Studying in Poland

Home , Africans in Poland, Education in Warsaw, Lazarski University, SWPS University, University of Opole, University of Szczecin

Studying in Poland www.go-poland.pl facebook.com/ReadyStudyGoPoland Come to Poland Discover Europe Welcome to Poland, a modern and dynamic Poland’s university traditions are among member of the European Union where edu- the oldest in Europe. In 1364, King Casimir Come to Poland cation really counts. If you wish to learn more the Great established the Cracow Academy, about our long and rich tradition of univer- known today as Jagiellonian University. Since sity education, which offers opportunities the beginning of system transformation our Discover Europe for young people aspiring to get a European higher education system has been developing degree recognized throughout the world, rapidly and Poland is fourth in Europe (after we invite you to study in Poland. the United Kingdom, Germany and France) in terms of the number of people studying at university. The total student population at almost 400 university-level schools is over 1.2 million. Polish universities offer more than 700 courses in foreign languages as an inte- gral part of the European Higher Education Area, where the level of tuition fees compares favourably with other EU countries. Poland plays an active part in the Bologna Process thanks to the introduction of a three-stage education and the European Credit Transfer System. Foreigners studying in Poland can easily continue their education elsewhere in the European Union. Foreign students coming to Poland can expect an attractive and diver- sified educational curricula which meets high European standards – they can study medicine, biotechnology and engineering, as well as art and business. We invite you to consider the great opportunities that Poland can offer. Come to the Euro- pean Union. Start in Poland! 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

WHY POLAND? TUITION FEES ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 4__ 5 reasons to study 44__ Entry requirements for 26__ er EU citizens 6__ 10 things you should 32__ Tuition fees 44__ Entry requirements for know about Poland non-EU citzens 8__ Famous Polish Scientists 46__ Temporary residence LIVING & WORKING permit 34__ Before you arrive HIGHER EDUCATION 37__ After you arrive SYSTEM IN POLAND POLISH YOUR POLISH 10__ Higher education 48__ 9-month preparatory institutions DEFINE YOUR STATUS Polish language courses 16__ Structure of studies 40__ Studying on terms 49__ Polish language and applicable to Polish culture summer schools nationals 18__ 41__ Studying on terms 20__ Admission requirements applicable to foreigners 22__ Academic calendar 42__ Studying on terms 22__ of your choice 24__ Diploma WHY POLAND? 4 humanities (such as ancient and modern languages, literature and philosophy). Pol- ish business schools deliver world-class education in management and finance (also as 5 REASONS double-degree programmes) and are internationally accredited. See for yourself – one and a half million stu- TO STUDY IN POLAND dents can’t be wrong, can they? 2. Study in the centre of Europe No matter the city or the course, choosing to Poland is the place where you can earn study in Poland is a great idea. Here are just a diploma that will open the door to the best a few reasons why. companies in Europe, even some of the best in the world. The country has many other perks, So many options such as the fact that its medical schools are 1. accredited in the US and that, while studying In Poland there are 1.2 million students stud- in Poland, you have access to the EU’s study ying at almost 400 universities, study pro- programmes and can do internships or train- grammes (in English or Polish), and hundreds eeships abroad. of language classes. There is also an abun- With top-quality, internationally recognised dance of art colleges to choose from, as well degrees, almost no other region in the world as faculties of humanities and polytechnics, can set your career off to such a promising complete with fully equipped laboratories start. and supercomputers. While studying in Poland, you will have a chance to enter a competition with NASA, or become part of a prestigious scholarship programme for those interested in the Ready, Study, Go! Poland 5

3. Live in a student city that’s 5. It’s not the end bursting with different cultures Studying in Poland is just the beginning. Study in the European Capital of Culture Those wanting to start their own business, Wrocław, artistic Kraków, hipster Warsaw, mul- or find a job in an international company ticultural Lublin, academic Poznań or coastal would benefit from a longer stay. Foreign com- Gdańsk. There’s something for everyone in panies operating in Poland prefer graduates each city, from student pubs, to vegan restau- from Polish universities. Akademickie Inkuba- rants and art galleries. Mingle with the crowd tory Przedsiębiorczości (‘Academic Incubators at the Palace of Culture in Warsaw, explore of Entrepreneurship’) is a community that will Kraków’s Wawel Castle, go skiing in the Tatra help start your business, and the Technology Mountains or sail in the Masurian Lake District. Parks are also at your disposal. Additionally, there are the Warsaw Innovation Days, where Ideal for a student budget start-ups can attract the attention of foreign 4. investors. If you dream of being independent and going abroad, but worry about the cost, Poland is ideal for student on a tight budget. Dormito- ries start from 70 USD a month per student, cinema ticket starts from 3 USD, and a lunch in the cafeteria starts from 2.50 USD. FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY No wonder Warsaw is the most affordable For the essential information about stud- European student city according to 2016 QS ying in Poland and applying for higher Best Student Cities index. education programmes visit: www.go-poland.pl or contact: [email protected] 6 10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT POLAND

For students from outside the European Union who come to study in Poland, this may well be the beginning of a fascinating adventure of discovering Europe. Being invited to study in Poland means that you are invited to the European Union, of which Poland is an active member state. We encourage you to discover the Euro- pean Union, which offers not only varied and interesting cultures and the opportunities associated with strong, innovative economies, but it also provides the very best conditions for successful higher education study in a challenging and friendly atmosphere. With top-quality, internationally recognised degrees, almost no other region in the world can set your career off to such a promising start. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 7

1. Official name: 7. Climate: Republic of Poland (shortform: Poland), Rzec- The Polish climate is moderate continental, zpospolita Polska (shortform in Polish: Polska) with relatively cold winters (from December to March) and hot summers which extend from 2. Official Language: June to August. January temperatures aver- Polish age -1°C (30°F) to -5°C (23°F). July and August average temperatures range from 16.5°C (62°F) 3. Location: to19°C (65°F), though some days the tempera- Central Europe. Poland borders Germany, ture can reach even 35°C (95°F). the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia (the Kaliningrad exclave). 8. Currency: Its northern border (440 km long) runs along 1 zloty (PLN) = 100 groszy (actual exchange the Baltic Sea coast. rates: www.nbp.pl) 4. Capital city: 9. Calling code: Warszawa (Warsaw: population 1.7 million / + 48; Internet domain: .pl Warsaw agglomeration: 2.5 million) 10. International organizations: 5. Population: Poland is a member of the European 38 million. Poland has the seventh largest pop- Union(EU), the Schengen Area, North Atlantic ulation in Europe and the sixth largest in the Treaty Organisation (NATO), United Nations European Union. (UN), International Monetary Fund (IMF), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cul- 6. Time zone: tural Organisation (UNESCO), United Nations Poland belongs to the Central European International Children’s Emergency Fund time zone (GMT +1 hour / UTC +1 hour), (UNICEF), World Health Organisation (WHO), except for between the last Sunday in World Trade Organisation (WTO), Organisation March and the last Sunday in October when for Cooperation and Development (OECD) and it switches to daylight saving time. many others. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 8 FAMOUS POLISH SCIENTISTS

Polish students are among the best teams in the University Rover Challenge (prestigious international competition of Mars rovers)

