POLAND · KRAKÓW
Jagiellonian University
public · Founded 1364 · Languages: en, pl, ru, zh
In short
Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364, is Poland's oldest and a leading research university located in the historic city of Krakow. It offers a wide range of programs with a growing portfolio of English-medium courses and competitive living costs for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1364
- Students
- 33,549
- International students
- 3,200
- Acceptance rate
- 50%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–5k/yr
- Languages
- EN, PL, RU, ZH
- Location
- Kraków, Poland
Jagiellonian University is Poland's oldest university, founded in 1364, and the country's leading institution by QS World Ranking (303). With 16 faculties, 33,500+ students and a rich academic tradition encompassing humanities, medicine, law, science and social sciences, UJ offers a uniquely historic yet modern European university experience in Krakow — one of Central Europe's most beautiful cities.
Why study here
- Poland's oldest (1364) and highest-ranked university, QS 303 globally.
- One of Europe's oldest universities in continuous operation, with 660+ years of academic tradition.
- 16 faculties covering humanities, medicine, law, science, social sciences and more.
- Study in Krakow: a UNESCO World Heritage city with rich culture and very affordable cost of living.
- Strong English-medium programme portfolio and dedicated International Students Office support.
- Excellence Initiative – Research University designation confirms world-class research environment.
Student life
Life at Jagiellonian University extends beyond academics, with a wide array of resources and activities designed to enrich the student experience. The university provides comprehensive campus facilities, including various libraries (with the Main Library's history dating back to the 14th century), accommodation options in dormitories. UJ encourages active participation in student organisations, including student boards, a student union, and numerous research groups. There is also an International Students Association to support and connect international students. For those interested in extracurriculars, the university offers language courses, sports facilities, and access to a medical centre. Student media outlets and alumni networks also contribute to a dynamic and connected student community.
Fees
InternationalStudies for international students are generally tuition-based. Tuition amounts vary by programme and can be checked in the IRK system. An application fee of 100 PLN is required. Scholarships and possibilities to study without tuition fees are available.
HomePolish-medium programmes are free for Polish nationals and EU citizens in state-funded places.
LivingEstimated €6,000–8,500 per year in Krakow, including dormitory accommodation from ~€120/month — well below Western European capitals.
Further information regarding fees during the course of studies can be found on the International Students Office website. The application fee for some specific programmes might be 85 PLN, 20 EUR, or 22 USD.
Admissions
Application Fee100 PLN
High school leaving certificateOfficially recognised secondary school diploma equivalent to Polish matura
Language proficiencyPolish (B2) for Polish-medium; English (B2/IELTS 6.0) for English-medium programmes
PostgraduateBachelor's degree or equivalent in relevant field
IELTS6.0 overall for English-medium programmes
TOEFL iBT80
Cambridge EnglishB2 First or higher
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024303
National ranking Poland1 (top university in Poland)
Excellence Initiative – Research UniversityDesignated research university (Poland)
University scholarships
NAWA scholarshipsFull scholarships for outstanding international students; apply through Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Erasmus+ Mobility GrantsMonthly stipend for outgoing exchange students to partner universities across Europe
Rector's ScholarshipFor high-achieving UJ students based on academic performance
Accreditation
Jagiellonian University is accredited by the Polish Accreditation Committee (PKA) — Poland's national quality assurance body. The Medical College is accredited by Polish and EU medical education authorities. Law and humanities programmes hold relevant disciplinary accreditations.
Programs
a selectionJagiellonian University · Poland
Business and Finance Management
The Master's programme in Business and Finance Management is designed for individuals holding a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) who wish to deepen their expertise in business administration and financial management. This second-cycle programme equips students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business world. The curriculum focuses on strategic decision-making, financial analysis, and operational management, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various industries. Studies are conducted entirely in English, fostering an international learning environment.
Master's
Level
€5k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Jagiellonian University · Poland
Geography and Spatial Management
This Bachelor's program focuses on Geography and Spatial Management, exploring the interaction between human activities and the environment. Students will gain knowledge in geographical processes, spatial planning, and regional development. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation for understanding complex spatial issues and developing solutions for sustainable development. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with analytical skills to interpret spatial data, assess environmental impacts, and contribute to effective land-use planning and management. The program aims to prepare students for diverse career paths in public administration, private sector planning, environmental consulting, and research.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Jagiellonian University · Poland
Mathematics and Computer Science Advanced Track
This programme offers an advanced track in Mathematics and Computer Science, designed for international students seeking in-depth knowledge in these fields. The curriculum aims to develop a strong analytical and problem-solving foundation, preparing graduates for further academic pursuits or careers in technology and research. The studies are conducted in English, fostering an international learning environment.
