Studying in Poland

Tuition fees

• Range: €2,000 – €12,000 per year, depending on programme and institution
• Specifically:
  • €2,000 per year for the first, second and long cycle studies
  • €3,000 per year for postgraduate as well as scientific, arts, specialist and post-doctoral internships
  • €2,000 per year for an annual preparatory Polish language course to commence studies in Polish

More details on tuition fees

Living costs

You will need about €330 - €430 per month for rent, food, transportation, and other expenses. The actual costs may differ per city. The capital may be slightly more expensive than other major Polish cities. Student discounts are available for public transport and cultural activities.

Get a monthly breakdown of costs

EU/EEA students

You do not need a visa to study in Poland, but you must register for your stay if it's longer than 3 months. You should register this at the provincial government office.

Non-EU/EEA students

You will most likely need a student visa to study in Poland. You can apply for a visa at the Polish embassy or consulate in your country.

Learn the entry requirements

Degree structure

Poland follows the Bologna system, which is

• Bachelor’s degree: 3-4 years
• Master’s degree: 1-2 years
• PhD: 3–4 years

Poland also participates in the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), a standard means to compare academic credits between countries.

Application process

The following steps will help you start your academic journey in Poland.

1. Choose your programme and higher education institution Explore study options that fit your interests and career goals. Each higher education institution may have its own admission criteria, so check carefully. You can use the Study Finder to start your search.
2. Check the admission requirements Review the specific entry criteria for your chosen programme, including academic qualifications and language proficiency.
3. Prepare your documents You'll need to have several documents ready, such as diplomas, transcripts, passport copy, and language certificates.
4. Apply online Submit your application through the online portal of your chosen higher education institution, and make sure to meet the application deadlines.
5. Receive your admission letter Once accepted, you’ll get an official admission letter. This admission letter is essential for those who need a visa or residence permit.
6. Take care of practicalities Take care of practical matters like legalising documents, health insurance, and visa arrangements before your arrival.

Poland offers a range of scholarships to support international EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students. Opportunities vary depending on your country of origin, level of study, and field of interest. Scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both.

List of available scholarship programmes

Student life in Poland is vibrant, affordable, and full of opportunities to grow professionally and personally. Higher education institutions host various student organisations, events, and exchange programmes. Students can use a student card that provides discounts on transport, cultural activities, and more.

Are programmes taught in English?

Yes! Many universities in Poland offer a wide range of study programmes in English, especially at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. This makes it easier for international students to study without needing to speak Polish.

Overview of English-taught study programmes

Can I work while studying in Poland?

Yes, you can. EU/EEA citizens, holders of the Card of the Pole, and non-EU/EEA students who are enrolled in full-time studies and hold a student visa or temporary residence permit are allowed to work in Poland without needing a separate work permit. While students must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to live in Poland, combining studies with part-time work is possible and common.

For more details, students are encouraged to consult the Office for Foreigners.

Is health insurance required?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all students. EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Non-EU students need to arrange private health insurance or register with the Polish National Health Fund (NFZ) after arrival.

More on health insurance

How can I find housing?

Students can choose between university dormitories, which are affordable and social, or private accommodation, such as rented apartments or shared flats. Many universities offer support or guidance to help international students find suitable housing before arrival.

Student and private housing in Poland