Nicolaus Copernicus Stefan Banach was a Renaissance astronomer and the first was an outstanding Polish mathematician, European to contend that it is the Sun, not the co-founder of the Lwow School of Mathema Earth, that is at the centre of the Solar System. tics and functional analysis (branch of mathematics) – a colorful and intriguing personality Maria Skłodowska-Curie whose contribution to the world science is indisputable. was a physicist-chemist famous for her pio- neering research on radioactivity, she remains HIGHER EDUCATION the only woman who received two Nobel Ignacy Łukasiewicz Prizes, and the only scientist in history to be was a prominent Polish scientist, pharmacist, awarded two Nobel Prizes in two different oil industry pioneer and the inventor of the fields of study (physics in 1903 and chemistry kerosene lamp. in 1911). SYSTEM in poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 9

HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM in poland 10 UNIVERSITIES • Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan HIGHER www.amu.edu.pl • Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw www.uksw.edu.pl • Jagiellonian University in Krakow EDUCATION www.uj.edu.pl • Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce www.ujk.edu.pl INSTITUTIONS IN POLAND • John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin www.kul.pl • Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) www.ukw.edu.pl in Poland are divided into state (public) and • Maria Curie-Sklodowska University in Lublin private (non-public) institutions. There are www.umcs.pl two main categories of higher education insti- • Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun tutions: university-type and non-university www.umk.pl institutions. In the university-type HEIs, at least • University of Białystok www.uwb.edu.pl one unit is authorised to confer the academic • University of Gdansk www.univ.gda.pl degree of doctor (PhD), i.e. it offers at least • University of Lodz www.uni.lodz.pl one doctoral program. The Degrees and Titles • University of Opole www.uni.opole.pl Committee grants this authorization assess- • University of Rzeszów www.ur.edu.pl ing i.a. unit research activities, achievements • University of Silesia in Katowice with regard to training of faculty staff, scien- www.us.edu.pl tific achievements, research base, as well as • University of Szczecin www.us.szc.pl the quality of education (a separate opinion of • University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn the Polish Accreditation Committee on the qual- www.uwm.edu.pl ity of education at the unit is required). Below, • University of Warsaw www.uw.edu.pl we present the list of public and universi- • University of Wrocław www.uni.wroc.pl ty-type non-public HEIs. • University of Zielona Góra www.uz.zgora.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 11 UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY • Warsaw University of Technology • AGH University of Science and Technology www.pw.edu.pl in Krakow www.agh.edu.pl • West Pomeranian University of Technology • Bialystok University of Technology in Szczecin www.zut.edu.pl www.pb.edu.pl • Wrocław University of Science and Technology • Czestochowa University of Technology www.pwr.edu.pl www.pcz.pl MEDICAL UNIVERSITIES • Gdansk University of Technology • Jagiellonian University Medical College www.pg.edu.pl in Krakow www.cm-uj.krakow.pl • Kazimierz Pulaski University of Technology • Medical University of Bialystok and Humanities in Radom www.umb.edu.pl www.uniwersytetradom.pl • Medical University of Gdansk • Kielce University of Technology www.gumed.edu.pl www.tu.kielce.pl • Medical University of Lodz www.umed.pl • Koszalin University of Technology • Medical University of Lublin www.umlub.pl www.tu.koszalin.pl • Medical University of Silesia in Katowice • Lodz University of Technology www.p.lodz.pl www.sum.edu.pl • Lublin University of Technology • Medical University of Warsaw www.wum.edu.pl www.pollub.pl • Nicolaus Copernicus University – Ludwik • Opole University of Technology Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz www.po.opole.pl www.cm.umk.pl • Poznan University of Technology • Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin www.put.poznan.pl www.pam.szczecin.pl • Rzeszow University of Technology • Poznan University of Medical Sciences www.prz.rzeszow.pl www.ump.edu.pl • Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice • Wroclaw Medical University www.polsl.pl www.umed.wroc.pl • Cracow University of Technology • School of Medicine Collegium Medicum www.pk.edu.pl University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn • University of Bielsko-Biala www.ath.bielsko.pl www.uwm.edu.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 12 UNIVERSITIES OF ECONOMICS • Maria Grzegorzewska University in Warsaw • Cracow University of Economics www.aps.edu.pl www.uek.krakow.pl • Pedagogical University of Cracow • Poznan University of Economics And Business www.up.krakow.pl www.ue.poznan.pl • Pomeranian University in Słupsk • University of Economics in Katowice www.apsl.edu.pl www.ue.katowice.pl • Siedlce University of Natural Sciences • Warsaw School of Economics and Humanities www.sgh.waw.pl www.uph.edu.pl • Wrocław University of Economics UNIVERSITIES OF ARTS www.ue.wroc.pl • Academy of Art in Szczecin UNIVERSITIES OF AGRICULTURE www.akademiasztuki.eu AND LIFE SCIENCES • Academy of Fine Arts in Gdansk • Poznań University of Life Sciences www.asp.gda.pl www.up.poznan.pl • Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice • University of Agriculture in Krakow www.asp.katowice.pl www.urk.edu.pl • Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw • University of Life Sciences in Lublin www.asp.waw.pl www.up.lublin.pl • Academy of Music in Kraków • UTP University of Science and Technology www.amuz.krakow.pl in Bydgoszcz www.utp.edu.pl • Aleksander Zelwerowicz National Academy • Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW- of Dramatic Art in Warsaw www.sggw.pl www.at.edu.pl • Wrocław University of Environmental and • Eugeniusz Geppert Academy of Art and Design Life Sciences in Wroclaw www.asp.wroc.pl www.upwr.edu.pl • Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz UNIVERSITIES OF PEDAGOGY www.amuz.bydgoszcz.pl • Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa • Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw www.ujd.edu.pl www.chopin.edu.