Poland
Study in Poland
Poland is a beautiful country that sits at the intersection of Eastern and Western Europe, both geographically and culturally. Despite facing many challenges throughout its 1000-year history, Poland has emerged as a resilient nation that has managed to preserve its identity. Today, it holds a significant position as the largest of the former Eastern European states. It is one of the most populous members of the European Union, making it an essential player on the world stage.
Why Study in Poland?
As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, Poland has eliminated passport checks on its borders with Germany, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania. This makes travelling between Schengen Area countries convenient and hassle-free, without the need for internal land and sea border controls. Travellers can enjoy a worry-free journey from Portugal to Poland and Greece to Finland.
Poland's strategic location has made it a central position in the European Union, with its border on the river Bug considered the EU's eastern border. This has increased foreign investments from Western Europe, the US, and Asia, making logistics activities more accessible. Consequently, there has been an increase in the number of immigrants entering the country.
Poland's higher education institutions actively participate in international student exchange programs, bilateral agreements, and individual exchange programs, fostering relationships between Polish and foreign institutions of higher education. As a result, the mobility of Polish students has rapidly increased, with around 200 Polish institutions of higher education being awarded an Erasmus University Charter.
Poland's education market has been the most dynamically developing in Europe over the last twelve years, with the number of higher education institutions increasing fivefold and the number of students quadrupling. With some of Europe's oldest universities, such as the Jagiellonian University of Cracow, established in 1364, Polish universities offer high-quality studies. They are an integral part of the European education space. All leading universities offer programs taught in English, including medicine, engineering, humanities, business, and finance. Poland is actively participating in the Bolonia Process, and through the ECTS (European Credit Transfer System), students can have full mobility and continue their education in other countries.
We hope you visit us soon!
Here's a quick introduction to Poland.
- Republic of Poland/Rzeczpospolita Polska is its formal name. Poland, also known as Polska,
- Republic-style of government
- Europe's Central Region
- Belarus (416 km), the Czech Republic (790 km), Germany (467 km), Lithuania (103 km), Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast) (210 km), Slovakia (541 km), and Ukraine (529 km) are the neighbouring countries.
- Linguistics: Polish
- Capital: Warsaw
- Major cities include Gdansk, Kraków, ód, Pozna, and Wroclaw.
- Thirty-eight million or so people in total.
- 312 685 sq km total area (304 465 sq m land, 8220 sq m water).
- Climate: mild summers with frequent showers and thundershowers; cold, cloudy, moderately severe winters with frequent precipitation.
- Local time is GMT + 1 hour.
- Since 2004. A member of the European Union.
- Religions: Protestantism 0,3%, other 0,3%, unspecified 8,3%, Roman Catholicism 89,8%, Eastern Orthodoxy 1,3%.
- Currency symbol: zloty (PLN)
- Real-time rates of exchange: www.nbp.pl
Student visa requirements for Poland
You must meet specific requirements to apply for a student visa to Poland. Here is a summary of Poland's requirements for student visas:
- Acceptance into a Polish Educational Institution: You must possess a letter of confirmed admission from a Polish educational institution, such as a university or college, attesting to your acceptance into a study program.
- Financial Capacity: You must show that you have the money to pay your tuition, living expenses, and the expenses of any accompanying family members (if any). Bank statements, letters of scholarship support, or sponsorship letters are some examples of this.
- Health Insurance: You must purchase health insurance that covers you while travelling in Poland. This can be a private health insurance policy or, if necessary, documentation proving membership in the Polish National Health Fund (NFZ).
- Valid Passport: You must have a valid passport for at least six months beyond the time you plan to spend in Poland.
- Proof of Accommodation: You might be asked to show documentation of your lodging in Poland, such as a lease or a letter from your university attesting to your living arrangements.
- Language Proficiency: You might be asked to provide documentation of your language ability, depending on your chosen program and the language of instruction. Results from language tests or the successful completion of language programs can demonstrate this.
- Travel medical insurance is advised in case of any medical emergencies or costs associated with returning home while travelling to or from Poland.
- You'll need to fill out a visa application form, which is available from the Polish embassy or consulate in your nation, and pay the required fee. The appropriate visa application fee must also be paid.
Cost to study in Poland.
The cost of studying in Poland can vary depending on the university, program, and level of study. Here is a general overview of the average tuition fees for Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, and PhD programs in Poland:
Study Level | Average Tuition Fees (per year in EUR) |
---|---|
Bachelor's Degree | 2,000 - 6,000 |
Master's Degree | 2,000 - 8,000 |
MBA | 6,000 - 20,000 |
PhD | 3,000 - 10,000 |
Please be aware that depending on the university, program, and field of study, these numbers are approximations and can change significantly. The tuition for some prestigious or specialised programs might be more expensive.
