1. Why should I choose Poland for my studies?

Poland is a popular destination for international students, offering a culturally rich experience. Students from all over the world are drawn to the country’s historic landmarks, stunning scenery, vibrant cities, and diverse social scene. The Polish people are also known for their warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. 

2. Where is Poland located?

Poland (the Republic of Poland) is located in Central Europe. It is the fifth-most populous member state of the European Union. Warsaw is the nation’s capital and largest metropolis. Poland is bordered by Belarus and Ukraine to the east; Lithuania and Russia to the northeast; Slovakia and the Czech Republic to the south; and Germany to the west. The Republic of Poland shares maritime boundaries with Denmark and Sweden. In the south territory, Poland stretches the Sudeten and the Carpathian Mountains.

3. What is the climate of Poland?

Poland’s climate is moderate, influenced by its location in central Europe and its proximity to the Baltic Sea. However, the weather can be unpredictable due to the collision of humid Atlantic and dry continental air masses.

Winters are cold, with temperatures below freezing in December, January, and February. In mountainous regions, temperatures can be even colder, and snowfall is common. Summers are generally pleasant, with warm to hot temperatures in June, July, and August, averaging from 20°C to 25°C. Occasionally, heatwaves can push temperatures above 30°C. Summers offer longer daylight hours, making it a popular time for outdoor activities and tourism.

4. Do I need to speak fluent Polish?

The student does not need to be fluent in Polish because universities offer a large variety of study programs in English. Nevertheless, the student may learn Polish either for private everyday use for the time you stay in Poland or for joining a university Preparatory course.

5. What is a Preparatory Course?

The Preparatory Course (PC) is a one-year program that helps international students prepare for their chosen major program. During the PC, students study the English or native language of the country and take courses in specific subjects related to their future field of study. Upon successful completion of the PC, students receive a certificate that allows them to enroll in full-fledged major programs.

6. What is the currency used in Poland?

Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN) as its currency, unlike most other European countries, which use the Euro. One zloty is divided into 100 groszy. It is easy to exchange currency for PLN within the European Union or the United Kingdom, as currency exchange counters are readily available. However, outside of these regions, such as in the United States or Australia, it may be more difficult to find PLN at currency exchange counters, but it can be easily ordered online.

1 USD=4.19 PLN

1 EUR=4.49 PLN.

7. How much money does a student need for living expenses in Poland?

Depending on the student’s personal situation, lifestyle, and habits he may have different needs. In practice, the student will need at least 1200-2500 PLN per month in order to cover the cost of decent accommodation, pay for local transport, and even go out occasionally. This amount should cover the costs of rent, food, clothing, personal hygiene, local transport, study materials, telephone, and other expenses – not the tuition fee, however.

Here is an approximate calculation of monthly expenses: accommodation in student dormitories costs 400-600 PLN, shared flat from 1000 to 1600 PLN per month; food about 500-700 PLN; books and entertainment about 200-300 PLN; local transport about 65 PLN.

8. How does public transport in Poland work?

Poland’s public transportation system is extensive and reliable, with buses and trams that provide convenient and efficient travel throughout the city. Residents and visitors can easily rely on this system to get to their destinations on time.

9. Where and how can a student buy a travel ticket?

• In the ticket machine (they are located in most transports, at bus stops and metro stations);
• At the SKM passenger service point;
• Via the mobile app (there are several applications that allow you to buy short-term travel tickets);
• Online – on the WTP website (where you can top up the Warsaw city card or electronic student ID).

10. What is Polish cuisine like?

Polish cuisine is a diverse mix of flavors, from hearty meat and potato dishes to savory cabbage and root vegetable stews. Iconic dishes like pierogi and bigos are emblematic of the country’s culinary history. Popular meat dishes include kielbasa and kotlet schabowy, while traditional desserts include paczki and szarlotka. Polish food has been shaped by its neighboring countries, resulting in a rich blend of German, Jewish, and Ukrainian influences.

11. Does a student need English language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)?

In Poland, on the contrary to other countries, an IELTS or a TOEFL certification is not mandatory (but it depends on which university the student is going to choose). However, proof of English knowledge is needed.

12. When the academic year starts in Poland?

Polish universities start their academic year in October and end it in June. There are two terms in the academic year – Summer Term and Winter Term. The summer term begins in the second week of February and ends in June. After a break of Easter, the year resumes with the Winter term beginning at the start of October and ending before the summer term.

13. What is the academic calendar for universities in Poland?

Polish universities have a two-semester academic year, with the fall semester running from October to January or February, followed by exams. The spring semester begins in February or March and runs until June or July, with another exam session. There is a summer break from July to September.

14. What is the duration of Bachelor and Master studies in Poland?

It takes about 3 academic years to finish bachelor studies in Poland (6 semesters) in general. The timeline for master studies in Poland depends on the field of study and can last from 1.5 to 2 academic years, making 3 or 4 semesters accordingly. Medical degrees typically take 5-6 years. 