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 13 • Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy • Poznan University of Physical Eduacation of Music in Łódź www.amuz.lodz.pl www.awf.poznan.pl • Ignacy Jan Paderewski Academy of Music • University School of Physical Education in Poznań www.amuz.edu.pl in Wroclaw www.awf.wroc.pl • Jan Matejko Academy of Fine Art in Krakow MARITIME UNIVERSITIES www.asp.krakow.pl • Gdynia Maritime University www.am.gdynia.pl • Karol Lipiński Academy of Music in Wrocław • Maritime University of Szczecin www.amuz.wroc.pl www.am.szczecin.pl • Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice www.am.katowice.pl MILITARY HEIs • AST National Academy of Theatre Arts • General Tadeusz Kosciuszko Military in Krakow www.ast.krakow.pl University of Land Forces in Wrocław • Polish National Film, Television And Theatre www.awl.edu.pl School in Łódź www.filmschool.lodz.pl • Military University of Technology in Warsaw • Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music www.wat.edu.pl in Gdansk www.amuz.gda.pl • War Studies University in Warsaw • Strzemiński Academy of Art Łódź www.akademia.mil.pl www.asp.lodz.pl • Polish Air Force Academy in Dęblin • University of Arts in Poznań www.wsosp.pl www.uap.edu.pl • Polish Naval Academy of the Heroes of West- UNIVERSITIES OF PHYSICALEDUCATION erplatte in Gdynia www.amw.gdynia.pl • Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical GOVERNMENT SERVICE HEIs Education in Katowice www.awf.katowice.pl • Main School of Fire Service in Warsaw • Jędrzej Śniadecki Academy of Physical Edu- www.sgsp.edu.pl cation and Sport in Gdańsk • Police Academy in Szczytno www.wspol.edu.pl www.awf.gda.pl HIGHER SCHOOLS OF PROFESSIONAL • Józef Piłsudski University of Physical EDUCATION Education in Warsaw www.awf.edu.pl • The Angelus Silesius University of Applied • University School of Physical Education Sciences in Wałbrzych www.pwsz.com.pl in Krakow www.awf.krakow.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 14 • Bronisław Markiewicz State Higher School • University of Applied Sciences in Nysa of Technology and Economics in Jarosław www.pwsz.nysa.pl www.pwste.edu.pl • Stanisław Staszic State School of Higher • East State Higher School in Przemyśl Vocational Education in Piła www.pwsz.pila.pl www.pwsw.pl • Lomza State University of Applied Sciences • Higher Vocational School in Suwałki www.pwsip.edu.pl www.pwsz.suwalki.pl • State Higher School of Vocational Education • Higher Vocational School in Tarnów in Ciechanów www.pwszciechanow.edu.pl www.pwsztar.edu.pl • State Higher School of Vocational Education • Higher Vocational State School in Włocławek in Zamość www.pwszzamosc.pl www.pwsz.wloclawek.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Głogów • The Jacob of Paradies University in Gorzów www.pwsz.glogow.pl Wielkopolski www.pwsz.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Gniezno • Jan Amos Komienski State School of Higher www.pwsz-gniezno.edu.pl Vocational Education in Leszno • State Higher Vocational School in Koszalin www.pwsz.edu.pl www.pwsz-koszalin.pl • Jan Grodek Higher Vocational State School • State Higher Vocational School in Krosno in Sanok www.pwsz-sanok.edu.pl www.pwsz.krosno.pl • Karkonosze State Higher School in Jelenia Góra • State Higher Vocational School in Nowy Sącz www.kpswjg.pl www.pwsz-ns.edu.pl • Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Edu- • State Higher Vocational School in Racibórz cation in Biała Podlaska www.pswbp.pl www.pwsz.raciborz.edu.pl • President Stanislaw Wojciechowski State • State Higher Vocational School in Skierniewice Univeristy of Applied Sciences in Kalisz www.pwsz.skierniewice.pl www.pwsz.kalisz.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Sulechów • Prof. Stanislaw Tarnowski Public High www.pwsz.sulechow.pl Vocational School in Tarnobrzeg • State Higher Vocational School in Wałcz www.pwsz.tarnobrzeg.pl www.pwsz.eu • Public Higher Medical Vocational School • State Higher Vocational School of Podhale in Opole www.wsm.opole.pl in Nowy Targ www.ppwsz.edu.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 15 • State School of Higher Education in Chełm • Katowice School of Economics www.gwsh.pl www.pwszchelm.edu.pl • Kozminski University www.kozminski.edu.pl • State School of Higher Education in Oświęcim • Łazarski University www.lazarski.pl www.uczelnia.pwsz-oswiecim.edu.pl • Higher School of Social Sciences in Warsaw • State School of Higher Professional Education www.pedagogium.pl in Elbląg www.pwsz.elblag.pl • Philological School of Higher Education • State School of Higher Professional Education in Wrocław www.wsf.edu.pl in Konin www.pwsz.konin.edu.pl • Polish-Japanese Academy of lnformation • State School of Higher Professional Education Technology www.pja.edu.pl in Płock www.pwszplock.pl • Pułtusk Academy of Humanities www.ah.edu.pl • Witelon University of Applied Sciences in • University of Law and Public Administration Legnica www.pwsz.legnica.edu.pl in Przemyśl www.wspia.eu CHURCH HIGHER SCHOOLS • University of Social Sciences www.san.edu.pl • University of Finance and Management • Christian Theology Academy in Warsaw in Warsaw www.vizja.pl www.chat.edu.pl • University of Humanities and Economics • Jesuit University lgnatianum in Krakow in Lodz www.ahe.lodz.pl www.ignatianum.edu.pl • University of lnformation Technology and • Orthodox Theological Seminary Management in Rzeszow www.psd.edu.pl www.wsiz.rzeszow.pl • Pontifical Faculty of Theology in Warsaw • University of Lower Silesia www.dsw.edu.pl www.pwtw.pl • SWPS University of Social Sciences and • Pontifical Faculty of Theology in Wrocław Humanities www.swps.pl www.pwt.wroc.pl • Vistula University www.vistula.edu.pl • Pontifical University of John Paul li in Cracow • WSB Universities www.wsb.pl www.upjp2.edu.pl UNIVERSITY-TYPE NON-PUBLIC HEls • Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University Full offer of programmes offered in English www.ka.edu.pl by those universities is available on-line • Collegium Civitas www.civitas.edu.pl through “Studyfinder” tool at www.go-poland.pl 16