The specific tuition costs for the program and school you are interested in, and any available scholarships or financial aid options should be thoroughly researched and verified. Due to Polish government subsidies, EU students typically pay lower tuition than non-EU students. Tuition fees may also vary for EU and non-EU students.
When planning your budget for your education in Poland, it's also a good idea to consider other costs like lodging, living expenses, health insurance, and study materials.
Scholarships to study in Poland
International students can study in Poland on several scholarships. Here are a few well-known scholarship schemes:
- Scholarships from the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA): The Polish Government Scholarship, Banach Scholarship, and Ulam Scholarship are just a few scholarship opportunities that NAWA provides for international students. These bursaries are available for programs at all academic levels, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
- The Visegrad Scholarship Program offers financial aid to students from Visegrad Group nations (the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia) and non-Visegrad nations. It supports post-Master's and master's studies across a range of disciplines.
- Scholarships through the Erasmus+ program are available to students who wish to pursue studies abroad at one of its partner institutions in Poland. The scholarships pay for living costs, tuition, and travel expenses.
- The Ignacy Ukasiewicz Scholarship Program assists exceptional students from a limited number of nations in pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD degrees in Poland. It is accessible to many academic disciplines.
- These scholarships from the Polish-American Freedom Foundation are geared toward students from Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. They fund research in the humanities, social sciences, and engineering at Polish universities.
- The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs awards students from developing nations with the Stefan Banach Scholarship. It funds a variety of academic programs at Polish universities.
Additionally, many Polish universities have international student scholarship programs. Please look into the scholarship opportunities on the official websites of the universities you are interested in.
It's important to remember that each scholarship program has unique requirements for eligibility, submission dates, and selection procedures. Please carefully review the prerequisites and instructions for each scholarship and submit your application by the deadlines.
Intakes in Poland
Universities in Poland typically offer two main intakes for international students:
Fall Intake: Starting in September or October, the Fall intake is the central intake period for most programs. It is the most popular intake since it coincides with Poland's academic year. Depending on the university and program, the application process typically begins between January and April for the Fall intake.
Spring Intake: Beginning in February or March, some Polish universities also offer a Spring intake. The Spring intake, however, is less frequent and restricted to specific institutions and programs. The application period typically opens for the Spring intake in the preceding Fall or early Winter, from September to November.
It's important to remember that depending on the university, program, and level of study, the availability of particular intakes may change. You should check the official website of your chosen university or contact the admissions office for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding intakes and application deadlines because some highly competitive programs may have restricted admissions or specific deadlines.
No matter the intake, starting the application process early is advised to allow enough time to assemble the necessary paperwork, submit applications, and obtain a student visa if required.
Top courses to study in Poland
Poland provides a wide selection of academic programs in numerous fields. The following are some of the most popular programs in Poland:
Course Category | Popular Courses |
---|---|
Engineering and Technology | Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology |
Business and Management | Business Administration, International Business, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship |
Medicine and Health Sciences | Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing |
Computer Science and IT | Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Networks |
International Relations | International Relations, Political Science, European Studies |
Architecture and Design | Architecture, Urban Planning, Interior Design |
Humanities and Social Sciences | Psychology, Sociology, History, Philosophy, Cultural Studies, Linguistics |
Environmental Science | Environmental Science, Ecology, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development |
Art and Design | Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Film and Media, Performing Arts |
Tourism and Hospitality | Tourism Management, Hospitality Management, Event Planning |
This is a partial list; many other courses are available in Poland across various disciplines. I recommend exploring universities' offerings and considering your interests and career aspirations when choosing a method to study in Poland.
To select the best course that suits your interests, career goals, and academic strengths, it's critical to research specific universities, their rankings, program offerings, and accreditation.
Top Universities to Study in Poland
Several prestigious universities in Poland have a broad range of academic programs. Some of the best institutions to take into account for studying in Poland are listed below:
University | Ranking |
---|---|
University of Warsaw | QS World University Rankings: 375th |
Jagiellonian University | QS World University Rankings: 338th |
Warsaw University of Technology | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
AGH University of Science and Technology | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
Wrocław University of Science and Technology | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
Gdańsk University of Technology | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
University of Gdańsk | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
Poznań University of Technology | QS World University Rankings: 801-1000 |
It's crucial to remember that your academic interests, professional objectives, and personal preferences should all be considered when selecting a university and program. To make an informed choice, it is advised to research each university's advantages, faculty specialities, resources, and services for students.
Job Prospects in Poland
Poland's recent rapid economic expansion has improved job prospects for graduates from both domestic and foreign universities. An overview of Poland's employment prospects is provided below:
- Strong economy: Poland's economy is one of the continent's fastest-growing. Significant foreign investments have been made in the nation, and its business climate is thriving, especially in fields like IT, finance, manufacturing, engineering, and shared services.
