If you want to study architecture in Poland, you usually choose between a bachelor's and a master's degree. Many universities offer architecture in English, but admission is selective and often includes a portfolio or entrance test. The exact rules depend on the university, so always check the programme page and the admissions office website.
Which architecture degree can you choose?
In Poland, architecture is usually offered at two main levels:
- Bachelor's level - often a first-cycle degree in architecture or related design fields.
- Master's level - a second-cycle degree for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
Some universities use integrated or closely linked pathways for architecture and urban design. The structure can differ a lot between schools, so read the programme description carefully. If you want to become a licensed architect later, check whether the programme follows the path needed for professional recognition in Poland or in the country where you plan to work.
Typical entry requirements
Most universities ask for proof that you finished secondary school for a bachelor's, or a relevant bachelor's degree for a master's. For English-taught programmes, you usually also need proof of English skills.
- School diploma or degree certificate
- Transcript of grades
- Passport or ID
- Portfolio - often drawings, sketches, design work, or creative projects
- Entrance exam or interview - some universities use one
- English proof - such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted certificate
Some universities also want math, physics, or art-related results from school. The exact subjects and minimum grades are set by each school. If your documents are not in Polish or English, you may need sworn translations or notarised copies.
English-taught options and language
Poland has English-taught architecture programmes, especially at larger public and private universities. The number of English places can be limited, so it is smart to check early.
What to look for on the university website:
- Programme language
- Portfolio rules and file format
- English level required
- Whether there is an entrance test or interview
- Whether the degree is accredited for professional use
Even if your programme is in English, daily life in Poland may still feel easier if you learn some basic Polish. That can help with housing, part-time work, and local services.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition depends on the university, the degree level, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Public universities are often cheaper than private ones, but not always. Do not guess the fee from old forum posts. Check the official programme page for the current year.
Typical yearly tuition ranges for architecture in Poland are often around:
- EU students - sometimes low cost or no tuition at some public universities, but not always
- Non-EU students - often roughly 2,000 to 6,000 EUR per year, sometimes more for special programmes
Living costs also vary by city. Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw are usually more expensive than smaller cities. A realistic student budget often includes:
- Shared room or dormitory
- Food
- Local transport
- Study materials and printing
- Health insurance and residence costs
Many students should plan for roughly 400 to 800 EUR per month for basic living costs, and more in bigger cities or if you rent a private flat. Check current prices for housing before you apply.
Application timeline and documents
Architecture admissions can open months before classes start, and some universities have earlier deadlines for portfolio review or entrance tests. Start early, because gathering documents often takes longer than expected.
A simple timeline can look like this:
- 6 to 12 months before start - shortlist universities and check language, portfolio, and recognition rules
- 4 to 8 months before start - prepare documents, translations, and portfolio
- 2 to 6 months before start - apply and follow entrance steps
- After admission - pay any required fee, arrange housing, and start visa or residence steps if needed
For non-EU students, visa or residence rules are handled by the Polish national authorities and the local consulate. Check the official immigration or foreign affairs website for the latest requirements, because these rules can change. Always keep your admission letter, proof of funds, insurance, and accommodation documents ready.
How universities find candidates
Universities do not only wait for random applications. Many admissions offices search student profiles and contact people who match the programme they want to fill. That is useful if you are still comparing options or if you want to be found by schools that teach architecture in English.
To make your profile easier to find, include:
- Your field of interest: architecture, design, urban planning, or a related area
- Your current education level
- Your English level
- Your documents, such as transcript, diploma, and portfolio
- Your study country preference, here Poland
Still, you should always read the university's own admissions page before you apply. That page is the final source for deadlines, entry tests, tuition, and document rules.
Common questions
Do I need a portfolio for architecture in Poland?
Often yes. Many universities ask for a portfolio with drawings, sketches, design work, or creative projects. Some also use a test or interview. Check the exact portfolio rules for each programme.
Can I study architecture in Poland in English?
Yes, some universities offer English-taught options. Availability is different in each city and at each school, so check the programme language on the university website.
Is architecture in Poland cheap?
It can be more affordable than in some other countries, but it is not free everywhere. Tuition and living costs depend on the university, city, and your nationality. Check the current fees on the official programme page.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay in control, compare options, and answer only the schools that fit you.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.