Poland has been a central European power for over a millennium, and its influential position in the European landscape today is no different. The sixth most populous nation in the EU, Poland currently has one of the most dynamic economies on the continent along with an expansive education system of over 500 universities to match. Earning your degree abroad in Poland will be an exciting adventure in one of Eastern Europe’s most prosperous and historically significant countries. Are you up for the challenge?
Locations
Poland is the largest former Soviet satellite state to emerge after the fall of the Iron Curtain. It has also been one of the most successful in rebuilding anew after switching over to a market-based economy (Poland was the only country in the European Union to actually experience economic growth during the 2009 financial crisis). Home to nearly 40 million citizens amid its diverse landscape in the northeastern reaches of the European Union, there are an array or enriching destinations where you can earn your degree abroad in Poland.
As the country’s capital and largest city, Warsaw is an exceedingly popular destination to pursue a degree abroad in Poland. Almost completely destroyed during World War II, Warsaw has rebuilt itself into a major regional power over the course of the past several decades. It is also home to a handful of the most highly regarded universities in Poland, such as the University of Warsaw, the country’s most highly ranked academic institution.
Krakow is another very popular destination for international students looking to earn their degree abroad in Poland. Poland’s second largest city is home to some two dozen universities, set against a backdrop of beautiful historical architecture that managed to largely withstand both World Wars. Krakow is considered by many to be the cultural capital of Poland, and is a fantastic student city to live in.
Academics & Degrees
Home to some of Europe’s oldest universities, Poland has a long and rich academic tradition which international students can continue to benefit from while pursuing their degree abroad. Poland is home to some 500 universities encompassing various types of public and private universities, as well as technological schools, arts schools, medical schools, and other such specialized institutions. Several of Poland’s universities are internationally ranked, such as the University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University in Krakow.
Students can choose to pursue a degree abroad in Poland at either the undergraduate level, for which degree programs generally last three years, or at the graduate level, for which Master’s programs generally run between one and two years. While it is possible to earn your degree abroad in Poland for a wide range of subjects, some of the most popular among international students tend to include Eastern European studies, engineering, computer sciences, and international business.
Admission to Polish universities generally requires that you have completed at least your high school equivalency, and that you can additionally demonstrate proficiency either in English or Polish, depending on the language utilized by your host school. You may also be required to complete an entry examination for enrollment by some degree abroad programs in Poland.
Scholarships & Costs
Polish higher education is quite affordable compared to some other European countries, with tuition rarely exceeding $5,000 U.S. per year for international students. Poland itself is also a relatively inexpensive country to live in, meaning that you can get a lot of bang for your buck by pursuing your degree abroad here. For more information on what financial aid opportunities are available for degree abroad programs in Poland, check out our Scholarship Directory.
Accommodation & Visas
Most international students in Poland choose to live in campus dormitories from the outset, keeping the option open to move into a private flat later on during their degree track. Housing is affordable throughout most student cities in Poland, though dormitories are still usually the more affordable option. Homestays are also offered for some shorter degree abroad programs in Poland.
Students from inside the European Union will not have to apply for a visa in order to earn their degree abroad in Poland, while students coming from outside of Europe will generally have to obtain documentation with the endorsement of their host university. For more information on how Polish visa regulations apply to your home country, check out our Polish Embassy Directory.
Benefits & Challenges
Go East. Many international students choose to study abroad in Western Europe, missing out entirely on the rich culture and history embedded in the eastern half of the continent. Poland is your gateway to a whole new side of Europe.
Affordability. While Poland boasts a very dynamic economy, it is still recovering from decades of suppressed growth while under communist influence, meaning that it remains very affordable destination for citizens of other industrialized nations.
Language Immersion. While not widely spoken outside of Poland, becoming fluent in Polish will set you up for a very bright future in the country. You never know what kind of further opportunities might pop up while earning your degree abroad!
