🇵🇱 How to apply to university in Poland

There is no central application system: you apply to each institution directly. Programmes usually start: October; some programmes start in February.

Checked on 20 October 2026 against the official sources listed below.

The essentials

Application system: None — apply to each institution on its own website.
When programmes start: October; some programmes start in February.
International applicants: International students apply directly to each university; NAWA handles recognition of school certificates from outside the EU, OECD and EFTA but doesn't admit students.
Language: Polish or English, as the programme requires; a preparatory year is available for Polish.

Key dates

Each university sets its own dates. Admission campaigns usually start in April or May and can last several months; non-EU applicants should apply early to leave time for the visa.

The dates for the next intake haven't been published yet. We add them once the official source does.

Your checklist

The usual steps for an international student applying to a bachelor's in Poland, in order. Tick them off as you go — your ticks stay in this browser, with no account.

1.Choose a programme and university and read its admission rules.
2.Check whether your school certificate needs a NAWA recognition statement (free, via SYRENA) — not needed for EU, OECD or EFTA certificates, the IB or the EB.
3.Prepare the application: form, photo, certificate (translated unless in Polish or English) and language certificate.
4.Apply online to the university by its deadline and pay its fee, if any.
5.Receive your admission letter.
6.Apply for a national D visa at a Polish consulate with the letter, insurance and proof of funds.
7.Before the visa expires, apply to the voivodeship office for a temporary residence permit.

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Next steps

Sources

Written by CollegeMatcher in our own words from these official pages, checked on 20 October 2026. Dates change every year.

Study in Poland (NAWA) — How to apply