If you are thinking about enrolling abroad, Poland is a great option! Studying in Poland offers students many benefits. First of all, Polish universities are known for their high quality education and internationally recognized diplomas. With a variety of programs available in Polish and English, international students can choose majors that match their academic and professional goals.
Private higher education institutions often support their students and graduates with employment issues during and after their studies. They organize special meetings and webinars with professionals, help with resume writing and give practical advice on job search. Moreover, Poland's central location in Europe opens up opportunities for inexpensive travel and cultural vacations. In this article we will tell you more about what you need to enroll in a Polish university.
How much does education cost in 2024?
The cost of education in Poland is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. For international students, study fees typically range from €1500 to €2500 per year in Polish and from €2300 to €3000 per year in English for most programs. However, the price can vary depending on the university and the chosen specialty. Technical and medical programs often have a higher cost (€3000 to €5000) compared to humanities such as management, business administration, sociology or tourism. It is important to research specific programs and universities for accurate cost information before applying.
In addition, there are many ways to receive financial aid to help pay for education. Universities offer scholarships based on academic achievement or financial need. Some programs offer tuition discounts (up to 100%) to the most active students with a high grade point average. Each institution also has its own scholarships that all students can apply for. These scholarships are usually awarded to students with high grades or who are actively involved in university life. These scholarships usually range from €250 to €400 per month.
Another common opportunity is to work part-time while studying. Students can usually earn between €500 and €1000 per month to cover their living or study expenses.
Additional costs for international students
Living expenses in Poland are significantly lower compared to other European countries, but can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. Students can choose between university dormitories, renting apartments or rooms. Larger cities such as Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw also have many private dormitories and rooms for rent. The average cost of accommodation in these cities ranges from €300 to €400 per month. In smaller cities such as Lublin or Poznan, rent can cost between €200 and €300.
For food and groceries, students usually spend between €150 and €200 per month. In larger cities like Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw, students can expect monthly living expenses of €500 to €700. While in smaller cities such as Lublin or Poznan, costs can be around €400 to €600 per month. A public transportation pass for students costs only €12 - €15 per month, which is much cheaper than in other EU countries.
Polish universities - which one to choose?
There are many universities in Poland that offer education for international students in different languages. You can get a high-quality education in Polish at public universities or in English at private universities, which is highly valued in Europe and recognized worldwide. A wide range of specialties, from IT, management and international relations to medicine and technical disciplines, allows everyone to find a suitable program. Universities actively support students by helping them find accommodation and employment, offering preparatory language courses and organizing various social events such as webinars, discos and picnics.
Most international students choose private universities because of the more loyal attitude of the teachers and the university, as well as a smaller study load, which allows them the freedom to work part-time, travel or do their favorite activities. In addition, it is much easier to enroll in a private university than in a public one, as entrance exams are not required and candidates are selected on the basis of properly completed and timely submitted documents.
How to enter a Polish university?
Each university has its own requirements depending on the program you want to apply for. They usually include good grades in your high school diploma (average score of at least 60%), sufficient knowledge of Polish or English (at about level B1-B2) and successful completion of entrance exams (if you are applying to a public university). Programs in English will require a certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC or Cambridge with a minimum level of B1-B2. Many private universities also offer the option of an online interview, which tests your language proficiency and based on this interview you may be accepted to study.
The process of applying to a Polish university begins with choosing an institution and a program. It also includes registering and submitting online applications, sending the required documents, paying administrative fees (€100-€200), and obtaining a student visa.
List of required documents for enrollment
And so, we move on to one of the most popular questions among applicants and their parents - what you will need to enroll in a Polish university. To enroll in Poland you will need:
Certificate from school (for 11 grades) or diploma from college/technical school. The certificate/diploma must be translated and certified with an apostille.
Certificate of language proficiency at B1-B2 level. In some universities there is an opportunity to confirm the language level by online interview.
Passport. You will need it not only to obtain a student visa, but also to enter the university.
Student visa. This is the key document for enrolling and coming to Poland. Citizens of the Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia), Ukraine and Moldova do not need a student visa. Here we have talked more about visas, including the student visa.
Health insurance. Often universities require health insurance, you will also need it to obtain a visa to Poland.
Letter of motivation. Often not a mandatory document, but may be required for admission to prestigious universities.
Enrolling in a Polish university can be a challenging task, but with relevant information and the support of professionals, you will be able to cope with it successfully. The aksis migration agents are ready to provide comprehensive assistance to foreign nationals who wish to become students of higher education institutions in Poland. We will help you choose the right university, calculate the costs and deal with all related issues related to legal residence and study in Poland.
