Public Universities in Poland: Rankings, Fees & Admissions

Public universities in Poland range from research institutions in Warsaw and Kraków to specialist medical and technical schools in Gdańsk, Wrocław and Poznań. Choose by subject, language, entry rules and total cost, not rank alone.

This guide compares Perspektywy and QS rankings, 50 selected institutions, English-taught programmes, fees and scholarships. If you searched for “schools in Poland for international students”, this page covers university-level study, not primary or secondary schools. A common trap is checking course language too late. For wider research, see the best European countries for international students.

How Many Public Universities Are There in Poland?

The often-quoted figure of 131 comes from a 2021 NIK report for the 2020/21 academic year: 97 academic and 34 vocational public institutions. It is historical, not a current count. The Ministry of Science and Higher Education now lists 65 public academic and 31 public vocational institutions under its supervision: 96 across those two lists.

Academic institutions can conduct research and award doctoral degrees; vocational institutions focus more on practical education. Medical universities are supervised separately by the Ministry of Health, so 96 is not an all-ministry total. See the Ministry's academic list, vocational list and Ministry of Health medical-university list.

Types of Public Higher Education Institutions in Poland

• Comprehensive universities: Law, humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.
• Technical universities: Engineering, computing, architecture and energy.
• Medical universities: Medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and health sciences.
• Economics universities: Finance, business and management.
• Life-sciences universities: Agriculture, forestry, veterinary science and food technology.
• Specialist institutions: Arts, sport, maritime, military and vocational fields.

Poland follows the Bologna Process and uses ECTS. Bachelor's degrees usually take three to four years; Master's studies, 1.5 to 2.5 years. Long-cycle Master's programmes take nine to twelve semesters. The Polish Accreditation Committee (PKA) oversees quality assurance. See the study-structure guide.

Best Public Universities in Poland: 2026 National Ranking

Perspektywy compares Polish academic institutions using national data; QS ranks universities internationally. The 2026 Perspektywy Academic Schools Ranking covers eligible public and private academic universities. Its weighted criteria include reputation (12%), employability (12%), research potential (13%), research effectiveness (30%), innovation (8%), teaching (10%) and internationalisation (15%).

The table shows public institutions in the first ten positions, including ties.

Subject rankings can tell a different story: Jagiellonian University led Perspektywy's 2026 Medicine ranking, ahead of the Medical University of Warsaw, Wrocław Medical University, Medical University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Łódź. Compare the Medicine ranking as well as the overall results and methodology.

Polish Public Universities in the QS World University Rankings 2027

QS 2023 queries still appear in Search Console, but that edition is outdated. QS published its 2027 ranking on 18 June 2026; the table shows Polish institutions' current global rank bands.

How QS Overall Scores and Academic Reputation Are Calculated

QS 2027 weights Academic Reputation at 30%, Citations per Faculty at 20%, Employer Reputation at 15%, Faculty-to-Student Ratio at 10%, and Employment Outcomes, International Faculty Ratio, International Research Network, International Student Ratio and Sustainability at 5% each. Reputation uses global surveys; research uses citations. International Student Diversity carries 0%.

QS rank bands are not Perspektywy scores or subject rankings. Do not reuse 2023 scores as current figures. See the QS 2027 results and official methodology.

Top Public Universities in Poland for International Students

Profiles cover ranking and subject strengths. Check linked pages for course availability.

1. University of Warsaw

Founded in 1816, the University of Warsaw is a comprehensive public university with 25 faculties. Its strengths span law, economics, political science, mathematics, physics, biology, languages and the humanities.

Its 2026/27 English-taught undergraduate offer includes American Studies, Business and Management, European Politics and Economics, Finance, and International Relations. Check the English-language programme catalogue for current rules. Its breadth is useful, but the teaching language and selection criteria still differ by faculty.

2. Jagiellonian University

Established in 1364, Jagiellonian University in Kraków is Poland's oldest university. Its academic profile includes medicine, law, history, philosophy, biology, chemistry, physics and social sciences. The Jagiellonian University Medical College is a major part of its health-sciences offer.

International applicants should check whether a course belongs to the main university or the Medical College, as each may have separate admissions information. Compare the language, course structure and entry requirements before choosing. The Medical College's clinical training and the main university's research-led faculties serve different academic goals.

3. Warsaw University of Technology

Warsaw University of Technology has an engineering tradition dating back to 1826. Its strengths include architecture, civil and electrical engineering, computer science, mechanics, automation and aerospace-related study. It suits applicants focused on applied science and technology.

The university offers selected English-language Bachelor's and Master's routes. Use its official academic and admissions pages to check the current programme list, entry rules and tuition decision. For a technical degree, look closely at laboratories, project work and the faculty offering the course.

