Study in Poland For International Students

Do you know the success of Poland’s education system traces back to the 14th century with the great scientists - Nicholas Copernicus and Marie Skiodowska-Curie? Poland, a central European country, with a rich academic heritage, is a prime choice for many young aspirants looking to study abroad.

It offers everything you desire: an exquisite educational system, exceptional economic growth, and a rich historical legacy. The country is home to great leaders and personalities who have made significant contributions to art, music, science, philosophy, and literature.

Located in central Europe, Poland is a favored destination among students due to its world-class academic institutions and significantly lower educational costs compared to the rest of Europe. Poland warmly welcomes students from around the world and prioritizes cultural advancement.

Let us explore the different aspects of studying abroad in Poland, including universities, lifestyle, and career prospects.

Why Study in Poland- 6 Top Reasons

Poland’s education system offers international students excellent academics and great career opportunities. Here are some reasons why you should choose Poland as your study destination:

1. Advanced Quality of Education: With over 450 higher education institutions, the Polish education system adheres to the standards established by the Bologna process. They prioritize practical knowledge and creative skills over conventional lectures.
2. Affordable Costs: Compared to other European countries, Poland offers more affordable tuition without compromising on the high quality of education.
3. Vibrant Culture: The rich and glorious culture of Poland is an integral part of the country. You will have plenty of opportunities to delve deeper into a culture that combines influences from Germanic, Latin, Hungarian, and Ottoman traditions.
4. Economic Living Costs: Living costs in Poland are lower than in other European countries, with high-quality standards. Rent and transportation costs are less expensive, starting from PLN 1500 to PLN 2900, which will help you stay within your budget.
5. Value for Young Innovators: Poland is not just a great place for education; it is also an excellent place to pursue your career. The nation has numerous tech companies that nurture young, innovative minds, allowing you to showcase your ideas and build networks with industry peers.
6. Great Community: Poland is a favorite destination for international students. It hosts over 57,000 international students, and the number is growing due to its vibrant student life. Moreover, it is one of the safest countries for students in Europe.

Intakes in Poland 

There are two significant intakes in Poland: winter and summer. Whether you are applying for the winter or summer intake, ensure you have a proper action plan to improve your chances of getting your application selected.

• Winter Intake: Winter intake in Poland begins in September or October and ends in February or March.
• Summer Intake: The summer semester in Poland's universities begins in February and ends in July or August every year.

Best Universities to Study in Poland 

Poland is home to many well-known higher education institutions, with nearly twenty ranked in the top QS rankings. Some of the best universities to study in Poland include:

University Name	QS World University Rankings 2025	Average Tuition Fee
University of Warsaw	258	PLN 12,960.39 to 25,920.78
Jagiellonian University	312	PLN 1,500 to 66,962.01
Warsaw University of Technology	527	PLN 8,640.26 to 25,920.78
Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań	761-770	PLN 1,500 to 4,000
Gdańsk University of Technology	801-850	PLN 8,000 to 11,000

Best Courses to Study in Poland

There are ample reputed universities in Poland that are renowned for offering diverse cities with the best curriculum. Some of the best courses to enroll in Poland are,

Field Name	Course name	Average tuition fees
Business	MBA/ PGDM in International Business	PLN 18,144.55
Medicine	MD in General Medicine	PLN 62,000
Commerce	BBA in finance	PLN 13,790
Arts	MA in Language	PLN 31,000

Cost of Living in Poland 

While Poland is a great destination for a top-notch education, understanding the cost of living in the country is essential for creating a realistic budget. Here are some key areas to keep in mind:

• Accommodation Costs: For accommodation, you can choose university dormitories, which have shared kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry facilities, costing around PLN 2900.
• Transportation Costs: Poland boasts a well-developed public transport network, making it easy to navigate to colleges and other cities. For example, a 20-minute ticket costs PLN 4.40
• Utility Costs: The cost of utilities, including electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi services, depends on the size of your flat. For instance, a medium-sized flat will cost you roughly PLN 1056.

Cost of Studying in Poland 

Poland is one of the most reasonably priced European countries with a stable economy. Apart from the cost of living, here are some factors that might influence your cost of studying in Poland:

• Public School: In public institutions, the cost of a bachelor's degree and a master’s degree will be affordable when compared to private/ international institutions. Tuition fees range from PLN 9,474.92 to PLN 33,164.20 per year, which is significantly lower than in other EU countries, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
• Living Expenses: Average around PLN 32,400 per year, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
• Study Materials: Throughout your studies, you will need to buy books, review journals, and other learning materials, which will add to your cost of studying in Poland.

