Poland could be your best choice and rewarding destinations for international education. With globally ranked universities, low living costs, and several fully-funded scholarships, it’s an ideal choice for students seeking quality education in Europe.
This blog explores the top Polish universities offering scholarships to international students, along with scholarship benefits, application methods, deadlines, and tips.
Why Study in Poland?
Before we dive into the universities and scholarship details, here are a few reasons to study in Poland:
- Affordable Tuition & Living Costs
- Wide Range of English-Taught Programs
- Scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- Safe and Welcoming Environment
- Gateway to European Job Market
Benefits of Polish Scholarships for International Students
Studying in Poland with a scholarship comes with numerous advantages:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition-Free Education | Many scholarships waive tuition fees completely for the duration of the program. |
| Monthly Living Stipend | Financial support to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses. |
| Travel Allowance | Some scholarships include travel costs for flights to and from Poland. |
| Accommodation Support | Free or subsidized student housing may be included. |
| International Exposure | Study in a multicultural environment and access exchange opportunities. |
| Prestige and Networking | Being a scholar opens doors to global academic and professional networks. |
Top Polish Universities Offering Scholarships to International Students
| University | Popular Scholarships | English-Taught Programs | Scholarship Coverage | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Warsaw | Rector’s Scholarship, NAWA | BA, MA, PhD | Tuition waiver, stipend | Jan–May |
| Jagiellonian University | Ignacy Łukasiewicz, NAWA | MA, PhD | Full tuition, living costs | March–June |
| Warsaw University of Technology | Erasmus+, Rector’s | BSc, MSc | Tuition + monthly grant | April–May |
| AGH University of Science & Tech | Visegrad, NAWA | MSc, PhD | Tuition + accommodation | Feb–May |
| Adam Mickiewicz University | Erasmus Mundus, Rector’s | MA, PhD | Tuition waiver + allowance | March–May |
| Wrocław University of Sci. & Tech | NAWA, Rector’s Award | BSc, MSc | Stipend + housing | Varies |
| University of Gdańsk | Erasmus+, Rector’s | BA, MA | Tuition + merit-based allowance | April–June |
| Lodz University of Technology | Stefan Banach | MSc, PhD | Fully funded | March–May |
Types of Scholarships and Application Methods
1. NAWA Scholarships (National Agency for Academic Exchange)
- Programs: Master’s & PhD
- Eligibility: Non-EU students with strong academic background
- Coverage: Tuition fee, living stipend, travel allowance
How to Apply:
- Visit the NAWA official website
- Select the scholarship program you are eligible for
- Register on the NAWA portal
- Submit your application online with required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Language proficiency certificate (e.g., IELTS)
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
2. Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship Program
- Target: Students from developing countries
- Level: Master’s degree
- Fields: Engineering, IT, Science, Social Sciences
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, medical insurance
How to Apply:
- Choose a Polish university offering your desired program
- Apply for admission
- Apply for the scholarship via the NAWA portal
- Upload required documents: academic credentials, reference letters, personal statement
3. Stefan Banach Scholarship Program
- Focus: Engineering, Science, Agriculture, IT
- Offered by: NAWA + Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Coverage: Tuition + monthly stipend
How to Apply:
- Apply through the NAWA portal
- Submit proof of admission or intention to study in Poland
- Attach academic transcripts, English proficiency, CV, and motivation letter
4. Erasmus+ Scholarships
- Scope: Exchange semesters or full degrees
- Open to: EU and non-EU students
- Benefits: Monthly stipend + partial travel costs
How to Apply:
- Identify Erasmus+ partner universities in your country
- Contact your home university’s Erasmus office
- Apply for a Polish university through the exchange program
- Follow the mobility procedures and submit your documents
Application Timeline Summary
| Scholarship | Application Period |
|---|---|
| NAWA Programs | January – May |
| Ignacy Łukasiewicz | February – May |
| Stefan Banach | March – May |
| Erasmus+ | Varies by institution |
Requirements to Study in Poland for International Students
To successfully apply to a Polish university, international students must meet specific academic and legal requirements. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll typically need:
1. Academic Requirements
| Study Level | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | High school certificate or equivalent, minimum GPA (varies by course), English proficiency |
| Master’s Degree | Recognized undergraduate degree (BA/BSc), transcripts, relevant background |
| PhD Programs | Master’s degree in related field, research proposal, academic CV, and supervisor confirmation (if applicable) |
Ensure your previous academic documents are translated into Polish or English and certified by the relevant authorities.
2. Required Documents
You’ll typically need the following:
- Application form (online or printed)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Valid international passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English or Polish language proficiency
- Statement of purpose/motivation letter
- Recommendation letters (2 or more)
- Health certificate/medical clearance
- Proof of financial support or scholarship
- Application fee payment receipt
3. Language Proficiency
- English-Taught Programs: IELTS (usually 6.0+), TOEFL (80+), or other equivalent.
- Polish-Taught Programs: Polish language certificate (B1/B2 level).
- Some universities offer foundation or preparatory language courses if you don’t meet the language requirements.
4. Student Visa Requirements
Non-EU/EEA students must apply for a Polish student visa (Type D):
- Valid passport
- Official admission letter from a Polish university
- Proof of financial means (approx. €600–700/month)
- Health insurance or proof of purchase in Poland
- Accommodation details
- Visa application form
- Visa application fee (~€60)
Note: After arrival, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit if your stay exceeds 90 days.
5. Application Timeline
| Stage | Recommended Time |
|---|---|
| Research & University Shortlisting | 6–8 months before intake |
| Admission Application | 4–6 months before |
| Scholarship Application | 4–6 months before |
| Visa Application | 2–3 months before |
| Travel & Accommodation Planning | 1–2 months before |
Summary Checklist
- Certified academic transcripts
- Valid international passport
- IELTS/TOEFL or language certificate
- Letter of motivation
- Letters of recommendation
- Health certificate
- Proof of funding
- University admission letter
- Student visa
Pro Tips for Scholarship Success
- Start 6–8 months before the academic year
- Apply for both admission and scholarships
- Write a compelling motivation letter
- Ensure your documents are certified and translated
- Practice your interview skills, if applicable
- Use a professional email and updated CV
Summary
With a growing list of scholarships and an internationally recognized academic system, Poland is a top choice for students who want a quality education in Europe without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re dreaming of engineering in Warsaw or cultural studies in Kraków, these top Polish universities offering scholarships to international students have something for you.