Most Affordable Universities in Poland
Higher education in Poland offers one of the best combinations of European quality and affordable tuition fees. While studying in Western Europe can cost tens of thousands, Polish universities offer fully accredited Bachelor's and Master's programs starting from just 1 300 euro per year.
Despite the low cost, you receive an internationally recognized diploma, the option to study in English, and legal access to the EU job market.
In this guide, we have collected the top budget-friendly universities for international students.
How AcademGo Helps You Apply to Low-Cost Universities
Choosing a university is just the first step. To save money and avoid visa rejection, you need a clear plan. Here is how we help:
✔️ Budget Planning: We select programs that strictly fit your financial limits (from 1 300 euro/year).
✔️ Document Analysis: We check your high school diploma to ensure you meet the entry requirements.
✔️ Visa Support: We provide a complete checklist for the student visa to minimize the risk of refusal.
✔️ Accommodation: We help you find a dormitory (approx. 150-200 euro/month) before you arrive.
Top 5 Most Affordable Universities in Poland
1. Vincent Pol University (Lublin)
A private university focused on practical, career-oriented education. It is well-known for offering English-taught degrees with a simplified admission process and student-friendly infrastructure.
- Tuition fee: from 1 300 euro per year.
- Popular programs: Medicine (Physiotherapy, Nursing), Tourism and Hospitality, IT, Sports Science.
- Why choose it: Located in Lublin (one of the cheapest cities in Poland), low tuition fees, great support for international students.
A modern university located in the heart of Warsaw, highly popular among international students. It provides a multicultural environment with a wide selection of Bachelor's and Master's degrees.
- Tuition fee: from 1 800 euro per year.
- Popular programs: Business Management, Psychology, International Relations, Computer Science.
- Why choose it: Flexible tuition discounts, modern campus in the city center, dual degree opportunities.
A large network of private universities in major Polish cities such as Poznań, Gdańsk, and Wrocław. These institutions are famous for their applied learning approach and strong ties to the business sector.
- Tuition fee: from 1 400 euro per year.
- Popular programs: Logistics, Business Administration, IT, Finance.
- Why choose it: Active support for internships, focus on practical skills, campuses in multiple cities.
4. Adam Mickiewicz University (Poznań)
One of the oldest and most respected public universities in Poland. It ranks high academically and attracts students with its research-driven environment and strong reputation.
- Tuition fee: from 2 000 euro per year (for English programs).
- Popular programs: Natural Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, English Philology.
- Why choose it: Prestigious public diploma, high academic ranking, vibrant student life in Poznań.
5. Vistula University (Warsaw)
One of the most international private universities in Poland. It is a top choice for students looking for a balance between affordable tuition and high-quality education in English.
- Tuition fee: from 1 300 euro per year.
- Popular programs: Computer Engineering (IT), Management, Finances and Accounting, Tourism.
- Why choose it: Flexible learning formats, large international community, excellent Career Office support.
How Poland compares to other European countries
In terms of education quality, Poland is on par with countries like Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and France, but it's much more affordable. Here's how Poland stands out:
🎓 In Germany, public universities may offer tuition-free education, but the application process is highly competitive, seats for international students are limited, and you must prove fluency in German and have an Abitur-equivalent qualification. Living expenses are high — from 800 euros per month.
🎓 In the Czech Republic, studying in Czech is free at public universities, but it requires passing tough entrance exams and often completing a full preparatory year. English-taught programs start from 4 000 euros per year.
🎓 In the Netherlands and Austria, English-language programs typically start from 8 000 euros per year, not including mandatory health insurance and high housing costs.
🎓 In Hungary, tuition for international students ranges from 5 000 to 9 000 euros per year, and universities are generally less flexible with admissions from non-EU countries.
In contrast, Polish universities accept students without entrance exams for many programs, offer options in both English and Polish, and provide discounts, scholarships, and support for international applicants. Living expenses are significantly lower — housing starts from 120 euros per month, and food and transportation are also budget-friendly compared to Western Europe.
So if you're aiming for a European degree, international career opportunities, and an affordable education, Poland is clearly one of the best choices in terms of value for money and accessibility.
How Affordable is Studying in Poland?
Poland offers the lowest tuition fees in Central Europe while maintaining high educational standards. Even English-taught programs are significantly cheaper than in Western countries.
On average, tuition fees look like this:
✔️ English-taught programs: start from 1 300 euro per year (at private universities).
✔️ Polish-taught programs: start from 1 000 euro per year (private) or are Free of Charge at public universities (if you hold a C1 certificate).
Important regarding study formats:
- Full-time (On-campus): Allows you to apply for a student visa and residence card (Karta Pobytu), plus gives full access to the labor market.
- Online learning: More affordable, but does not grant visa eligibility. Suitable only if you do not plan to live in Poland.
Thanks to our partnership with universities, students enrolling through AcademGo often receive tuition discounts and Early Bird offers, making education even more accessible.
Lowest-Cost Degree Programs in Poland
If you are studying on a tight budget, choosing the right field of study is crucial. Below is a breakdown of typical tuition costs by program type:
In Polish (Cheapest Option):
✔️ Pedagogy, Tourism, Management: from 1 000 to 1 500 euro per year.
✔️ IT, Logistics, Physiotherapy: from 1 500 to 2 000 euro per year.
Where to find: Widely available at WSB Merito Universities and Vincent Pol University.
In English (Best Value):
✔️ Tourism, Hospitality, International Relations: from 1 300 to 1 800 euro per year.
✔️ Computer Engineering (IT), Management: from 1 500 to 2 500 euro per year.
Where to find: Lowest rates are offered by Vistula University, Vincent Pol University, and Vizja University.
Programs taught in Polish require at least B2 level proficiency. English-taught programs are slightly more expensive but allow you to study immediately without a preparation year.
Many universities offer discounts of 10% to 15% for early tuition payment or for applications submitted through official partners like AcademGo.
Living Expenses on a Budget in Poland
Poland is one of the most affordable countries in the EU. Here is a breakdown of average monthly costs for a student:
- Accommodation: Dormitories cost 150–250 euro, while a room in a shared flat is around 300–400 euro.
- Food: Buying groceries and cooking at home will cost you about 150–200 euro per month.
- Transport: A student monthly pass with a discount is only 12–15 euro.
- Miscellaneous: Phone plan, internet, and leisure — approx. 30–50 euro.
Total estimated budget: 500–700 euro per month (including accommodation).
❗️International students can work legally without a permit. With a part-time job (example 20 hours/week), you can earn 500–800 euro, covering most of your living expenses.
Sign up for a free consultation below!
Frequently Asked Questions
