Cost of Living in Poland 2024: Tuition Fees and Living Costs

 Here’s why opting to study in Poland should be on your list:

1. Excellent Education at Reasonable Costs

• Polish universities consistently rank well in International rankings. Per the QS World University Rankings 2024, three Polish universities are listed among the top 500 universities globally.

• Compared to Western Europe or other popular study destinations, tuition fees in Poland are very reasonable. The average tuition fee for Indian students in Poland ranges from INR 1,80,000 to INR 7,20,000 per year. This is significantly lower than countries like the UK or the US, which range from INR 8,50,000 to INR 29,75,000 per year.

2. An Economical Way of Living

Poland's cost of living is generally lower than many other European countries. Your monthly living expenses in Poland can range between INR 33,000 and INR 64,000, depending on your lifestyle choices.

3. A Gateway to Europe

Due to its central European location, Poland is a great place to begin exploring the remainder of Europe. If you have a Schengen visa, you can visit 26 additional European countries without a visa during your vacations or after graduation.

4. Boost Your Employability

A European degree is a valuable asset on your resume. Studying in Poland will equip you with top-notch knowledge and skills and give you an edge in a competitive job market.

Poland offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and affordability, making it an ideal destination for Indian students seeking a transformative study abroad experience.

Are you considering studying abroad in Poland? Below is the roadmap, covering everything from accommodation to tuition fees:

Also, read: Cost of Studying in Poland

Residing in Poland as a student is relatively affordable compared to other European Union countries. Students' living costs can start at around 1500 PLN (31164 INR) monthly. However, the overall cost depends on the city you are currently living in.

Searching for a comfortable place to live is a big part of planning your study abroad experience in Poland. Below is the breakdown of the two most common options for Indian students:

University Hostels

• Budget-friendly: University hostels provide the most cost-effective option, with monthly rents ranging from 9,000 INR to 13,000 INR.

• Shared facilities: Hostels typically have shared bathrooms, laundry facilities and kitchens.

• Social atmosphere: Living in hostels is a great way to meet fellow students from Poland and around the world and develop a strong sense of community. 

Combined Apartments

• More privacy: A shared flat provides more privacy and independence than hostels.

• Varied costs: Renting a shared flat can vary depending on the number of flatmates, location, and amenities. You can expect to pay between 1,800 INR and 6,800 INR per person, excluding bills usually shared.

Poland boasts a well-developed public transport network, making easy and inexpensive for students to navigate cities. Trams, buses and metros are readily available and, most importantly, student-friendly: 

• Monthly passes: Monthly passes are best for regular travellers. Prices range from 1,100 INR to 1,300 INR, making commuting super affordable.

• Student Discounts:  As an Indian student, you will enjoy significant discounts on public transportation tickets. Ensure to carry your student ID to take advantage of these savings.

• Semester passes: For long-term stays, consider a semester pass. These typically cost around 4,500 INR and are valid for six months, offering even better value for money.

Taxis are readily available in most Polish cities, offering a convenient alternative for occasional trips or late-night journeys. However, remember that taxis are generally more expensive than public transport.

By planning your budget effectively and adopting some money-saving habits, you can comfortably manage your living expenses in Poland while enjoying all the exciting things student life offers. Below is the table so you can plan your budget accordingly:

Remember that these are only approximations. You can become an expert budgeter by preparing meals at home, looking for freebies in Poland and wisely allocating money for fun activities.

Knowing the tuition fees and overall educational expenses is vital when planning your studies in Poland. Below are the top 5 universities in Poland that you can consider and a breakdown of the costs.

Generally, public universities charge lower fees than private universities. However, specific courses, especially those in dentistry, business, and medicine, may have higher tuition fees.

Additional costs

• Books and Study Material: This includes the price of textbooks, course materials, and printing costs. However, this additional cost can vary depending on your program.

• University Fees: Some universities charge additional fees, such as administrative or registration costs. Hence, be sure to check the specific university website for details.

Poland education system with various budget-friendly courses across multiple fields. Here’s a table showcasing some popular options known for their lower tuition fees:

Numerous financial assistance programs and scholarships are available for Indian students in Poland. These can significantly reduce their overall educational expenses. Below are some scholarships that you can apply for:

• Polish Government Scholarship Course: This is a government-funded scholarship by the Polish Ministry of Education and Science. It is a complete package! It covers monthly living allowance, tuition fees, and even accommodation costs for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs at public universities in Poland.

• Lukasiewicz Scholarship Course: This scholarship by the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) is perfect if you’re aiming for a Master’s degree in a technical field at a public Polish university. It also covers your living allowance, tuition fees, and accommodation!

• The Banach Scholarship Course: This might be your match, as offered by NAWA. This scholarship is designed for PhD students at public Polish universities in technical fields. Like the others, it covers living expenses, tuition fees, and accommodation.

• University Websites: Numerous financial assistance courses and scholarships are available. Be sure to check the website of your chosen universities for details.

Poland's charm lies in the fact that costs can differ according to the city you choose. However, because Krakow and Warsaw are major cultural centres, living there is expensive. The cost of living in Poznan is relatively lower.