Top Scholarships for Students to Study in Poland 

There are several scholarships available for international students to help manage their financial expenses in Poland. Here are some of the top scholarships:

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
UNESCO Poland fellowship program	Offered for undergraduate and master studies in Poland	Covers full tuition fees with a monthly allowance of PLN2200
Facebook PhD fellowship program	Offered for doctoral research studies in technology	Two years of paid tuition and fees An annual stipend to cover living costs Various opportunities to engage with Meta-researchers An invitation to the annual Fellowship Summit
IIE-SRF fellowship	Offered for doctoral research studies in science	Covers tuition fees with a dual health insurance policy

Exams Required to Study in Poland

Exams serve as a standard method to assess academic abilities and ensure transparency in the admission process in Polish universities. Whether you are applying for a bachelor's or master's degree, you may need to take the following exams to secure admission to your desired university:

• English Language Proficiency Exam: Most courses in Polish universities are taught in English. Applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency through IELTS (Score 6.0) or TOEFL (79 (iBT) 550 (PBT) as required by the chosen program.
• Subject-Specific Entrance Exam: Some courses in Polish universities require subject-specific entrance exams to assess individuals' knowledge in their area of interest. The exams might vary depending on the program and typically include multiple-choice questions, essays, or practical demonstrations of your skills in the chosen field.

Study in Poland Without IELTS

You can also enroll in Polish universities without an IELTS score. Most universities accept students who have been educated in an English-speaking environment without an IELTS score. You will be required to give an interview with university administrative personnel through Skype. The final decision will be based on your performance in the interview.

Student Visa in Poland

If you are a non-EU national, you need a study visa for your academic journey in Poland. Here are the steps to apply for the student visa:

1. Check your eligibility to apply for a student visa in Poland.
2. Find a nearby Polish embassy in your country.
3. Prepare the essential documents for submission.
4. Apply for the Poland visa online and pay the application fee.
5. Wait for the approval status.

The visa is valid for three months. To extend your stay, you must apply for a residence permit at least 45 days before the visa expiration date. The residence permit will be issued for 15 months and can be extended up to three years.

Documents Required for Visa Application

Below are the documents required to apply for a student visa in Poland:

1. Completed application form.
2. Passport-size photos.
3. Medical insurance.
4. Proof of financial resources.
5. Certification of an acceptance letter from the respective Polish university.
6. Proof of accommodation.
7. Receipt of payment for the first semester's fees.
8. Receipt of payment for the visa application fee.

Student Life in Poland 

Poland has become a favorite destination for students due to its vibrant lifestyle. While the education system encourages practical learning, the cities offer cosmopolitan vibes and cultural festivals throughout the year. Modern-day Poland caters to lovers of both natural landscapes and city life. 

Highlights include beautiful beaches beside the Baltic Sea, the Masurian Lake District, the Tatra Mountains, picturesque villages, and more. Moreover, the local people in Poland are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, making you feel welcome.

Career Prospects for Students in Poland

With a rapidly expanding economy and a rising demand for skilled professionals, Poland offers excellent career growth prospects for international graduates. Here are some career opportunities for students who want to pursue their profession in the country upon graduation:

Job Profile	Average Annual Salary
Software engineer	PLN 11T - PLN 19T
Doctor	PLN 4T - PLN 6T
Data scientist	PLN 98T - PLN 140T/
Project manager	PLN 97T - PLN 172T
Supply chain manager	PLN 114T - PLN 147T
Business Consultant	PLN 60T - PLN 135T

Source: Glassdoor(August 2024)

Admission Requirements for Universities in Poland

The following is an overview of the admissions procedures used by several Polish universities. You should review the admissions guidelines of each university to which you intend to apply because some may have additional specifications. 

• The first step in studying in Poland universities for international students is to choose the program.
• Then select a university and review its admissions requirements. You can study in Poland without IELTS. But the rules change depending on the country of origin, the school, and the university. If you want to study in Poland, it's always a good idea to check with the Polish government first. Then you need to contact the Admissions Office of the university you want to attend and discuss details like the papers you need, deadlines, and when the program starts. 
• After the university accepts your application, you will get an acceptance letter and a choice about whether you can attend. Using the last paper as a guide, the Embassy will give you a student visa for some time.

Post-Study Work Visa Options in Poland

The type of pass you need to stay in Poland after you finish the course depends on your nationality, just like in any other EU country. 

• The temporary residence pass can be given out only once, right after graduation, for nine months. You can apply for this pass if you want to stay and work but have yet to find a job. 
• People outside Poland who work for a Polish company need a temporary residence and work permit pass. 
• You can get a temporary residence to start a business in the country. 
• You will be eligible for an EU Blue Card as a non-EU/EEA citizen working as a highly-skilled employee if your monthly salary is at least PLN 6,877.55. 
• If you have resided legally in Poland for at least five years, you will be eligible for a permanent residence card.
• You can apply for Polish citizenship if you have lived in the country legally for three years and are fluent in Polish.

Unlike other European Union countries, the cost of studying in Poland is inexpensive. Students' monthly living expenses might start at 1500 PLN (330 EUR). The prices, however, are determined by the city where you reside.