Studying is an investment, but you do not have to cover all the costs on your own. The scholarship system in Poland is surprisingly extensive – many students do not even know what benefits they are entitled to. We have prepared a complete overview of the available forms of financial support for students in Krakow.

Social scholarship

This is the basic form of support for students from lower-income families. The income threshold is set individually by each university, but it usually ranges from PLN 1,000 to PLN 1,300 net per family member. The scholarship amount is most often between PLN 500 and PLN 1,500 per month, paid for 9-10 months. You submit the application at the beginning of the academic year at the dean’s office or through the university’s electronic system.

Rector’s scholarship (for academic performance)

It is awarded to students with the best results in a given field of study – usually the top 10%. The grade average, scientific, artistic, or sports achievements are taken into account. The amount depends on the university and ranges from PLN 400 to as much as PLN 2,000 per month. It is worth striving for a high average not only for your CV, but also for your budget.

Financial aid

This is a one-time financial support in difficult life situations – illness, accident, a parent losing a job, or a natural disaster. It can be granted at most twice in one academic year. The amount can reach several thousand zlotys. You submit the application together with documents confirming the situation at the dean’s office.

Scholarship for persons with disabilities

Students with a disability certificate may receive a monthly scholarship regardless of income. The amount depends on the degree of disability and the university – usually PLN 400-1,000 per month. It is enough to submit an application and a copy of the certificate.

Minister’s scholarship

The most prestigious scholarship – awarded for outstanding scientific, artistic, or sports achievements at the national or international level. The amount is as high as PLN 17,000 as a one-time payment. Candidates are nominated by the university, but it is worth monitoring deadlines and criteria yourself.

External scholarship programs

Beyond universities, there are dozens of foundations and organizations offering scholarships. It is worth checking the offers of the Foundation for Educational Enterprise, the BNP Paribas Foundation, the Young Poland program, or local initiatives in Krakow. The mojestypendium.pl and eurodesk.pl portals collect current offers in one place.

Student loan

This is not a scholarship, but it is worth mentioning. The student loan offered by banks cooperating with BGK comes with preferential terms – low interest rates, repayment begins only two years after graduation, and the best graduates may count on partial forgiveness. The monthly installment ranges from PLN 400 to PLN 1,000.

How can you increase your chances?

Treat each scholarship application like a project: gather the required documents, meet the deadlines, and list all qualifying achievements. At many universities, students lose scholarships not because they do not meet the criteria, but because they did not submit the application on time or missed a required attachment.

Summary

Money for studying exists – you just need to know where to look for it. Check your options at the beginning of each academic year, use scholarship portals, and do not be afraid to ask at the dean’s office. A well-used scholarship is not only financial relief, but also confirmation that your hard work pays off.