- STRUCTURE 3rd Cycle DOCTORAL studies (PhD)

MASTER MASTER OF STUDIES 2nd Cycle 90-120 ECTS

BACHELOR Long-cycle IN POLAND (Licencjat/inżynier)

1st Cycle 180-240 ECTS 270-360 ECTS

years of MATURA CERTIFICATE education (or equivalent)

Higher education institutions run full- been successfully implemented together time, extramural, evening and external with the European Credit Transfer and Accu- courses. Full-time courses are defined as the mulation System (ECTS). The European basic type of studies. Poland conforms to standard in higher education makes it easier the guidelines from the Bologna Process in for students to obtain recognition of their European higher education. The degree sys- qualifications in other countries. tem based on the three-cycle structure has Ready, Study, Go! Poland 17 1st Cycle law, medical analysis, medicine, production First-cycle studies (3 to 4 years) leading to the and photography, pharmacy, physiotherapy, professional title of a licencjat or inżynier (Engi- psychology, pedagogy, scenography, fine neer, in the field of engineering, agriculture or arts, theology and veterinary medicine, offer economics). This is the Polish equivalent of the long-cycle programmes only. Long-cycle stud- Bachelor’s degree. It is focused on preparing ies – Master’s degree programme (4.5 to 6 students for future employment or for contin- years) leading to the professional title of Master ued education within a Master’s degree pro- (magister), or an equivalent degree depending gramme. To obtain this degree, students must on the course profile). To obtain this degree, earn 180-240 ECTS credits. students must earn 270-360 ECTS credits. Such single long-cycle studies are based on nd an integrated study programme containing 2 Cycle both basic studies and in-depth specialisa- Second-cycle studies – Master’s degree pro- tion. Completion of this degree will provide gramme (1.5 to 2.5 years) following the first cycle a qualification corresponding to a second-cycle studies and leading to the professional title Master’s degree. of Master (magister, or an equivalent degree depending on the course profile). It is focused 3rd Cycle on theoretical knowledge as well as the application and development of creative skills. In Third-cycle studies – Doctoral degree pro- arts disciplines, the focus is on the develop- grammes (normally 3 to 4 years) accessible for ment of creativity and talents. Master’s degree graduates of a Master’s degree programme, holders may enter a doctoral programme leading to a PhD degree, offered by univer- (third-cycle studies). To obtain the degree, stu- sities as well as some research institutes of dents must earn 90-120 ECTS credits. the Polish Academy of Sciences (as well as research and development institutions). A PhD degree is awarded to candidates who Long-Cycle Studies submit and successfully defend a doctoral dis- In addition to the general structure, 11 fields sertation before a thesis committee and pass of study including e.g. acting, art conserva- a doctoral examination. tion and restoration, canon law, dentistry, 18 equivalent to a Polish diploma. After successful nostrification an appropriate Polish academic RECOGNITION degree can be used. The competent authorities to conduct the nostrification procedure with regard to higher education diplomas (university degrees) are organisational units of higher OF DEGREES education institutions authorised to confer the Recognition of Foreign Higher academic degree of a doktor (doctor) in a given field of science or in a given field of art. Education Degrees in Poland For the complete list of international agreements on General information recognition of foreign qualification please visit: www.nauka.gov.pl/uznawanie-wyksztalcenia/ A degree awarded by an institution operat- akty-prawne.html ing in the education system of an EU, OECD or EFTA country, upon completion of: Recognition for the purpose of further studies • 3-year studies or first cycle studies with the A foreign degree giving access to further studies nominal duration of min. 3 years – con- or the right to start doctoral proceedings in the firms possession of a first cycle degree in country where it was awarded, gives its holder Poland; access to second cycle studies, post-graduate • second cycle studies or long cycle studies studies, third cycle / doctoral studies or the right with the nominal duration of min. 4 years to start doctoral proceedings in Poland. – confirms possession of a second cycle A foreign degree may also be recognised for degree in Poland. the purpose of further education on the basis A foreign degree awarded by an institution of an international agreement. For the purpose operating in another country may be recog- of further studies nostrification procedure is nised as equivalent to a Polish one either on not needed. the basis of an international agreement or Information concerning recognition of matu- (if there are no such agreements) by way of rity certificates can be obtained at the Ministry nostrification. Nostrification is a procedure of National Education (Department of Interna- aimed at recognising a foreign diploma as an tional Cooperation). Ready, Study, Go! Poland 19 Recognition of Foreign Scientific according to the rules set by those countries. In Degrees in Poland other countries, Polish degreesare recognised in accordance with the regulations on the academic recognition of foreign qualifications in A scientific degree awarded by an authorised force in a given country. lnformation on the institution operating in the education system recognition of Polish degrees can be obtained of one of the EU, EFTA, OECD countries is rec- in an ENIC/NARIC centre or the ministry of edu- ognised as equivalent to the appropriate Polish cation of a given country: one. A scientific degree acquired in other coun- www.enic-naric.net try may be recognised as equivalent to a Pol- ish one either on the basis of an international ENIC – European Network of National lnfor- agreement or (if there are no such agreements) mation Centres for Academic Recognition and by way of nostrification. A holder of a scientific Mobility established by the Council of Europe degree acquired in a country – party to the Lis- and UNESCO for the European Region. bon Convention who wishes to start habilita- NARIC – National Academic Recognition and tion proceedings in Poland may be exempted Recognition Centres is a network set up by the from nostrification. The competent authorities European Commission in order to establish effec- to conduct the nostrification procedure with tive and close cooperation between EU member regard to scientific degrees are councils of the states in terms of academic recognition and they organisational unit authorised to confer an support the system for professional recognition. academic degree of doktor habilitowany (doctor habilitatus) in a given academic field or in a given field of art within the scope of a given Contact the Polish ENIC-NARIC centre: academic discipline or of a given arts discipline ENIC-NARIC Polska Department for Recognition of concerned with the academic degree. Education and Authentication of Documents Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange Polna 40, 00-635 Warszawa Recognition of Polish Degrees Abroad Phone: +48 22 390 35 60 e-mail: [email protected] In countries with which Poland has signed www.nawa.gov.pl/en/recognition agreements, Polish degrees are recognised 20 Access to the First-cycle Studies Access to first-cycle studies, leading to the ADMISSION professional title of licencjat or inżynier (Engi- neer), as well as long-cycle studies, leading to a Master’s degree (magister or an equivalent degree), is open to holders of an upper sec- REQUIREMENTS ondary school certificate (Matura certificate) or an equivalent entitling the holder to enrol in such programs in Poland. Additional entrance examinations may be conducted by HEIs only Admissions to the study programs are admin- if this is necessary to assess knowledge or skills istrated by the institutions of higher edu- that are not assessed by the Matura examina- cation, and candidates apply directly to the tion or the applicant holds an upper secondary institution of their choice. It is best to contact school certificate obtained abroad. the international relations office well before the course starts in order to find out all the Access to the Second-cycle Studies necessary details about the application pro- Access to the second-cycle studies is open cedures and other important information. to holders of a licencjat or inżynier (Engineer) degree, a Master’s degree (magister or an General Requirements equivalent degree) or the equivalent of the General requirements for admission to degree Polish higher education diploma entitling the programs offered by higher education insti- holder to enrol in such programs in Poland. tutions in Poland are the same for both university-type and non-university HEIs. The can- Access to the Doctoral Programs didate must hold a matriculation certificate Access to the doctoral programs is open to (the Matura certificate) or another equivalent applicants who hold a Master’s degree (mag- document attesting that the holder is eligible ister or an equivalent degree) or the equiva- for admission to higher education in the coun- lent of the Polish higher education diploma try in which he or she completed secondary entitling the holder to enrol in such programs school. in Poland, and who meet the admission con- Ready, Study, Go! Poland 21 ditions laid down by the specific institution. lies if residing in the territory of the Republic The detailed admission conditions are laid of Poland, down by the board of the entity authorised to • citizens of the EU Member States or the EFTA off er doctoral programs within an institution. States that are members of the European While respecting such general admission Economic Area Treaty, as well as members requirements, each HEI may define its own of their families, who have means sufficient additional admission conditions and proce- to cover their living costs during the period dures, including the number of places avail- of study; however, they are not eligible for able to students, except in the medical fields need-based scholarships. of study (limited number of places). The admission conditions and procedures may be similar across a HEI or may vary according to the field of study. Different conditions and procedures may be applied by different HEIs for the same fields of study. The admission conditions and procedures must be published by each HEI Foreign higher education diplomas may not later than by 31 May of the year preceding be recognised as equivalent to a given Pol- the academic year to which they refer. As of ish diploma on the basis of international 1 May 2004, foreigners are free to take up and agreements or, in the absence of such continue studies and participate in scientific agreements, according to the regulations research and training projects and schemes on on nostrification. the same terms as Polish citizens if they: Note: Nostrification is not needed to con- • hold a residence permit, tinue study in Poland. • have refugee status granted by the Republic of Poland, • have been granted temporary protection in the territory of the Republic of Poland, • are migrant workers – EU/EEA national, for- merly or currently employed in Poland; this- right extends also to members of their fami- 22 ACADEMIC EXAMINATIONS CALENDAR & GRADING

