Poland has become one of the fastest-growing study destinations in Europe for international students. Its universities are recognized for academic excellence, affordability, and strong global connections. For students who may not have taken IELTS or other standardized English exams, Poland is especially attractive: many Polish universities and scholarship programs allow you to study without IELTS in 2025.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about studying in Poland without IELTS—including scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, the application process, and the top universities offering admissions without IELTS.
Why Study in Poland Without IELTS?
Choosing Poland as your study destination provides both academic and practical advantages:
- Affordable education – Tuition fees in Poland are lower compared to Western Europe or North America.
- High-quality universities – Many institutions are internationally ranked and recognized.
- Flexible language requirements – IELTS is not always required; universities may accept other proofs of English proficiency.
- Fully funded scholarships – Various government and university scholarships are available.
- Cultural experience – Poland offers a rich European cultural heritage and a vibrant student community.
Alternative Proof of English Proficiency
Instead of IELTS, universities may accept:
- An English Proficiency Certificate from your previous institution (stating that your studies were in English).
- An online interview conducted by the university.
- Other tests such as TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or Cambridge English certificates (optional at some institutions).
Poland Scholarships for International Students 2025–2026
Here are the top scholarships you can apply for in Poland without IELTS:
1. Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) Scholarships
- Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance.
- Offers programs like the Banach Scholarship for students from developing countries.
- Available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students.
2. Erasmus+ Program in Poland
- Open to EU and non-EU students.
- Supports exchange and mobility programs in Polish universities.
- Provides funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses.
3. Visegrad Fund Scholarships
- Supports master’s and PhD studies.
- Encourages cooperation among Visegrad countries (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary).
- Open to students from neighboring regions as well.
4. Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship Program
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Funded by the Polish government.
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Supports students from developing countries in technical and engineering fields.
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Covers full tuition, living costs, and health insurance.
5. Stefan Banach Scholarship Program
- Offered by NAWA.
- Supports students from Eastern Partnership and developing countries.
- Covers tuition, housing, and living expenses.
6. Konstanty Kalinowski Scholarship Program
- Designed for Belarusian students facing political difficulties.
- Provides full support for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in Poland.
7. CEEPUS Program in Poland
- A Central European exchange program.
- Supports both students and academic staff.
- Provides funding for mobility, research, and study stays.
8. University-Specific Scholarships
- Warsaw University of Technology Scholarships
- Jagiellonian University Scholarships
- University of Warsaw International Student Grants
(Each university sets its own requirements and benefits.)
Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Poland Without IELTS 2025
To apply for admission and scholarships without IELTS, students typically need to meet these requirements:
- Medium of Instruction Certificate – Proof that your previous degree was taught in English.
- Strong academic record – High GPA and good grades.
- Recommendation letters – From professors or employers.
- Statement of purpose (SOP) – Explaining your motivation, goals, and why you chose Poland.
- Interview – Some universities conduct an English interview to confirm proficiency.
- Scholarship-specific requirements – For example, research proposals for PhD or focus on particular study fields.
Top 10 Universities in Poland Without IELTS 2025
Many top Polish universities welcome international students without IELTS. Here are the best options:
- University of Warsaw – Poland’s top-ranked university; accepts medium-of-instruction certificates.
- Jagiellonian University, Kraków – One of Europe’s oldest universities; offers English-taught programs.
- Warsaw University of Technology – Leading technical university; accepts interviews as proof of English.
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań – Strong in humanities and social sciences.
- University of Wrocław – Offers a wide variety of English-taught courses.
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Kraków – Leading in engineering and applied sciences.
- Poznań University of Economics and Business – Top business school; English-taught programs widely available.
- Gdańsk University of Technology – Known for engineering and IT programs.
- Lodz University of Technology – Accepts MOI certificates or interviews.
- University of Łódź – Offers programs in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Without IELTS in Poland
1. Research universities and scholarships
- Shortlist programs offering admission without IELTS.
- Look for scholarships that match your study level and field.
2. Prepare alternative proofs of English proficiency
- Obtain a certificate from your previous institution.
- Be ready for an online interview if required.
3. Prepare application documents
- Academic transcripts
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- Recommendation letters
- Valid passport and CV
4. Apply for scholarships simultaneously
- Check university and government portals.
- Submit applications within deadlines.
5. Wait for acceptance letter
- If selected, you’ll receive an admission or scholarship confirmation.
Practical Examples
- Example 1: A student from Nigeria who studied their bachelor’s degree in English applies for a Master’s in Engineering at Warsaw University of Technology. Instead of IELTS, they submit a Medium of Instruction Certificate and attend an online interview. They successfully secure a NAWA scholarship.
- Example 2: A student from India applies for a PhD in Economics at the University of Warsaw. They provide their previous transcripts in English and a strong research proposal. The university grants admission without IELTS, and the student receives a Visegrad Fund Scholarship.
Studying in Poland without IELTS in 2025 is not only possible but also highly rewarding. With flexible English requirements, fully funded scholarships, and globally recognized universities, Poland is a strong choice for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students alike.
If you are planning to study abroad, start preparing your documents, shortlist universities, and explore scholarship opportunities today. The earlier you begin, the higher your chances of securing admission and funding.