4. AGH University of Kraków

AGH University of Kraków is a major public technical and research institution. Its 18 faculties cover computer science, electrical and mechanical engineering, mining, geology, materials science, energy, management and space technologies. It is particularly relevant to applicants interested in engineering, digital systems and industrial innovation.

AGH's admissions page lists 23 degree programmes taught entirely in English. Check its English-taught degree offer and official 2026/27 fee schedule. Programme examples include Computer Science, Space Engineering and International Management, with fees that differ substantially.

5. Gdańsk University of Technology

Founded in 1904, Gdańsk University of Technology is a major technical institution in northern Poland. Its faculties cover architecture, chemistry, electronics and telecommunications, civil and environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, ocean engineering, ship technology, management and economics.

English-taught Bachelor's examples for 2026/27 include Architecture, Data Engineering and Green Technologies. The university publishes course-specific fees for international applicants. Its coastal setting also makes ocean engineering and maritime technology distinctive options. Start with its international admissions pages.

6. Wrocław University of Science and Technology

Wrocław University of Science and Technology covers engineering, information and communication technology, electronics, chemistry, architecture, civil and environmental engineering, mathematics and management. Its academic offer also includes medicine.

International applicants can browse English-language Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral options. Check the English study offer and 2026/27 payment information. Compare the course syllabus and the faculty's research specialisms before choosing between technical universities.

7. Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań

Established in 1919, Adam Mickiewicz University is a comprehensive public university with strengths in humanities, languages, law, chemistry, natural sciences, political science and social sciences. It is worth considering if your interests extend beyond engineering and medicine.

Its 2026/27 English-language catalogue includes Governance of Organisations, Chemistry, Liberal Arts and Sciences, European Legal Studies, Global Communication and International Relations. Filter the official programme list by level and language. Its wider humanities and social-science offer makes it a useful counterpoint to Poland's engineering-heavy universities.

8. Łódź University of Technology

Łódź University of Technology offers programmes across engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, agricultural sciences and arts. Its offer spans nine main faculties and the International Faculty of Engineering, making it relevant to students interested in technology, business and applied science.

English-taught examples include Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology and Business Studies. Check the course catalogue and 2026/27 fees and scholarships. The International Faculty of Engineering is especially relevant to applicants who want a technical course taught in English.

9. Silesian University of Technology

Based mainly in Gliwice, Silesian University of Technology has faculties in architecture, civil engineering, chemistry, electrical engineering, automation, electronics, computer science, mining, biomedical engineering, energy, materials, mechanical engineering and transport. Its offer reflects the industrial and technological profile of the Silesian region.

English-taught options include areas such as aerospace engineering, architecture, automation and robotics, biomedical engineering and biotechnology. Check the faculty directory and current admissions details. Its location in the Silesian industrial region can also matter to students looking for engineering projects and industry links.

10. Poznań University of Technology

Poznań University of Technology is a public technical university for applicants interested in engineering, computing, automation, robotics, architecture, aviation and aerospace, chemical technology and industrial management.

It shares 10th place in the Perspektywy 2026 academic ranking. For a technical applicant, subject-level results and course content may be more useful than the overall position. Compare laboratory work, teaching language and entry rules on the official university website. Automation, robotics, computing and aerospace are useful subject areas to compare against the university's overall rank.

11. Medical University of Białystok

Medical University of Białystok specialises in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and health sciences. It is particularly relevant to applicants seeking a dedicated medical institution rather than a general university with a smaller medical department.

For 2026/27, the university lists a six-year English-language Medicine programme. Its admissions information specifies subject requirements involving two of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics. Check the official admissions page for current selection rules. Medical admission is competitive and subject prerequisites matter more than the university's general ranking.

12. University of Gdańsk

The University of Gdańsk is a comprehensive public university with study areas in economics, law, mathematics, physics, social sciences, humanities and environmental subjects. Its coastal location also makes it relevant to students interested in marine and environmental research.

English-language options have included International Business, International Business Law and EU Administration, Mathematics, Physics and Medical Physics. Check the university website and national Studyfinder for the current offer. The university's 2026/27 English-language catalogue includes International Business and Logistics and Mobility.

Public Universities in Poland by City

Public universities in Warsaw include the University of Warsaw, Warsaw University of Technology, SGH and Medical University of Warsaw. Kraków, Gdańsk, Wrocław and Poznań are also major hubs.

50 Selected Public Universities in Poland

This Poland university list includes 50 selected public institutions; it is not exhaustive or ranked.

English-Taught Programmes at Public Universities in Poland

For universities in Poland for international students, English-taught options vary by institution and subject. The University of Warsaw lists American Studies, Business and Management, European Politics and Economics, and International Relations. AGH currently lists 23 degree programmes taught entirely in English. Gdańsk Tech lists Data Engineering and Green Technologies; the Medical University of Białystok offers a six-year English-language Medicine programme.

