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Home , Jagiellonian University, Lazarski University, University of Opole, University of Szczecin, University of Warsaw

Studying in Welcome to Poland, a modern and dynamic Poland’s traditions are among member of the where edu- the oldest in Europe. In 1364, King Casimir Come to Poland cation really . If you wish to learn more the Great established the Cracow , about our long and rich tradition of univer- known today as . Since sity education, which offers opportunities the beginning of system transformation our for young people aspiring to get a European higher education system has been developing Discover Europe degree recognized throughout the world, we rapidly and Poland is fourth in Europe (after invite you to study in Poland. the , and ) in terms of the number of people studying at university. The total student population at over 400 university-level schools is almost 1,5 million. Polish 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 Pro- cess thanks to the introduction of a three-stage education and the European Credit Transfer System. Foreigners studying in Poland can eas- ily continue their education elsewhere in the European Union. Foreign students coming to Poland can expect an attractive and diversified educational curricula which meets high - pean standards – they can study , biotechnology and engineering, as well as art and business. We invite you to consider the great opportu- nities 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 & SCHOLARSHIPS 44__Entry requirements for in Poland 26__Scholarship offer 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 courses 16__Structure of studies 40__Studying on terms 49__Polish language and in Poland applicable to Polish culture summer schools nationals 18__Recognition of degrees 41__Studying on terms 20__Admission requirements applicable to foreigners 22__Academic calendar 42__Studying on terms 22__Examinations & grading of your choice 24__Diploma WHY POLAND? Ready, Study, Go! Poland 4 5

(such as ancient and modern languages, literature and ). Polish 3. Live in a student city that’s 5. It’s not the end 5 REASONS business schools deliver world-class edu- bursting with different cultures Studying in Poland is just the beginning. Those cation in and finance (also as Study in the European Capital of Culture wanting to start their own business, or find double-degree programmes) and are inter- Wrocław, artistic Kraków, hipster , mul- a job in an international company would bene- nationally accredited. ti-cultural Lublin, academic Poznań or coastal fit from a longer stay. Foreign companies oper- to study in Poland See for yourself – one and a half million stu- Gdańsk. There’s something for everyone in ating in Poland prefer graduates from Polish dents can’t be wrong, can they? each city, from student pubs to vegan restau- universities. Akademickie Inkubatory Przed- rants and art galleries. Mingle with the crowd siębiorczości (‘Academic Incubators of Entre- No matter the city or the course, choosing to at the Palace of Culture in Warsaw, explore preneurship’) is a community that will help study in Poland is a great idea. Here are just 2. Study in the centre of Europe Kraków’s , go skiing in the Tatra start your business, and the Technology Parks are also at your disposal. Additionally, there are a few reasons why Poland is the place where you can earn Mountains or sail in the Masurian Lake District. the Warsaw Innovation Days, where start-ups a diploma that will open the door to the best can attract the attention of foreign investors. 1. So many options companies in Europe, even some of the best in In Poland there are 1.5 million students stud- the world. The country has many other perks, 4. Ideal for a student budget ying at more than 400 universities, study pro- such as the fact that its medical schools are If you dream of being independent and going grammes (in English or Polish), and hundreds accredited in the US and that, while studying abroad, but worry about the cost, Poland is of language classes. There is also an abun- in Poland, you have access to the EU’s study ideal for students on a tight budget. Dormito- dance of art colleges to choose from, as well programmes and can do internships or train- ries start from €100 a month per student, cin- as faculties of humanities and polytechnics, eeships abroad. ema tickets don’t exceed €6, and lunch in the Find out more and apply complete with fully equipped laboratories and With top-quality, internationally recognised cafeteria is no more than €5. For the essential information about stud- supercomputers. degrees, almost no other region in the world No wonder Warsaw is the most affordable ying in Poland and applying for higher While studying in Poland, you will have can set your career off to such a promising European student city according to 2016 QS education programmes visit: a chance to enter a competition with NASA, start. Best Student Cities index. www.go-poland.pl or become part of a prestigious scholar- or contact: ship programme for those interested in the [email protected] Ready, Study, Go! Poland 6 7

1. Official name: Republic of Poland (short 7. Climate: form: Poland), Rzeczpospolita Polska (short The Polish climate is moderate continental, 10 THINGS form in Polish: Polska) with relatively cold winters (from December to March) and hot summers which extend from 2. Official Language: Polish June to August. January temperatures average you should know -1°C (30°F) to -5°C (23°F). July and August aver- 3. Location: . Poland bor- age temperatures range from 16.5°C (62°F) to about Poland ders Germany, the Czech Republic, Slova- 19°C (65°F), though some days the tempera- kia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia ture can reach even 35°C (95°F). (the Kaliningrad exclave). Its northern border (440 km long) runs along the Baltic Sea coast. 8. Currency: 1 zloty (PLN) = 100 groszy For students from outside the European (actual exchange rates: www.nbp.pl) Union who come to study in Poland, this may Capital city: Warszawa (Warsaw: popu- well be the beginning of a fascinating adven- 4. lation 1.7 million / Warsaw agglomeration: Calling code: + 48; Internet domain: .pl ture of discovering Europe. Being invited to 9. 2.5 million) study in Poland means that you are invited International organizations: to the European Union, of which Poland is 10. Poland is a member of the European Union an active member state. We encourage you 5. Population: 38 million. Poland has the sev- (EU), the Schengen Area, North Atlantic Treaty to discover the European Union, which offers enth largest population in Europe and the sixth Organisation (NATO), United Nations (UN), not only varied and interesting cultures and largest in the European Union. International Monetary Fund (IMF), United the opportunities associated with strong, Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural innovative economies, but it also provides Time zone: Poland belongs to the Cen- 6. Organisation (UNESCO), United Nations Inter- the very best conditions for successful higher tral European time zone (GMT + 1 hour / UTC national Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), education study in a challenging and friendly + 1 hour), except for between the last Sunday World Health Organisation (WHO), World atmosphere. With top-quality, internation- in March and the last Sunday in October when Trade Organisation (WTO), Organisation for ally recognised degrees, almost no other it switches to daylight saving time. Cooperation and Development (OECD) and region in the world can set your career off to many others. such a promising start. 