The Polish educational system is ranked 5th in the European Union, due to high educational standards and a wide range of educational institutions.
Poland has over 500 universities, and here you'll explore the top 12. As Poland becomes an increasingly popular destination for international students, the number of foreign enrollees has tripled over the last decades, surpassing 1 lakh for the first time.
In the most recent assessment, students from 179 countries now study in Poland, accounting for 8.4% of all higher education students, up from 7.1% the previous year.
With affordable tuition fees, high-quality universities, and a wide vaies make it an attractive choice for international students.
Top 12 Universities in Poland in 2025
Poland's higher education system benefits from its membership in the Bologna Process, ensuring that its universities adhere to internationally recognized academic standards. This affiliation not only guarantees quality education but also allows Polish degrees to be recognized across Europe and beyond.
Polish universities have earned strong positions in global rankings as well. The University of Warsaw ranks #258, and Jagiellonian University is placed at #312 in the QS World Rankings, highlighting Poland's growing presence in the global education sector.
Before exploring the 12 top universities in Poland in detail, let's have a brief overview:
Now, let's explore the 12 top universities in Poland in detail.
1. University of Warsaw
The University of Warsaw is Poland's top-ranked institution, part of the top 3% of universities globally, reflecting its excellence in education and research.
With a presence in 20 countries across five continents, the university maintains strong international ties, partnering with 350 institutions from over 70 countries.
Jagiellonian University is not only the oldest university in Poland but also the second oldest in Central Europe. The university offers 16 faculties across a wide range of disciplines, with over 150 programs in fields that span from the humanities and social sciences to the natural sciences and medicine.
Below are the highlights of Jagiellonian University:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1364
Number of Courses
166
Popular Courses
MA in European Studies
MSc in Physics
BSc in Biochemistry
BSc in Computer Science
Acceptance Rate
30% - 39%
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
Cambridge B2 First (grade C or higher)
Cambridge C1 Advanced
Cambridge C2 Proficiency
IELTS: 5.5
TOEFL: 72
IB diploma
EB certificate
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 601 - 800
US News Rankings: 391
3. Coventry University
Coventry University in Poland is the only British institution with a campus in the country. It stands out for its diverse student body, with nearly 50% of students hailing from international backgrounds.
The university is recognized for its gold rating in teaching quality and places a strong emphasis on employability, with 78% of graduates securing employment within 15 months of graduation.
Here's a closer look at Coventry University:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1843
Number of Courses
479
Popular Courses
MBA
BSc (Hons) Cloud Computing
BA (Hons) Financial Management and Accounting
BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity
Acceptance Rate
70%-80%
Eligibility Criteria
Passed Standard XII examination with a minimum overall score of 65%
Warsaw University of Technology is a premier research-driven institution, primarily focused on engineering and applied sciences. It comprises 17 departments and faculties that span a wide range of engineering and applied science fields.
The university has earned a strong international reputation, with over 120 academic and research collaborations with universities, research centers, and high-tech industries across 50 countries.
Below are the features of Warsaw University of Technology:
Adam Mickiewicz University is one of Poland's leading research institutions. It holds the European University Association's quality seal for academic excellence. The university maintains partnerships with 240 universities and has signed 620 international cooperation agreements. It has undertaken 613 research projects worth over PLN 300 million.
Here are the highlights of the university:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1919
Number of Courses
200+
Popular Courses
MA in Cognitive Applied Linguistics
MA in Public Governance
BA in English Philosophy
BSc in Computer Science
Acceptance Rate
NA
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
An International Baccalaureate Diploma
A European Baccalaureate Diploma
A certificate confirming knowledge of English at the B2 level
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1001-1200
US News Rankings: 935
6. Gdańsk University of Technology
Gdańsk University of Technology is a public, autonomous state university offering nearly 60 study programs, with 40 in Polish and almost 20 in English. It is renowned for its academic excellence, with faculty members listed among the top 2% of scientists globally by Stanford University.
