Poland has quietly become one of Europe’s fastest-growing study destinations, attracting thousands of students who want high-quality education without the heavy financial burden that usually comes with studying in Europe. With world-ranked universities, a vibrant student life, and one of the most affordable living costs in the EU, choosing to study in Poland for international students is now a smart, practical, and rewarding decision.
Beyond affordability, Poland offers strong academic programs, a multicultural environment, and a growing job market. The mix of traditional European charm and modern cities gives students an ideal place to learn, travel, and build a global future. Whether you want engineering, medicine, business, IT, or social sciences, studying in Poland for international students opens the door to hundreds of English-taught programs across the country.
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Pros of Study in Poland for International Students
Choosing to study in Poland for international students offers numerous advantages, including:
- Affordable tuition fees compared to Western Europe
- Low cost of living for students
- Hundreds of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs
- Internationally recognized degrees across Europe and beyond
- Safe and student-friendly cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw
- Diverse and multicultural environment
- Strong academic traditions and research opportunities
- Access to the Schengen Zone for easy European travel
- Modern facilities and technologically advanced campuses
- Opportunities for part-time work during studies
Cons of Study in Poland for International Students
While Poland offers many benefits, there are certain challenges associated with studying there:
- Cold winters and unpredictable weather
- Language barrier in daily life outside big cities
- Limited part-time job availability in smaller towns
- Some universities have competitive admission for popular programs
- Work-life balance may feel demanding for certain courses
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
A structured and clear application process helps students planning to study in Poland for international students stay organized. Below is the complete process:
1. Search for Suitable Study Programs
Explore English-taught programs using:
- Official NAWA Study in Poland Portal
This portal provides complete details on programs offered across Polish universities. - University-specific admission portals
Each institution has its own application system.
2. Review Admission Requirements
Most universities require:
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or English-medium certificate)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Passport copy
- Application fee payment
- Recommendation letters (in some cases)
3. Apply Through the University Portal
Poland does not use a centralized system like Studielink.
Each university has its own online application portal for registration and submission.
4. Submit Required Documents
Upload your transcripts, test scores, and supporting files to the university system.
5. Attend Additional Assessments
Some programs may require:
- Interviews
- Portfolios (for art/design)
- Entrance exams (for medical or technical fields)
6. Receive Your Offer Letter
If accepted, you’ll receive either a conditional or unconditional offer.
7. Complete Tuition Deposit & Start Visa Application
Once you accept the offer, the university will guide you through:
- Tuition deposit payment
- Visa process at the nearest Polish Embassy
- Residence permit requirements
Cost of Living in Poland
Students planning to study in Poland for international students can expect the following monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: 150–300 EUR in dorms, 300–500 EUR in shared flats
- Food & groceries: 120–200 EUR
- Transportation: 10–15 EUR with student discounts
- Health insurance: 20–50 EUR
- Miscellaneous expenses: 80–150 EUR
Total estimated cost: 400–750 EUR per month
One of the most affordable options in the EU.
Tuition Fees in Poland
Tuition fees depend on the university and program type:
- Bachelor’s programs: 2,000–4,000 EUR per year
- Master’s programs: 2,500–6,000 EUR per year
- Medical programs: 10,000–16,000 EUR per year
- Engineering/IT programs: 2,000–5,500 EUR per year
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Scholarships Available for International Students
Scholarships significantly reduce the financial burden for those planning to study in Poland for international students. Poland offers government-funded, university-funded, and international scholarship opportunities that help with tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Below are the major options available for the 2026 intake:
1. NAWA Poland Government Scholarship
One of the most recognized scholarships for non-EU students planning to study in Poland for international students.
- Eligibility: Applicants applying for master’s or PhD programs at Polish universities.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, motivation letter, passport copy, and completed NAWA online application.
- Benefits: Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and health insurance.
- Duration: Covers the full duration of the degree.
2. Ignacy Lukasiewicz Scholarship
A country-specific program offered to support students from selected developing nations aiming to Study in Poland for international students.
- Eligibility: Students from eligible developing countries applying for technical, engineering, or science-related programs.
- Requirements: Academic documents, proof of nationality, English proficiency, and program-specific requirements.
- Benefits: Full tuition fee coverage plus monthly stipend.
- Duration: Covers the full program duration.
3. University Merit Scholarships
Many Polish universities offer internal funding for outstanding students who choose to study in Poland for international students.
- Eligibility: Enrolled students with strong academic performance.
- Requirements: University-specific scholarship application, transcripts, and sometimes recommendation letters.
- Benefits: Partial tuition waivers to full tuition coverage depending on the university.
- Duration: One academic year, renewable based on performance.
4. Erasmus+ Scholarships
A popular funding option for exchange and joint-degree students planning to Study in Poland for international students.
- Eligibility: Students applying for Erasmus mobility programs.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, learning agreement, and university approval.
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, and partial tuition support.
- Duration: 3 to 24 months depending on the program.
Top Universities in Poland
These universities are among the most popular choices for those who plan to study in Poland for international students:
- University of Warsaw
- Jagiellonian University
- Warsaw University of Technology
- AGH University of Science & Technology
- Wroclaw University of Science & Technology
- Gdansk University of Technology
- University of Lodz
- Poznan University of Technology
- Nicolaus Copernicus University
- Kozminski University (top-ranked business school)
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Choosing to study in Poland for international students offers a unique mix of affordability, strong academics, and European exposure. With modern campuses, a variety of English-taught programs, and access to the Schengen Zone, Poland provides an enriching environment for academic and personal development. Despite minor challenges like cold weather or language barriers, the overall value makes Poland one of the best study destinations in Europe for 2026 and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it expensive to study in Poland for international students?
Not at all. Compared to Western Europe, the cost of living is very low. Students can manage comfortably on 400–750 EUR per month.
Do Polish universities teach in English?
Yes. Over 800 programs are offered in English, making Study in Poland for international students simple and accessible.
What are the tuition fees for Study in Poland for international students?
Tuition fees range from 2,000 to 6,000 EUR per year for most degrees, while medical programs can cost up to 16,000 EUR annually.
Can international students work while studying in Poland?
Yes. Students who choose to Study in Poland for international students can work part-time without needing extra work permits.
What are the best cities to Study in Poland for international students?
Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, and Poznan are among the top choices due to great universities, safety, and student friendly environments.
Is IELTS required to Study in Poland for international students?
Many universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or even English-medium certificates, depending on the program.
How long does it take to get a student visa for Poland?
Most students receive their visa within 3-8 weeks after applying, depending on embassy workload and completeness of documents.
Are scholarships available to Study in Poland for international students?
Yes. NAWA government scholarships, Ignacy Lukasiewicz, Erasmus+, and university merit awards support tuition and living costs.
Can students stay in Poland after graduation?
Yes. Students who Study in Poland for international students can apply for a temporary residence permit to look for work or start a job in Poland.
