Language preparatory course in Poland
Polish universities offer a unique opportunity for international students - language preparatory courses known as “Zerowka” (pol. Zerówka). These courses are designed for those who want to receive a quality European education but do not know English or Polish at a sufficient level. The courses help applicants to learn Polish or English, adapt to a new cultural environment, make friends and prepare for higher education in Poland. Let's take a look at what these courses are, their advantages, structure and costs.
What's a Zerowka?
“Zerówka“ is a one-year intensive Polish or English language course designed for international students who plan to apply to Polish universities. These courses include not only language learning, but also an introduction to the local culture, history and traditions of Poland. Specialized courses may also be offered, for example, with a focus on legal, medical or technical terminology, depending on the student's future speciality. This course is ideal for those who are unsure of their language level or do not know it at all.
Advantages of language preparatory courses
1. Intensive language learning: The courses are designed for daily lessons from Monday to Friday, allowing you to quickly reach a high level of proficiency in your chosen language.
2. Adaptation to a new environment: Staying in a Polish or English-speaking environment facilitates better adaptation and understanding of the local culture, as well as getting to know native speakers or students from other countries.
3. Certificate: At the end of the course, students take an exam and receive a language certificate, which is recognised by all Polish universities and exempts them from the language entrance exam.
4. Visa possibility: All students admitted to the course are entitled to a one-year student visa and further legalization (residence permit).
5. Working while studying: All holders of a student visa or residence permit have the right to freely work during their free time, without any restrictions on hours per week. For example, working just 120 hours per month, at the minimum rate (€7/hour) you can earn €840.
6. Easy admission: To apply for a language course you only need a school leaving certificate or college diploma and a student visa (if required to enter Poland).
How the course takes place
Courses usually start in October and run until June, coinciding with the academic year of Polish universities. However, some universities also have a spring intake, meaning that the first semester starts in March instead of October and the academic year ends in February. Classes are held daily and include lectures on language, culture and specialized subjects.
The total duration of classes varies from 500 to 720 hours per year, depending on the university and the specifics of the course. At the end of the course, each student receives a certificate of completion and language proficiency at level B2 or above. It is also possible to take international examinations at the university, e.g. the University of Economics and Human Science in Warsaw offers the opportunity to take the B2 Cambridge Certificate, which is recognised worldwide.
Tuition fees
The cost of language courses varies depending on the university and programme, and is usually between 2000 and 4000 euro per year. Some universities offer tuition discounts (up to 15%) for all course graduates, or a waiver of the administration fee (€50-€250) for all course graduates.
Popular universities offering Language Preparatory Course:
✔ University of Economics and Human Science in Warsaw
✔ Vistula University
✔ Lazarski University
✔ Collegium Civitas
✔ SWPS University
Language courses are an excellent opportunity for international students not only to learn Polish or English, but also to adapt to life in Poland, which greatly facilitates further studies at Polish universities. The intensive programme, cultural adaptation and obtaining a recognised certificate make these courses an important step on the way to successful study at a Polish university.
If you need help with course selection or the admission process to one of the polish universities, our agency is ready to provide all the necessary information and support!
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