Foundation Year in Polish Universities
Enrolling in a Polish university is a great opportunity to earn a European degree, but not all applicants immediately meet university admission requirements. Foundation Year (zerówka) programs are designed for students who want to improve their language skills, get familiar with the Polish education system, and confidently start their Bachelor’s or Master’s studies. Let’s take a closer look at how this course works, who it’s for, and what advantages it offers to international students.
What is a Foundation Year and how does it differ from zerówka
In the Polish education system, you’ll often hear two terms — Foundation Year and zerówka. At first glance, they seem to mean the same thing, but there’s a slight difference in focus.
Foundation Year is the international name for an academic and language preparation program for international students. These courses are offered by universities and accredited language centers in Poland. The main goal is to help students reach the B2 level according to the CEFR, adapt to the academic environment, and successfully enter a university.
Zerówka (from the Polish zerowy rok, meaning “zero year”) is a more local term used specifically in Poland. The “zero year” program includes the same components as the Foundation Year — intensive language learning, academic preparation, and cultural adaptation. However, zerówka is usually held at Polish universities, not at international education centers, and is primarily aimed at students who plan to study in Polish.
In simple terms:
- Foundation Year – an international preparatory program, most often taught in English;
- Zerówka – the Polish equivalent of the program, usually taught in Polish.
Both formats offer the same advantage: after completing the course, students receive an official document equivalent to a B2 certificate, which allows them to enter a Polish university without an additional language exam.
Who Is the Program For
The Foundation Year is especially recommended for those who are planning to study abroad for the first time. It not only increases your chances of successful admission but also helps you avoid stress during the first year of university.
High school graduates who do not yet have a B2-level certificate.
Students who plan to apply for Polish- or English-taught programs.
International applicants who want to adapt to the academic environment in Poland, get used to lecture formats, and understand the grading system.
What Subjects Are Included
The course content depends on the chosen language and field of study, but all programs include several key components:
✔️ Language training – intensive study of Polish or English up to the B2 level.
✔️ Academic subjects related to your future major (for example, mathematics, biology, economics, or IT).
✔️ Cultural and adaptation classes – covering life in Poland, academic culture, university rules, and exam preparation.
Some programs also offer elective courses so that students can start exploring their future field in more depth before the main studies begin.
Language Preparation and Certificate Upon Completion
The main goal of the Foundation Year is to help students reach a confident B2 level. Upon completion of the course, graduates receive an official document confirming their language proficiency at the level required for university admission.
If the program is completed at a university or an accredited educational center, this document is equivalent to a B2 certificate and is accepted by all Polish universities. This means that zerówka graduates can enroll without taking an additional language exam.
Learn more about language requirements in our article: New Language Requirements for Admission to Polish Universities.
Where to Study Foundation Year in Poland
Preparatory courses are offered both at universities and in private centers accredited by the Ministry of Education. Some of the most popular institutions offering zerówka programs include:
✔️ Vistula University — language preparation and subject modules for future students of business, tourism, and IT.
✔️ SWPS University — courses designed for applicants to psychology and social sciences.
✔️ Lazarski University — academic preparation focused on international programs.
✔️ University of Warsaw and Cracow University of Technology — public programs for future engineers and researchers.
The choice of university depends on your intended field of study and the language of instruction.
Tuition Fees
The cost of the Foundation Year depends on the university and the language of the program.
✔️ The average tuition fee is from 2400 to 3400 euros per year.
✔️ Programs taught in English are usually slightly more expensive — starting from 3000 euros per year.
✔️ The price typically includes study materials, language testing, and academic supervision.
Many universities offer discounts or early application promotions, so applying through Academgo is often more cost-effective — the company helps students find programs with the best tuition fees and enrollment deadlines.
Benefits of Completing a Foundation Year
✔️ Receiving an official B2-level certificate without taking a separate exam.
✔️ Easier admission to the chosen university.
✔️ Opportunity to adapt to life in Poland and the local academic environment.
✔️ Improved academic and language skills before starting a degree program.
✔️ Building a network of contacts and new friendships within the university.
Thus, the zerówka is more than just a preparatory course — it’s a real bridge between school and university education in Europe.
How to Apply for a Foundation Year
Applying for a Foundation Year in Poland is a straightforward process. You need to:
provide a high school diploma
fill out the application form
attach a copy of your passport
complete a short interview (if required)
It’s best to submit your documents 3–6 months before the start of the course. Academgo assists students through every step of the process — from registration and program selection to visa application.
Learn more about the admission process here: How to Apply to a Polish University.
How AcademGo Helps
AcademGo supports students from the very first step until they receive their official letter of acceptance. We:
✔️ provide consultations on choosing the right university and Foundation Year program;
✔️ help with course registration and document preparation;
✔️ select language and academic training programs tailored to each student’s goals;
✔️ assist with obtaining a student visa.
With AcademGo, the admission process becomes simple and transparent — you get support from a team that knows the Polish education system inside and out.
Frequently Asked Questions
