Whether you are drawn to the breathtaking Tatra Mountains or the serene Masurian Lake District, Poland is a top destination for travelers and students alike. Beyond its natural beauty, Poland is home to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
With over 400 higher education institutions, Poland welcomes approximately 1.5 million students every year. The country offers a perfect blend of rich history, affordable living, and a vast array of high-quality degree programs taught entirely in English.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about managing your budget, including tuition fees and typical living expenses for international students in Poland.
Tuition fees in Poland
At public universities, Polish citizens and students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally do not pay tuition for programs taught in Polish. However, most other study programs require tuition fees. Generally, costs vary between:
- 500 – 6,000 EUR/academic year for
- 1,000 – 8,000 EUR/academic year for
Specialized degrees in medicine and business (especially MBAs) can exceed 15,000 EUR/year. Keep in mind that tuition fees are typically higher if you choose to enroll at private universities.
While rare, tuition-free programs are available in Poland. They are more frequently found at the Master’s level; some are free for all international students, while others are exclusive to EU/EEA citizens. We strongly advise verifying the specific tuition requirements for your nationality to ensure you are fully prepared.
Universities in Poland with affordable tuition fees
Universities we recommend in Poland
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Student living costs in Poland
Poland is a cost-effective European destination with a stable and growing economy. Monthly living costs for international students typically range from 350 to 550 EUR. Naturally, your budget will depend on your location; larger student hubs like Krakow or Warsaw generally require between 500 and 850 EUR per month.
Accommodation costs in Poland
Housing is your primary expense, accounting for approximately 35% of your monthly budget. International students can choose between convenient university residence halls or private apartments, which are often shared to lower costs.
- Student residence halls: 60 – 150 EUR/month. Great for networking with other students, but the conditions can vary from one residence hall to another.
- Rent in a shared flat: 80 – 150 EUR/month. Most popular option among Polish students.
Renting a private apartment comes at a premium, especially in major cities. A one-bedroom flat in Krakow typically ranges from 300 to 465 EUR/month, while living in Warsaw will cost you between 350 and 650 EUR/month.
- Find secure and affordable student accommodation in Poland via University Living—with expert guidance, verified listings, and 24/7 assistance for peace of mind.
Other costs associated with accommodation
Beyond rent, remember to factor in utility costs including electricity, heating, water, and waste management. You should budget approximately 155 EUR/month for these services in an 85-square-meter apartment.
Additionally, keep in mind that most landlords require a security deposit—often equivalent to two months' rent—when moving into a private rental.
Food costs
Monthly grocery expenses usually total between 100 and 150 EUR. You can maximize your savings by shopping at popular budget-friendly supermarket chains such as Tesco, Auchan, Carrefour, Leclerc, and Lidl.
Dining out is quite affordable; you can enjoy a meal in a budget-friendly restaurant for just 5 EUR, while a three-course dinner for two in an average restaurant costs about 23 EUR. A casual drink is typically around 2 EUR.
Transportation costs
Public transportation is the preferred mode of travel for students, with semester passes available for approximately 50 EUR (valid for 6 months). Many Polish cities are highly walkable and feature scenic routes, making walking a pleasant way to explore.
If you prefer driving, keep in mind that gas prices hover around 1 EUR per liter, an option chosen by approximately 18% of the student population.
Extra study materials
Throughout your academic journey, you will need to budget for textbooks, academic journals, and study materials. While some are available through your university, we recommend browsing bookstores specializing in used items to significantly reduce your costs.
You can also use the Numbeo website to compare current local prices and get a clear picture of the cost of living in various Polish cities.
Funding & student support
Financial support is available in Poland through various scholarships and grant programs. Explore your options to help fund your education and ease the financial burden.
- on our portal;
- The Online Result Scholarship which is a great extra help with financing your studies abroad;
- Scholarships offered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA)
Now that you have a better understanding of living expenses in Poland, you can effectively plan your budget and prepare for an incredible study-abroad experience in this vibrant country.
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