15 Free and Cheap Universities in Poland for International Students

In Poland, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Poland without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Poland, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 126 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Poland, make sure to read more!

How do I get admission to affordable universities in Poland?

Applying to cheap universities in Poland requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Poland for a more comprehensive guide!

What can I study at Best affordable universities in Poland?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Poland. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Poland is the Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, which offers Chemistry, European Legal Studies, and Central European and Balkan Studies to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań offers Linguistics and Information Management, Public Governance, and Physics.

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Poland for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Poland ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Warsaw 0 PLN - 16,200 PLN 100%
Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań 0 PLN - 8,000 PLN 100%
University of Rzeszów 0 PLN 100%
Pomeranian University in Słupsk 3,600 PLN - 5,200 PLN 70%
John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin 3,800 PLN - 9,400 PLN 68%
Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce 4,000 PLN - 23,000 PLN 66%
University of Silesia in Katowice 4,300 PLN - 6,100 PLN 64%
Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz 4,400 PLN - 6,000 PLN 63%
Gdynia Maritime University 4,442 PLN - 17,800 PLN 62%
Kielce University of Technology 4,442 PLN - 8,884 PLN 62%
University of Opole 5,000 PLN - 6,799 PLN 58%
Lodz University of Technology 5,000 PLN - 16,000 PLN 58%
Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences 5,200 PLN - 12,000 PLN 56%
University of Bielsko-Biala 5,660 PLN - 8,470 PLN 52%
Vistula University 5,670 PLN - 6,850 PLN 52%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 11,700 PLN for universities in Poland.

1. University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw, a public university in Poland, was founded in 1816. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as long-cycle programs in various fields, such as Humanities and Sciences. With over 37,400 students, the university is currently the largest in the country, providing students with quality education right in its historical campus.

2. Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań

Founded in 1919, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, has a reputation for providing exemplary study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Pursuing an education at the university will be advantageous as degrees awarded are nationally and internationally recognized. As such, this distinguished public institution is fully committed to providing high-quality programs through continuous research and developing innovative career-oriented programs that will help meet the educational goals of diverse students.

3. University of Rzeszów

Located in one of the biggest cities in Poland, the University of Rzeszów came to life after the merger of three former universities in order to address the higher education needs of the region. It has 4 colleges divided into different institutes that offer programs in Polish and English. Also, there are some bilingual programs in combination with German and Russian. This university is research-oriented, which is why it has 8 research units, over 100 science clubs, and an innovation center.

4. Pomeranian University in Słupsk

Located in a small city in the North of Poland, the Pomeranian University in Słupsk is a research-oriented multidisciplinary institution that has recently focused on internationalization, not only through exchange agreements but also by participating in university projects. It offers around 40 bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are mostly taught in Polish, so it’s perfect for those who want to fully immerse in the culture of this country. Nevertheless, some subjects are taught in English. Regarding research, it is conducted in six main areas of sciences and humanities within its different institutes and departments.

5. John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin

The Catholic University of Lublin was launched in 1918 and is the only private institution in Poland that is granted university status. It is considered one of the oldest universities in Poland. Its mission is to encourage research with the integration of both science and faith and to educate intelligent students with firm Catholic principles.

6. Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce

The Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce was first known as Higher Teachers’ School in 1969. It was only in 2011 when it earned its present name, derived after a famous Polish poet. The university is regarded as a flagship institution in its province. Although primarily based in Kielce, it has two branches in Piotrkow Trybunalski and Sandomierz. A variety of programs are available at JKU for bachelor’s and master’s students. Several English-taught courses are offered for international students.

7. University of Silesia in Katowice

The University of Silesia in Katowice is committed to preserving and disseminating knowledge from generation to generation. It also seeks to contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Poland by amplifying its art and creative research. The university aims to become a catalyst of change, shaping the lives of students through academic excellence.

8. Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz

Located in a city full of historic sites, Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz is constantly innovating in order to offer high-quality and competitive education. Although it has six faculties and one teaching institute, the university is widely known for its teaching degrees since it used to be a school of pedagogy. Besides programs in Polish, it offers 3 English-taught bachelor’s degrees and 4 English-taught master’s degrees, as well 7 bilingual linguistics and philology programs.

9. Gdynia Maritime University

Gdynia Maritime University specializes in educating officers and specialists in the maritime and merchant industries. It has four faculties that mainly offer degrees in the areas of economics, administration, engineering, technical sciences, hospitality, and management. Its campus is comprised of in-land and offshore facilities that include state-of-the-art buildings, like research units, a marine institute, and a planetarium.