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) was a astronomer and the first was an outstanding Polish , European to contend that it is the Sun, not the co-founder of the Lwow School of Mathemat- Earth, that is at the centre of the Solar System. ics and functional analysis (branch of mathe- matics) – a colorful and intriguing personality Maria Skłodowska-Curie whose contribution to the world science is was a physicist-chemist famous for her pio- indisputable. neering research on radioactivity, she remains the only woman who received two Nobel Ignacy Łukasiewicz Prizes, and the only scientist in to be was a prominent Polish scientist, , HIGHER EDUCATION awarded two Nobel Prizes in two different oil industry pioneer and the inventor of the fields of study ( in 1903 and kerosene lamp. in 1911). SYSTEM in poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 10 11 UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY • West Pomeranian University of Technology •  University in Poznan • AGH University of Science and Technology in www.zut.edu.pl HIGHER www.amu.edu.pl in Krakow www.agh.edu.pl • Wrocław University of Technology • Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University • Bialystok University of Technology www.pwr.wroc.pl www.uksw.edu.pl www.pb.edu.pl • Jagiellonian University in Krakow • Czestochowa University of Technology MEDICAL UNIVERSITIES EDUCATION • Jagiellonian University Medical College www.uj.edu.pl www.pcz.pl • Jan Kochanowski University in • Gdansk University of Technology in Krakow www.cm-uj.krakow.pl www.ujk.edu.pl www.pg.gda.pl • Medical University of Bialystok INSTITUTIONS in Poland • John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin •  Pułaski Technical University of www.umb.edu.pl www.kul.pl www.pr.radom.pl • Medical University of Gdansk • Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz • Kielce University of Technology www.gumed.edu.pl The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) www.ukw.edu.pl www.tu.kielce.pl • Medical University of Lodz www.umed.pl in Poland are divided into state (public) and • Maria Curie-Skłodowska University • Koszalin University of Technology • Medical University of Lublin www.umlub.pl private (non-public) institutions. There are two www.umcs.pl www.tu.koszalin.pl • Medical University of Silesia main categories of higher education institu- • Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun • Lodz University of Technology www.p.lodz.pl www.slam.katowice.pl tions: university-type and non-university insti- www.umk.pl • Lublin University of Technology www.pollub.pl • Medical tutions. In the university-type HEIs, at least one • University of Białystok www.uwb.edu.pl • Opole University of Technology www.wum.edu.pl unit is authorised to confer the academic degree • University of Gdansk www.univ.gda.pl www.po..pl • Nicolaus Copernicus University – Ludwik of doctor (PhD), i.e. it offers at least one doc- • University of Lodz www.uni.lodz.pl • Poznan University of Technology Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz toral program. The Degrees and Titles Commit- •  www.uni.opole.pl www.put.poznan.pl www.amb.bydgoszcz.pl tee grants this authorization assessing i.a. unit • University of Rzeszów www.ur.edu.pl • Rzeszow University of Technology • Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin research activities, achievements with regard to • University of Silesia in Katowice www.prz.rzeszow.pl www.pam.szczecin.pl training of staff, scientific achievements, www.us.edu.pl • Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice • Poznan University of Medical Sciences research base, as well as the quality of educa- •  www.us.szc.pl www.polsl.pl www.amp.edu.pl tion (a separate opinion of the Polish Accredita- • University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn • Cracow University of Technology • Wroclaw Medical University www.am.wroc.pl tion Committee on the quality of education at www.uwm.edu.pl www.pk.edu.pl • University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, the unit is required). Below, we present the list • University of Warsaw www.uw.edu.pl • University of Bielsko-Biala www.ath.bielsko.pl Faculty of Medical Sciences of public and university-type non-public HEIs. • University of Wrocław www.uni.wroc.pl • Warsaw University of Technology www.uwm.edu.pl/wnm/en/ • University of Zielona Góra www.uz.zgora.pl www.pw.edu.pl/engpw Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 12 13 UNIVERSITIES OF UNIVERSITIES OF PEDAGOGY • Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy • University School of Physical Education • Cracow University of Economics • Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa of Music in Łódź www.amuz.lodz.pl in Poznan www.awf.poznan.pl www.uek.krakow.pl www.ajd.czest.pl •  Academy of Music • University School of Physical Education • Poznan University of Economics •  Academy of Special in Poznań www.amuz.edu.pl in Wroclaw www.awf.wroc.pl www.ue.poznan.pl Education www.aps.edu.pl • Jan Matejko Academy of Fine Art in Krakow • University of Economics in Katowice • Pedagogical University of Cracow www.asp.krakow.pl MARITIME UNIVERSITIES www.ue.katowice.pl www.up.krakow.pl • Karol Lipiński Academy of Music in Wrocław • Gdynia Maritime University • Warsaw School of Economics • Pomeranian University in Słupsk www.amuz.wroc.pl www.am.gdynia.pl www.sgh.waw.pl www.apsl.edu.pl • Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music • Maritime University of Szczecin • Wrocław University of Economics • Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and in Katowice www.am.katowice.pl www.am.szczecin.pl www.ue.wroc.pl Humanities www.uph.edu.pl • Ludwik Solski State Drama School in Cracow www.pwst.krakow.pl MILITARY HEIs UNIVERSITIES OF AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITIES OF ARTS • Polish National Film, Television And Theatre • General Tadeusz Kosciuszko Military Academy School in Łódź www.fi lmschool.lodz.pl AND LIFE SCIENCES • Academy of Art in Szczecin of Land Forces in Wrocław www.wso.wroc.pl • Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music • Military University of Technology • Poznań University of Life Sciences www.akademiasztuki.eu in Gdansk www.amuz.gda.pl www.wat.edu.pl www.up.poznan.pl • Academy of Fine Arts in Gdansk • Strzemiński Academy of Art Łódź • National Defence University in Warsaw • University of Agriculture in Krakow www.asp.gda.pl www.asp.lodz.pl www.aon.edu.pl www.ur.krakow.pl • Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice • University of Arts in Poznań www.uap.edu.pl • Polish Air Force Academy in Dęblin • University of Life Sciences in Lublin www.asp.katowice.pl www.wsosp.pl www.up.lublin.pl • Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw UNIVERSITIES OF PHYSICAL • Polish Naval Academy in Gdynia • University of Technology and Life Sciences www.asp.waw.pl EDUCATION www.amw.gdynia.pl in Bydgoszcz www.utp.edu.pl • Academy of Music in Kraków • Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education • Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW www.amuz.krakow.pl in Katowice www.awf.katowice.pl GOVERNMENT SERVICE HEIs www.sggw.pl • Aleksander Zelwerowicz State Theatre Academy • Jędrzej Śniadecki Academy of Physical Education • Main School of Fire Service www.sgsp.edu.pl • Wrocław University of Environmental in Warsaw www.at.edu.pl and Sport in Gdańsk www.awf.gda.pl • Police Academy in Szczytno www.wspol.edu.pl and Life Sciences www.up.wroc.pl • Eugeniusz Geppert Academy of Fine Arts • Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education in Wrocław www.asp.wroc.pl in Warsaw www.awf.edu.pl HIGHER SCHOOLS OF PROFESSIONAL • Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music • University School of Physical Education EDUCATION in Bydgoszcz www.amuz.bydgoszcz.pl in Krakow www.awf.krakow.pl • Angelus Silesius State School of Higher • Frideric Chopin University of Music Vocational Education in Wałbrzych www.chopin.edu.pl www.pwsz.com.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 14 15 • Bronisław Markiewicz State Higher School • School of Higher Vocational Education in Nysa • State School of Higher Education in Chełm • Katowice School of Economics www.gwsh.pl of Technology and Economics in Jarosław www.pwsz.nysa.pl www.pwsz.chelm.pl • Kozminski University www.kozminski.edu.pl www.pwszjar.edu.pl • Stanisław Staszic State School of Higher • State School of Higher Education in Oświęcim • Łazarski University www.lazarski.edu.pl • East State Higher School in Przemyśl Vocational Education in Piła www.pwsz.pila.pl www.pwsz-oswiecim.edu.pl • Pedagogium Higher School of Resocialization www.pwsw.pl • State College of and Business • State School of Higher Professional Education Pedagogics in Warsaw www.pedagogium.pl • Higher Vocational School in Suwałki Administration in Łomża www.pwsip.edu.pl in Elbląg www.pwsz.elblag.pl • Philological School of Higher Education www.pwsz.suwalki.pl • State Higher School of Vocational Education • State School of Higher Professional Education in Wrocław www.wsf.edu.pl • Higher Vocational School in Tarnów in Ciechanów www.pwszciechanow.edu.pl in Konin www.pwsz.konin.edu.pl • Polish-Japanese Institute of Information www.pwsztar.edu.pl • State Higher School of Vocational Education • State School of Higher Professional Education Technology www.pjwstk.edu.pl • Higher Vocational State School in Włocławek in Zamość www.pwszzamosc.pl in Płock www.pwszplock.pl • Pultusk Academy of Humanities www.ah.edu.pl www.pwsz.wloclawek.