- Growing Job Market: Poland provides various industry employment options. There is a high demand for skilled IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, tourism, and hospitality workers.
- IT and Technology Sector: The IT sector in Poland is expanding quickly, offering many job opportunities to IT specialists. Cities with a large populations, such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw, have developed into well-known technology hubs that draw large corporations and startups.
- Multinational Corporations: Poland is now home to many multinational corporations, which provide opportunities for foreign professionals to work there. Businesses in industries like automotive, electronics, finance, and outsourcing offer a variety of job opportunities.
- English is widely used in business settings and among many multinational corporations. However, knowing Polish can be helpful, particularly for jobs requiring a lot of communication, such as those in customer service, government, and administrative positions.
- Startups and entrepreneurship: Poland has a developing entrepreneurial ecosystem with supportive laws and programs. Poland can be desirable if you want to start or have a business idea.
- Favorable Work Environment: Compared to other Western European nations, Poland offers an excellent work-life balance, competitive salaries (especially in major cities), and a relatively low cost of living. The country also has a robust social welfare system and labour laws that defend workers' rights.
- Participation in the EU: Poland's participation in the European Union (EU) opens doors for job mobility within the EU. Graduates who land a job in Poland can take advantage of the EU job market's freedom of movement.
It's important to remember that job prospects can vary depending on industry, education, experience, and skills. You can improve your chances of getting a job in Poland by doing extensive research, networking, and seeking advice from career services or job placement centres.
Here is an overview of job prospects in Poland, along with average salary ranges for some common professions:
Job Category |
Average Salary Range (in PLN per month) |
IT and Software Development |
6,000 - 12,000 |
Engineering and Technical Roles |
5,000 - 10,000 |
Finance and Accounting |
4,000 - 9,000 |
Sales and Marketing |
3,500 - 8,000 |
Healthcare and Medical |
4,000 - 9,000 |
Hospitality and Tourism |
3,000 - 6,000 |
Teaching and Education |
3,500 - 7,000 |
Administration and Customer Service |
3,000 - 6,000 |
Construction and Skilled Trades |
4,000 - 8,000 |
Human Resources |
4,000 - 8,000 |
Salaries in Poland vary based on experience, qualifications, location, and employer. Significant cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw offer higher wages. The cost of living is relatively lower, so salaries provide a decent standard of living. Could you thoroughly research job portals and recruitment agencies for accurate and up-to-date information on job prospects and wages specific to your field?
Cost of living in Poland
Here is a table showcasing the average cost of living in Poland:
Expense Category | Average Cost (in PLN) |
---|---|
Accommodation (1-bedroom apartment in the city centre) | 2,000 - 3,500 |
Accommodation (1-bedroom apartment outside the city centre) | 1,500 - 2,500 |
Utilities (including electricity, heating, water, and garbage) | 400 - 700 |
Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) | 60 - 80 |
Groceries | 600 - 1,000 |
Eating Out | 20 - 40 per meal |
Public Transportation (monthly pass) | 100 - 150 |
Taxi (start fare) | 6 - 10 |
Fitness Club Membership | 80 - 150 |
Cinema Ticket | 20 - 40 |
Please be aware that these numbers are approximations and may change depending on the city of residence, lifestyle, and individual preferences. It's crucial to modify these estimates to reflect your unique situation and consider extra costs like entertainment, travel, and health insurance.
The Polish Zloty (PLN) is the currency in use in Poland. You'll better understand the costs in your local currency if you convert the prices to the currency of your choice.
Working in Poland While Studying:
1. Part-Time Employment: International students may work part-time while studying in Poland. Students who are not citizens of the EU or EEA are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.
2. Work Permits: Students outside the EU/EEA may need a work permit to work in Poland. This requirement might be exempt for specific employment opportunities, such as internships or student jobs on campus.
Working in Poland After Graduation:
1. Temporary Residence Permit: Graduates from other countries who want to work in Poland after receiving their degrees can apply for a temporary residence permit specifically for that purpose. With this permit, graduates may stay and work in Poland for a predetermined time.
2. Employment Prospects: Poland's job market is expanding, providing graduates with employment opportunities across various industries. There is a high demand for skilled workers, Particularly in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and shared services.
3. Work Permits: Graduates from outside the EU/EEA may require a work permit to work in Poland after graduation. The employer submits the work permit application on the employee's behalf.
It's essential to remember that individual circumstances, such as the country of citizenship and the type of residence permit obtained, may affect the specific rules and regulations regarding work permits and employment opportunities. It is advised to speak with the relevant officials or immigration advisors to learn about the precise conditions and procedures for working in Poland while a student and after graduation.