The academic year in Poland is divided into All higher education institutions are required two semesters of 15 weeks each – the winter to end their courses with examinations. There and the summer semester. The winter semes- may be several independent examinations or ter starts in October and ends in mid-February, tests in separate parts of a subject. Usually, oral with a break of about ten days for the Christ- and written examinations are held at the end mas holidays. The examination session usually of each semester during the examination ses- takes two or three weeks, beginning in Janu- sion. Students sit examinations on each sub- ary. The summer semester starts in mid-Febru- ject separately. The performance assessment ary and ends in June, with a one-week break period covers either one semester or one aca- for Easter. Summer holidays last for three demic year. To successfully complete a semes- months from the beginning of July to the end ter (or a year), a student must attain a pass mark of September, but only for those students who (at least “satisfactory”) for all assessments and passed all exams within the summer examina- examinations in the subjects covered by the tion session (two-three weeks in June). Those curriculum and obtain performance assess- who failed take the exams again in September. ment credits for all integrated placements. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 23 GRADING: In addition to the grading scale, the Euro- pean Credit Transfer System (ECTS) under which a certain number of credits are allo- cated to a given subject, independently of the grade awarded. To complete a year successfully, a student has to collect 60 credits (30 per semester). Each HEI identifies its grading scale in its Study Rules. The most common scale comprises the following marks: • 5 very good (bardzo dobry) • 4 good (dobry) • 3 satisfactory (dostateczny) • 2 unsatisfactory/fail (niedostateczny) • credit/pass (zaliczenie)

For more information on the adjustment to the Bologna Process and ECTS credits please visit European Higher Education Area: www.ehea.info Ready, Study, Go! Poland 24 DIPLOMA In order to graduate, students are required to: • present, at an appointed date, a diploma pro- • pass a performance assessment for all subject and attain a pass mark for that project; jects, integrated placements and practical • pass the diploma examination. work sessions, and pass all examinations covered by the study programme set for a given Upon graduation, a student receives a diploma field of study; of completion of studies in a specific field of study together with a Diploma Suplement and – upon request – oficial copy of the diploma translated into a foreign language. Poland: Europe's new higher education destination for international students

70000 Number of international students in last years 65000 60000 55000 50000 45000 40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 13 021 15 862 17 000 21 474 24 253 29 172 35 983 46 101 57 119 65 793 72 743 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 According to the Polish government’s Human Capital Development Strategy, share of international students in the total number of students should reach 5% until 2020. TUITION FEES & SCHOLARSHIPS 26 Erasmus+ Programme

SCHOLARSHIP Erasmus+ is the European Union (EU) programme which supports projects, partnerships, events and mobility in the areas of education, training, youth and sport. The Programme, OFFER which runs from 2014 to 2020, provides fund- ing opportunities in all these areas. Erasmus+ Higher Education is mainly a student exchange Scholarships within bilateral programme which also includes work placements in companies abroad and academic agreements staff mobility. lt operates in the framework of the EU Erasmus+ Programme which continues There are a number of scholarships available the good tradition of the Lifelong Learning within the limits defined in bilateral agree- Programme (LLP) and involves all EU countries ments. They are financed either by the Polish as well as lceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and or the foreign partner’s government, often Turkey. Erasmus+ Higher Education allows with the aim to enhance exchange within a students to undertake a part of their studies specific field of study. The amount of a scholar- in another country without additional costs of ship depends on the type of study undertaken. tuition, registration or examination. Students You can find more information on the website obtain a scholarship that covers the costs of of National Agency for Academic Exchange living abroad. The time spent studying abroad (NAWA) www.nawa.gov.pl as well as the courses completed in accordance with the rules of the program me have to lt is also advisable to check with local author- be accepted by the home institution. ities if they have a scholarship programme For more information check the European that includes studies in Poland. Commission website: www.ec.europa.eu/programmes/ erasmus-plus/ Ready, Study, Go! Poland 27 CEEPUS exchange programme with Visegrad Scholarship Programme Central and Eastern Europe The International Visegrad Fund offers Mas- The CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Pro- ter and Post-Master scholarships awarded to gramme for University Studies) is a multilateral selected students for 1 or 2 semesters (for MA exchange programme with Central and East- scholarships within the incoming scheme ern Europe. It is a transnational Central Euro- 1 to 4-semester scholarships can be awarded). pean university network that provides a plat- Citizens of the following countries and territo- form for individual subject-specific networks. ries can apply: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, At present, CEEPUS unites universities from Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Czech 16 Central and Eastern European countries Republic, Georgia, Hungary, Kosovo, Mace- (Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bul- donia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Russia, garia, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia and Ukraine. On applying, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, all applicants must have completed at least Romania, Serbia, the Slovak Republic and Slo- 4 semesters of university study. There are var- venia, Prishtina/Kosovo is also participating) ious scholarship schemes available. within networks consisting of at least three Further information is accessible on the Viseg- higher education institutions from at least rad Fund website: two different contractual countries. Student www.visegradfund.org/scholarships/ exchange within CEEPUS lasts from 3 to 10 months. Within a network incoming students are exempted from paying tuition fees and receive a comprehensive grant from the host country which depends on the living costs in the country. To be eligible for scholarships, exchange students have to be nationals of a CEEPUS country. Further information including a list of the current networks can be found at www.ceepus.info Ready, Study, Go! Poland 28 Scholarships for students from to explore together the past, the present and Eastern Partnership and from the future of our region. To apply for MA studies, post-Soviet countries students must have completed their studies (MA or specialist degree), be under 30 years old and Konstanty Kalinowski Scholarship have a good knowledge of Polish and English. Programme For more information check the website: This is a scholarship programme aimed specific- www.studium.uw.edu.pl/programystypendia- aIly at politically and socially active Belarusians lne/stypendia-wschodnie/ who, due to their political engagement, cannot advance in their home tertiary education sys- Stefan Banach Scholarship Programme tem. The programme offers scholarships for BA, The aim of the programme is to support the MA and PhD level studies as well as research social and economic growth of Eastern Part- internships and postgraduate studies in all fields nership countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bela- of studies. lt helps Belarusian students who are rus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine) and Cen- unable to study in Belarus to get access to the tral-Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, best Polish universities and promotes European Turkmenistan, Kirgizstan and Tajikistan) by values. For more information check the website: improving the level of education and pro- www.studium.uw.edu.pl/program fessional skills of their citizens. Furthermore -im-kalinowskiego/ the participation in the programme is a great opportunity to learn the Polish language and Scholarship program me for students culture. It also gives possibility to meet Polish of Specialised Eastern European Studies students and academics. Scholarships offered Specialist Eastern Studies at the University of within the programme include II degree studies Warsaw are available for foreign students from conducted at public universities supervised by Eastern Europe, Russia, Caucasus and Central the minister responsible for higher education Asia. Scholarships are available not only to build in the fields of: science, natural and technical a group of well-trained experts on Eastern affairs sciences, agriculture, forestry and veterinary. at home, but also to provide educational oppor- Knowlegde of Polish language is necesary. For tunities for young specialists from other, espe- more information see the website: cially neighbouring countries. Thus, it offers a rare www.nawa.gov.pl chance to Poles and their foreign fellow students Ready, Study, Go! Poland 29 Scholarship Programme for young scientists from post-Soviet countries The scholarship programme is addressed to researchers who have obtained a degree in humanities or social sciences with some academic achievements. lt covers a 9-month research internship. Students from post-Soviet countries can apply in Polish diplomatic and consular missions. For more information check the website: www.studium.uw.edu.pl/ programystypendialne/ program-rzadu-rp-dla-mlodychnaukowcow/ Scholarships for citizens from developing countries Ignacy Łukasiewicz scholarship programme The Ignacy Łukasiewicz programme is made up of two types of scholarships: Master studies in technical fields preceded by one-year university preparatory course and PhD studies in the following fields: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, Earth science, technical sciences, agri- cultural sciences. The programme is designed primarily for citizens from: Angola, Ethiopia, lndonesia, Kenya, Colombia, Mexico, Myanmar, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Palestine, the Republic of South Africa, Senegal, Tanzania, Vietnam. More information: www.nawa.gov.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 30 Fulbright Program With contributions from both governments the Fulbright Program in Poland is administered by The Fulbright Program is a program of highly the Polish-U.S. Fulbright Commission. Through competitive, merit-based grants for interna- its various exchange programs the commis- tional educational exchange for students, sion supports studies, research, instruction scholars, teachers, professionals, scientists and and other educational activities of American artists, founded by United States Senator J. Wil- and Polish educators, scholars, and institu- liam Fulbright in 1946. Under the Fulbright Pro- tions; it also administers visits and exchanges gram, competitively selected U.S. citizens may between the United States and Poland for stu- become eligible for scholarships to study, con- dents, trainees, scholars, teachers, instructors duct research, or exercise their talents abroad and professors. Detailed information about and citizens of other countries may qualify to current programs can be found on the web- do the same in the United States. site of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural The Fulbright Program is one of the most pres- Affairs of the U.S. Department of State: tigious awards programs worldwide, operating www.eca.state.gov/fulbright/country/poland in over 155 countries. In Poland it was initiated in 1959 and as of today it is one of the largest in Central and Eastern Europe as well as the most prestigious and continuous academic exchange program between Poland and the United States. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 31 Programme of Fellowships under mission for UNESCO Scheme; their applica- the Polish National Commission tions will not be considered. for UNESCO Information available at: www.unesco.pl

