Application Requirements
A comprehensive guide to the documents and qualifications needed to apply to Polish universities as an international student.
Applying to study in Poland requires preparation and attention to documentation requirements. This guide outlines the essential documents and qualifications you'll need throughout the application process.
Requirements can vary slightly depending on your country of origin, the university, and your chosen program. Always check with your specific university for their exact requirements.
Important Note:
Document requirements may differ based on whether you're applying from an EU country, a country part of the Hague Convention, or other countries. Non-EU applicants should start the process earlier to account for additional steps.
General Eligibility Criteria
- Completed Secondary Education: You must have a secondary school certificate (high school diploma) that is recognized in Poland.
- Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, a high school diploma is required. For master's programs, you need a bachelor's degree or equivalent. For doctoral programs, a master's degree is typically required.
- Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in either Polish or English, depending on your program's language of instruction.
- Entrance Exams: Some programs may require specific entrance exams or interviews as part of the admission process.
- Financial Resources: You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies in Poland.
Document Legalization Process
Foreign documents must be legalized to be recognized in Poland. The process depends on your country:
For EU/EEA Countries:
Documents from EU/EEA countries are generally recognized without additional legalization.
For Countries Part of the Hague Convention:
Documents require an Apostille certificate from the designated authority in your country.
For Other Countries:
Documents need to be legalized by:
- The Ministry of Education in your home country
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country
- The Polish consulate or embassy in your country
Important: Document legalization can take several weeks or even months. Start this process as early as possible to ensure you meet application deadlines.
Key Points to Remember
Educational Documents
Officially certified copies of previous educational credentials, including diploma/degree certificates and transcripts. These must be translated into Polish or English by a certified translator.
Identification Documents
Valid passport with expiration date at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Poland. A copy of your ID card or birth certificate may also be required.
Application Form
Completed application form from your chosen university. Most Polish universities offer online application systems, but requirements vary by institution.
Language Proficiency
Proof of language proficiency in either Polish or English, depending on your program's language of instruction. Common certificates include TOEFL, IELTS for English, or certificates from authorized Polish language schools.
Photographs
Recent passport-sized photographs (usually 35mm x 45mm) meeting the requirements for official documents in Poland.
Proof of Funds
Documentation proving you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses during your studies in Poland.
Helpful Tips
- 1
Start gathering your documents at least 6 months before your intended start date to allow time for translations and certifications.
- 2
Check with your specific university for any additional program-specific requirements that may not be listed here.
- 3
Get multiple certified copies of important documents as you may need to submit them to different institutions.
- 4
Verify document recognition requirements for your country of origin – some countries may need additional legalization or Apostille certificates.
- 5
Keep digital copies of all submitted documents for your reference and in case you need to resubmit anything.
- 6
Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your planned stay plus at least three months extra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to translate all my documents into Polish?
Documents that are not in Polish or English must be translated by a certified translator. For English-taught programs, English translations are usually sufficient, but you should verify this with your specific university.
What language proficiency level is required for admission?
For English-taught programs, most universities require a minimum B2 level (CEFR). This corresponds to approximately 6.0-6.5 on IELTS or 80-90 on TOEFL. For Polish-taught programs, you should demonstrate a B2/C1 level of Polish language proficiency.
How do I prove I have sufficient financial resources?
You can provide bank statements, scholarship award letters, sponsorship letters, or other official documents showing you have access to approximately 9,000-12,000 PLN per year of study for living expenses, plus enough to cover your tuition fees.
Can I submit my application if some of my documents are still being processed?
Most universities allow you to start your application with provisional documents, but final admission decisions are typically made only after all required original documents have been received. Contact your university's admission office for specific policies.
Are there any specific medical requirements for the application?
While not usually required for the initial application, you may need to provide a medical certificate and proof of health insurance for your visa application and university registration process.
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