Managing Your Student Finances in Poland
Plan your budget effectively with this guide to tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and financial requirements for studying in Poland.
Average Tuition (Public)
1,500 - 3,000 EUR/year
Essential Financial Aspects
Explore key financial topics to prepare for your studies in Poland. Each section provides detailed information to help you plan your budget effectively.
Financial Planning for Poland
Planning your finances is essential for a stress-free study experience in Poland. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect to spend as an international student.
Essential Monthly Expenses
University dormitory: 800-1,200 PLN
Shared apartment: 1,000-1,400 PLN
Studio apartment: 1,400-2,000 PLN
Groceries: 400-600 PLN
Eating out (occasional): 200-300 PLN
Student monthly pass: 50-60 PLN
Regular monthly pass: 100-150 PLN
Electricity, heating, water: 150-300 PLN
Internet & mobile: 100 PLN
Books & supplies: 100-200 PLN
Entertainment: 200-400 PLN
Budget Distribution
Banking & Financial Services
Setting up your finances properly will help you manage your money effectively during your studies in Poland. Learn about banking options, money transfers, and more.
- Free account for students under 26
- English mobile app and website
- Free ATM withdrawals (with limits)
- Branches in major cities
- Account with ISIC student card
- Multi-language support
- Connected to global network
- Branches at many universities
- Extensive ATM network
- Student package with benefits
- Multiple branch locations
- Some English support
Documents Required to Open a Bank Account
- Valid passport or national ID (for EU citizens)
- Student visa or residence permit
- University acceptance letter or student ID
- PESEL number (if registered) or address in Poland
Receiving Money in Poland
Bank Transfers (SWIFT)
Traditional bank-to-bank transfers using SWIFT/BIC codes.
Money Transfer Services
Services like Wise, Revolut, Western Union, and MoneyGram.
International Card Payments
Using credit/debit cards from your home country.
Common Payment Methods in Poland
Card Payments (Płatność kartą)
Card payments are widely accepted in Poland, including contactless payments. Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted, while American Express has limited acceptance.
BLIK Payments
BLIK is a popular Polish mobile payment system that works via a temporary 6-digit code generated in your banking app. Very popular for online purchases, transfers between friends, and ATM withdrawals without a card.
Mobile Payments
Google Pay and Apple Pay are widely accepted at most terminals that accept contactless payments. Many Polish banks also offer their own mobile payment apps.
Cash (Gotówka)
While Poland is increasingly cashless, some small shops, markets, and transportation in smaller towns may still require cash. ATMs are widely available throughout cities.
Currency Exchange Tips
- Avoid airport and hotel exchanges - They typically offer the worst rates and highest fees
- Use "Kantor" exchange offices - Look for those offering "0% prowizji" (zero commission)
- Compare rates online - Websites like Kantor.pl allow you to compare exchange rates
- Watch for hidden fees - Always ask about any additional charges before exchanging
Polish Budgeting Apps & Tools
Banking Apps with Budget Features
Most Polish bank apps (mBank, ING, Millennium) have built-in expense categorization and budget analysis tools.
Currency Converter Apps
Apps like Walutomat and Cinkciarz help track exchange rates and calculate conversions quickly.
Qogent Cost Calculator
Our specialized calculator helps you estimate all your study and living expenses in Poland based on your lifestyle.
Practical Financial Tips
Create a Polish emergency fund
Set aside 1,000-2,000 PLN for unexpected expenses like medical visits or urgent travel.
Plan for tuition payment dates
Mark payment deadlines on your calendar and budget accordingly to avoid late fees.
Track all expenses for the first month
Record everything you spend to establish a realistic budget for Poland.
Notify your home bank about your stay in Poland
This prevents your cards from being blocked due to "suspicious" foreign transactions.
Have multiple payment methods
Keep at least two payment methods (different cards, cash) in case one is lost or declined.
Research tax implications
If working in Poland, understand your tax obligations both in Poland and your home country.
Essential Banking Vocabulary in Polish
Pro Tip
Calculate Your Study Costs in Poland
Use our interactive calculator to get a personalized estimate of tuition fees and living expenses for your specific program and city.
Use Cost Calculator