10. Kielce University of Technology

The Kielce University of Technology is one of the largest technical universities in the country and is located at the heart of the city center. The university offers excellent training in science and technology courses, thanks to its committed educators and practical curriculum. The university hopes to continue providing innovative solutions to the community’s most pressing problems.

11. University of Opole

Located in one of the most picturesque cities in Poland, the University of Opole has a dynamic education model that’s constantly being adapted to the changes of today’s world. This university offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, among which there are 12 English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It has a wide variety of academic facilities that include 20 research institutes, a museum, an incubator, and a paleontology center.

12. Lodz University of Technology

A wide variety of programs and opportunities await students who choose the Lodz University of Technology. This institution, also known as Politechnika Łódzka in Polish, is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, ranking among the top assessments. It even placed 601st in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. As a technology university, the available programs are pretty specialized. Most courses are aligned to the sciences, technology, or engineering. Even so, there is a uniqueness to these programs because some are offered in select institutions only.

13. Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences

The Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences is one of the best-ranked institutions in Poland and is famous for its outstanding performance in the research field. In fact, the university has 16 research units that conduct studies at important facilities like the National Centre for Research and Development. Besides programs in Polish, it has 3 English-taught degree programs as well as double degree options. The curricula mix theory with hands-on learning, which is done through practicums, lab research, science projects, and cooperation with businesses.

14. University of Bielsko-Biala

In October 2001, the University of Bielsko-Biala was established as a freestanding government academic institution. It was formerly a division of the Łódź University of Technology, which was established in 1969 at the demand of the Bielsko-Biala industrial area. The primary educational programs have been around for a while because the region has a long history of machine-building, electrical, and textile sectors. That is why this university houses more than 10,000 students and grants great opportunities for future education.

15. Vistula University

Vistula University is among the oldest and best private universities in Poland. Its programs are taught by highly-qualified professors and are designed to meet the present and future of employers. Through the university’s close collaborations with universities and companies around the world, students gain experience and the skills required to have successful international careers.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Poland for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Poland ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Warsaw 0 PLN - 85,500 PLN 100%
Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań 0 PLN - 8,000 PLN 100%
University of Gdańsk 0 PLN - 7,200 PLN 100%
University of Rzeszów 0 PLN 100%
University of Wrocław 3,070 PLN - 19,700 PLN 76%
Pomeranian University in Słupsk 3,600 PLN - 5,200 PLN 71%
Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce 4,000 PLN 68%
Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz 4,400 PLN - 6,000 PLN 65%
Gdynia Maritime University 4,442 PLN - 17,800 PLN 64%
Kielce University of Technology 4,442 PLN - 8,884 PLN 64%
Poznań University of Life Sciences 4,720 PLN - 11,400 PLN 62%
University of Silesia in Katowice 4,900 PLN - 6,100 PLN 61%
Lodz University of Technology 5,000 PLN - 16,000 PLN 60%
University of Opole 5,000 PLN - 6,800 PLN 60%
University of Bielsko-Biala 5,180 PLN - 9,420 PLN 58%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 12,400 PLN for universities in poland.

1. University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw, a public university in Poland, was founded in 1816. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as long-cycle programs in various fields, such as Humanities and Sciences. With over 37,400 students, the university is currently the largest in the country, providing students with quality education right in its historical campus.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of Warsaw should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 PLN to 85,470 PLN annually for their master's degree.

2. Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań is 0 PLN to 8,000 PLN.

Founded in 1919, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, has a reputation for providing exemplary study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Pursuing an education at the university will be advantageous as degrees awarded are nationally and internationally recognized. As such, this distinguished public institution is fully committed to providing high-quality programs through continuous research and developing innovative career-oriented programs that will help meet the educational goals of diverse students.

3. University of Gdańsk

The University of Gdańsk is a renowned university in Poland and across the globe. The university has been providing the highest standards of teaching and research since its founding in 1970. Aside from its mission, it aims to be one of the leading research universities in the country. It is deeply involved in scientific contributions by participating in numerous activities locally and abroad. Currently, the university continues to improve its quality of research by engaging in international scientific research that is widely focused on the issues of the socio-economic environment.

The tuition fee at University of Gdańsk for incoming international master’s students is 0 PLN to 7,200 PLN. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Rzeszów

Another affordable university to consider in Poland is University of Rzeszów.

