Your acceptance letter is in hand, your flight is booked, and now the reality is setting in: you're actually moving to study in Poland. Get ready for an incredible academic adventure in a country that's quickly becoming one of Europe's top destinations for higher education. 

Poland offers a unique blend of high-quality universities, affordable living, and cities buzzing with history and energy. Moving to a new country is a huge step, but don't worry, we can help. This guide is packed with essential study tips in Poland to help you transition smoothly from a new arrival to a confident local.

Finding Your "Dom": A Guide to Student Accommodation in Poland

Your first big task will be finding a place to live. "Dom" means "home" in Polish, and you have a few great options to choose from, especially with us at Casita.

• Student Dormitories (Akademiki): This is often the most budget-friendly option. Most universities offer their own dorms, usually with shared rooms (two or three students) and communal kitchens/bathrooms. It's the fastest way to meet other students, both Polish and international. The standard can vary, but they're a fantastic, low-cost way to start your journey.

• Private Flats (Mieszkanie): Renting your own one-room or larger flat gives you total independence. This is a more expensive option and often requires additional paperwork, including signing a lease.

• Shared Apartments: A popular choice for many students. You can find a room in a larger apartment shared with other students. This gives you a good mix of independence and social life.

Start looking early! If you want a spot, apply as soon as you get your acceptance letter. For private rentals, try to be near your university or a main public transport line to make that morning commute easier.

The Pre-Move Checklist: Visas, Docs, and What to Pack

This is an absolutely critical part. Getting your paperwork in order is one of the most important things students should know before moving to Poland.

Documents & Visas

Your requirements will vary depending on your home country. Be sure to review them thoroughly and ask if you have any questions or feel confused at any point.

• EU/EEA Citizens: You generally don't need a visa, but you will need to register your stay if you're in Poland for longer than three months.

• Non-EU/EEA Citizens: You will almost certainly need to apply for a national student visa (Type D) before you arrive. Start this process at the Polish consulate in your country well in advance.

Essential Documents: To get your visa and, later, your Temporary Residence Permit, you'll need a stack of documents. This typically includes:

• A valid passport

• Your official university acceptance letter

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your studies and living costs

• Proof of health insurance

• Proof of accommodation (like a letter from your dormitory)

Once you arrive, one of your first tasks will be to register your address and apply for a PESEL number. This is a national identification number you'll need for almost everything, from setting up a bank account to using the public healthcare system.

Packing Essentials

While you can buy most things in Poland, you'll want to bring these to avoid the hassle of finding where you can buy them:

• Layers, Layers, Layers: Polish weather can be very harsh. It has four distinct seasons, each with its own severity. Bring t-shirts, sweaters, and light jackets to ensure you’re prepared for different weather conditions.

• A Serious Winter Coat: We're not talking about a light fashion jacket. You will need a proper, warm, insulated winter coat, along with gloves, scarves, and a hat.

• Waterproof Boots: For snow, slush, and rain. Good footwear is a must.

• Power Adapter: Poland uses the standard European "Type E" plug (two round pins).

• Important Documents: Carry your passport, acceptance letter, and other key papers in your hand luggage where they’ll be safest.

Smart Budgeting: How to Manage Your Money as a Student

One of the biggest draws for international students in Poland is the affordable cost of living. Your budget will stretch much further here than in many Western European countries, especially outside of Warsaw.

Your main expenses will be rent (dorms are the cheapest), food, and transport. The best way to save on food is to cook at home. Supermarkets like Biedronka and Lidl are known for being very budget-friendly.

A great tip for moving to Poland as a student is to open a local bank account once you have your PESEL number. It makes paying bills and managing your money much easier.

From A to B: Navigating Poland's Public Transport

Getting around in Polish cities is easy and affordable. Major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław have fantastic public transport systems with trams, buses, and (in Warsaw) a metro.

The best part? Your Polish Student ID card is your golden ticket. If you are under 26 years old, it gives you a 50% discount on all local public transport and an amazing 51% discount on national PKP trains. This makes exploring the country incredibly cheap.

For navigating, apps like Jakdojade are a lifesaver. They plan your route, show you live-time departures, and even let you buy tickets directly.

Thriving on Campus: Your Guide to Student Life in Poland

Student life in Poland is very engaging, as the academic year typically runs from October to June, with a long summer break. Major university cities like Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, and Łódź are packed with students, history, and culture.

Don't just stick to the library! Universities offer endless opportunities to get involved.

• Join student clubs (koła naukowe): These are academic, hobby, or sports groups.

• Attend events: Universities and student unions are always organising events, festivals, and trips that will help you network and meet new people.

• Network: Relaxing in recreational spaces in or around your university will be your chance to build a global network of friends and future colleagues. Be open, attend orientations, and introduce yourself.

Living Like a Local: Key Cultural Tips (and Polish Phrases!)

Adapting to a new culture is part of the fun. Poles are known for their hospitality (gościnność). Here are a few tips for international students moving to Poland to help you fit in:

• Greetings Matter: Be prepared to use formal greetings. Use Dzień dobry (Good day) for "hello." With professors and older people, it's polite to use Pan (Mr.) or Pani (Ms.) with their title or last name. You'll generally be invited to use first names before you start.

• Punctuality: Be on time. Being late is often seen as disrespectful, especially for classes or appointments.

• Guest Etiquette: If you're invited to a Polish home, it's a real honour. It's polite to bring a small gift, like flowers or chocolates. You may also be asked to remove your shoes at the door (your host will often provide slippers).

• Shops: Be aware that many larger stores and supermarkets are closed or have limited hours on Sundays due to trading laws. Plan your grocery shopping accordingly!

Your First Polish Words

You don't need to be fluent, but learning a few phrases goes a long way.

• Cześć (chesh-ch) - Hello / Hi (informal, for friends)

• Dzień dobry (jen DOB-ry) - Good day (formal hello)

• Do widzenia (do vee-DZEN-ya) - Goodbye (formal)

• Dziękuję (jen-KOO-yeh) - Thank you

• Proszę (PRO-sheh) - Please / You're welcome

• Przepraszam (psheh-PRA-sham) - Sorry / Excuse me

• Tak (tahk) - Yes

• Nie (nyeh) - No

Your Student ID: The Ultimate Money-Saving Tool

Once you enrol, you'll get your Legitymacja Studencka (Polish Student ID). Guard this card with your life! As mentioned, it's essential for transport discounts. But it also gets you reduced entry at museums, cinemas, theatres, gyms, and even some restaurants.

If you are an exchange student or not eligible for the Polish ID right away, an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is also widely recognised and offers great perks.

Your Polish Adventure Awaits!

Moving to Poland to study is a fantastic opportunity. It will be challenging, exciting, and rewarding all at once. Be patient with yourself during the adjustment period, be open to new experiences, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Take advantage of the study in Poland tips in this guide, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. Powodzenia! (Good luck!)