Study in Poland: A Guide for International Students
- Study Abroad in Poland
Are you looking for study programs abroad, especially in Europe? Do you want to combine high-quality universities, very affordable tuition fees and a vibrant student and cultural life? If the answer is yes, then all roads lead for you to study in Poland!
Imagine earning your diploma literally in the center of Europe, a fact that opens you doors to work and travel in multiple European destinations. Poland or officially the Republic of Poland, is a central European country with quite a lot of neighboring countries such as Lithuania, the Kaliningrad region, Belarus, Ukraine, Slovakia, Czech Republic and Germany.
Not only that, but Poland is one of the most affordable European countries for studies (PhD degrees are actually offered for free!) and Polish cities like Warsaw and Krakow are voted among the top student-friendly cities, offering a lively atmosphere, a great study environment and low cost of living.
With 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites satisfying even the most demanding traveller and a rich history spanning over centuries, Poland is a country that combines everything from high mountains, picturesque cities and villages, lakes and national parks. Did you know that Poland is the home of the largest castle in the world, the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork? Plus, Poland is the world’s biggest amber exporter!
Curious to learn more about studying abroad in Poland? If you want to learn more about university fees, language, culture and visa regulations, read through our study in Poland guide below to find out why this European gem will offer you a fascinating study experience like no other!
Poland - Quick facts & figures
| Capital | Warsaw |
| Language | Polish |
| Population | 38.2 million |
| Area Size | 312,696 km² |
| International students | 46,000 |
| Academic Year | October - June |
| Currency | Złoty (PLN) |
| Calling Code | +48 |
| Time zone | CET (UTC+1) |
More about studying abroad in Poland
Why study in Poland? It’s an excellent choice you can make for your career due to the country’s excellent higher education system. The Polish system is characterized by affordability, accessibility and specialized focus. Poland has more than 450 HEIs (Higher Education Institutions) and is the home country of the second oldest university in Europe.
The Jagiellonian University was founded by King Casimir III the Great in 1364 and teaches continuously until today with notable alumni like Nicolaus Copernicus, John Paul II or Bronisław Malinowski. Other globally accredited universities in the country include the University of Warsaw, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Łódź Film School, College of Europe Natolin (Warsaw) and the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw.
The Polish Commission of National Education, established in 1773, is considered the first Ministry of Education internationally. Nowadays, higher tertiary education in Poland is administered by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education. In order to maintain their high status, Polish universities are regularly evaluated by the Polish Accreditations Committee, the General Council of Higher Education and the Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools.
In Poland you can find more than 500 institutions to choose from, 16 of them included in the QS World University Rankings and 25 of them in the QS EECA University Rankings. Polish universities are the alma mater of 18 Nobel laureates and the Polish education system offers three types of degrees: licencjat or inżynier (first cycle qualification), magister (second cycle qualification) and doktor (third cycle qualification).
Plus, the lack of entrance exams to Polish universities makes this study destination much more attractive to international students. You will just need a certificate of secondary education, a financial viability certificate and English or Polish language proficiency!
Still not convinced on why study in Poland? The PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) program, coordinated by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), revealed that students in Poland perform better academically than in most OECD countries.
Student Ambassador in Poland
Renata is an educations.com Student Ambassador from North Macedonia. Follow her on TikTok to find out what it's like to study in Poland!
Education System
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Poland? Both public and private universities follow the objectives and the standards set by the Bologna process.
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Poland to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizen status.
Housing & Living Costs
Housing and cost of living in Poland are relatively cheap, especially when compared with other countries in Europe.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Poland vary but education for international students is still far lower than in many other European countries.
Language & Culture
Poland is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!
Application Process
Entry requirements in Poland vary from university to university. Here you can find more information about the application process for both EU and non-EU citizens.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Poland? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Poland today!
Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.