Gdańsk Tech is a proud member of major associations such as CESAER, EUA, and CDIO, highlighting its strong academic and research focus in engineering and technology.
AGH University of Krakow is ranked 851-900 in the QS World University Rankings and is one of the leading universities in Poland in its field. It is one of the few European institutions to offer a Faculty of Space Technologies (Spacetech).
The university offers 17 faculties, with 76 fields of study in its first-cycle programs and over 50 fields in its second-cycle programs.
Here are the highlights of AGH University of Krakow:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1919
Number of Courses
200+
Popular Courses
MSc Geophysics
MSc International Management
BSc Computer Science
BSc Computer Physics
Acceptance Rate
NA
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
A Master's degree (for PhD programs)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
TOEFL: NA
IELTS: 5.5
PTE Academic: 59
Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1001-1200
US News Rankings: 839
8. Poznan University of Life Sciences
Poznan University of Life Sciences was founded through the merger of forestry faculties at Adam Mickiewicz University. It specializes in life sciences and environmental disciplines.
The university offers 23 fields of regular studies across 6 faculties, with academic strengths in agronomy, forestry, horticulture, land reclamation, and environmental engineering.
Here are the highlights of Poznan University of Life Sciences:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1951
Number of Courses
28
Popular Courses
MSc in Agronomy
MSc in Biotechnology
BSc in Land Resource Management
BSc in Biochemistry
Acceptance Rate
Around 60%
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
A Master's degree (for PhD programs)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
TOEFL: 94
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo English Test: 115
Cambridge Test: C1/C2
PTE Academic: 60
TOEIC: 900
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1201-1500
US News Rankings: 1642
9. University of Gdansk
The University of Gdańsk, located in the Pomeranian region, is recognized as a leader in marine research and activities. It is one of five Polish universities selected under the European Commission's 'European Universities' initiative.
The university also holds agreements for research projects worth over 700 million PLN, placing it among the top six Polish universities in terms of research funding.
Here are the highlights of the university:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1970
Number of Courses
223
Popular Courses
MA Digital Chemistry
MA Finance and Accounting
BA Criminal Justice
BA Cultural Communication
Acceptance Rate
Around 30%
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
Cambridge Certificate: C1/C2
IELTS: 5.5
TOEFL: 87
PTE: 59
TOEIC: 785
International Baccalaureate
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1201-1500
US News Rankings: 1355
10. University of Wroclaw
The University of Wrocław is one of the oldest universities in Central Europe. It holds the prestigious "Research University" title, awarded to only 10 institutions in Poland. The University has produced Nobel prize winners like Erwin Schrödinger, Max Born and Fritz Haber.
Today, it hosts around 22,000 students, including 1,300 international students, across 150 fields of study, with 30 programs offered in English. The university maintains active partnerships with 800 foreign universities across nearly 40 countries.
Below are the salient features of the university:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1702
Number of Courses
150
Popular Courses
MSc Astrophysics
MA Global Communication
BSc Biotechnology
BSc Chemistry
Acceptance Rate
NA
Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor's degree (for Master's)
High school graduation (for Bachelor's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
Cambridge Certificate: C1/C2
IELTS: 5.5
TOEFL: 72
PTE: 59
Duolingo English Test: 90
Oxford Test of English: 111
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1201-1500
US News Rankings: 1049
11. Nicolaus Copernicus University
Nicolaus Copernicus University is one of the largest universities in Poland, offering education across 16 faculties. It is recognized for its strong scientific infrastructure, including the National Laboratory of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics (FAMO) and the Center for Quantum Optics.
It is a member of the Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) alliance and ranks among the top 4% of universities worldwide according to QS Rankings.