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Głogów • Witelon University of Applied Sciences • School of and • Jacob of Paradyż State Higher Vocational School www.pwsz.glogow.pl in Legnica www.pwsz.legnica.edu.pl in Przemyśl www.wspia.eu in Gorzów Wielkopolski www.pwsz.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Gniezno • Silesian School of Economics and Languages • Jan Amos Komienski State School of Higher www.pwsz-gniezno.edu.pl CHURCH HIGHER SCHOOLS www.gallus.pl Vocational Education in Leszno • State Higher Vocational School in Koszalin • Christian Academy in Warsaw • University of Social Sciences www.san.edu.pl www.pwsz.edu.pl www.pwsz-koszalin.pl www.chat.edu.pl • University of Finance and Management • Jan Grodek Higher Vocational State School • State Higher Vocational School in • Jesuit University Ignatianum in Krakow in Warsaw www.vizja.pl in Sanok www.pwsz-sanok.edu.pl www.pwsz.krosno.pl www.ignatianum.edu.pl • University of Humanities and Economics in Lodz • Karkonosze State Higher School in Jelenia Góra • State Higher Vocational School in Nowy Sącz • O rthodox Theological Seminary www.psd.edu.pl www.ahe.lodz.pl www.kpswjg.pl www.pwsz-ns.edu.pl • Pontifical Faculty of Theology in Warsaw • University of Information Technology and •  John Paul II State School of Higher • State Higher Vocational School in Racibórz www.pwtw.mkw.pl Management in Rzeszow www.studyuitm.edu.pl Education in Biała Podlaska www.pwsz.raciborz.edu.pl • Pontifical Faculty of Theology in Wrocław • University of Lower Silesia www.dsw.edu.pl www.pswbp.pl • State Higher Vocational School www.pwt.wroc.pl • University of Social Sciences and Humanities • President Stanislaw Wojciechowski Higher in Sandomierz www.pwsz.sandomierz.pl • Pontifical University of John Paul II in Cracow www.swps.pl Vocational State School in Kalisz • State Higher Vocational School in Skierniewice www.pat.krakow.pl • Vistula University www.vistula.edu.pl www.pwsz.kalisz.pl www.pwsz.skierniewice.pl • Wroclaw School of Banking www.wsb.pl/english • Prof. Stanislaw Tarnowski Public High Vocational • State Higher Vocational School in Sulechów UNIVERSITY-TYPE NON-PUBLIC HEIs School by in Tarnobrzeg www.pwsz.sulechow.pl • Academy of Business in Dąbrowa Górnicza Full offer of programmes offered in English www.pwsz.tarnobrzeg.pl • State Higher Vocational School in Wałcz www.wsb.edu.pl by those universities is available on-line • Public Higher Medical Professional School in www.pwsz.eu •  Krakow University through “Studyfinder” tool at Opole www.wsm.opole.pl • State Higher Vocational School of Podhale www.ka.edu.pl www.go-poland.pl in Nowy Targ www.ppwsz.edu.pl • Collegium Civitas www.civitas.edu.pl Ready, Study, Go! Poland 16 17 1st Cycle medical analysis, medicine, production and First-cycle studies (3 to 4 years) leading to photography, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine, offer long-cycle pro- - the professional title of a licencjat or inżynier (Engineer, in the field of engineering, agricul- grammes only. 3rd Cycle DOCTORAL studies (PhD) ture or economics). This is the Polish equiva- Long-cycle studies – Master’s degree pro- STRUCTURE lent of the Bachelor’s degree. It is focused on gramme (4.5 to 6 years) leading to the profes- preparing students for future employment sional title of Master (magister), or an equiva- or for continued education within a Master’s lent degree depending on the course profile). degree programme. To obtain this degree, stu- To obtain this degree, students must earn OF STUDIES MASTER MASTER dents must earn 180-240 ECTS credits. 270-360 ECTS credits. Such single long-cycle nd 2 Cycle90-120 ECTS studies are based on an integrated study pro- 2nd Cycle gramme containing both basic studies and IN POLAND BACHELOR Long-cycle in-depth specialisation. Completion of this Second-cycle studies – Master’s degree pro- (Licencjat/inżynier) degree will provide a qualification correspond- gramme (1.5 to 2 years) following the first cycle ing to a second-cycle Master’s degree. 1st Cycle 180-240 ECTS 270-360 ECTS studies and leading to the professional title

of Master (magister, or an equivalent degree rd years of MATURA CERTIFICATE 3 Cycle education depending on the course profile). It is focused (or equivalent) on theoretical knowledge as well as the appli- Third-cycle studies – Doctoral degree pro- cation and development of creative skills. grammes (normally 3 to 4 years) accessible for In arts disciplines, the focus is on the develop- graduates of a Master’s degree programme, Higher education institutions run full- has been successfully implemented together ment of creativity and talents. Master’s degree leading to a PhD degree, offered by universities time, extramural, evening and external with the European Credit Transfer and Accu- holders may enter a doctoral programme as well as some research institutions (depart- courses. Full-time courses are defined as mulation System (ECTS). The European (third-cycle studies). To obtain the degree, stu- ments of the Polish Academy of Sciences as the basic type of studies. Poland conforms standard in higher education makes it easier dents must earn 90-120 ECTS credits. well as research and development institu- to the guidelines from the Bologna Process for students to obtain recognition of their tions). A PhD degree is awarded to candidates in European higher education. The degree qualifications in other countries. Long-Cycle Studies who submit and successfully defend a doctoral system based on the three-cycle structure dissertation before a committee and In addition to the general structure, 11 fields pass a doctoral examination. of study including acting, art conservation and restoration, canon law, dentistry, law, Ready, Study, Go! Poland 18 19 diploma. After successful nostrification an appro- Recognition of Foreign Scientific Recognition of Polish Degrees Abroad priate Polish academic degree can be used. Degrees in Poland Recognition The competent authorities to conduct the nos- In countries with which Poland has signed trification procedure with regard to higher A scientific degree awarded by an authorised agreements (http://www.nauka.gov.pl/en/rec- education diplomas (university degrees) are institution operating in the education sys- ognition-of-academic-qualifications/legal-acts. of degrees organisational units of higher education insti- tem of one of the EU, EFTA, OECD countries is html), Polish degrees are recognised according tutions authorised to confer the academic recognised as equivalent to the appropriate to the rules set by those countries. In other coun- degree of a doktor (doctor) in a given field Polish one. tries, Polish degrees are recognised in accordance of science or in a given field of art. A scientific degree acquired in other country with the regulations on the academic recogni- Recognition of Foreign Higher For the complete list of international agreements on may be recognised as equivalent to a Polish tion of foreign qualifications in force in a given Education Degrees in Poland recognition of foreign qualification please visit: one either on the basis of an international country. Information on the recognition of Pol- http://www.nauka.gov.pl/en/recognition-of- agreement or (if there are no such agreements) ish degrees can be obtained in an ENIC/NARIC General information academic-qualifications/legal-acts.html by way of nostrification. centre or the ministry of education of a given A degree awarded by an institution operat- A holder of a scientific degree acquired country: www.enic-naric.net ing in the education system of an EU, OECD or Recognition for the purpose of further studies in a country – party to the Lisbon Convention ENIC – European Network of National Infor- EFTA country, upon completion of: A foreign degree giving access to further stud- who wishes to start habilitation proceedings mation Centres for Academic Recognition and • 3-year studies or first cycle studies with ies or the right to start doctoral proceedings