Why Study in Poland?

Poland is rapidly emerging as a popular choice for international students, particularly those from the UK. Poland presents a strong alternative to more conventional study abroad locations with its rich cultural legacy, reasonably priced education, and internationally renowned universities. From visa requirements to the best universities and post-study employment opportunities, this guide covers all the information you need to know about studying in Poland.

As of 2024, there are more than 1.2 million students in Poland, including over 107,000 international students. The following explains why more and more UK students are choosing Poland:

• Affordable tuition fee: Master's programs cost between €2,000 and €6,000 per year, while bachelor's programs cost between €1,500 and €5,000.
• Low cost of living: Compared to the UK, monthly living expenses are much lower, averaging between €500 and €800.
• English-taught programs: More than 800 courses are available at Polish universities in English.
• High-quality education: Poland is ranked in the top 50 countries in the world for the quality of its higher education.
• EU mobility: Poland makes it simpler to find internships and employment throughout Europe as an EU member.
• Post-study work options: Graduates can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, which has a 3 year maximum validity period and pathways to permanent residency.

Top Reasons to Study in Poland

• Internationally renowned universities: Jagiellonian University and the University of Warsaw are regularly included in the QS Top 300.
• Excellence in STEM fields: Poland is a center for medical, IT, and engineering fields.
• Safe and student-friendly: With vibrant student cities like Kraków and Warsaw, it is ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe.
• Cultural diversity: Poland has an unparalleled heritage in the arts and sciences, spanning from Chopin to Copernicus.

Eligibility for Poland Student Visa

UK citizens do not require a visa for short visits (up to 90 days). A National (D-type) Student Visa is required for longer academic programs. The eligibility criteria are as follows:

• Admission to a recognized Polish university
• Proof of financial resources (about €6,400 annually)
• A valid health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of €30,000
• No criminal history
• Language proficiency (either Polish or English, depending on the program)

Poland Visa Processing Time

Processing a visa typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 6 weeks during busy times (like the summer). Apply at least three months prior to the date you plan to travel.

Poland Student Visa Requirements

The following is a list of necessary documents:

• Filled-out visa application (through the e-Konsulat portal)
• A passport that is valid for at least 12 months
• Two passport-sized photos
• A letter of admission from a university in Poland
• Proof of financial resources (bank statements displaying more than €6,400)
• Health insurance policy
• Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or dorm room)

Top Universities in Poland

University	QS Ranking 2026	Location
University of Warsaw	271	Warsaw
Jagiellonian University	303	Kraków
Warsaw University of Technology	487	Warsaw
Adam Mickiewicz University	741	Poznań
AGH University of Science & Tech	801	Kraków
University of Wrocław	801	Wrocław
Gdańsk University of Technology	801	Gdańsk

These universities provide top-notch instruction in business, engineering, medicine, and the humanities.

Top Courses to Study in Poland

Popular subjects among international and UK students are:

• Engineering (civil, mechanical, and electrical)
• IT & Computer Science
• Nursing and Medicine
• Economics and Business
• Design and Architecture
• Environmental Science
• Humanities and Arts
• International Relations and Law

Cost of Studying in Poland

Program Level	Average Tuition (per year)
Bachelor’s	€1,500 – €5,000
Master’s	€2,000 – €6,000
PhD	€2,000 – €6,000

For certain courses or scholarship recipients, certain universities provide tuition-free programs.

Living Costs in Poland

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (Approx.)
Accommodation	€200 – €400
Food & Groceries	€150 – €250
Transport	€20 – €40
Utilities & Internet	€50 – €100
Entertainment	€50 – €100
Total (Monthly)	€500 – €800

Compared to Warsaw or Kraków, cities like Lublin and Łódź are more affordable.

Scholarships in Poland for International Students

Poland offers several fully funded and partially funded scholarships:

Important Scholarships:

• NAWA Scholarships: Government-funded for students pursuing bachelor's and master's degrees
• Erasmus+: An EU exchange program covering living expenses, travel, and tuition.
• Banach Scholarship: For technical and STEM fields
• University-specific scholarships: Provided by organizations such as Jagiellonian University and the University of Warsaw

Steps to apply for Poland Student Visa

Step 1: Choose the program of your choice and apply to an accredited institution in Poland. After being accepted, you will receive the official letter of admission.

Step 2: Choose the appropriate visa type (National D-type Visa for studies) and create an official Polish consular website account to start the visa application process.

Step 3: Complete the online visa application form accurately. Ensure that all of your travel, academic, and personal details correspond with your supporting documentation.

Step 4: Schedule a visa appointment at the Polish diplomatic mission in the UK closest to you. Select a date that gives you enough time to prepare the documents.

Step 5: Gather all necessary documents, including your valid passport, admission letter, proof of income, health insurance, accommodation information, passport-sized photos, and the receipt for the visa fee.

Step 6: On your chosen day, visit the embassy or consulate. Submit your documents and attend the interview if necessary. If asked, provide biometric information.  

Step 7: Pay the visa application fee, approximately €60.  Keep the receipt as evidence of payment.

Step 8: Visa decisions typically take 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, someone may be contacted for more details.

Step 9: After the visa has been approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker. After carefully reviewing the visa requirements, make travel arrangements to Poland.

Step 10: Upon 30 days of your arrival, register your residence with the local Voivodeship Office. This is mandatory for long-term stays.

Post-Study Work Visa in Poland

UK students who wish to stay and work in Poland after graduation may apply for a Temporary Residence Permit.

Key Information: 

• Valid for up to 3 years
• Renewable, based on employment
• Graduates do not need a separate work permit.
• Pathway to permanent residency after 5 years of legal stay

Why Choose Y-Axis?

• Professional Advice for UK Applicants: Tailored assistance for UK students submitting applications to universities in Europe.
• End-to-End Application Support: Everything under one roof, from choosing a university to applying for a visa.
• Scholarship Help: We assist you in locating and submitting applications for the top scholarships for which you qualify.
• Preparation and Review of Documents: Proper documentation is necessary to prevent application delays or rejections.
• Trusted by Thousands: More than 1 million customers have used Y-Axis to successfully complete their international education.