The table below contains the highlights of the university:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1945
Number of Courses
155
Popular Courses
MA in Finance and Accounting
Master of Economics
BSc Chemistry
BA in Management
Acceptance Rate
NA
Eligibility Criteria
Graduation from High school
A bachelor's degree (for a Master's)
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6
TOEFL: 87
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1201-1500
US News Rankings: 1114
12. University of Lodz
The University of Lodz is a research university with 13 faculties offering 100 fields of study. It has around 26,000 students, including 3,000 international students. The university is also a member of the European University of Post-Industrial Cities Alliance (UNIC).
Here are its salient features:
Criteria
Details
Founding Year
1945
Number of Courses
100
Popular Courses
MA in Business and Digital Analytics
MA in Environmental Management
BA in Business Management
BA in Computer Science
Acceptance Rate
65% - 66%
Eligibility Criteria
Graduation from High school
A bachelor's degree (for a Master's)
Eligibility Statement
Required English Proficiency Test Scores
IELTS: 6
TOEFL: 87
Rankings 2025
THE Rankings: 1501+
US News Rankings: 1477
After exploring the 12 top universities in Poland, let's look at the financial aid options available for students.
Scholarships for International Students in Poland
Poland offers scholarships through the government, foundations, and universities. As a student, you can apply for university scholarships like the Rector’s Scholarship at the University of Warsaw or government-funded scholarships such as the Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship.
Below are some internal and external scholarships for students in Poland:
Internal Scholarships for International Students in Poland
Internal scholarships are funded by the university from its own resources and are offered to students with high academic performance or financial need. Students in Poland can apply for the Idea Scholarship at Jagiellonian University or the Rector’s Award for Academic Excellence at the University of Łódź.
Here are some internal scholarships:
Scholarship
Details
Rector's Scholarship
(University of Warsaw)
Eligibility:
Full-time Bachelor's or Master's international students.
Must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
Benefits: Variable financial award.
The Idea
(Jagiellonian University)
Eligibility: Graduate or undergraduate student with high academic performance.
Benefits: PLN 2,100 (INR 47.4K) per month awarded for the whole period.
Rector’s Award for Academic Excellence
(University of Łódź)
Eligibility: Full-time enrolled student with high academic GPA.
Benefits: Monthly grant of PLN 800–1,000 (INR 18K - INR 22.5K)
Beyond internal scholarships, students can explore financial awards offered by governments.
External Scholarships for International Students in Poland
External scholarships are awarded by governments or foundations based on criteria such as nationality, academic merit, or field of study.
In Poland, international students can apply for European Union-funded Erasmus+ scholarships or the Polish government's NAWA scholarship (worth PLN 11,500 or INR 2.5 lakh).
Below are some key external scholarships:
Scholarship
Details
Erasmus+
Eligibility: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students enrolled at universities participating in Erasmus+ agreements.
Benefits: Exemption from tuition, examinations, registration, and charges for access to laboratories or libraries.
Polish Government Scholarship (NAWA)
Eligibility: International researchers and PhD students.
Benefits:
Financial support of PLN 11,500 (INR 2.5L) per month
Relocation allowance.
Research support funding.
Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship Programme
Eligibility:
Citizens of developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.
Applying for full-time Master’s programs in STEM fields in Poland.
Benefits:
Full tuition coverage.
Monthly living stipend of PLN 1,500 - 1,700 (INR 33.8K - INR 38.3K)
After exploring financial options to reduce the cost of living in Poland, it's time to check out the steps to apply to Polish universities. Let’s find out how.
How to Apply for Top Universities in Poland?
Each university has its own specific requirements, but typically, you will need to submit transcripts, English language test scores, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP). Some universities may also require a portfolio and letters of recommendation.
Before going into the steps involved, let’s identify the required documents:
Criteria
Details
Academic Requirements
First-cycle (BA) or long-cycle (MA) studies: Secondary school (maturity) certificate and transcript of grades.
Second-cycle (MA) studies: Higher education diploma (MA, BA, engineer diploma or equivalent) and transcript of grades obtained.
