Why More Asians Are Choosing Poland for University Studies

An in-depth look at the growing appeal of Polish universities among Asian students pursuing international education.

October 17, 2025

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Asian students studying at a Polish university campus in Warsaw or Kraków — Asian students are enjoying campus life at a Polish university, representing Poland’s growing appeal as an affordable and high-quality study destination.

In recent years, an increasing number of Asian students have chosen Poland as an emerging destination for quality and affordable education. Polish universities attract international learners with their strong academic reputation, English-taught programs, generous scholarships, and welcoming culture. This article explains why Asian students are increasingly enrolling in Polish universities, what they should know about costs and admissions, and whether studying in Poland could be the right choice for you.

Article Guide

Key Advantages for Asian Students

Advantage	What it Means in Practice
Affordable Tuition & Living Costs	Many public universities offer programs for international students with tuition fees ranging from €1,000 to €5,000/year, depending on the field. Living costs in smaller cities are significantly lower.
Wide English-Taught Programs	A wide range of bachelor’s and master’s programs is available in English, enabling international students to pursue disciplines such as engineering, business, and social sciences.
Scholarships & Government Support	Polish Government programs (e.g., via NAWA), university merit-based grants, and sometimes fee waivers for students with Polish heritage (Karta Polaka) help lower cost burdens.
Reputable Universities & Recognized Degrees	Institutions such as the University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University, Warsaw University of Technology, and Gdańsk University of Technology are widely recognized in Europe and internationally.
Multicultural Environment & Safety	Poland is attracting a growing number of international students, supported by a substantial student population and modern infrastructure in its major cities. Asian students often report acceptance and the opportunity to integrate. (While exact safety stats vary, Poland is generally considered stable.)
EU Access & Mobility	The European Union formally recognizes degrees from Polish institutions. It opens possibilities for work, Erasmus exchanges, or further studies elsewhere in Europe.

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

Here’s a typical cost comparison for Asian students eyeing Poland for their university studies.

Expense Category	Estimate*	Notes / Variation
Tuition (Public University, English Program)	€1,500–€3,000/year (for humanities/social sciences)	€2,000–€5,000/year for engineering/technical fields €8,000–€12,000/year (or more) for medicine/dentistry/private / MBA programs
Living Costs	Around €330-430/month in smaller cities; €500-850/month in larger cities like Warsaw or Kraków	Includes rent, food, transportation, and basic utilities. Shared flats or student dorms are often more affordable.
Other Costs	Health insurance, visa/residence permit, books, local travel, etc.	Maybe several hundred euros extra per year, depending on the program and the city.

*Estimates for 2024-2025; actual cost may vary by university and lifestyle.

Top Universities That Asian Students Prefer

Here are some popular Polish universities among international / Asian students, known for their quality, affordability, and English-friendly curriculum:

University	Strong Fields / What Makes It Attractive
University of Warsaw	Broad offerings in humanities, sciences, and a strong international reputation.
Jagiellonian University (Kraków)	One of the oldest and most respected institutions, offering excellent programs in medicine, arts, and sciences.
Warsaw University of Technology	Offers a wide range of English-taught programs in engineering and technical fields.
Gdańsk University of Technology	Good technical / engineering offerings; competitive fees.
Adam Mickiewicz University (Poznań)	Recognized social sciences, humanities, and economics; more affordable living costs in Poznań.

Things to Check / Consider Before Deciding

Language requirements: Even English programs may require some proof of language skills (English or Polish, depending on the program).
Visa/residence permits: Ensure you meet the financial proof, documentation, and possible health insurance / medical requirements.
Recognition of your degree in your home country: Ensure that your diploma from Poland is recognized (for further studies or a license).
Cost of living differences: Big cities are generally more expensive, while smaller towns tend to be more affordable but often offer fewer amenities.
Cultural adaptation: Food, weather (harsh winters), language outside the classroom, social norms — but most students adapt well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are English-taught degrees in Polish universities respected globally?

Yes. Many Polish universities that offer English-taught programs are accredited and follow academic standards aligned with those of the European Union and other international education bodies. Academic qualifications from Polish universities are widely recognized across Europe and increasingly acknowledged in many Asian countries. However, make sure your degree is recognized in your field—especially if you plan to work in medicine or law.

Can I get scholarships / financial aid as an Asian student?

Yes. There are several options: Students may apply for NAWA (Polish Government) scholarships, university merit grants, or special funding for those of Polish descent, as well as scholarships offered by their home countries.

What is the cost of living for students in Warsaw vs. smaller cities?

In smaller cities, living costs can range from €330 to €430/month. In cities such as Warsaw or Kraków, living costs average €500–€850 per month, depending on lifestyle and housing type. Student dormitories offer the most budget-friendly option, whereas shared or private apartments come at a higher cost.

Do I need to know Polish to study in Poland?

Not always. Many programs are in English. Having a basic knowledge of Polish is beneficial for daily life, and particular programs or scholarships may require it.

Is it required to undertake an internship or seek employment after graduating from a Polish university?

Depending on your visa and the specific rules, international students may have opportunities to intern or work part-time. Moreover, degrees from Polish universities grant access to EU work mobility, offering a significant advantage for graduates seeking opportunities in Europe or abroad.

Conclusion

Poland is becoming an increasingly popular and affordable study destination, offering high-quality education for Asian students. Those pursuing English-taught degrees and recognized European credentials will discover great value in studying in Poland. If you’re planning to study abroad, Poland is a destination well worth considering.