Preparation, IELTS, etc. – Poland

1. Language Requirements – IELTS, TOEFL & Alternatives
Most Polish universities offer English-taught programs, especially at the Master’s level. Proof of English proficiency is required unless you’re from a native-speaking country or your previous education was in English.
| Test Type | Minimum Score for Admission |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0–6.5 (overall) |
| TOEFL iBT | 80–90 |
| PTE | 55–65 |
| Duolingo | 95–110 (accepted by some) |
📌 Some universities also accept:
- MOI (Medium of Instruction) letter
- Internal English tests during interviews
🔗 Check with university sites like:
👉 https://studyinpoland.pl
👉 https://study.gov.pl/
🧾 2. Academic Document Checklist
Prepare the following verified academic and supporting documents before applying:
- High school/college transcripts
- Degree certificates (with apostille if applicable)
- Valid passport (min 6 months post-entry)
- English test results
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – usually 2
- CV/Resume with academic and co-curricular details
- Application form via university/online portals
💡 Translation: All documents not in English or Polish must be translated by a certified translator.
📮 3. Application Timeline & Intakes
Most Polish universities follow two intakes:
| Intake | Application Period |
|---|---|
| Fall (Oct) | Jan – May (ideal window) |
| Spring (Feb) | Sep – Nov (limited programs) |
- Applications open ~6–8 months before course start
- Start preparation 1 year in advance for competitive courses like medicine or engineering
💻 4. University Application Portals
Each university has a dedicated online platform. Here are a few:
- University of Warsaw Admissions
- Jagiellonian University
- Warsaw University of Technology
- Wrocław University of Science and Technology
🧳 5. Pre-Departure Essentials
Before flying to Poland, ensure the following:
- ✅ Student Visa (D-type) approval and printed copy
- ✅ Original academic documents + 2 photocopy sets
- ✅ Accommodation confirmation (university/private)
- ✅ Polish currency (PLN ~500–1,000 in cash)
- ✅ International health insurance or EU Health Card
- ✅ Download apps: Jakdojade, Glovo, Google Translate
- ✅ SIM card options: Orange, Play, T-Mobile Poland
- ✅ Book airport pickup (many universities offer this service)
✈️ Pro tip: Reach 1–2 weeks before classes to settle in and attend orientation.
🎯 6. Soft Skills & Cultural Prep
- 🇵🇱 Learn basic Polish phrases – helps in local markets and shops
- Join pre-departure Facebook/WhatsApp groups (search “Indians in Kraków” etc.)
- Prepare for cultural shift – Polish people are warm but may seem reserved at first
- Get used to self-cooking, budget management, and public transport apps
🎓 7. Helpful Resources for Preparation
- 🌐 https://studyinpoland.pl – Official info on programs and documents
- 🌐 https://nawa.gov.pl/en – Scholarships, visa, and study guides
- 🌐 https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu – Erasmus+ mobility