15. What is the cost of education in Poland?

The tuition fees for a Bachelor’s degree at universities in Poland range from around PLN 2,500 to PLN 7,500 per year. Tuition fees for a Master’s degree at Polish universities range from around PLN 3,000 to PLN 10,000 per year.

16. What are the most popular universities in Poland?

• University of Wroclaw;
• SWPS University;
• International European University, Poland;
• AGH University of Science and Technology;
• Medical University of Lodz;
• Medical University of Silesia in Katowice;
• Warsaw University of Business and Humanities.

17. What are the most popular fields of study in Poland?

• Information Technology;
• MBBS;
• Dentistry;
• Nursery;
• Management;
• Business;
• Law;
• Civil engineering;
• Logistics.

18. Do I need to get a Student Visa?

EU/EEA students do not need any Polish visa, however, upon arrival to Poland, they should apply for a temporary residence permit if they stay in the country longer than 90 days. Non-EU/EEA students need to arrive in Poland with a student’s visa obtained at a Polish Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence.

19. What documents do I need to get a student Visa?

The required documents for a Poland visa application are:

• One Poland visa application form;
• Two passport-sized photos;
• International passport or ID card. It must be valid for at least three months after the return date and you should provide additional copies of your passport pages;
• Health insurance. Prior health insurance is important to cover you for at least the initial part of your trip until you set up long-term student health insurance in Poland;
• Proof of accommodation. You must prove that you have a place to live in, like dorms or student apartments;
• Proof of sufficient funds;
• A university acceptance letter;
• An Invitation Letter;
• Paid visa fee receipt. The receipt is given to you after delivering the long-stay visa fee;
• For international students from non-English-speaking countries – a document proving your English language proficiency level. 

20. When can I apply for a student VISA?

Applying for a student visa six months before your program starts gives you plenty of time to get everything in order, including completing the application paperwork, attending interviews, and making arrangements for your accommodation, finances, and other needs. This will help you feel more prepared and confident as you start your new study abroad adventure.

21. How long does it take to get a student VISA?

The length of time it takes to get a student visa depends on a number of factors, such as the country you’re applying to, your nationality, and how busy the visa processing office is. However, it usually takes between 3 and 5 weeks to get a visa approved. To avoid any last-minute surprises, it’s best to apply for your visa well in advance of your program start date.

22. Is it compulsory to pay for the Invitation Letter?

International students in Poland are required to pay for an invitation letter. This letter can speed up the visa application process and significantly increase the chances of approval. Therefore, it is important for students to make this mandatory payment to streamline their application and boost their chances of getting a visa to study at the university.

23. Does a student need a Student Status Certificate to cross the border while waiting for a student ID?

If you are a student, you will receive a Student Status Certificate from the dean’s office of your university. The student can request such a Student Status Certificate by email. A Student Status Certificate — confirms the receipt of student status.

24. Where will I live during my studies?

The universities in Poland offer affordable housing to international students from all over the world. The dormitories are designed to create a multicultural learning environment and provide students with a comfortable place to rest. The student hostels are located within easy walking distance of the university campus.

25. Can I live off-campus?

Sure, there are many comfortable apartments available in Poland that are suitable for international students. You can also rent an apartment with a classmate or another person. We can help you find accommodation that matches your preferences and budget.

26. What is the price for a dorm room?

An apartment in Warsaw will be a little more expensive than in other cities. Here, the cost is usually more than 200 EUR per month. But in other cities, the student can find apartments for up to 140 EUR per month, which will be a significant difference during the year.

27. Does a student require health insurance to study in Poland?

UE citizens will need to get a European Health Insurance Card. Citizens outside of this circle will need to get a commercial health insurance policy plan. You can get free health benefits from the National Health Fund in Poland, given you have a Polish Charter. Other people are required to register at the National Health Fund and attach their PESEL number (National Identification Number), study certificate, and passport.

28. If I have already received a Bachelor’s degree in his country, can he get a second degree in Poland?

Yes, it is possible. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, then you are eligible to receive a master’s degree from a Polish university. You also have the option to choose a different major, even if it is different from a bachelor’s degree.

29. Is it possible to study and work at the same time?

Yes, there is such a possibility. You can earn extra money as a waiter, courier, or consultant while studying, and working part-time.

30. How much luggage is allowed to be brought?

You can bring as much luggage as you want to Poland, but airlines typically only allow a free baggage allowance of 20-25 kg. Any excess luggage will be charged extra, so it is best to pack only the essentials. Most things can be purchased in Poland, so you only need to pack things that you cannot easily find here, such as warm clothing and personal hygiene items.

If you are arriving in September or October, you may also want to pack a light jacket, jeans, socks, and sports shoes. However, if you are traveling during the winter months, it is important to pack warm clothing, such as a coat, sweater, warm trousers, boots, a hat, and gloves.