Czech and Roman King Charles IV founded Prague University on April 7, 1348 as the first university to the north of the Alps and to the east of Paris. The University grew rapidly and garnered respect throughout Europe for hundreds of years. Due to political and religious strife in the region, Prague University lost stamina and funding for much of the 17th and 18th centuries. It rebounded to international status in the 1840s after the Hussite Wars, but was divided into two camps: Czech and German.

The 20th Century won over distinguished professors to teach there, like Albert Einstein and Thomas G. Masaryk. While it produced vast amounts of scientific research and literary work, World War II erupted and Hitler closed all Czech universities, persecuting professors and students, while the German side of the universities meagerly prevailed. At War's end, Communist control continued and Charles University, having changed its name, grew modestly. It wasn't until 1989 that the totalitarian regime ended and Charles University was able to flourish, free from the political cloud, to the level of prestige and respect it had after opening its doors more than 650 years ago.

ISA students will enjoy small class sizes with fellow ISA classmates. Classes are taught by Charles University professors nearby the Vltava River on street Vratislavova in downtown Prague. A four minute walk after class takes students to Vysehrad Castle, a great place for an afternoon picnic in manicured gardens or to view the setting sun over a bustling city.