in Poland may be exempted from nostrification. Mobility established by the Council of Europe the nominal duration of min. 3 years – con- in the country where it was awarded, gives its and UNESCO for the European Region. For the complete list of international agreements on firms possession of a first cycle degree holder access to second cycle studies, post- NARIC – National Academic Recognition and Rec- graduate studies, third cycle / doctoral stud- the recognition of foreign qualification please visit: in Poland; http://www.nauka.gov.pl/en/recognition-of- ognition Centres is a network set up by the Euro- • second cycle studies or long cycle studies ies or the right to start doctoral proceedings academic-qualifications/legal-acts.html pean Commission in order to establish effective with the nominal duration of min. 4 years in Poland. and close cooperation between EU member states – confirms possession of a second cycle A foreign degree may also be recognised for The competent authorities to conduct the nos- in terms of academic recognition and they sup- degree in Poland. the purpose of further education on the basis trification procedure with regard to scientific port the system for professional recognition. A foreign degree awarded by an institution of an international agreement. degrees are councils of the organisational operating in another country may be recognised Information concerning recognition of matric- unit authorised to confer an academic degree For more information, contact the ENIC/NARIC centre: as equivalent to a Polish one either on the basis ulation certificates can be obtained at local of doktor habilitowany (doctor habilitatus) Ministry of Science and Higher Education educational authorities having jurisdiction in a given academic field or in a given field 20 Hoża Str., 00 529 Warsaw, Poland of an international agreement or (if there are no Phone: +48 22 628 67 76 , Fax: +48 22 628 35 34 such agreements) by way of nostrification. over: the applicant’s place of residence or of art within the scope of a given academic dis- [email protected] Nostrification is a procedure aimed at recognis- the head office of the institution where cipline or of a given arts discipline concerned http://www.nauka.gov.pl/en/recognition- ing a foreign diploma as an equivalent to a Polish the applicant is applying for admission. with the academic degree. of-academic-qualifications/ Ready, Study, Go! Poland 20 21 Access to the First-cycle Studies ditions laid down by the specific institution. lies if residing in the territory of the Republic Access to first-cycle studies, leading to the pro- The detailed admission conditions are laid of Poland, Admission fessional title of licencjat or inżynier (Engineer), down by the board of the entity authorised to • citizens of the EU Member States or the EFTA as well as long-cycle studies, leading to a Mas- offer doctoral programs within an institution. States that are members of the European ter’s degree (magister or an equivalent degree), While respecting such general admission Economic Area Treaty, as well as members requirements is open to holders of an upper secondary school requirements, each HEI may define its own of their families, who have means sufficient certificate (Matura certificate) or an equivalent additional admission conditions and proce- to cover their living costs during the period entitling the holder to enrol in such programs dures, including the number of places avail- of study; however, they are not eligible for in Poland. Additional entrance examinations able to students, except in the medical fields need-based scholarships. Admissions to the study programs are may be conducted by HEIs only if this is nec- of study (limited number of places). The admis- administrated by the institutions of higher essary to assess knowledge or skills that are sion conditions and procedures may be similar education, and candidates apply directly to not assessed by the Matura examination or across a HEI or may vary according to the field the institution of their choice. It is best to the applicant holds an upper secondary school of study. Different conditions and procedures contact the international relations office well certificate obtained abroad. may be applied by different HEIs for the same before the course starts in order to find out fields of study. The admission conditions and Foreign certificates of education may be all the necessary details about the applica- Access to the Second-cycle Studies procedures must be published by each HEI recognised in Poland on the basis of inter- tion procedures and other important infor- Access to the second-cycle studies is open not later than by 31 May of the year preced- national agreements or, in the absence mation. to holders of a licencjat or inżynier (Engineer) ing the academic year to which they refer. As of such agreements, according to the reg- degree, a Master’s degree (magister or an equiv- of 1 May 2004, foreigners are free to take up and ulations on nostrification. General Requirements alent degree) or the equivalent of the Polish continue studies and participate in scientific International agreements, to which General requirements for admission to degree higher education diploma entitling the holder research and training projects and schemes on the Republic of Poland is a party, regulat- programs offered by higher education institu- to enrol in such programs in Poland. the same terms as Polish citizens if they: ing the legalisation of foreign diplomas tions in Poland are the same for both universi- • hold a residence permit, can be found on the website of the Min- ty-type and non-university HEIs. The candidate Access to the Doctoral Programs • have refugee status granted by the Republic istry of Science and Higher Education. must hold a matriculation certificate (the Mat- Access to the doctoral programs is open to of Poland, See: www.nauka.gov.pl ura certificate) or another equivalent document applicants who hold a Master’s degree (mag- • have been granted temporary protection attesting that the holder is eligible for admis- ister or an equivalent degree) or the equiva- in the territory of the Republic of Poland, sion to higher education in the country in which lent of the Polish higher education diploma • are migrant workers – EU/EEA national, for- he or she completed secondary school. entitling the holder to enrol in such programs merly or currently employed in Poland; this in Poland, and who meet the admission con- right extends also to members of their fami- Ready, Study, Go! Poland 22 23 Academic Examinations Grading: In addition to the grading scale, the Euro- calendar & grading 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 The academic year in Poland is divided into All higher education institutions are required successfully, a student has to collect 60 two semesters of 15 weeks each – the winter to end their courses with examinations. There credits (30 per semester). and the summer semester. The winter semes- may be several independent examinations or Each HEI identifies its grading scale in its ter starts in October and ends in mid-February, tests in separate parts of a subject. Usually, oral Study Rules. The most common scale with a break of about ten days for the Christ- and written examinations are held at the end comprises the following marks: mas holidays. The examination session usually of each semester during the examination ses- • 5 very good (bardzo dobry) takes two or three weeks, beginning in Janu- sion. Students sit examinations on each sub- • 4 good (dobry) ary. The summer semester starts in mid-Febru- ject separately. The performance assessment • 3 satisfactory (dostateczny) ary and ends in June, with a one-week break period covers either one semester or one aca- • 2 unsatisfactory/fail (niedostateczny) for Easter. Summer holidays last for three demic year. To successfully complete a semes- • credit/pass (zaliczenie) months from the beginning of July to the end ter (or a year), a student must attain a pass of September, but only for those students who mark (at least “satisfactory”) for all assessments passed all exams within the summer examina- and examinations in the subjects covered by tion session (two-three weeks in June). Those the curriculum and obtain performance assess- who failed take the exams again in September. ment credits for all integrated placements.