The Polish National Commission for UNESCO in Lane Kirkland Scholarship Program collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Higher Education carries out a programme of fellowships for young scientists from Central The program is addressed to university grad- and Eastern European countries and develop- uates who already have at least two years of ing countries. professional experience, coming from Ukraine, Candidates under this programme must be Belarus, Russia, Moldova, Georgia, Armenia, postgraduates wishing to pursue their research Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgystan, and in the Polish universities. Fellowships are of are determined to be actively involved in the short-term type lasting from 1 to 6 months. development of democracy, economy and The fellow must carry out research in a host- civil society in their countries and the region. ing institution subordinated to the Ministry of The program offers a two-semester supple- Science and Higher Education, under the aus- mentary studies in the fields of economics and pices of an academic supervisor. Confirmation management, administration / management of acceptance from the academic supervisor is (business, NGOs, culture, environment, health), imperative. public administration (state and local), law, A monthly research grant 450 USD /net/ which social sciences (sociology, social psychology), is approximately the equivalent of a salary paid political science and international relations, to a local junior research fellow. Thus, all living development policy and humanitarian aid. expenses in Poland are supposed to be cov- Studies are supplemented by at least a two- ered by the fellow himself. week internship at Polish institutions. All applications should be submitted to the For more information, please visit: Polish National Commission for UNESCO. www.kirkland.edu.pl Polish Card and Residence Permit holders can not become beneficiaries of the Fellowships Programme under the Polish National Com- 32 TUITION FEES Full-time studies (in Polish language) at public 2300 USD to 7000 USD per year and depend higher education institutions (HEIs) are free on the institution and study program (for MBA of charge for Polish students – plus interna- programs: about 9300–14000 USD per year). tional students who are citizens of the EU/EEA or holders of the Polish Card (Karta Polaka). Please take note that actual fees and specific All other international students are required study conditions are described in the frame- to pay tuition fees that on average are the fol- work agreement between individual institu- lowing: tions or between the student and the given • 2300 USD per year for first, second and long university. cycle studies, • 2300 USD per year for an annual preparatory Polish language course to commence studies in Polish.

Fees at public and non-public HEIs are established by the institution itself under the condi- tion that they cannot be lower than the costs of education process. The tuition fees range from LIVING & WORKING LIVING & WORKING 34 differ is the friendly and helpful atmosphere in BEFORE YOU the student houses. Private housing It is quite common in Poland to rent a room in a bigger apartment. Most of the out-of-town ARRIVE students share flats in this way. The cost var- ies between cities and it depends greatly on the location of the apartment as well as the Accommodation size and quality of the room. The monthly rent is usually between 175 USD and 230 USD. Some landlords may require a deposit of There are many diff erent options for arranging a similar amount. Don’t worry if you don’t have student accommodation in Poland. They vary friends to live with. Sharing a flat with locals is depending on the city and higher education an amazing opportunity: you can pay for the institution you choose. Many Polish HEIs have accommodation and get great friends for free! their own dormitories, which are usually the And if you really don’t like to share, you can cheapest option available. However, most Pol- find an independent apartment. The rent for ish students prefer to rent a room in a private the smallest, one-room apartment starts from apartment. about 350 USD (in Warsaw). Student houses and dormitories The pricing of the student houses depends on Health insurance the particular HEI. Usually the cost of accommodation in a dormitory is around 70–95 USD Students from the EU/EEA countries monthly for a shared room and between Healthcare in Poland is available for students 115–175 USD for a single room. However, from EU/EEA countries, provided that they hold the standard of the dormitories may differ valid medical insurance in the national insur- greatly even between various student houses ance system of their country. A valid passport, of the same HEI, so it’s good to do some student identity card or doctoral student iden- research before the final decision. What doesn’t tity card and a valid European Health Insurance Ready, Study, Go! Poland 35 Card (Europejska Karta Ubezpieczenia Zdrowot- Climate nego) entitles its holder to medical care free of charge in Poland. Detailed information on the Poland has a moderate climate with both mar- health care for EU/EEA citizens can be found on itime and continental elements. You can count the website of the National Health Fund: on many sunny days and many rainy days and www.ekuz.nfz.gov.pl/en/info_dla_ don’t be surprised when the summer turns out uprawnionych_z_innych/ to be quite hot or quite rainy. Winters are usu- general-information-concerning-access ally cold, with temperatures well below freez- -health-care-during-temporary-st ing, and more or less snowy. If you come from a warmer climate, make sure you have proper Students from outside the EU/EEA clothing. If possible it is recommended that students from non-EU/EEA countries purchase their High (˚C) Average temperature own international medical insurance prior Low (˚C) to their arrival in Poland. Otherwise they are -3 0 369 12 15 18 21 24 required to sign a voluntary health insurance JAN agreement with the National Health Fund FEB (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia – NFZ) and pay their own insurance fees, which amount to MAR about 18 USD a month. Under this insurance APR scheme, students are entitled to free medical MAY care and can use university health care clinics JUN and health centres. Also, all foreign students have the option of purchasing additional acci- JUL dent insurance. For detailed information visit AUG the website of the National Health Fund: SEP www.nfz.gov.pl NOV OCT DEC Ready, Study, Go! Poland 36 Cost of living in Poland monthly disposal. Average costs of student living range from 410 USD up to 640 USD. Please In comparison to other European countries, remember, that to be able to study in Poland Poland is a relatively cheap place to live and non-EU/EEA students have to possess suffi- study. Prices depend greatly on the city, but a cient means to cover the living costs. student can get by with about 350 USD at their