Located in one of the biggest cities in Poland, the University of Rzeszów came to life after the merger of three former universities in order to address the higher education needs of the region. It has 4 colleges divided into different institutes that offer programs in Polish and English. Also, there are some bilingual programs in combination with German and Russian. This university is research-oriented, which is why it has 8 research units, over 100 science clubs, and an innovation center.

The tuition fee in University of Rzeszów for master’s program for foreign students starts from 0 PLN.

5. University of Wrocław

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Wrocław has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 3,070 PLN yearly.

University of Wrocław is one of the most prominent universities in Poland. The quality of education is undeniably one of the best, which has been highly acknowledged in the local and international academic community. Moreover, the institution promotes multiculturalism within its campus. It has maintained long-term partnerships with other foreign institutions and companies that will help strengthen and develop high-quality education and research.

6. Pomeranian University in Słupsk

Located in a small city in the North of Poland, the Pomeranian University in Słupsk is a research-oriented multidisciplinary institution that has recently focused on internationalization, not only through exchange agreements but also by participating in university projects. It offers around 40 bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are mostly taught in Polish, so it’s perfect for those who want to fully immerse in the culture of this country. Nevertheless, some subjects are taught in English. Regarding research, it is conducted in six main areas of sciences and humanities within its different institutes and departments.

7. Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce

The Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce was first known as Higher Teachers’ School in 1969. It was only in 2011 when it earned its present name, derived after a famous Polish poet. The university is regarded as a flagship institution in its province. Although primarily based in Kielce, it has two branches in Piotrkow Trybunalski and Sandomierz. A variety of programs are available at JKU for bachelor’s and master’s students. Several English-taught courses are offered for international students.

8. Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz

Located in a city full of historic sites, Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz is constantly innovating in order to offer high-quality and competitive education. Although it has six faculties and one teaching institute, the university is widely known for its teaching degrees since it used to be a school of pedagogy. Besides programs in Polish, it offers 3 English-taught bachelor’s degrees and 4 English-taught master’s degrees, as well 7 bilingual linguistics and philology programs.

9. Gdynia Maritime University

Gdynia Maritime University specializes in educating officers and specialists in the maritime and merchant industries. It has four faculties that mainly offer degrees in the areas of economics, administration, engineering, technical sciences, hospitality, and management. Its campus is comprised of in-land and offshore facilities that include state-of-the-art buildings, like research units, a marine institute, and a planetarium.

10. Kielce University of Technology

The Kielce University of Technology is one of the largest technical universities in the country and is located at the heart of the city center. The university offers excellent training in science and technology courses, thanks to its committed educators and practical curriculum. The university hopes to continue providing innovative solutions to the community’s most pressing problems.

11. Poznań University of Life Sciences

Poznań University of Life Sciences (PULS) is recognized for providing the finest educational programs in life sciences and agriculture. Known as one of Poland’s most outstanding specialized universities, this truly exceptional school is fully dedicated to raising awareness about nature and environmental science. Some of the areas of study currently offered at the university include horticulture, food technology, and animal science.

12. University of Silesia in Katowice

The University of Silesia in Katowice is committed to preserving and disseminating knowledge from generation to generation. It also seeks to contribute to the rich cultural heritage of Poland by amplifying its art and creative research. The university aims to become a catalyst of change, shaping the lives of students through academic excellence.

13. Lodz University of Technology

A wide variety of programs and opportunities await students who choose the Lodz University of Technology. This institution, also known as Politechnika Łódzka in Polish, is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, ranking among the top assessments. It even placed 601st in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. As a technology university, the available programs are pretty specialized. Most courses are aligned to the sciences, technology, or engineering. Even so, there is a uniqueness to these programs because some are offered in select institutions only.

14. University of Opole

Located in one of the most picturesque cities in Poland, the University of Opole has a dynamic education model that’s constantly being adapted to the changes of today’s world. This university offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, among which there are 12 English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It has a wide variety of academic facilities that include 20 research institutes, a museum, an incubator, and a paleontology center.

15. University of Bielsko-Biala

In October 2001, the University of Bielsko-Biala was established as a freestanding government academic institution. It was formerly a division of the Łódź University of Technology, which was established in 1969 at the demand of the Bielsko-Biala industrial area. The primary educational programs have been around for a while because the region has a long history of machine-building, electrical, and textile sectors. That is why this university houses more than 10,000 students and grants great opportunities for future education.


It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Poland, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Poland as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on free and affordable institutions in Poland for international students was helpful!