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: • pass the diploma examination. • pass a performance assessment for all sub- Upon graduation, a student receives jects, integrated placements and practical a diploma of completion of studies in a spe- work sessions, and pass all examinations cific field of study together with a Diploma covered by the study programme set for Supplement (copy of the diploma trans- a given field of study; lated into a foreign language, describing • present, at an appointed date, a diploma pro- the degree, level and specialisation). ject and attain a pass mark for that project; Poland: Europe's new higher education destination for international students 60000 Number of international degree students in last 10 years 55000 50000 45000 40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 TUITION FEES 15000 10000 5000 0 11 365 13 021 15 862 17 000 21 474 24 253 29 172 35 983 46 101 57 119 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 According to the Polish government’s Human Capital Development Strategy, share of international & SCHOLARSHIPS students in the total number of students should reach 5% until 2020. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 26 27 Erasmus+ Programme CEEPUS exchange programme Visegrad Scholarship Programme with Central and Eastern Europe Scholarship Erasmus+ is the European Union (EU) pro- The International Visegrad Fund offers Mas- gramme which supports projects, partner- The CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Pro- ter and Post-Master scholarships awarded to ships, events and mobility in the areas of gramme for University Studies) is a multilateral selected students for 1 or 2 semesters (for MA education, training, youth and sport. The Pro- offer exchange programme with Central and East- scholarships within the In-Coming scheme 1 gramme, which runs from 2014 to 2020, pro- ern Europe. It is a transnational Central Euro- to 4-semester scholarships can be awarded). vides funding opportunities in all these areas. pean university network that provides a plat- Citizens of the following countries and territo- Erasmus+ Higher Education is mainly a student form for individual subject-specific networks. ries can apply: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Scholarships within bilateral exchange programme which also includes At present, CEEPUS unites universities from Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Czech work placements in companies abroad and aca- agreements 16 Central and Eastern European countries Republic, Georgia, Hungary, Kosovo, Mace- demic staff mobility. It operates in the frame- (Albania, , Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bul- donia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Russia, work of the EU Erasmus+ Programme which There are a number of scholarships available garia, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia and Ukraine. On applying, continues the good tradition of the Lifelong within the limits defined in bilateral agree- Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, all applicants must have completed at least Learning Programme (LLP) and involves all EU ments. They are financed either by the Polish Romania, Serbia, the Slovak Republic and Slo- 4 semesters of university study. There are var- countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Nor- or the foreign partner’s government, often venia, Prishtina/Kosovo is also participating) ious scholarship schemes available. Further way and Turkey. Erasmus+ Higher Education with the aim to enhance exchange within within networks consisting of at least three information is accessible on the Visegrad Fund allows students to undertake a part of their a specific field of study. The amount of a schol- higher education institutions from at least two website: studies in another country without additional arship depends on the type of study under- different contractual countries. http://visegradfund.org/scholarships/ costs of tuition, registration or examination. taken. You can find more information on Student exchange within CEEPUS lasts from Students obtain a scholarship that covers the website of Bureau for Academic Recogni- 3 to 10 months. Within a network incoming the costs of living abroad. The time spent stud- tion and International Exchange (BUWiWM): students are exempted from paying tuition ying abroad as well as the courses completed www.buwiwm.edu.pl fees and receive a comprehensive grant from in accordance with the rules of the programme the host country which depends on the living have to be accepted by the home institution. It is also advisable to check with local author- costs in the country. To be eligible for scholar- For more information check: www.frse.org.pl ities if they have a scholarship programme ships, exchange students have to be nationals www.erasmusplus.org.pl/in-poland that includes studies in Poland. of a CEEPUS or an EU/EEA country. or the European Commission website: Further information including a list of the cur- http://ec.europa.eu/programmes/erasmus-plus/ rent networks can be found at http://www.ceepus.info Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 28 29 vide educational opportunities for young spe- Scholarship Programme for young scientists cialists from other, especially neighbouring from post-Soviet countries With more than 700 choices, Scholarships for students from countries. Thus, it offers a rare chance to The scholarship programme is addressed Eastern Partnership and from and their foreign fellow students to explore to researchers who have obtained a degree How will you select post-Soviet countries together the past, the present and the future in humanities or social sciences with some of our region. To apply for MA studies, students academic achievements. It covers a 9-month The best program in English Konstanty Kalinowski Scholarship must have completed their studies (MA or spe- research internship. Students from post-Soviet Programme cialist degree), be under 30 years old and have countries can apply in Polish diplomatic and That’s right for you?* This is a scholarship programme aimed specif- a good knowledge of Polish and English. For consular missions. For more information check ically at politically and socially active Belaru- more information check the website: the website: www.go-poland.pl/studyfinder sians who, due to their political engagement, http://www.studium.uw.edu.pl/?content/70 http://www.studium.uw.edu.pl/?content/74 cannot advance in their home tertiary educa- tion system. The programme offers scholar- Stefan Banach Scholarship Programme Scholarships for citizens from ships for BA, MA and PhD level studies as well The Eastern Partnership is an EU programme developing countries as research internships and postgraduate stud- aimed at closer political and economic inte- ies in all fields of studies. It helps Belarusian gration with some of its Eastern and South- Ignacy Łukasiewicz scholarship programme students who are unable to study in Belarus to ern neighbours: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bela- The Ignacy Łukasiewicz programme is made get access to the best Polish universities and rus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. Students up of two types of scholarships: Master stud- promotes European values. For more informa- of life sciences, technical sciences, econom- ies in technical fields preceded by one-year tion check the website: ics, law or European studies who completed university preparatory course and PhD studies http://www.studium.uw.edu.pl/?content/74 BA studies are eligible for the scholarship. in the following fields: , physics, Graduate students from Masters programmes chemistry, , Earth science, technical Scholarship programme for students in the fields of humanities, economics, theo- sciences, agricultural sciences. The programme of Specialised Eastern European Studies logical and social studies, law, mathematics, is designed primarily for citizens from: Angola, Specialist Eastern Studies at the University physics, chemistry biology, earth science, tech- Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, Colombia, Mexico, of Warsaw are available for foreign students nical sciences, agricultural sciences are eligible Myanmar, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nigeria, from Eastern Europe, Russia, Caucasus and for PhD programme. Knowledge of Polish lan- Palestine, the Republic of South Africa, Sene- Central Asia. Scholarships are available not guage is necessary. For more information see gal, Tanzania, Vietnam. *studyfinder is currently the most comprehensive only to build a group of