How to get a scholarship in Poland

Scholarships in Poland

Poland offers a diverse range of scholarships aimed at making higher education more accessible to international students from all over the world. These scholarships are funded by the Polish government, individual universities, and international organizations, and are available for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.

1. Government-Funded Scholarships
The most well-known is the Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship Programme, offered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA). It provides full funding for master’s students from developing countries and covers: Another example is the Stefan Banach Scholarship, also under NAWA, aimed at students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

• 100% of tuition fees;
• Monthly living allowance;
• Sometimes even accommodation and travel expenses.

2. University Scholarships
Most public and private Polish universities offer their own merit-based or need-based scholarships. These are usually available: Monthly support may range from 400 to 1000 euros, especially for top-performing students.

• Upon admission, based on academic records;
• Or after the first year, depending on GPA, participation in student life, or financial need.

3. EU and International Programs
Poland participates in Erasmus+, which allows students to study or intern in other European countries while receiving a monthly stipend. Some universities also collaborate with institutions abroad through double-degree programs, which may include financial support.

Key Eligibility Criteria

To apply for scholarships in Poland, most programs require:

• Strong academic performance (good GPA);
• A recognized secondary school or university diploma;
• Language proficiency, usually B2 level in English or Polish (certified by IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent);
• A motivation letter or personal statement;
• Sometimes a recommendation letter or a research proposal (for PhD programs);
• Fulfillment of any field-specific requirements.

Some scholarships are targeted at specific regions or countries, so it’s important to check eligibility carefully. Deadlines vary by program, but most are set between February and May for fall intakes.

Steps in applying for scholarships

Applying for scholarships in Poland requires careful planning, document preparation, and timely submission. Whether you're applying through NAWA, directly to a university, or via an international program like Erasmus+, following the correct steps increases your chances of success.

Step 1: Research Available Scholarships

Start by exploring:

• The official website of NAWA (nawa.gov.pl) – the main platform for government-funded scholarships;
• University websites – most institutions list available scholarships for international students;
• Global scholarship databases such as ScholarshipPortal or StudyinPoland.pl;
• Specific country-targeted programs (e.g., Ignacy Łukasiewicz or Stefan Banach).

Make a shortlist based on eligibility, funding level (full or partial), field of study, and deadlines.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

While specific requirements may vary, most scholarship applications in Poland require the following:

• 📄 Academic transcripts or diploma (translated into English or Polish);
• ✍️ A strong motivation letter explaining your academic background, goals, and how the scholarship will support your future;
• 📜 Proof of language proficiency, usually IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (79+), or a university’s internal test;
• 📑 Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic achievements, skills, and extracurriculars;
• 💼 Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or mentors (usually 1–2);
• 🧾 Passport copy, sometimes required for identification.

Your motivation letter is a key component — it should reflect your commitment to the field of study, career plans, and reasons for choosing Poland.

Step 3: Submit Your Application On Time

Most scholarships follow the academic calendar, with deadlines between February and April for programs starting in October. However, some universities and government programs have rolling deadlines or earlier closing dates, so always double-check.

Erasmus+ Scholarship in Poland

The Erasmus+ programme is one of the most popular international exchange opportunities available to students enrolled in Polish universities. It allows bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students to study or intern in other EU countries for one or two semesters. The scholarship fully covers living expenses, including accommodation, food, and travel costs, making it an excellent way to gain academic and cultural experience abroad at no extra cost.

To qualify, students must be enrolled in a Polish university that participates in Erasmus+ and demonstrate strong academic performance along with proficiency in English (typically at B2 level or higher). The selection process is managed by each university’s Erasmus+ coordinator. Participating in this program not only enriches your studies but also improves employability by adding valuable international experience to your CV.

Scholarships for Academic and Sports Achievements

Many private universities in Poland, including institutions like Vistula University and the University of Economics and Human Sciences (UEHS) in Warsaw, offer dedicated scholarship programs for students who show exceptional academic performance or have notable achievements in sports. These scholarships are designed to recognize talent, motivation, and discipline — whether in the classroom or on the athletic field — and to encourage active student engagement.

Depending on the university and criteria, recipients may receive tuition fee reductions ranging from 10% to 50%, or monthly financial support. In most cases, the monthly scholarship amount varies between 1,000 and 1,500 PLN, which helps students cover part of their living expenses. Selection is typically based on a combination of GPA, previous certificates or awards, and active involvement in university or national competitions. Students are encouraged to apply directly through the university’s admissions or student affairs office and follow any internal deadlines and requirements.

Ready to Study in Poland with a Scholarship?

Securing a scholarship in Poland is not only financially rewarding — it’s a life-changing opportunity to access world-class education at a lower cost. By starting your preparation early, carefully organizing documents, and highlighting your academic and personal achievements, you can significantly improve your chances of receiving financial aid.

Scholarships help make international education in Poland more accessible and allow students to focus on their goals without financial stress. Beyond funding, they open doors to new academic experiences, cultural exchange, and professional growth in one of Europe’s most student-friendly countries!

Frequently Asked Questions