Use the national Study.gov.pl Studyfinder to filter undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral courses. At its 21 September 2026 snapshot, apply.edu.pl listed 951 English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programmes at 140 institutions across 44 cities, including public and non-public providers.

Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Poland

Public does not automatically mean free. Full-time programmes taught in Polish are tuition-free for Polish citizens and foreign students who meet statutory conditions, including certain EU/EEA and Swiss citizens, specified residence-status holders and holders of a valid Pole's Card. Other applicants may pay tuition, especially for English-taught or part-time programmes. See the official fee guidance.

Examples of Published 2026/27 Fees

These are course-specific examples, not national averages. When comparing cheap universities in Poland for international students, include rent and living costs in the budget.

Tuition-Free Universities in Poland for International Students

Some international students qualify for tuition-free full-time study in Polish, but eligibility depends on legal status. An English-taught course at a public university is not automatically free.

Do Public Universities in Poland Charge an Application Fee?

There is no single rule. Gdańsk University of Technology lists PLN 85 for applicants with selected EU/EEA/EFTA/OECD qualifications, PLN 100 for other foreign certificates and PLN 150 for Architecture. Wrocław University of Science and Technology lists PLN 100 for most programmes and PLN 150 for Architecture. Check the Gdańsk Tech application rules and Wrocław Tech fees.

Cost of Living for Students in Poland

Study.gov.pl says student living costs can start from around PLN 1,500 a month (approximately €330); major cities can cost more. Compare rent, food and transport in its cost guide and accommodation page.

Scholarships for International Students in Poland

Funding may come from NAWA, universities, international schemes or bilateral agreements. Eligibility varies by nationality and study level.

• NAWA: Includes the Banach Programme for eligible applicants from selected developing countries and the General Anders Programme for eligible people of Polish origin.
• Erasmus+ and CEEPUS: Can support eligible exchange and mobility periods, not automatically a full degree.
• Visegrad and university awards: Support selected applicants under their own rules.

Check current calls and deadlines through the official scholarship overview. Bangladeshi applicants can also read our guide to scholarships for Bangladeshi students in Europe.

Public vs Private Universities in Poland

Neither type is automatically better. Compare the exact course, recognition, teaching language and total cost.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Each university sets its own rules. First-cycle or long-cycle applicants normally need a secondary-school certificate that gives access to higher education; Master's applicants need an appropriate higher education diploma. A programme may also ask for transcripts, certified translations, proof of English or Polish, an entrance test, portfolio, CV or interview.

Some foreign secondary-school certificates require an individual recognition statement from the Director of NAWA. EU, OECD and EFTA certificates, certain documents covered by international agreements, and IB or EB diplomas are generally recognised automatically for admission. Other certificates may need the NAWA process. Check the NAWA guidance.

Some applicants must prove B2 language proficiency. Accepted certificates and exact rules vary, so check the university's current list.

How to Apply to Public Universities in Poland

1. Choose a course: Compare subject, level, language, city and fees.
2. Check entry and recognition rules: Confirm academic prerequisites, language evidence and whether your certificate needs a NAWA statement.
3. Review deadlines and charges: Each university sets its own calendar and application fee.
4. Apply through the official portal: Submit the required documents and retain payment confirmation.
5. Complete enrolment: Review the offer, conditions, tuition and original-document requirements.

For immigration or residence questions, consult official Polish government information or an appropriately authorised adviser. This article is general education information only; BHE UNI does not provide immigration advice or prepare visa applications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Public Universities in Poland

Are public universities in Poland free for international students?

Not for everyone. Some students qualify for tuition-free full-time study in Polish; English-taught and part-time courses can carry fees.

How many public universities are there in Poland?

The Ministry lists 65 public academic and 31 public vocational institutions under its supervision: 96 in the two lists.

Which is the best public university in Poland?

The University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University shared first place in Perspektywy 2026. The University of Warsaw led Poland in QS 2027.

Can international students study in Poland in English?

Yes. Public universities offer selected English-taught Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral programmes; availability varies by subject.

Which public universities offer medicine in English?

Examples include the Medical University of Białystok, Warsaw, Gdańsk, Poznań University of Medical Sciences and Jagiellonian University Medical College.

Are there public universities in Poland without an application fee?

Fees vary by university and course. Check the recruitment rules for each programme.

Choose a Public University in Poland That Fits Your Plans

Poland offers research universities, technical institutions, medical schools, economics universities and life-sciences specialists. The University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University lead Perspektywy 2026, but a specialist institution may suit your subject better.

Compare the course, language, entry rules and fees. For help comparing options and entry requirements, contact BHE UNI about your study options. You can also compare our guides to public universities in Germany, public universities in Australia, public universities in India and public universities in Pakistan.