well-trained experts the website: http://buwiwm.edu.pl/ More information: http://buwiwm.edu.pl/ on Eastern affairs at home, but also to pro- web tool that covers full offer of the leading polish universities Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 30 31 Fulbright Program With contributions from both governments Programme of Fellowships under ships Programme under the Polish National the Fulbright Program in Poland is adminis- the Polish National Commission for Commission for UNESCO Scheme; their appli- The Fulbright Program is a program of highly tered by the Polish-U.S. Fulbright Commis- UNESCO cations will not be considered. competitive, merit-based grants for interna- sion. Through its various exchange programs Information available at: the commission supports studies, research, http://www.unesco.pl/edukacja/stypendia-i- tional educational exchange for students, The Polish National Commission for UNESCO in scholars, teachers, professionals, scientists and instruction and other educational activities staze/program-stypendialny-pk-ds-unesco/ of American and Polish educators, scholars, collaboration with the Ministry of Science and artists, founded by United States Senator J. Wil- Higher Education carries out a programme of liam Fulbright in 1946. Under the Fulbright Pro- and institutions; it also administers visits and exchanges between the United States and fellowships for young scientists from Central Lane Kirkland Scholarship Program gram, competitively selected U.S. citizens may and Eastern European countries and develop- become eligible for scholarships to study, con- Poland for students, trainees, scholars, teach- ers, instructors and professors. ing countries. duct research, or exercise their talents abroad The program is addressed to university grad- Detailed information about current programs Candidates under this programme must be and citizens of other countries may qualify to uates who already have at least two years available for U.S. citizens can be found on post-graduates wishing to pursue their research do the same in the United States. of professional experience, coming from the commission’s website: in the Polish universities. Fellowships are of The Fulbright Program is one of the most Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, Moldova, Georgia, http://www.fulbright.edu.pl/en/category/ short-term type lasting from 1 to 6 months. prestigious awards programs worldwide, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyr- grants/for-american-citizens/ The fellow must carry out research in a host- operating in over 155 countries. In Poland it gyzstan, and are determined to be actively or the website of the Bureau of Educational ing institution subordinated to the Ministry of was initiated in 1959 and as of today it is one involved in the development of democracy, and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department Science and Higher Education, under the aus- of the largest in Central and Eastern Europe as economy and civil society in their countries and of State: pices of an academic supervisor. Confirmation well as the most prestigious and continuous the region. The program offers a two-semester http://eca.state.gov/fulbright/country/poland of acceptance from the academic supervisor is academic exchange program between Poland imperative. supplementary studies in the fields of econom- and the United States. A monthly research grant 1600 PLN /net/ ics and management, administration / manage- which is approximately the equivalent of a sal- ment (business, NGOs, culture, environment, ary paid to a local junior research fellow. Thus, health), public administration (state and local), all living expenses in Poland are supposed to law, social sciences (, social psychol- be covered by the fellow himself. ogy), political science and international rela- All applications should be submitted to the tions, development policy and humanitarian Polish National Commission for UNESCO. aid. Studies are supplemented by at least a two- Card of the Pole and Residence Permit holders week internship at Polish institutions. For more can not become beneficiaries of the Fellow- information, please visit: www.kirkland.edu.pl 32 Tuition fees

Full-time studies (in Polish language) at pub- • EUR 2000 per year for an annual prepara- lic higher education institutions (HEIs) are tory Polish language course to commence free of charge for Polish students – plus inter- studies in Polish. national students who are citizens of the EU/ Fees at public and non-public HEIs are estab- EEA or holders of the Card of the Pole (Karta lished by the institution itself under the condi- Polaka). tion that they cannot be lower than the costs All other international students are required of education process. The tuition fees range to pay tuition fees that on average are the fol- from EUR 2000 to 6000 per year and depend lowing: on the institution and study program (for MBA • EUR 2000 per year for first, second and long programs: about EUR 8000-12,000 per year). cycle studies, • EUR 3000 per year for doctoral, postgrad- Please take note that actual fees and specific uate and medical postgraduate internships study conditions are described in the frame- as well as scientific, arts, specialist and work agreement between individual institu- post-doctoral internships, tions or between the student and the given • EUR 3000 per year for vocational courses university. and apprenticeships, LIVING & WORKING Ready, Study, Go! Poland 34 35 the friendly and helpful atmosphere in the stu- Insurance Card (Europejska Karta Ubezpieczenia Climate dent houses. Zdrowotnego) entitles its holder to medical care BEFORE you free of charge in Poland. Detailed information Poland has a moderate climate with both mar- Private housing on the health care for EU/EEA citizens can be itime and continental elements. You can It is quite common in Poland to rent a room found on the website of the National Health on many sunny days and many rainy days and arrive in a bigger apartment. Most of the out-of-town Fund: don’t be surprised when the summer turns out students share flats in this way. The cost var- https://www.ekuz.nfz.gov.pl/en/info_dla_ to be quite hot or quite rainy. Winters are usu- ies between cities and it depends greatly on uprawnionych_z_innych/general- ally cold, with temperatures well below freez- the location of the apartment as well as the size information-concerning-access-health-care- ing, and more or less snowy. If you come from Accommodation and quality of the room. The monthly rent is during-temporary-st a warmer climate, make sure you have proper usually between EUR 150 and 200. Some land- clothing. There are many different options for arrang- lords may require a deposit of a similar amount. Students from outside the EU/EEA High (˚C) ing student accommodation in Poland. They Don’t worry if you don’t have friends to live If possible it is recommended that students Average temperature Low (˚C) vary depending on the city and higher educa- with. Sharing a flat with locals is an amazing from non-EU/EEA countries purchase their -3 0 36912 15 18 21 24 tion institution you choose. Many Polish HEIs opportunity: you can pay for the accommoda- own international medical insurance prior have their own dormitories, which are usually tion and get great friends for free! And if you to their arrival in Poland. Otherwise they are JAN the cheapest option available. However, most really don’t like to share, you can find an inde- required to sign a voluntary health insurance FEB Polish students prefer to rent a room in a pri- pendent apartment. The rent for the smallest, agreement with the National Health Fund MAR vate apartment. one-room apartment starts from about EUR (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia – NFZ) and pay APR 300 (in Warsaw). their own insurance fees, which amount to Student houses and dormitories about EUR 15 a month. Under this insurance MAY The pricing of the student houses depends on Health insurance scheme, students are entitled to free medical JUN the particular HEI. Usually the cost of accom- care and can use university health care clinics JUL modation in a dormitory is around EUR 60-80 Students from the EU/EEA countries and health centres. Also, all foreign students AUG monthly for a shared room and between EUR have the option of purchasing additional acci- Healthcare in Poland is available for students SEP 100-150 for a single room. However, the stand- from EU/EEA countries, provided that they dent insurance. For detailed information visit ard of the dormitories may differ greatly even hold valid medical insurance in the national the website of the