University of Silesia Scholarship 2026-27 in Poland (Funded). Apply for fully funded scholarships here. The University of Silesia in Katowice is one of Poland’s largest public universities, and it welcomes international students onto Polish government-funded scholarship programmes. Rather than running its own separate scholarship brand, the university participates in national schemes coordinated by NAWA, Poland’s National Agency for Academic Exchange.
This means eligible international students can access a fully funded scholarship covering tuition, a monthly stipend, and even a preparatory language course while studying at the University of Silesia. Below is everything you need for the 2026-27 study cycle and beyond.
University of Silesia Scholarship 2026 Details:
| University: | University of Silesia |
| Degree level: | BS, MS, BS/MS |
| Scholarship coverage: | Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Poland |
| Last date: | 30 September 2026 |
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Financial Benefits
These are genuinely fully funded programmes, built to remove financial barriers for talented students from developing countries. Support typically includes tuition waivers, a living stipend, and sometimes a travel allowance.
Exact benefit amounts are reviewed with each new annual call, so always confirm the latest figures on the official NAWA page before applying.
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully waived at public Polish universities, including University of Silesia |
| Monthly Stipend | Around PLN 2,500 (Banach NAWA) for the standard study period |
| Preparatory Course | Fully funded one-year Polish language course, where required |
| Travel Allowance | One-time payment (around PLN 2,500) to help with travel to Poland |
| Study Duration Covered | Full length of the second-cycle (Master’s) programme |
Available Study Programs
Computer Science: Offered through the Institute of Computer Science, this programme suits students aiming for careers in software development, data science, or IT consulting in Central Europe.
Chemistry: Run by the Institute of Chemistry, this course combines lab-based research with applied industrial chemistry, popular among students from the Łukasiewicz Programme’s eligible science fields.
Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection: A strong choice for students interested in sustainability, environmental science, and biotech careers, reflecting Poland’s growing green-economy sector.
Physics: Delivered through the August Chełkowski Institute of Physics, this programme covers both theoretical and applied physics, with links to Poland’s research institutions.
Social Sciences (Political Science, Sociology, Journalism): These programmes suit students pursuing careers in policy, media, or international relations within the EU.
Earth Sciences and Geography: Offered through the Institute of Earth Sciences, this programme covers geology, spatial management, and environmental monitoring, useful for careers in urban planning or resource management back home.
Course availability under each scholarship programme can shift year to year, since NAWA funding is tied to specific fields (engineering, agriculture, natural sciences for Łukasiewicz; a broader mix for Banach). Always cross-check your intended subject against the current call before committing to an application.
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Top Universities
While NAWA scholarships can be used at many Polish universities, the following are among the most popular choices for international students, including those bound for Katowice.
| University | City | World Ranking | Tuition Range (Non-Scholarship) | Scholarship Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Silesia in Katowice | Katowice | Top 15 in Poland | €2,000 – €3,500/year | NAWA Banach & Łukasiewicz eligible |
| Jagiellonian University | Kraków | Top 3 in Poland | €2,500 – €4,500/year | NAWA programmes, university awards |
| University of Warsaw | Warsaw | Top 3 in Poland | €2,500 – €4,500/year | NAWA programmes, Erasmus+ |
Eligibility Criteria
Since funding comes through national schemes rather than the university itself, eligibility depends on which NAWA programme you apply through. Most share common requirements.
- You must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries listed in that year’s official call (this changes slightly each cycle).
- You must hold, or be about to complete, a bachelor’s degree relevant to your chosen master’s field.
- You must not be a Polish citizen or have an active Polish citizenship application.
- You must plan to begin second-cycle (Master’s) studies in the relevant academic year.
- Some programmes, like Łukasiewicz, are restricted to specific fields such as engineering, agriculture, or natural sciences.
- A short motivation video or personal statement explaining your interest in studying in Poland is often required.
There’s no strict age limit, but strong academic transcripts and a clear connection between your background and your chosen field improve your chances significantly.
Applicants are usually assessed through a competition procedure involving an evaluation committee of academic researchers, so a genuine, well-explained motivation for studying in Poland carries real weight. It’s also wise to consult an immigration consultant early if you’re unfamiliar with the visa process, so eligibility and paperwork can be planned side by side.
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Required Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Diploma & Transcript | Proof of completed or nearly completed undergraduate study |
| Valid Passport Copy | Confirms citizenship and identity |
| Language Certificate (Polish or English) | Confirms readiness for instruction in your chosen language |
| Motivation Video/Statement | Explains your reasons for studying in Poland (required for some NAWA programmes) |
| CV/Resume | Summarises academic and professional background |
| Proof of University Contact/Application | Shows you’ve applied or reached out to your chosen Polish university |
| Passport-Style Photograph | Required for the online application system |
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm your country is on the eligible list for the specific NAWA programme (Banach or Łukasiewicz) for that year.
Step 2: Research eligible Master’s programmes at the University of Silesia or another supervised Polish university.
Step 3: Create an account on the official NAWA online application system.
Step 4: Prepare your academic documents, passport copy, and language certificate.
Step 5: Record or write your required motivation statement, explaining your study and career goals.
Step 6: Submit your complete NAWA application before the call deadline; only one application per applicant is accepted.
Step 7: Separately apply for admission to your chosen course at the University of Silesia through its own admissions portal.
Step 8: Wait for the NAWA evaluation committee’s decision, usually announced by the end of July.
Step 9: If awarded, confirm your university admission and sign your scholarship agreement within the required timeframe.
Step 10: Begin your Polish student visa application once both your scholarship and university place are confirmed.
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Student Visa Guide
Non-EU students typically enter Poland on a national D-type visa for study, then convert this into a temporary residence permit once inside the country. An immigration consultant can help navigate the paperwork, though the process is straightforward with the right documents.