LIVING COSTS Prices for students* *may vary depend on the city

from from from from from 70 USD/month 120 USD/month 10 USD/month 10 USD/month 3 USD

DORMITORY RENTED ROOM FITNESS CLUB PUBLIC TRANSPORT HAIRDRESSER

from from from from from 2.5 USD 1.5 USD 1 USD 3 USD 0 USD

LUNCH AT CANTEEN COFFEE IN A CAFE BEER IN A PUB CINEMA TICKET MUSEUM TICKET

from from 0 USD 10 USD/month

www.go-poland.pl DANCING CLUB UNLIMITED INTERNET ENTRY ACCESS Ready, Study, Go! Poland 37 city, they include buses, trams, trolley buses, trains and underground trains. It is usually a AFTER YOU good idea to buy a longterm ticket, as it’s hard to avoid public transport. Even if you manage to find accommodation close to the university, its separate faculties or facilities may not ARRIVE be within walking distance. Some of the cities have short-time bike rental systems that allow you to take a bike from one place to another.

Student Card Leisure The student card is the size of a credit card, but There is a wide range of leisure activities availa- it can change your life. Not only does it con- ble in Poland. Whatever you enjoy, you’ll prob- firm your student status and allows access to ably find it here! Those who like to be active libraries and other HEI facilities, but it also enti- can use one of well-equipped sport facilities tles you to all kinds of student discounts, most or explore beautiful Polish landscapes while important of them being a 50% discount on cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing, canoe- public transport. There is also – up to the age ing, ballooning or in any other way they want. of 26 – a 37% discount on national railways, Those who like sightseeing should visit the allowing you to travel all around the country churches, castles, museums and many other for less. Some other transport companies, as attractions. The culture-oriented can choose well as theatres, museums and cinemas, even between many theatres and galleries as well restaurants, have special prices for students. as philharmonics, concerts and music clubs. In some HEIs, the student union provides addi- Check out the website: www.polska.pl tional discounts for students. So get your student card and enjoy the city!

Transportation Most Polish cities have well-developed networks of public transport. Depending on a Ready, Study, Go! Poland 38 Working Some companies organise very interesting Work during studies internship programs that can really help your To be able to study in Poland, a non-EU/EEA future career. It’s definitely worth trying! students must demonstrate that they possess sufficient means to cover the costs of living in Work during the academic year Poland. Still, some students may wish to com- It’s not easy to work and study at the same time, bine studies with work. In this case, non-EU/ but it can be done, especially if you’ve chosen EEA students who stay in Poland with a visa evening or weekend courses. Nevertheless, generally need to apply for a work permit, think carefully about whether this is in your which is granted only if no EU citizen can fill best interest, as it may affect your academic the position. Some forms of work (vocational performance. Most universities have academic training, summer student jobs programs) do career centres, where you can find information not require a permit. All full-time students about jobs, internships and trainings. You can who possess a student visa or a temporary also find job off ers at the nearest labour office. residence permit, EU/EEA citizens and holders of the Polish Card do not need a work per- Work after graduation mit at all. For more information, please visit It may be really hard to leave such a beautiful the websites of the International Organization country after you complete your education for Migration here. Don’t worry if you prefer to stay and work www.migrant.info.pl in Poland. As a graduate of a Polish higher edu- or the Office for Foreigners cation institution full-time program, you don’t www.udsc.gov.pl. need a permit to work here. Just make sure your temporary residence permit is in order. Summer job DEFINE YOUR The three-month long academic holidays are a great opportunity to earn extra money and get some work experience. Admittedly, all full- time students can work all year long without a permit, but it is a good idea to find a job or an internship especially during the holidays. STATUS DEFINE YOUR STATUS 40 Tuition STUDYING ON TERMS If you study on terms applicable to Polish citizens doing full-time programmes at public higher education institutions, you do it free of APPLICABLE TO charge. This, however, requires a sound knowledge of Polish and participation in the recruitment procedure.

POLISH Student financial support There are a number of State budget financial NATIONALS support forms available for students studying on terms applicable to Polish citizens. They include: You can study on the same terms as Polish • maintenance grant, citizens, if you: • special grant for disabled persons, • have been granted a residence permit (to set- • scholarship as an outstanding student, tle in Poland), awarded by a rector, • hold refugee status as granted by the Repub- • scholarship for academic achievement lic of Poland, awarded by the minister, • have been granted temporary protection • assistance grants. in the territory of the Republic of Poland, • are a migrant worker, EU/EEA national or a member of an EU/EEA migrant worker family if residing in the teritory of the Republic of Poland, • have been granted an EU long-term residence permit, • are an EU/EEA citizen with the right for per- manent residence. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 41 • be awarded a scholarship by Polish higher education institutions. STUDYING ON TERMS Students who do not fall under the rules applicable to Polish citizens are not obliged to compete with other students to enter studies, but APPLICABLE TO have to pay fees as defined by higher education institutions. Studying on terms applicable to foreigners does foreigners not provide an entitlement to state budget financial support. Students of non-public HEIs You can study in Poland as a foreigner on the are admitted on the basis of the rector’s deci- basis of rules defined within/by: sion and on a tuition fee-paying basis. They are • international agreements, able to be granted an HEIs scholarship or be • agreements concluded between a higher partially or fully waived of fees. education institution and foreign entities, • decision of the minister competent for higher Application education, It may be easier for foreigners to get into their • decision of the rector of a higher education chosen HEIs as they don’t have to compete institution. with local students. The standard requirements include: Tutition & Scholarships • confirmation of sufficient knowledge of the Studying on terms applicable to foreigners, instruction language to enter the chosen you can: course, • be awarded a scholarship by a Polish partner, • a high school diploma and – if applying to 2nd • study on a tuition fee-paying basis, or 3rd cycle studies – a diploma from the previ- • study free of tuition fees and with no scholar- ous cycle of study (for example: a BA diploma ship entitlement, is necessary to apply for an MA course). • be awarded a scholarship by the sending You may also be asked to prove that you have partner (for example your country or univer- the predispositions and qualifications required sity), and free of tuition fees, by, for example, arts or medical HEIs. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 42 citizenship and live in one of former Soviet Union states. Among other privileges, it enti- STUDYING ON TERMS tles holders to choose the terms on which they wish to study. of your choice More information on the Polish Card is available here: You can choose if you wish to study on the www.migrant.info.pl terms applicable to Polish citizen or those applicable to foreigners when: EU/EEA citizens can also choose if they want • you are a holder of a valid Polish Card, to study like Polish students or as foreigners. • are an EU/EEA citizen and have enough funds However, they must have the necessary funds to support yourself in Poland. to support themselves in Poland. Even if they decide to study on terms applicable to Polish Polish Card (Karta Polaka) is a document stat- students, they will not be eligible for a main- ing that you belong to the Polish nation. It can tenance grant or a special grant for disabled be issued to people who do not have Polish persons.