National Health Fund: NOV between various student houses of the same insurance system of their country. A valid pass- www.nfz.gov.pl OCT HEI, so it’s good to do some research before port, student identity card or doctoral student DEC the final decision. What doesn’t differ is identity card and a valid European Health Ready, Study, Go! Poland 36 37 Cost of living in Poland monthly disposal. Average costs of student liv- Transportation ing range from EUR 350 up to EUR 550. Please In comparison to other European countries, remember, that to be able to study in Poland AFTER you Most Polish cities have well-developed net- Poland is a relatively cheap place to live and non-EU/EEA students have to possess sufficient works of public transport. Depending on a city, study. Prices depend greatly on the city, but means to cover the living costs. they include buses, trams, trolley buses, trains a student can get by with about EUR 300 at their and underground trains. It is usually a good arrive idea to buy a longterm ticket, as it’s hard to avoid public transport. Even if you manage to find accommodation close to the univer- Student Card sity, its separate faculties or facilities may not be within walking distance. Some of the cities The student card is the size of a credit card, but have short-time bike rental systems that allow DORMITORY ROOM AT PRIVATE APPARTMENT ENERGY AND GAS it can change your life. Not only does it con- you to take a bike from one place to another. firm your student status and allows access to libraries and other HEI facilities, but it also enti- Leisure tles you to all kinds of student discounts, most important of them being a 50% discount on There is a wide range of leisure activities availa- public transport. There is also – up to the age ble in Poland. Whatever you enjoy, you’ll prob- HAIRCUT WOMEN / MEN LUNCH AT A CANTEEN COFFEE IN A CAFÉ BEER AT A PUB of 26 – a 37% discount on national railways, ably find it here! Those who like to be active allowing you to travel all around the country can use one of well-equipped sport facilities for less. Some other transport companies, as or explore beautiful Polish landscapes while well as theatres, museums and cinemas, even cycling, hiking, horse-riding, sailing, canoeing, restaurants, have special prices for students. ballooning or in any other way they want. Those

CINEMA TICKET BREAD HAM CHEESE In some HEIs, the student union provides addi- who like sight-seeing should visit the churches, tional discounts for students. castles, museums and many other attractions. So get your student card and enjoy the city! The culture-oriented can choose between many theatres and galleries as well as philhar- monics, concerts and music clubs. Check out the website: www.polska.pl

MINERAL WATER MILK APPLES Ready, Study, Go! Poland 38 Working an internship especially during the holidays. 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 pos- sess sufficient means to cover the costs of liv- Work during the academic year ing in Poland. Still, some students may wish It’s not easy to work and study at the same time, to combine studies with work. In this case, but it can be done, especially if you’ve chosen non-EU/EEA students who stay in Poland with evening or weekend courses. Nevertheless, a visa generally need to apply for a work per- think carefully about whether this is in your mit, which is granted only if no EU citizen can best interest, as it may affect your academic fill the position. Some forms of work (voca- performance. Most universities have academic tional training, summer student jobs programs) career centres, where you can find information do 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 offers at the nearest labour office. residence permit, EU/EEA citizens and hold- ers of the Card of the Pole do not need a work Work after graduation permit 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 (http://www.migrant.info.pl/home.html) in Poland. As a graduate of a Polish higher edu- or the Office for Foreigners cation institution full-time program, you don’t (http://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 STATUS Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 40 41 Tuition • be awarded a scholarship by Polish higher If you study on terms applicable to Pol- education institutions. STUDYING ON ish citizens doing full-time programmes STUDYING ON TERMS Students who do not fall under the rules appli- at public higher education institutions, you cable to Polish citizens are not obliged to com- TERMS APPLICABLE do it free of charge. This, however, requires APPLICABLE TO pete with other students to enter studies, but a sound knowledge of Polish and participation have to pay fees as defined by higher educa- in the recruitment procedure. tion institutions. Studying on terms applicable to foreign- TO POLISH Student financial support FOREIGNERS ers does not provide an entitlement to state There are a number of State budget financial budget financial support. Students of non-pub- support forms available for students studying lic HEIs are admitted on the basis of the ’s NATIONALS on terms applicable to Polish citizens. You can study in Poland as a foreigner on decision and on a tuition fee-paying basis. They They include: the basis of rules defined within/by: are able to be granted an HEI scholarship or be • maintenance grant, • international agreements, partially or fully waived of fees. • special grant for disabled persons, • agreements concluded between a higher You can study on the same terms as Polish • scholarship as an outstanding student, education institution and foreign entities, Application citizens, if you: awarded by a rector, • decision of the minister competent for It may be easier for foreigners to get into their • have been granted a residence permit (to • scholarship for academic achievement higher education, chosen HEI as they don’t have to compete with settle in Poland), awarded by the minister, • decision of the rector of a higher education local students. The standard requirements • hold refugee status as granted by • assistance grants. institution. include: the Republic of Poland, • confirmation of sufficient knowledge • have been granted temporary protection Tuition & Scholarships of the instruction language to enter in the territory of the Republic of Poland, Studying on terms applicable to foreigners, the chosen course, • are a migrant worker, EU/EEA national you can: • a high school diploma and – if applying to or a member of an EU/EEA migrant • be awarded a scholarship by a Polish partner, 2nd or 3rd cycle studies – a diploma from worker family if residing in the teritory • study on a tuition fee-paying basis, the previous cycle of study (for example: of the Republic of Poland, • study free of tuition fees and with no a BA diploma is necessary to apply for • have been granted an EU longterm scholarship entitlement, an MA course). residence permit, • be awarded a scholarship by the sending You may also be asked to prove that you have • are an EU/EEA citizen with the right partner (for example your country or the predispositions and qualifications required for permanent residence. university), and free of tuition fees, by, for example, arts or medical HEIs. Ready, Study, Go! Poland 42 can be issued to people who do not have Pol- ish citizenship and live in one of former Soviet STUDYING ON TERMS Union states. Among other privileges, it enti- tles holders to choose the terms on which they of YOUR CHOICE wish to study. More information on the Card of the Pole is available here: www.migrant.info.pl You can choose if you wish to study on the terms applicable to Polish citizen or EU/EEA citizens can also choose if they want to those applicable to foreigners when: study like Polish students or as foreigners. How- • you are a holder of a valid Card of the Pole, ever, they must have the necessary funds to sup- • are an EU/EEA citizen and have enough port themselves in Poland. Even if they decide funds to support yourself in Poland. to study on terms applicable to Polish students,

they will not be eligible for a maintenance grant Card of the Pole (Karta Polaka) is a document or a special grant for disabled persons. stating that you belong to the Polish nation. It

