Why study a master’s degree in Poland?
Intellectual and cultural tradition means that Polish universities can offer many opportunities for international postgraduate students. These reasons will make you be part of this multicultural society:
- International exposure: As a member of the European Union, the European Economic Area and the Schengen Group, Poland is one of the countries that promotes modern international development and partnership of Europe.
- Low-cost tuition: If you are an EU/EEA citizen, you do not need to pay tuition. Even if you come from outside Europe, the average tuition at public universities is only 2,000 euros per year.
- Affordable cost of living: Compared to other European countries, Poland is a relatively cheap place to live.
- Bologna Process : Courses from accredited Polish institutions are based on the Bologna Process, which means they will be recognized worldwide.
Read also: The best countries to study in Europe
Semester system in Poland to study master’s degree
The Polish academic year is divided into a long summer vacation, spanning two semesters, from October to June. Each semester consists of a timed course of approximately 15 weeks with an exam period. Additionally, there is a short break for Christmas and Easter. It is common for students at Polish universities to take advantage of their summer holidays to do study and internship placements. As a master’s student in the Second Cycle program, you will find that you are encouraged to do this between your first and second year. Depending on your subject area, your institution may partner with established student companies and research institutes.
Tuition fees
Polish citizens and EU/EEA citizens from public universities (in most cases) can obtain a master’s degree in Poland for free. Other international students usually need to pay for their university studies. Non-citizens with sufficient Polish heritage can obtain an exception to obtain a “Polish Letter” or a “Polish Card.” Foreigners at Polish universities normally have to pay tuition fees. These are the average figures:
- 2,000 euros per year for a normal full-time MS in Poland
- 3000 euros per year for vocational, professional and research programs.
Private universities are free to set their own fees, which can be much higher than those of national universities. Typical rates range between 2,000 and 6,000 euros per year.
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Popular MS Courses in Poland
- Master of Computer Science
- Master in Theoretical Physics
- Master in Civil Engineering
- Master in Applied Biotechnology
- Master of Architecture
- Master in Electrical Engineering
- Master in mobile cartography and navigation systems
- Master in Artificial Intelligence
- Master in Robotics
- Master in Photonics
- Master in Data Science
- Master in Mechanical Engineering
- Master in Agri-Food Economics and Commerce
Best universities for master’s degree in Poland
Although it is not an English-speaking country and had to recover from a period of political transition, Polish universities occupy a place in the main world rankings.
- Jagiellonian University
- Warsaw Medical University
- Warsaw University
- University of Wroclaw
- ESCP Business School
- Gdansk University of Technology
- Krakow University of Economics
- University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
- Civitas School
- Kozminski University
Must Read: All About Poland Student Visa
Scholarships for master’s degrees in Poland
MS in Poland is eager to attract international graduate students to provide them with prestigious higher education along with funding for suitable candidates from abroad. Scholarships and financial aid for MS in Poland are listed:
- Erasmus+ programme : provides funding for joint master’s degrees, shorter mobility grants for stays abroad and a new system of international master’s loans.
- CEEPUS Exchange Program – It is an initiative that offers scholarships to students from Central European countries studying in the region.
- Visegrad Scholarship Program – These are 1-4 semester scholarships for master’s and postgraduate students and are available for students from certain Eastern European countries.
Application process and language requirements
Application and language requirements for different master’s programs in Poland will be additional, but generally require you to have a relevant bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). Other requirements for applying for MS in Poland include:
- Purpose Statement
- Resume
- LOR
- Official IELTS / TOEFL scores , if applicable for English courses and for Polish language courses, it is generally necessary to demonstrate Polish as a foreign language. Therefore, the most recognized exam is the Polish as a Foreign Language certification exam.
- Academic transcripts and report cards from all colleges/universities attended for more than one year.
Must read: Cost of living and studying in Poland
Visa requirements
If you are a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area (or Swiss citizen), you can enter Poland without a visa. However, it is necessary to apply for a residence permit to stay in the country for more than 91 days. You can apply at the local Voivodeship office. To apply for a residence permit the following are the necessary documents:
- Medical insurance valid during the course.
- Proof of financial support during the study period.
Students from outside the EU/EEA must have a student visa. This can be obtained from the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country.
Also read MBBS in Poland
Living in Poland
Let’s take a closer look at the costs of living, tuition and student life in Poland:
Tuition costs
Public universities in Poland use the following tuition policy:
- EU/EEA students who enroll in courses taught in Polish pay nothing per year.
- Bachelor’s programs cost between 500 and 6,000 euros per year.
- Master’s programs range between 1,000 and 8,000 euros per year.
- Some programs, such as MBAs or dental school, can cost up to 15,000 euros (USD) each academic year.
Private institutions typically charge much higher tuition rates, although there are some degrees that are more affordable.
Cost of living in Poland
Most Polish cities have monthly living expenses ranging between 350 and 550 EUR. The amount of money needed by students in major cities such as Krakow or Warsaw ranges between 500 and 850 euros.
Accommodation
In Poland there are numerous possibilities to find accommodation for students. They differ depending on the location and the university you select.
The most affordable option is usually the one offered by the many internal dormitories that Polish higher education institutes (HEIs) have. However, most Polish students like to rent a room in a private apartment.
- student residences: 60-150 EUR/month
- rent in a private apartment: 80-150 EUR/month plus utility bill (100-150 EUR)
health insurance
All students need health insurance. European students can use their European health cards to obtain medical services. Poland has also signed bilateral agreements with the United Kingdom, Sweden and Slovakia, giving these citizens the right to free healthcare. Students from non-EU/EEA countries must purchase health insurance in their home country or immediately in Poland. If students do not have health insurance, they must pay for medical services.
Read also: MBA in Poland
Professional field
After graduating, EU citizens can work in any company in Poland without a work permit. Students from outside the EU can find a job and once they find one, they can apply for a work permit. There are three jobs that do not require a work permit: university professors, general directors of Polish departments of multinational companies and journalists. Polish master’s graduates in Poland can also continue pursuing doctoral and research programs if they are admitted to academic programs.
Must Read: 10 Reasons to Study in Poland
How much does MS cost in Poland?
Both Polish citizens and EU/EEA residents are not charged any MS fee in Poland. The cost of a master’s degree in Poland will range between 2000 and 3000 EUR for a full-time program.
Is Poland good for the Masters?
Opportunities for Indian students to pursue their master’s degree abroad are stronger than ever as the global education landscape changes. Poland has distinguished itself as a standout option among many places for those seeking to realize their full potential.
Is GRE required in Poland?
Results from IELTS, TOEFL and other English language proficiency exams in one dashboard. As per university regulations, you may be required to submit your GMAT or GRE scorecard to enroll in PG courses.
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