Cost of Studying in Poland for International Students
Poland remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, but "affordable" does not mean free. Many international students underestimate the real costs of living in Warsaw or Krakow.
How much money do you really need to move to Poland?
In this guide, we break down every expense: from tuition fees at top universities to the price of a loaf of bread. We will help you plan your budget realistically so you don't run out of money halfway through the semester.
Tuition Fees at Public and Private Universities
The cost of education depends heavily on your choice of university and language of instruction.
While education is free for Polish citizens (and some EU nationals), international students usually pay tuition fees. However, they are still much lower than in Western Europe.
- Average Fees: 2000 – 4000 euro per year.
- Popular Programs: Engineering, International Relations, Journalism.
- Competitive Admission: High GPA is required.
Private schools in Poland are very popular among international students because they are more flexible and career-oriented.
- Average Fees: 1200 – 3500 euro per year.
- Top Choices: Vistula University, WSB Merito, SWPS.
- Admission: Easier entry, focused on practical skills.
What Does the Cost Depend On?
Before checking the exact prices, remember that the final amount depends on four factors:
Type of Institution
Public universities are often cheaper but have strict admission rules. Private universities (like Vistula or WSB) offer flexible entry and practical English programs.
Language of Study
Programs in Polish are generally cheaper. English tracks usually cost more but open doors to international careers.
Specialty
Medical and Engineering degrees are the most expensive options. Humanities like Business, Marketing, or Tourism are much more affordable.
Level of Education
Master's degrees typically cost more than Bachelor's programs, especially at top-ranked universities.
Monthly Living Expenses Breakdown
To get a Student Visa, you need to show proof of funds, but how much do you actually spend day-to-day? Here is the reality of student life in Poland.
☑️ Accommodation
Housing will be your single largest expense. While public university dormitories are the cheapest option (150 euro – 250 euro per month), they are extremely hard to book due to limited spots. Most international students choose private dormitories or rent a room in a shared flat, which typically costs between 350 euro and 600 euro per month depending on the standard. If you prefer total privacy in a studio apartment, be prepared to budget over 600 euro.
☑️ Food, Transport & Daily Needs
Poland is famous for affordable food. A student typically spends 200 euro – 300 euro per month on groceries, especially if shopping at discount supermarkets like Biedronka or Lidl. Public transport is also a bargain: a monthly student ticketcovering all trams, buses, and metro lines costs only 12 euro (thanks to the 50% student discount).
☑️ Lifestyle & Extras
A high-speed mobile internet plan costs around 7 euro – 10 euro, and a standard gym membership is usually 20 euro – 30 euro. Overall, living in Poland allows you to maintain a comfortable European lifestyle for a fraction of the cost compared to France or Germany.
Total Budget for Your First Year
So, how much money should you prepare in total? To help you plan, we have calculated a realistic "Comfort Budget"for a student entering a private university in the current academic year.
Here is exactly where your money goes:
- Tuition Fees (~2500 euro)
This is the average cost for a year at a popular private university. Note that you usually don't have to pay the full amount at once — most universities allow you to pay by semester or even monthly. - Accommodation (~400 euro per month)
Rent is your regular monthly expense. However, for this yearly budget calculation, we count it for the full academic year (~4000 euro total). Don't forget that for the first month, you will also need to pay a refundable deposit (kaucja). - Living Expenses (~300 euro per month)
This amount covers your food, public transport, internet, and hygiene for the whole academic year (budgeting about 300 euro per month). This allows you to eat healthy food and occasionally go out. - Start-up Costs & Insurance (~300 euro)
Do not forget the one-time expenses: visa fees, health insurance (NFZ), and administrative fees when you arrive.
GRAND TOTAL: ~9800 euro This is the amount you need to live and study comfortably for your first year. Compared to the UK (~30000 euro) or the Netherlands (~20000 euro), Poland allows you to get the same European diploma for 3 times less money.
Reducing Your Costs with Scholarships and Discounts
Is it possible to lower this amount? Absolutely. While full government grants are hard to get, you can easily qualify for University Discounts. Many private universities offer special "Early Bird" promotions — if you submit your documents early (usually in spring), you can save between 100 euro and 300 euro on your first year tuition.
Once you start your studies, your performance matters. Almost every Polish university offers a Rector’s Scholarship for the best students. If you finish your first year with a high GPA (usually average grade over 4.5), the university can waive part of your tuition fee or pay you a monthly stipend.
Additionally, remember that international students in Poland have the legal right to work without a permit. Most students cover their daily living expenses by working part-time during weekends or evenings.
Hidden Costs Nobody Tells You About
Most agencies only talk about tuition fees. At AcademGo, we want you to be prepared for everything. Watch out for these extra costs:
✔️ Application Fee (Opłata rekrutacyjna) - Every university charges a non-refundable fee to process your documents. The cost typically ranges from 20 euro to 250 euro per university.
✔️ Sworn Translations (Tłumacz przysięgły) - Your documents must be translated by a Polish sworn translator. Regular translations are not accepted. Be ready to pay around 30 euro per page.
✔️ Apostille - Legalizing your high school diploma in your home country before coming to Poland is a mandatory step that carries its own administrative costs.
✔️ Health Insurance (NFZ) - Mandatory state insurance gives you access to free healthcare and costs about 15 euro per month.
Save Money and Time with AcademGo
Planning a budget is hard, but dealing with paperwork is harder. One mistake in your translation or visa application can cost you the admission fee and months of waiting.
Why apply with us?
- We know the most affordable universities that still offer high-quality European diplomas.
- We handle Sworn Translations and Legalization for you.
- Accommodation Guarantee: We help you find a room even if public dorms are full.
Get a free estimate of your study budget today! Sign up for a Free consultation!👇
Frequently Asked Questions