Find The Right Course
Choosing the best course is crucial to carefully weighing all available information. Here are some essential criteria to look at and contrast between colleges and universities:
- The rankings of the universities you are interested in should be considered. Universities with higher rankings frequently have stronger academic reputations and resources.
- Start Dates of Available Programs: Please confirm that the programs you are interested in fit your schedule and availability by checking their start dates.
- Examine the course objectives and curriculum to ensure they align with your academic interests, goals, and career aspirations.
- Research the programs' teaching techniques, such as lectures, seminars, hands-on activities, internships, or research projects. You can choose the teaching strategy that best fits your learning preferences.
- Investigate the opportunities and career prospects connected to the course. Check out statistics on graduate employment, success stories of former students, and connections to the industry.
- Campus Life and Activities: To improve your college experience, take advantage of the clubs, extracurricular activities, and facilities offered on campus.
- Research your options for lodging, including university residence halls, individual rentals, and host families. Think about the price, distance from the campus, and quality of living.
- Review the admission requirements, which include educational needs, English language proficiency tests (like the TOEFL or IELTS), and any other entrance exams or portfolio requirements.
- Affordability of the course: Examine the actual course costs and contrast them with your spending plan. Please look for grants, financial aid programs, or scholarships that can support your academic endeavours.
- Understand the prerequisites and application procedure for the nation you want to study in. You can visit the university's official website and speak with the neighbourhood embassy or consulate for the most recent information.
Remember to prioritise your preferences, interests, and long-term objectives when choosing the best course. Before deciding, do extensive research, ask educational advisors or mentors for advice, and consider attending university open days or online information sessions to gather more specific information.
Documentation Needed To Study Poland
The following types of documentation are typically needed to study in Poland:
- Application Form: Fill out the application form offered by the university or one available online. Could you make sure all the necessary details are filled in accurately?
- I'd like you to write a strong statement of purpose (SOP) highlighting your educational background, the factors that led you to select the particular program and university, and your professional goals. Your motivation and program suitability for the program should be shown in the SOP.
- Academic Transcripts: Please send copies of your official academic transcripts or records from previous institutions of higher learning detailing your grades, courses completed, and degrees attained. If transcripts are in a different language, they should be translated into English or Polish.
- Obtain letters of recommendation (LORs) from professors, instructors, or employers who can attest to your academic prowess, moral character, and the likelihood of success in the program of choice. Usually, two or three letters of recommendation are needed.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or a resume: Create a detailed outline or CV with information about your education, professional background, research endeavours, internships, publications, and other noteworthy accomplishments.
- Test results: Include the results of standardised English language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. You might also be required to submit test results from the SAT or GRE, depending on the program and university.
- Essays: Additional essays or personal statements that address particular topics or prompts may be required by some universities. These essays allow you to demonstrate your writing abilities and discuss your motivations and objectives.
- Valid Passport: Verify that your passport will remain valid for at least six months after the time you plan to spend in Poland. Before applying for admission, could you consider renewing your key if it expires soon?
It's important to remember that different universities and programs may have additional requirements for specific documentation. Please always look at the university's official website for the most precise and recent information regarding required documentation and application processes.
How To Apply For A Student Visa To Study Poland?
- Before planning to study abroad, it is crucial to understand the visa requirements of the country you wish to go to. The respective nation’s embassy should be your initial point of contact to obtain the necessary information.
- To ensure a successful trip, obtaining confirmation from your university before travelling to your destination is essential. Applying for a visa is a must, but wait until you have received an official offer from the university before submitting your application. Additionally, you may need to apply for the visa in person at an embassy.
- To determine the visa that suits your needs, it is essential to identify the specific type of visa required by the country you plan to study. Generally, you will need a non-immigrant student/study visa, which indicates that your visit is solely to research and not for permanent settlement.
- Before applying for your visa, obtaining proof of your acceptance into a program from the university or college you intend to attend may be necessary.
- If you need the necessary documents from your university, please get in touch with them. They can assist you in determining the type of visa you should apply for and give you the proper papers.
- Once your university or college has informed you of the appropriate visa and required documents, you must be prepared to apply. You can ask about the visa application process at the embassy or consulate of your host country or check their website for information.
- In case of any provided fraudulent information or omission of crucial facts during the visa application process, the visa will be revoked.
- The processing time for your visa application can vary depending on your nationality and the country you’re visiting. It can take a few days to up to 3 months. Planning and allowing enough time for the application process is essential to avoid issues. Rushing your application is not recommended, as it may lead to losing your spot.
- If you’re looking to apply for overseas immigration, consider seeking assistance from a specialist. They can guide you through the application process and provide valuable support.
Our Study Abroad Package
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