Terms of studying: Advantages Disadvantages as a Polish citizen • free education in public HEIs • you have to compete with • access to state budget student Polish students for places financial support at HEIs as a foreigner • admission to HEIs without taking • study on a tuition fee- ENTRY entrance exams or going through paying basis recruitment process • no access to state budget • one-year preparatory Polish student financial support language course (in public HEIs) • a possibility of being awarded to the government-funded scholarship REQUIREMENTS Ready, Study, Go! Poland Ready, Study, Go! Poland 44 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 ENTRY ENTRY so it cannot be used by a student coming to in exceptional situations. Should you need Poland, to stay in Poland longer than specified REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS • “C” type – a short-term Schengen visa allow- in your visa please do apply for the tempo- ing the holder to stay in the Schengen terri- rary residence permit (see below). tory for up to 90 days in 180 days period, • “D” type – a long-term national visa issued FOR EU FOR NON-EU for up to one year allowing travel around

CITIZENS CITZENS 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: If you are a citizen of an EU member state The two main documents you will need to enter http://mfa.gov.pl/en/travel_to_poland/polands_missions_abroad/polish_missions_ the only thing you need to have to enter Poland if are not an EU citizen are: a valid travel abroad. Poland is a valid travel document or a docu- document (passport) and a visa (if required). 2) Read carefully ALL the information concerning visa application on the consulate’s website ment confirming identity and citizenship (i.e. and follow ALL the instructions. your national ID). However, if you wish to travel Visa 3) Set a visa appointment with the consulate. In most cases you will have to register through abroad during your stay in Poland, it is a good As a general rule you need a visa to enter the website: idea to have a passport with you as it is neces- Poland. There are, however, a number of coun- http://www.e-konsulat.gov.pl. sary to visit some of Poland’s neighbours that tries that are free of this requirement. You can 4) Prepare the necessary documents including: application form, travel document don’t belong to the EU. check if your country is on the list here: (passport), biometric photo, health insurance, sufficient means to support yourself, For a stay shorter than three months there are http://www.msz.gov.pl/en/travel_to_poland/ documents confirming the purpose of your stay. The specifics of the required no formal requirements. Your studies will how- entering_poland/visa_free/ documentation may vary among consulates, so confirm them with the consulate’s ever take longer. For such a stay a registration website. of residence is necessary. You should register Poland is a part of the Schengen area, so you 5) Submit all the documents including a printed and signed application form and the visa fee. with Voivodship (Provincial) Office. can apply for a Polish visa and travel all around Europe (excluding the United Kingdom, Ire- Your visa application is complete. It will take up to 15 days to be processed. land, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia and states outside of the EU). Ready, Study, Go! Poland 46 Application You have to apply for a Temporary Residence TEMPORARY Permit with the local Voivodship Office.Y ou can find a complete list of offices here: http://www.migrant.info.pl/public- RESIDENCE institutions.html. The documents you will need to legalise your stay include: an application form, photos and documents proving your identity and citizen- PERMIT ship, address, purpose of stay (a certificate from your school), health insurance and pos- session of sufficient funds. For detailed infor- Who needs it? mation check out the Voivodship Office’s web- Every non-EU student needs it. site. The procedure costs 390 PLN in total.

You should apply for a Temporary Residence EU students Permit before your visa expires. EU students do not need to apply for tem- When you receive the permit, you will be porary residence permits. As EU citizens they issued a Temporary Residence Card, an ID card should only apply for registration of their stay that proves that you have a residence permit. with local voivodship office within 90 days Together with your travel document, it allows of their arrival. They will be issued a cost-free you to cross the Polish border as many times certificate of registration with non-limited as you wish. The first residence permit is issued period of validity proving their right to stay for the period of 15 months. It can be renewed in Poland. For detailed information check out for periods of up to 3 years, but for no longer the Voivodship Office’s website. POLISH YOUR than the remainder of your studies . 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 Ready, Study, Go! Poland 48 tions from the list below: activities run in Polish: evening shows of Pol- • School of Polish for Foreign Students, ish movies preceded by short lectures, talent 9-MONTH University of Lodz, POLISH LANGUAGE evenings, multi-cultural evenings, Polish song • The Polish Langue and Culture Centre for evenings, and finally a day of sightseeing. Polish People Abroad and Foreigners, Maria Apart from offering professional language PREPARATORY Curie-Skłodowska University Lublin, AND CULTURE teaching, the summer school staff also provide • School of Polish Language and Culture, assistance in organising individual activities University of Silesia in Katowice, (such as gathering materials and information) POLISH LANGUAGE • Centre of Polish Language and Culture for SUMMER SCHOOLS to all those people who are working on projects Foreigners, University of Warsaw, related to Poland and are interested in Poland. • International Centre of Education, Participation in the course is especially use- Summer courses in Polish language and cul- Tadeusz Kosciuszko Cracow University ful for those who intend to take a state exam COURSES ture are organised during the summer aca- of Technology, in Polish as a foreign language in the future demic break and last three or four weeks. They • The Department of Polish Language (www.buwiwm.edu.pl/certyfikacja). not only offer an outstanding opportunity to for Foreigners, Wroclaw University The providers of the courses are Polish higher For all those who would like to pursue their learn Polish in Poland, but also help partici- of Technology, education institutions specialising in Polish studies in Polish, selected higher education pants better understand Poland and Poles. • “POLONUS” Centre of Polish Culture and language teaching. They are selected every institutions in Poland offer preparatory Polish The course syllabus covers language lessons Language for Poles from Abroad and year by competition run by the Ministry of language courses. and lectures on and culture. Foreigners, University of Rzeszów, Science and Higher Education. The classes include Polish language lessons There are also other integration-oriented together with subjects related to future studies. • Bureau for Academic Recognition and Candidates may choose from a variety of spe- International Exchange [Biuro Uznawalności cialisations, for example: humanities, engi- Wykształcenia i Wymiany Międzynarodowej] Published by Internationalization Team, Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Science neering/technical science, architecture, arts, ul. Ogrodowa 28/30, 00-896 Warszawa and Higher Education in cooperation with the Promotion and Communication Unit, Foundation economics, medical sciences and agriculture. phone +4822 826 74 34, for the Development of the Education System (FRSE), Warsaw 2016 The courses run for 9 months, usually starting fax +4822 826 28 23, Ministry of Science and Higher Education 1/3, Wspólna Street, Warsaw 00-529 in October, from Monday to Friday. e-mail: [email protected], The Foundation for the Development of the Education System 43, Mokotowska Street, Warsaw 00-551 The tuition fees may vary, depending on • Polish embassies and consulates in your Photos used in this publication are provided by University of Lodz (cover), Academy of Management and Administration the institution and on average are 2000 EUR/ country of residence (find out more in Opole (p. 3), Gdansk University of Technology/PAP (p. 8), Jagiellonian University in Kraków (p. 9), Warsaw University of Technology (p. 25), Academy of Information Technology in Katowice (p. 33), Warsaw School of Economics (p. 39), 9 months paid before the course commences. at “Poland’s missions abroad” search engine). Pedagogical University of Cracow (p. 43), Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw (p. 47); Fotolia (p. 1), Theta Agency For further details, please contact the institu- (p. 6, 23) ISBN 978-83-64032-66-0 1/2016 FREE COPY Ministry of Science and Higher Education Republic of Poland

wwwwww.nauka.gov.pl.nauka.gov.pl www.go-poland.pl

www.frse.org.pl www.erasmusplus.org.pl/in-poland