English Language Proficiency
IELTS
TOEFL
TOEIC
Oxford Test of English
Duolingo English Test
International Baccalaureate
PTE General
Health Certificate
Stating no objections to undertake studies on the chosen program.
Visa (foreigners staying in Poland)
A photocopy of visa or other document proving legalisation of stay in Poland
Proof of Payment
Receipt of application fee payment.
Photograph
Passport format photo
Miscellaneous
CV
Cover letter
Recommendation letter
Note: Requirements may vary depending on the specific university and program. Please refer to the university's website for the latest updates.
Once the required documents are collected and ready, it’s time to apply to universities. You will generally need to apply through the university portal and submit documents such as your passport, academic transcripts, and CV.
After completing all the formalities and submitting the application, wait for the university to assess your application and issue an acceptance letter. Once you receive the acceptance letter, you can begin planning your travel.
Here are the steps involved in applying for universities in Poland:
1. Research and Prepare:
Admission Deadlines: Always check the deadlines for your chosen program on the university's website.
Available Programs in English: Ensure the program you’re interested in is available in English.
Required Documents: Common documents required include:
Completed application form (available on the university’s application portal)
Valid passport (copy)
Academic transcripts and certificates from previous studies (high school diploma for undergraduates or bachelor’s degree for master’s programs)
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL scores)
Passport-sized photographs
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume (optional for some programs)
Program-Specific Documents: Some programs may require additional documents, like a portfolio, motivation letter, or recommendation letters.
2. Create an Account and Pay Registration Fee:
Create your account on the university’s official application portal.
Pay the registration fee (usually non-refundable) via the portal. This fee is often around €50-100 (INR 4.8K - INR 9.6K).
3. Complete Your Application:
Fill out your personal details in the application form.
Choose your program(s) and provide all necessary information.
Upload the required documents (e.g., transcripts, passport copy, English proficiency proof, etc.).
4. Wait for Assessment:
After submitting your complete application, the university will assess your eligibility.
This process generally takes 2 weeks from the date the university receives your full application and payment.
5. Receive and Accept the Offer:
If you receive an Offer Letter, you must log in to your application portal and accept the offer.
You must pay for the first year of tuition fees within 4 weeks of receiving the offer.
The payment may be made through bank transfer or credit/debit card via the application portal.
6. Confirm Payment and Receive Admission Letter:
After the university receives your tuition payment, they will issue your Admission Letter and confirmation of future student status.
This is needed for applying for a student visa.
It may take a few days to process, especially during peak times (July/August).
7. Pre-Arrival Checklist:
Check the pre-arrival handbook: The university will provide a guide to help you prepare for your arrival in Poland.
Plan your travel: Book flights and make accommodation arrangements.
Safety Tips: Familiarize yourself with basic safety guidelines and health information.
8. Complete Registration at University:
Register at the university: Upon arrival, you will need to submit the original copies of your documents to complete the registration process.
Documents to submit include:
Original academic transcripts and certificates
Passport copy
Proof of health insurance (mandatory for student visa)
Proof of financial means (bank statement or scholarship award letter)
After registration, you will receive your Student ID.
Once you receive the letter of acceptance from university, you need to apply for a student visa to study. Let’s check out the process.
Student Visa Process for Poland
After receiving your acceptance letter from the university, the next step is to schedule a visa appointment. You need to gather the necessary documents such as your university acceptance letter and passport to apply for a student visa for Poland.
Once the documents are submitted, you will need to wait for around 15 days for confirmation before making travel arrangements.
Here are the steps involved in the student visa application for non-EU students:
Step 1: Review Visa Application Guidelines: Carefully read the consulate’s website for detailed information on visa requirements, instructions, and necessary documents to avoid errors and ensure a smooth application process.
Step 2: Book a Visa Appointment: Schedule your visa appointment through the consulate’s online portal. Availability may vary, so try to book early.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, such as:
Visa application form (filled and signed).
Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay).
Biometric photo (35x45mm).
Proof of sufficient funds (2,500 PLN/INR 56.4K) per month for a 1-year stay).
Health insurance (covering the entire duration of stay in Poland).
University admission letter.
Proof of accommodation (such as a dormitory confirmation or hotel booking).
Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay Visa Fee: Submit the completed documents and visa fee at the consulate or embassy. The processing time is typically up to 15 days after submission.
Poland is increasingly recognized as a growing hub for technology and business in Eastern Europe, offering career opportunities in fields like software development. Let’s explore some of the job prospects in the country.
Career Opportunities In Poland After Graduation
Poland's location in Central Europe, its 5%+ growth rate, and the strong support of its IT sector (CAGR 5-10%) over the next few years make it an attractive job market. There is growing demand for roles such as software engineer, business analyst, and more.
Global companies like Google are active in Poland, hiring graduates for roles such as business analysts. Let’s explore some top companies hiring graduates in Poland.
Top Recruiters in Poland
Graduates from Poland can explore roles such as business analyst and audit manager in companies like Accenture and Allegro. Skills such as data analysis, financial modeling, and problem-solving will be valuable in securing these positions.
Here are some top companies hiring graduates from Poland and their average annual salaries:
Recruiter
Job Roles
Average Annual Salary (Polish Złoty)
Google
Software Engineer
PLN 80K (INR 18L)
Deloitte
Audit Manager
PLN 135K (INR 30.4L)
Allegro
Product Manager
PLN 159K (INR 35.8L)
Accenture
Analyst
PLN 87K (INR 19.6L)
PKN Orlen
Project Manager
PLN 132K (INR 29.8L)
Source: Glassdoor
Among the available options, choosing the right university for your career goals can be challenging. Let’s explore how you can make an informed decision when selecting the right university.
How to Select the Right University in Poland?
Selecting a university is a personalized process that requires evaluating your strengths, weaknesses, and long-term goals. Choose a university based on your academic and career aspirations. For instance, if you’re looking for a prestigious university, the University of Warsaw is a top choice.
Similarly, if you are interested in specific program specializations, such as engineering or humanities, consider universities that excel in those areas.
Here’s how you can select the right university:
University Reputation and Ranking
Higher-ranked universities can offer better networking opportunities, higher-quality teaching, and more global recognition of your degree.
Example: University of Warsaw is ranked #258 in QS rankings 2025, making it an ideal institution for reputation.
Location
The location can impact your overall experience. Think about proximity to companies for internships, job opportunities, and cultural activities.
Example: Warsaw is ideal for business, finance, and technology programs. It is home to several multinational companies and startups.
Program Options and Specializations
Look for universities that offer strong programs in your area of interest. Ensure the course content aligns with your career goals and the university program is a balance of theoretical and practical learning.
Example: AGH University of Science and Technology specializes in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences.
Cost and Scholarships
Tuition fees can vary based on the university and program. Fees for public universities range from €2,000 - €5,000 (INR 1.9L - INR 4.8L) per year for non-EU students. Look for universities that offer scholarships for international students.
Example: Warsaw University of Technology offers merit-based scholarships (tuition fee reduction) for high-achieving students.
Internship and Job Opportunities
Universities with good ties to businesses can offer more internship and job placement opportunities.
Example: AGH University of Science and Technology partners with major companies in the tech and engineering sectors, providing ample internship opportunities.
Postgraduate Opportunities
If you're planning to continue your studies after completing your undergraduate degree, check universities that offer strong master's or PhD programs.
Example: Jagiellonian University offers a wide range of postgraduate programs in law, humanities, and medical sciences.
Now that you have explored top universities in Poland, let's see how upGrad can support you in this journey.
