Study in Poland From Rwanda
Poland is emerging as a leading destination for Rwandan students seeking international higher education. Known for its world-class universities, affordable living costs, and vibrant culture, Poland offers a compelling blend. It provides academic excellence and enriching life experiences. This guide explores why Poland is an attractive study destination for students from Rwanda.

Why Study in Poland?
Poland is an increasingly attractive destination for Rwandan students looking for affordable and high-quality education in Europe. With over 400 universities and a wide range of English-taught programs, it offers internationally recognized degrees at a low cost.
Tuition fees typically range from 2000 to 4000 euros per year, while living expenses are around 300 to 500 euros per month — making Poland one of the most budget-friendly countries in the EU. Fields like business, IT, medicine, and engineering are especially popular among international students.
Poland also offers a safe, vibrant student environment, part-time work opportunities, and access to the Schengen Zone for travel. For Rwandan students seeking a solid academic path and international experience, Poland is an excellent choice.
Admissions and Requirements for Rwandan Students
The journey to study in Poland from Rwanda begins with understanding the admission process and preparing the necessary documents in advance. Rwandan students must typically submit the following:
- Academic transcripts or high school diploma (translated into English or Polish, and legalized or apostilled);
- Proof of English language proficiency — usually IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL iBT (79+) is required for English-taught programs;
- Motivation letter and, in some cases, letters of recommendation from teachers or academic advisors.
If the applicant does not have an international language certificate, many Polish universities offer an online qualification interview. This short video meeting allows the university to assess the candidate’s motivation and English communication skills directly, making it easier for students from Rwanda to prove their readiness.
It is very important to verify whether your Rwandan academic credentials are recognized in Poland early in the application process. Some programs may require nostrification, which is a formal recognition procedure confirming that your diploma allows access to higher education in Poland.
We also recommend checking the specific program requirements and application deadlines for each university. Most Polish universities accept applications between February and April for the fall semester (starting in October), but some have year-round intakes or additional winter semesters.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
One of the biggest advantages for Rwandan students studying in Poland is the affordability of both education and living expenses.
Tuition fees for international students in Poland generally range from 2000 to 4000 euros per year, depending on the type of university and study program. For example:
- Business, social sciences, or IT programs usually cost between 2000–3000 euros per year;
- Engineering and health-related programs may range from 3500 to 5000 euros per year;
- Some private universities also offer dual-degree options, which may have slightly higher fees but provide an additional international diploma.
Living in Poland is also budget-friendly compared to other EU countries. Monthly expenses for students — including rent, food, transport, and basic personal needs — are estimated at 300 to 500 euros per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. Cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław offer a balance of affordability and high-quality student life, while smaller cities like Lublin or Białystok are even more economical.
Many universities offer access to student dormitories, which cost less than private apartments, and public transport is heavily discounted for students. You can find more information about study costs in Poland.

Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are several scholarship options for Rwandan students planning to study in Poland. These include programs offered by the Polish government, individual universities, and international organizations.
A key opportunity is the Polish Government Scholarship, which may cover tuition fees and living expenses. In addition, many Polish universities offer internal scholarships based on academic performance or student involvement. After the first year of studies, students with a high GPA can apply for merit-based scholarships ranging from 400 to 500 euros per month, which often covers the full cost of living.
We recommend starting your scholarship search early, checking university websites and the official NAWA platform. With careful planning, studying in Poland can be highly affordable for motivated students from Rwanda.
Student Visa for Rwandan Students
To study in Poland, Rwandan students must apply for a national student visa (Type D). This visa allows you to stay in Poland for the duration of your studies and includes the right to work part-time.
The required documents include:
- A valid passport (at least 18 months),
- Acceptance letter from a Polish university,
- Proof of tuition payment,
- Bank statement or sponsor letter showing at least 4000 euros per year,
- Health insurance with coverage of at least 30,000 euros,
- Proof of accommodation in Poland.
The application must be submitted to the Polish embassy in Kigali, and we recommend applying 2–3 months before your program starts. A visa interview may be required, where you should clearly explain your study goals and financial situation. For a full step-by-step guide on the visa process, check our article on the Polish student visa.
Choose Poland!
Choosing Poland for higher education offers Rwandan students more than just a degree — it’s a chance to grow academically, professionally, and personally in one of Europe’s most student-friendly countries. With affordable tuition fees, generous scholarships, and a welcoming international community, Poland is the ideal destination for those seeking a world-class education at a reasonable cost.
Whether you're interested in engineering, medicine, IT, or business, Polish universities provide the programs, support, and cultural experience to help you thrive.
Poland awaits — your gateway to a brighter future. Start your journey today and take the first step toward an international degree and unforgettable study abroad experience!
Frequently Asked Questions