Documents for admission in Poland 2026 - what foreigners need
Documents for admission to Polish universities should be prepared carefully and according to the requirements of the specific university. A passport, diploma, transcript, translations, language proof and the online application form are usually the core of the package, but universities may also ask for apostille, portfolio, motivation letter, payment confirmation or additional forms.
PobytPulse: official news
- Loading official notices...
Which documents are needed for admission in Poland?
The basic document list looks similar at many universities, but the details can differ. A bachelor program, master program, medical program or English-language program may have different rules. Always check the official admission page of the chosen university before preparing translations and forms.
For foreigners, document preparation is often the longest part of admission. It is better to collect everything early, because translations, apostille, language certificates and legalization of previous education can take time.
Main documents for admission
| Document | What to know |
|---|---|
| Passport | Confirms identity and is used in the recruitment system. Data in all documents should match the passport. |
| School certificate or diploma | Confirms previous education and the right to apply for the chosen study level. |
| Transcript or grade supplement | Shows subjects, grades and education results. Universities may check it when evaluating the application. |
| Document translations | Foreign documents often require translation into Polish or another language accepted by the university. |
| Photos | May be needed for the application form, student ID and internal university systems. |
| University application form | Usually completed online in the university recruitment system. |
| Language proof | For Polish programs, Polish may be required. For English programs, English proof may be required. |
Document translations
Translation into Polish
Many universities require foreign documents to be translated into Polish by a sworn translator or according to university rules. This may apply to diplomas, transcripts and certificates.
Different rules at different schools
Some universities accept documents in English, while others require Polish translations. Do not translate documents before checking exact requirements.
Is apostille needed?
In some situations, a university may require apostille or another form of confirmation for educational documents. This depends on the country where the document was issued, the type of document and university rules.
Apostille should be checked early because it is usually arranged in the country that issued the document. If you discover this requirement too late, admission or visa preparation can be delayed.
Language proof
Programs in Polish
Polish-language programs may require a Polish certificate, school document, interview or university language verification.
Study in PolishPrograms in English
English-language programs may require IELTS, TOEFL, another certificate or proof accepted by the university.
Study in EnglishWhat language level is usually needed?
| Level | What it means | Where it appears most often |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | Intermediate level. May be enough for some preparatory or less demanding programs. | Preparatory courses, selected programs, internal verification. |
| B2 | Common level for university study. Often expected for regular programs. | Many Polish and English-language programs. |
| C1 | Advanced level. May be required for demanding programs or specific academic paths. | Some humanities, law, medical or highly academic programs. |
For Polish-language programs
Check whether the university requires a state certificate, internal exam or interview.
Study in PolishFor English-language programs
Check accepted English certificates and whether previous education in English can replace a certificate.
Study in EnglishWhat else can a university require?
Motivation letter
Some programs ask applicants to explain why they chose the field and university.
Online registration
Most universities require an account in the recruitment system and online application submission.
Application fee
Many universities require a recruitment fee. Keep the payment confirmation.
Additional exams
Some fields may require entrance exams, interview, portfolio or practical verification.
Main mistake when preparing documents
The main mistake is using a general document list instead of the list from the chosen university and program. A missing translation, wrong file format, unclear scan, missing fee confirmation or late apostille can delay admission.
Frequently asked questions
Which documents are needed for admission?
Usually passport, diploma or school certificate, transcript, translations, photos, application form and language proof are needed.
Are translations required?
Often yes, but the required language and translator type depend on the university and the original document language.
Is apostille required?
Sometimes. It depends on the country of issue, document type and university rules. Check this before deadlines.
Is a language certificate required?
It depends on the program. Polish programs may require Polish, while English programs may require English proof.
Need help with admission documents?
EmigracjaPL helps foreigners understand which documents to prepare, what to translate and how to avoid mistakes before applying.
Contact usMain EmigracjaPL sections for moving to and living in Poland
These are the main topics foreigners most often face after moving to Poland: legal stay, residence card, study, work, documents and everyday adaptation. Choose the direction that fits your situation and move to the practical guide.