- Financial Proof: You must show sufficient funds, though your NAWA scholarship or award letter usually satisfies this requirement.
- Health Insurance: Proof of valid health coverage is mandatory before your visa or residence permit is approved.
- Biometrics: Required during your residence permit application, taken at the local voivodeship office.
- Processing Time: Temporary residence permit decisions are generally issued within 60 days of a complete application.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Entry Visa | National D-type visa (study purpose) |
| Residence Permit | Applied for in Poland, valid up to 15 months initially, renewable |
| Application Fee | Approx. PLN 340 stamp duty + PLN 100 for the residence card |
| Minimum Monthly Funds | Approx. PLN 776 for a single applicant (subject to change) |
| Work Rights (While Studying) | No separate work permit needed for full-time students |
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for every international student in Poland, whether through the Polish public system (NFZ) or a private policy. Without valid proof of coverage, your visa or residence permit application will be refused.
NAWA scholarship holders are often provided with insurance as part of their award package, but it’s worth double-checking the terms for your specific programme and year.
Students not covered automatically can voluntarily join the NFZ for a modest monthly contribution or purchase private student health insurance, which typically costs between €150 and €400 per year depending on the coverage level.
Coverage should include general practitioner visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care at minimum. Some private policies also add dental and outpatient specialist visits, which the basic NFZ package may not fully include.
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Accommodation & Living Costs
University of Silesia offers student dormitories across its Katowice, Sosnowiec, Chorzów, and Cieszyn campuses, and these are usually the most affordable option for new international students.
Private rentals are also common in Katowice, a mid-sized city with a lower cost of living than Warsaw or Kraków, making it attractive for students on a budget.
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (PLN) |
|---|---|
| University Dormitory | 400 – 800 |
| Private Shared Apartment | 800 – 1,500 |
| Food & Groceries | 600 – 1,000 |
| Local Transport | 80 – 120 |
| Personal & Miscellaneous | 300 – 500 |
Scholarship stipends generally cover these essentials, though students without a scholarship should also research an education loan or family support to cover the gap.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Poland offers one of Europe’s simplest post-study work routes. Graduates of full-time studies at Polish universities do not need a separate work permit to take up employment, a major advantage over many other EU countries.
After graduating, non-EU students can apply once for a temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business, valid for 9 months, provided the application is submitted immediately after receiving their diploma.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Needed to Work? | No, for graduates of full-time Polish degree programmes |
| Job-Search Residence Permit | 9 months, granted once, immediately after graduation |
| Average Entry-Level Salary | Approx. PLN 5,000 – 8,000/month gross, higher in IT and engineering |
| Major Hiring Industries | IT, shared services/BPO centres, manufacturing, automotive, finance |
Katowice itself hosts a large cluster of international shared-service and business-process centres, making it a strong regional hub for graduate roles, especially in finance, IT support, and multilingual customer operations.
PR Pathway & Long-Term Settlement
Poland doesn’t offer instant settlement after graduation, but time spent studying can count partially toward the residence history needed for long-term status. Most foreigners need around 5 years of continuous, qualifying residence before applying for permanent or EU long-term resident status.
Many international graduates use the 9-month job-search permit to secure employment, then switch to a standard work permit or EU Blue Card, which counts more fully toward long-term settlement requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (Latest Google FAQs)
Is there a specific “University of Silesia Scholarship”? Not as a standalone brand. International students access full funding mainly through Polish government schemes like the Banach NAWA and Łukasiewicz Scholarship Programmes, which the University of Silesia participates in.
Is the scholarship open to all countries? No. Each NAWA programme has its own list of eligible countries, generally targeting developing and emerging economies across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and parts of Europe.
Do I apply to the university and NAWA separately? Yes. You typically need to apply for both your chosen course at the University of Silesia and the NAWA scholarship itself, following each system’s instructions.
Can I study in English? Yes, several programmes are available in English, though some scholarships (like parts of the Banach Programme) also support Polish-taught courses with a funded preparatory year.
Do I need a student visa or immigration consultant? A national D-type visa is required before travel, followed by a residence permit application inside Poland. Many students use an immigration consultant for a smoother process.
Can I work while studying? Yes, full-time international students generally don’t need a separate work permit, though hours may be informally capped by university guidance.
What happens after I graduate? Graduates can access Poland’s job market without a work permit and may apply once for a 9-month job-search residence permit immediately after finishing their studies.
Do I need an education loan if I don’t get the scholarship? Possibly, since without NAWA funding, tuition and living costs become your responsibility; researching an education loan early is a good backup plan.
Conclusion
Studying at the University of Silesia through Poland’s NAWA-funded scholarship programmes offers genuine financial support, an English or Polish-taught curriculum, and a clear post-study path into the Polish job market. It’s a strong option for students from eligible developing economies.
Because eligible countries, deadlines, and funding amounts change with every annual call, always confirm the latest details directly through NAWA and the University of Silesia before applying, and only ever apply through official channels.
Official Resources
| Website Type | Official Website | Latest Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Scholarship (Banach NAWA) | NAWA – Banach Scholarship Programme | 2026/27 call closed 8 May 2026 — next intake Expected to Open (2027/28) — Check Official Website | Expected Next Intake |
| Official Scholarship (Łukasiewicz) | NAWA – Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship Programme | Expected to Open (Next Intake) — Check Official Website | Expected Next Intake |
| University Admissions | University of Silesia – Admissions (Kandydat) | Varies by Programme | Official |
| Student Visa/Residence | Office for Foreigners, Poland | N/A | Official |
| Immigration/Graduate Permits | Poland Graduate Residence Permit | N/A | Official |