Poland is rapidly emerging as a top destination for international students seeking high-quality, affordable education in Europe. With a robust education system and over 400 universities offering a variety of courses in English, Poland provides an attractive option for students worldwide.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore why Poland is a premier choice for your higher education journey.
About Poland
Poland is a country in central Europe. Its rich and long-standing history, and breathtaking cities with affordable, high-quality education make it a perfect choice for higher studies for international students.
With 400+ universities and a range of courses in medicine, business, IT, and social sciences, Poland has a lot to offer to international students.
In the last few years, the number of international student intake has increased significantly. From India alone, around 5000 Indian students were admitted to Polish universities in 2022.
Why should you choose Poland for higher studies?
1 – Top-quality education
Poland has an excellent education system. There are more than 400 universities in Poland, many of which offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English, a plus for Indian students.
You can choose from courses in medicine, IT, engineering, social sciences, and law as well. These degrees are internationally recognized as Poland follows the Bologna Process, which ensures that your credits and qualifications are recognized and transferable across Europe. This opens a wide job portal for international students who wish to work in Europe.
2 – Low cost of living and affordable education
Poland has become a popular place to go for international students because of its affordability. While Poland offers a high standard of living, the cost is much lower than in other European countries like the United Kingdom or France.
On top of that, tuition fees of universities are more economical, making Poland an attractive option for students on a budget. Tuition fees of universities can range from 1000-8000 EUR which is comparatively less than universities in other European countries, thereby providing a higher return on investment on your higher studies
3- Rich culture and heritage
Poland is a country with a rich and diverse history and culture. The country has beautiful architecture, historical attractions, and festivities celebrated across Poland. This adds to the reasons why studying in Poland is a good choice. It allows students to immerse themselves in new and different cultural experiences, making their higher education journey more enjoyable.
Top Poland universities for international students
Here are some of the top universities in Poland for international students with high QS World University Ranking in 2024.
- University of Warsaw (262)
- Jagiellonian University (304)
- Warsaw University of Technology (571)
- Adam Mickiewicz University (731)
- Poznan University of Life Sciences (801)
- University of Wroclaw (901)
Top courses in Poland for international students
Poland has a variety of courses for higher education in medicine, engineering, IT, and social sciences. But here are the top courses to study in Poland for Indian students-
- MD in General Medicine
- B.Tech in Computer Science
- MA in Political Science
- MBA in International Business
- MBA in Finance
A few other courses that are gaining popularity amongst students aspiring to study from Poland include, Graphic Design, Sustainability, Computer Engineering, International Relations, Finance and Banking.
International student life in Poland
Poland has a warm and inviting atmosphere and has more than 80,000 international students, making it easy for students to adapt well.
The universities have numerous organizations, clubs, and other extracurricular activities relating to dance, music, and theatre. This allows students to interact with other people and embrace their culture.
Students can also enjoy the local culture of Poland and travel and explore their city. Poland is also surrounded by beautiful countries like Germany and the Czech Republic for students to travel in less time and money.
Cost of living in Poland and University tuition fees
- The cost of living in Poland is comparatively less than in other countries in Europe. The cost of accommodation, food, travelling, health insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses is 300-400 EUR per month. The cost can vary depending on the city, university, and lifestyle of students.
- Poland has many public and private universities. Out of these, many public universities offer courses free of cost for European students, but most of them are taught in Polish and require some level of proficiency. As for non-European students, the cost of a bachelor’s degree for a year can cost up to 5000-6000 EUR, and a master’s degree for a year can cost up to 9000 EUR.
You must note that professional courses like MBA, medicine, and dentistry programmes from private universities can cost more.
How to apply to Polish universities
To apply to a Polish university, visit the university’s online admission portal and apply to your chosen bachelor’s or master’s degree programmes.
These are the documents you will require during the application process-
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test score (IELTS, TOEFL, OR PTE academic)
- Standardized test scores (SAT, GMAT, GRE)
- Copy of your birth certificate or passport
- Your resume
- Statement of purpose and essays
- Letter of recommendation (at least 2 or 3)
- Proof of funding or scholarship
To get a better understanding, check each university’s website thoroughly to gather all the requirements for the application process.
Visa process to study in Poland
International students need a visa to study in Poland unless they are an EU citizen. The student visa process to study in Poland is quite simple. You can apply for a student visa once you receive the Letter of Acceptance from your chosen university in Poland. No interview is required for visa application. You need to submit all necessary documents and pay the visa application fees (80-100 euros).
When you submit your visa application, you will also need to submit the following documents-
- Valid passport
- A cover letter
- Documents confirming the purpose of your trip
- School and university certificates and degrees
- Travel medical insurance
- Travel details
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial statements
- Sponsorship letter
- Receipt of the visa application fees
Work permit after study in Poland
If an international student wants to stay and work in Poland after graduation, they will need a Residence permit and Work permit. The rule regarding work permits differ depending on the country. Students from the EU, Norway, and Switzerland can work in Poland without a work permit.
- For other students graduating from a Polish university, you can apply for a temporary residence permit that will allow you to work in Poland for up to 3 years. You can apply for a permit when you find a job in Poland. Other requirements include an employment contract and a graduate degree or 5 years experience in the relevant field.
- Another permit that students can apply for is the temporary residence and work permit which also allows them to work in Poland for up to 3 years. This comes into play if you want to work in Poland for more than 3 months after completing graduation. You can apply for this work permit before your existing visa or residence permit is about to expire.
Bottom Line
Studying in Poland is a great choice to pursue your higher education. The combination of vibrant, rich culture with a plethora of affordable programmes makes Poland a top choice for your bachelor’s or master’s degree.
If you want to start your Poland study abroad journey and find it daunting and overwhelming, contact ApplyBuds, your trusted study abroad partner in India, for more information and seamless guidance.
FAQs
1- Can you apply for courses in Poland with IELTS?
Yes, some universities may not require an EILTS or TOEFL, but may ask for proof of English proficiency like your school or university certifications.
2– What is the success rate of student visas in Poland?
Poland has a 95% student visa success rate. If your application and documents are in place, you will most likely secure a visa.
3- Is Poland good for Indian students?
Poland is a preferred country to pursue higher studies for Indian students. Poland is safe with low costs and tuition, and a high standard of living.