Below, you can find how living expenses can differ across Polish cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk:

• Higher Costs: Compared to smaller cities like Poznan and Wroclaw, be prepared for slightly pricier accommodation, eating out, and entertainment. Rents for shared flats can range from ₹1,800 to ₹3,600 per person, excluding bills.

• Public Transport Benefits: The upside of big cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk is their extensive and well-connected public transport networks. Monthly passes are affordable, typically costing around ₹2,000-₹2,700.

• Cultural Vibes: These cities offer vibrant nightlife, historical attractions, and a wider variety of restaurants and shops, potentially leading to higher entertainment expenses.

• Budget-Friendly: Cities like Poznan and Wroclaw offer a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs. Shared accommodation costs around ₹1,350 to ₹2,250 per person, excluding bills.

• Efficient Transport: Public transport remains affordable and efficient in smaller cities, with monthly passes costing a similar range as larger cities ₹2,000-₹2,700.

• Hidden Treasures: While these cities might have fewer “big-ticket” attractions, they offer a unique charm, local experiences, and potentially lower entertainment costs.

 For a student, Poland might have very affordable living expenses, but keeping a check on the living expenses in Poland is essential. A few tips are given below for your living costs in Poland;

• Before you fly to Poland, search online and ask other students for affordable living places.

• Living close to your university helps you save money on public transport and overall travel. 

• Download public transport apps for your city. They will help you find the cheapest and easiest ways to get around, just like a local pro.

• Ditch the bus for short trips. Walking and cycling are free, good for your health, and an excellent way to explore the new city.

• Research and apply for scholarships specifically available for Indian students studying in Poland. These financial advantages might significantly reduce the cost of living expenses and tuition.

To sum up, Poland is one the most affordable countries for pursuing education in Europe. Even while daily costs can vary greatly based on lifestyle, a student in Poland can get by with an average monthly general living budget of about the same. The cost of living and tuition are quite affordable if you're coming to study in Poland.

If you want to know more about the cost of living in Poland 2024 or intend to study in Poland, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.

Question: Can Indian students work while studying in Poland?

Answer: Yes, Indian students in Poland are permitted to take part-time jobs while they are in school. While non-EU/EEA students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the holidays, students from EU/EEA nations have unfettered access to the labour market. Part-time employment can help students gain work experience, supplement their income, and offset living expenses.

Question: What is the cost of living in Poland for Indian students?

Answer: The cost of living in Poland for Indian students typically ranges from ₹35,000 to ₹50,000 per month. This covers accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. While it may seem higher compared to India, it is lower than the USA and the UK. Poland offers a comfortable standard of living with access to quality amenities and services.

Question: What is the language requirement for studying in Poland?

Answer: The language requirements for international students in Polish Universities differ based on the institution and program. While many courses are offered in English, some may require proficiency in the Polish language. Universities often accept-language proficiency certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs and provide preparatory language courses for students needing to improve their Polish language skills.

Question: What is the tuition fee for Indian students in Poland?

Answer: Tuition fees in Poland for international students vary depending on the course and university. On average, Bachelor’s programs range from ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year, while Master’s programs range from ₹2,50,000 to ₹7,00,000 per year. Despite being competitive, these fees are relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

Question: Is there any scholarship available for Indian students in Polish universities?

Answer: Various scholarships are available for international students wishing to study at Polish universities. The Polish government, universities, international organisations, or private foundations may offer these scholarships. Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines vary depending on the scholarship program. Additionally, many universities offer tuition fee waivers or savings determined by financial need or academic merit.

Question: What is the cost of living in Poland for Indian students?

Answer: The cost of living in Poland for Indian students is higher than in India, primarily due to accommodation and daily expenses. In Poland, living expenses will fall under a range of ₹30,000 to ₹58,000 per month, whereas, in India, it will typically fall between ₹13,000 and ₹25,000 per month. However, Poland offers a high quality of life with modern amenities, efficient public transport, and a safe environment. The experience of living in a different culture also adds significant value to the overall educational journey.

Question: What are the job prospects for Indian students in Poland?

Answer: International students in Poland have access to various job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as IT, finance, engineering, and healthcare. The Polish economy is increasing, creating a demand for skilled workers, and many companies are open to hiring international talent. However, proficiency in the Polish language may be required for specific roles, so learning the language can enhance job prospects.

Question: What is the cost of living in Poland with rent?

Answer: The cost of living in Poland, including rent, varies based on the city and accommodation type. Rent for a hostel room or shared apartment for students typically ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per month. Despite rent being a significant expense, the overall cost of living in Poland remains reasonable, especially compared to other European countries.

Question: What support services are available for Indian students in Poland?

Answer: Polish universities typically offer a range of assistance programs to help overseas students adjust to life in Poland. These may include orientation programs, language courses, academic counselling, and cultural integration activities. Additionally, many universities have dedicated international offices or student organisations that provide guidance and assistance on various aspects of student life.

Question: What are the job opportunities for Indian students in Poland?

Answer: International students in Poland have access to various job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as IT, finance, engineering, and healthcare. The Polish economy is increasing, creating a demand for skilled workers, and many companies are open to hiring international talent. However, proficiency in the Polish language may be required for specific roles, so learning the language can enhance job prospects.