be accepted by the examiner. Note: Your materials will be returned to right after the exam.

The examination

• Written part
  • test of grammar and vocabulary
  • listening comprehension

To pass the written part students must receive a minimum of 70 % of the maximum score.

• Oral part
  • brief summary of the prepared texts
  • explanation of selected specialized terms
  • reading and adequate translation of a passage selected by the examiner
  • discussion related to the topics raised in the 200-page specialized text and the applicant's own work, as well as various common conversational topics

Linguistic accuracy and fluency will be assessed.

The written part can be replaced by the following language certificates:

• Cambridge ESOL – CAE, CPE
• IELTS – min. 7 points (and still valid)
• TOEFL ITP – min. 627 points, TOEFL iBT – min. 95 points
• State Language Examination passed in the Czech Republic (General, Specialized)

However, the applicant must still meet the requirements of the oral exam.

(Recognition of examinations other than those mentioned above must be submitted to the Department of Language Education.)