Terms of studying Advantages Disadvantages

as a Polish citizen • free education in public HEIs • you have to compete with Polish • access to state budget student students for places at HEIs financial support as a foreigner • admission to HEIs without tak- • study on a tuition fee-paying basis ing entrance exams or going • no access to state budget stu- through recruitment process dent financial support • one-year preparatory Polish language course (in public HEIs) • a possibility of being awarded to the government-funded scholarship ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Ready, Study, Go! Poland 44 ENTRY ENTRY REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS FOR EU FOR NON-EU CITIZENS CITIZENS

If you are a citizen of an EU member state the The two main documents you will need to enter only thing you need to have to enter Poland is a Poland if are not an EU citizen are: a valid travel valid travel document or a document confirm- document (passport) and a visa (if required). ing identity and citizenship (i.e. your national ID). However, if you wish to travel abroad dur- Visa ing your stay in Poland, it is a good idea to have As a general rule you need a visa to enter a passport with you as it is necessary to visit Poland. There are, however, a number of coun- some of Poland’s neighbours that don’t belong tries that are free of this requirement. You can to the EU. check if your country is on the list here: For a stay shorter than three months there are www.msz.gov.pl/en/travel_to_poland/ no formal requirements. Your studies will how- entering_poland/visa_free/ ever take longer. For such a stay a registration of residence is necessary. You should register Poland is a part of the Schengen area, so you with Voivodship (Provincial) Office. can apply for a Polish visa and travel all around Europe (excluding the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia and states outside of the EU). Ready, Study, Go! Poland 45 There are several types of visas to choose from: the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180 • “A” type – an airport transit Schengen visa, days period. The visa can only be extended in so it cannot be used by a student coming to exceptional situations. Should you need to Poland, stay in Poland longer than specified in your • “C” type – a short-term Schengen visa allow- visa please do apply for the temporary resi- ing the holder to stay in the Schengen terri- dence permit (see below). tory for up to 90 days in 180 days period, • “D” type – a long-term national visa issued for up to one year allowing travel around

5 easy steps to get a visa

1) Find a Polish consulate that can process you application. You can use the MFA’s search engine: www.mfa.gov.pl/en/travel_to_poland/polands_missions_abroad/polish_missions_abroad 2) Read carefully ALL the information concerning visa application on the consulate’s website and follow ALL the instructions. 3) Set a visa appointment with the consulate. In most cases you will have to register through the website: www.e-konsulat.gov.pl. 4) Prepare the necessary documents including: application form, travel document (passport), biometric photo, health insurance, sufficient means to support yourself, documents confirming the purpose of your stay. The specifics of the required documentation may vary among consulates, so confirm them with the consulate’s website. 5) Submit all the documents including a printed and signed application form and the visa fee. Your visa application is complete. It will take up to 15 days to be processed. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 46 Application You have to apply for a Temporary Residence TEMPORARY Permit with the local Voivodship Office. You can find a complete list of offices here: RESIDENCE www.migrant.info.pl/public-institutions.html The documents you will need to legalise your stay include: an application form, photos and PERMIT documents proving your identity and citizenship, address, purpose of stay (a certificate from your school), health insurance and possession Who needs it? of sufficient funds. For detailed information Every non-EU student needs it. check out the Voivodship Office’s website. The procedure costs about 120 USD in total. You should apply for a Temporary Residence Permit before your visa expires. EU students When you receive the permit, you will be EU students do not need to apply for tem- issued a Temporary Residence Card, an ID card porary residence permits. As EU citizens they that proves that you have a residence permit. should only apply for registration of their stay Together with your travel document, it allows with local voivodship office within 90 days of you to cross the Polish border as many times their arrival. They will be issued a cost-free cer- as you wish. The first residence permit is issued tificate of registration with non-limited period for the period of 15 months. It can be renewed of validity proving their right to stay in Poland. POLISH YOUR for periods of up to 3 years, but for no longer For detailed information check out the Voivod- than the remainder of your studies. ship Office’s website. REMEMBER: You should apply for the Tem- porary Residence Card when you are legally staying in Poland, which means after you arrive, but before the expiry of your visa. POLISH POLISH YOUR POLISH Ready, Study, Go! Poland 48 For further details, please contact the institutions from the list below: 9-month • School of Polish for Foreign Students, Univer- sity of Lodz, • The Polish Language and Culture Centre for preparatory Polish People Abroad and Foreigners, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University Lublin, • School of Polish Language and Culture, Uni- polish language versity of Silesia in Katowice, • Centre of Polish Language and Culture for courses Foreigners, University od Warsaw, • International Centre of Education, Tadeusz Kosciuszko Cracow University of Technology, • The Department of Polish Language for For- For all those who would like to pursue their eigners, Wroclaw University of Technology, studies in Polish, selected higher education • “POLONUS” Centre of Polish Culture and Lan- institutions in Poland offer preparatory Polish guage for Poles from Abroad and Foreigners, language courses. University of Rzeszów, The classes include Polish language lessons • National Agency for Academic Exchange together with subjects related to future stud- Polna 40, 00-635 Warsaw ies. Candidates may choose from a variety of phone +48 22 826 74 34 specialisations, for example: humanities, engi- fax +48 22 826 28 23 neering/technical science, architecture, arts, e-mail: [email protected] economics, medical sciences and agriculture. • Polish embassies and consulates in your coun- The courses run 9 months, usually starting in try of residence (find out more at “Poland’s October, from Monday to Friday. missions abroad” search engine). The tuition fees may vary, depending on the institution and on average are 2300 USD/ 9 months paid before the course commences. Apart from offering professional language teaching, the summer school staff also provide POLISH LANGUAGE assistance in organising individual activities (such as gathering materials and information) AND CULTURE to all those people who are working on projects related to Poland and are interested in Poland. SUMMER SCHOOLS Participation in the course is especially use- ful for those who intend to take a state exam Summer courses in Polish language and cul- in Polish as a foreign language in the future ture are organised during the summer aca- (www.nawa.gov.pl/en/the-polish-language/ demic break and last three or four weeks. They certification). not only offer an outstanding opportunity to The providers of the courses are Polish higher learn Polish in Poland, but also help partici- education institutions specialising in Polish pants better understand Poland and Poles. language teaching. They are selected every The course syllabus covers language lessons year by competition run by the Ministry of Sci- and lectures on Polish literature and culture. ence and Higher Education. There are also other integration-oriented activities run in Polish: evening shows of Pol- ish movies preceded by short lectures, talent evenings, multi-cultural evenings, Polish song evenings, and finally a day of sightseeing.

Published by the Promotion and Communication Unit, National Agency for Academic Exchange, Warsaw 2018 National Agency for Academic Exchange Polna 40, 00-635 Warsaw, Poland Photos used in this publication are provided by Gdansk University of Technology/PAP (p. 8), Jagiellonia n University in Kraków (p. 9), Acad- emy of lnformation Technology in Katowice (p. 33), Warsaw School of Economics (p. 39), Pedagogical University of Cracow (p. 43), Cardina/ Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw (p. 47); Fotolia (p. 1 ), Theta Agency (p.6, 23), Adobe Stock (p.3,6). ISBN 978-83-64032-66-0 2/2018 FREE COPY www.nawa.gov.pl