Bachelor's
Level
€1k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Jagiellonian University · Poland
PhD Programme in Biology
The PhD Programme in Biology at Jagiellonian University offers advanced doctoral studies in English for students holding a Master's degree or equivalent in exact and natural sciences. The program allows for specialization in various biological fields through a selection of research topics. Exceptional candidates without a Master's degree but with outstanding academic achievements may also be considered. Admission is competitive and based on an interview where candidates present their research plans and discuss scientific topics. The program aims to foster in-depth research capabilities and contribute to scientific advancements in biology.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Jagiellonian University · Poland
Responsible Entrepreneurship & Management
This program focuses on developing responsible entrepreneurial and management skills. It is designed for international students seeking to understand the principles of creating and managing businesses with a strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices. The curriculum aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business world.
Bachelor's
Level
€3k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Polandfull fundingJagiellonian University (Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences)
COFUND MAP-ID PhD Programme
Open to applicants of all nationalities who hold a master's degree (or equivalent) by the application deadline and are proficient in English. Candidates apply through the IRK electronic system of the Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences.
full
Funding
€26k
Max
Jun 30, 2027
Deadline
living only fundingUniversity of Warsaw
University of Warsaw Doctoral School Scholarships
Open to international students from all countries applying for a PhD place in one of the University of Warsaw's four doctoral schools. There are 325 doctoral positions across 26 scientific disciplines for the 2026/2027 cycle. Applications are submitted through the Internet Recruitment of Candidates (IRK) platform and assessed on the research proposal and scientific achievements; the Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences uses written exams while the other schools conduct oral interviews. Specific eligibility criteria vary by programme.
living only
Funding
€15k
Max
May 29, 2027
Deadline
full fundingNAWA — Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
Polish Government Scholarship – Stefan Banach Programme (NAWA)
For students from selected developing and partner countries to take a second-cycle (master's) degree at Polish public universities, with priority for engineering and technical sciences, agriculture, and the exact and natural sciences. It exempts holders from tuition and pays a monthly NAWA scholarship; applicants apply through NAWA in the annual call.
full
Funding
€10k
Max
May 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUNESCO / Government of Poland (Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań)
UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation
Open to nationals of the listed eligible developing countries who hold a bachelor's or master's degree in archaeology or conservation, are proficient in English, and are 40 years old or younger at the time of application. Candidates must be nominated through their National Commission for UNESCO.
full
Funding
€6k
Max
Jun 11, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Lublin (in partnership with University of Tlemcen, Algeria)
Erasmus+ Student Mobility Scholarships at University of Lublin
Open to students currently enrolled at the University of Tlemcen (Algeria), of any nationality, who are in the 2nd or 3rd year of a Bachelor's degree or the 1st year of a Master's degree, with English at B2 or Polish at B1, and who have not previously held an Erasmus+ or other international scholarship.
full
Funding
€1k
Max
Apr 26, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUNESCO and the Polish Ministry of Education / AGH University of Krakow
UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering
Open to citizens of UNESCO's list of 57 eligible developing countries who are currently enrolled in, or have graduated from, an undergraduate or postgraduate engineering programme. Candidates need a strong academic background in engineering, science, or technology, proficiency in English, and good physical and mental health. Fellows pursue advanced training and research in engineering at host universities in Poland.
full
Funding
—
Max
May 12, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is Jagiellonian University's global ranking?
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Jagiellonian University is ranked 303rd in the QS World University Rankings 2024. It is also recognized as the top university in Poland by a national ranking and designated as a research university.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
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Studies for international students are generally tuition-based, with fees varying by program. An application fee of 100 PLN is required, though some specific programs may have different fees. Scholarships and opportunities to study without tuition fees are available.
What are the estimated living costs in Krakow for students?
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Estimated living costs in Krakow are around €6,000–8,500 per year, including dormitory accommodation which can be as low as €120 per month. This is considerably less than in many Western European capitals.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for English-medium programs?
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For English-medium programs, applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, a TOEFL iBT score of 80, or a Cambridge English qualification of B2 First or higher.
Does Jagiellonian University offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, Jagiellonian University offers several scholarships, including NAWA scholarships for outstanding international students, Erasmus+ Mobility Grants for exchange students, and the Rector's Scholarship for high-achieving UJ students.
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