Master's Degree in Poland: Guide to English MA & MSc Programs

To apply for a master’s degree in Poland, you will need a bachelor’s degree diploma with a transcript of grades proving the completion of undergraduate studies and a language proficiency certificate. For programs taught in Polish, a B1–B2 level is required, while for programs in English, an IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 87 certificate is necessary.

Other required documents include a passport copy, official-format photos, health insurance, and proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses. Some universities may additionally require a portfolio (for creative programs) or an interview to assess your academic readiness and intentions.

Some of the most popular master’s programs in Poland for international students include:

- IT and Computer Science: Programs such as Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics.

- Economics and Business: Specializations in International Management, Finance, and Marketing.

- Medicine and Healthcare: Master’s programs in Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Medical Biotechnology offered by various Polish medical universities.

These fields attract students due to the high quality of education, international recognition of diplomas, and excellent career prospects both in Poland and globally.

The application deadlines for master’s programs in Poland vary by university and program. Generally, the main application period starts in March–April and continues until the end of July for programs beginning in the autumn semester (October). If spots remain available after the main admission round, universities may hold additional admissions in August–September. For programs starting in the winter semester (February), applications are typically accepted from October to December.

Applicants are advised to submit their documents as early as possible to allow time for document verification, language certification, and student visa processing. Check the official websites of your chosen universities for precise deadlines, as they may vary depending on the institution and specialization.

International students can apply for various scholarship programs to fund their master’s education in Poland:

- NAWA scholarships offered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange, including the Banach and Kirkland scholarships, which cover tuition and living expenses.

- Erasmus+: An international program providing full funding for tuition, living, and travel expenses.

- University scholarships: Many private and public universities in Poland offer scholarships for academic excellence, research contributions, or active participation in student life.

- Social scholarships: Available for students from low-income families or those in difficult financial situations.

- Scholarships for holders of the Polish Card: These students are eligible for free tuition in public universities.

To apply for a scholarship, students typically need a bachelor’s degree with a strong GPA, a language certificate (B2 for Polish or IELTS/TOEFL for English), a motivational letter, and recommendation letters. Applications usually open in January–February and must be submitted through university or scholarship program portals.

For applicants from non-EU countries, such as those from African or Asian countries, nostrification of a bachelor’s degree is not required. Instead, an apostille must be affixed to the diploma, and a sworn translation into Polish must be prepared. The apostille confirms the authenticity and international validity of the educational document.

Additionally, an academic transcript showing a GPA above 60% must be submitted so that the university can assess whether the prior education meets the requirements of the chosen master’s program.

Master’s programs in Poland typically last 1.5–2 years, depending on the specialization and university. Most programs in humanities, economics, and technology take 2 years (4 semesters) to complete. Certain specialized programs, such as those in medicine, pharmacy, or engineering, may last 1.5 years (3 semesters).

Upon completion, students earn a Master’s degree (MA or MSc), which is recognized across all European Union countries and many other nations worldwide, including those in NA, Asia, Africa and CIS.

To enroll in a master’s program in Poland, you must demonstrate proficiency in the program’s language of instruction:

- Polish-language programs: A B2-level certificate, such as the "Certyfikat z języka polskiego jako obcego," or successful completion of a university’s internal language exam.

- English-language programs: International certificates like IELTS (6.0–6.5), TOEFL iBT (87 and above), or Cambridge English (B2 and above).

Some universities may offer an internal language exam or preparatory courses for students without a language certificate at the time of application.