How Can upGrad Help You Study in Poland?
upGrad offers complete support for students looking to study in Poland. You can get help in research and shortlist top institutions based on your academic interests, program specializations, and career goals.
upGrad also assists with preparing required documents, such as academic transcripts, CV, and Letters ofRecommendation. When it comes to visas, upGrad’s visa support services help you understand the requirements, including necessary documents like proof of funds and health insurance.
Don't delay your plans! Study in Poland for high-quality education, affordable tuition, and real career opportunities, without the long waits or high costs. Start your journey today.
Do you think Poland is the right fit for your study abroad journey? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's experts to get personalized guidance on choosing the best university, understanding the visa process, and securing financial aid!
FAQs
Are universities in Poland more expensive than UK universities?
Generally, tuition fees in Poland are lower than those in the UK. On average, tuition fees for international students in Poland range from €2,000 to €4,000 (INR 1.9L - INR 3.8L) per year, depending on the program and university. In comparison, tuition fees in the UK can range from €10,000 to €30,000 (INR 9.6L - INR 28.9L) for international students, especially for postgraduate programs.
Are there any universities in Poland that provide free education?
Yes, public universities in Poland offer free education to students from the European Union (EU) countries. However, non-EU students usually need to pay tuition fees. Some institutions, like Jagiellonian University, provide scholarships for high-performing international students that can help cover the cost of tuition.
Can I bring my family with me while studying in Poland?
Yes, international students in Poland can bring their immediate family (spouse and children) with them. You would need to apply for a family visa for your dependents. They will need to provide documents like proof of relationship, sufficient financial means to support them, and a health insurance policy.
Is Poland expensive to live in as compared to the U.S?
Living in Poland is significantly more affordable than in the U.S. The average monthly cost of living for a student in Poland is around €500 to €800 (INR 48.2K - INR 77.1K), which covers accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. In comparison, students in the U.S. can expect to spend €1,000 - €2,000 (INR 96.4K - INR 1.9L) monthly, especially in larger cities.
Which are the top courses I can take in Poland?
Poland is known for offering strong programs in engineering, computer science, business, medicine, law, and economics. Universities like University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University, and Warsaw University of Technology have well-established programs in these fields, making them ideal choices for students interested in these areas.
Can I do part-time work in Poland while studying?
Yes, international students in Poland can work part-time during their studies. You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays. Make sure to apply for a work permit if required, depending on your visa status and the type of work.
Is a degree from a Polish university recognizable worldwide?
Yes, Poland is part of the Bologna Process, which ensures the standardization of higher education qualifications across Europe. Universities like Jagiellonian University and University of Warsaw have a strong reputation internationally, especially in fields such as business, engineering, and science.
Do Polish universities match the level of education of Germany or Switzerland?
While Poland’s education system is strong, universities in Germany and Switzerland generally have an established reputation, particularly in engineering, technology, and business. However, Poland is rapidly improving, and universities like the University of Warsaw and AGH University of Science and Technology are recognized for their high standards of education.
Can I study in Poland with a limited budget of INR 15 Lakhs?
Yes, a budget of approximately 15L INR (€15,500) should be sufficient to cover both tuition fees and living expenses for a study period of 1-2 years in Poland. Tuition fees will typically cost around €2,000 to €4,000 (INR 1.9L - INR 3.8L) per year, and living expenses will be approximately €6,000 to €8,000 (INR 5.7L - INR 7.7L) annually, depending on the city.
How are the student loan facilities in Poland for international students?
Poland offers limited student loan options, like deferred payment, for international students. Most students rely on scholarships, personal savings, or financial support from family. However, some banks may offer loans to international students with a Polish guarantor or if they meet certain financial criteria.
Do Polish universities provide accommodation facilities to international students?
Yes, Polish universities, like the University of Warsaw, offer student accommodation in university dormitories. These are often cheaper than private rentals, with costs ranging from €100 to €300 (INR 9.6K - INR 28.9K) per month. However, availability may be limited, and it’s advisable to apply early.
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