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Stages of education in Poland

Surely most of you, when transporting your family to Poland, think about where your children will study, and whether you can count on government assistance in this matter. Or the fact that you are a foreigner automatically means that tuition fees are inevitable.

In this article I would like to describe the entire system of Polish education and tell you about the peculiarities of entering your child's educational institution.

Kindergartens in Poland

If we are talking about preschool education, then, as in other countries, the first stage of a child's education in Poland is a kindergarten - przedszkole(pshed school). Kindergartens in the Republic of Poland are attended by children aged 3 to 6 years.

Today, children living in Poland enter school at the age of 7, and in kindergarten - zerówka(zeruvka) - when they are 6 years old. Recently, the government attempted to reform education, then children began to send to school a year earlier, but after criticism, this program was canceled.

Note!
Unlike in primary school, the availability of a place for your child in kindergarten is not guaranteed. If you can't get him into a public kindergarten, you can enroll your child in a private one and pay for it yourself. Government agencies are not authorized to be responsible for this issue - it is entirely your concern.

Primary school in Poland

In the initial classes I-VI(szkoła podstawowa or colloquial. podstawówka- "podstavka") are taught to children aged 7 to 13 years.

Traditionally, the first three grades (I-III), kids are taught standard subjects without any specialized directions. Usually such classes are conducted by one teacher, who is also an educator (class teacher). Only specialized subjects - such as music, painting, foreign languages ​​and physical training - are taught by individual teachers.

The academic year runs from September to June and is divided into two semesters. The rating system in Poland is as follows: from the lowest at 1 point to the highest at 6 points. In primary school, children from grades I-III can attend the so-called. świetlicę(extended), where they, under the supervision of teachers, do extra classes or do their homework.

In the next 3 years of primary school, from IV to VI grades, children are taught by specialized teachers. Additional subjects appear - such as computer science, a second foreign language, technical studies. In addition, parents can decide whether to attend an ethics or religion class for their child.

Education in public primary schools in Poland it is free. Admission usually takes place by appointment, depending on the zelnica (district) in which you live with your child. Better to sign up for school in advance for example, back in March. You can choose another school for training, but in this case, the decision on whether to accept you or not will be made by the director of the educational institution on an individual basis, the same applies to private schools.

Remember, even if you sent your child to a public school, there are costs associated with schooling, such as buying textbooks, uniforms, insurance, and lunch costs.

Despite the fact that at the end of the VI grade it is compulsory to write a test to check the knowledge gained, these results have almost no effect on the subsequent transfer to the gymnasium.

Gymnasiums in Poland

The next stage of education after graduation from primary school is gymnasium (gimnazjum). Children aged 13-16 study here. Finishing their studies at the gymnasium, they must pass the required exam.

It should be noted that the division into primary school and gymnasium causes a lot of criticism from both parents and teachers. In the past few years, the question of uniting grades I-VI of primary school and grades I-III of gymnasiums has often arisen, but so far this reform has not been carried out, we describe the situation as of August 2016.

Studying at a gymnasium lasts 3 years, and you have a choice: send your child to a public or private gymnasium. As in the elementary school situation, your child has a guaranteed place in the gymnasium at the place of residence, but in educational institutions of other districts - according to the individual decision of the directorate.

In addition, there are gymnasiums that specialize in a specific specialized subject. For candidates who want to study at such educational institutions, additional internal exams can be conducted. In addition, gymnasiums may provide preferential places for children- winners of subject competitions organized by the Curator of Education at your place of residence ( Wojewódzkie Kuratorium Oświaty). It is better to find out about the conditions of admission to a particular school in the directorate of the gymnasium you are interested in.

The compulsory exam after graduation from the gymnasium consists of 3 parts, which students take on different days:

1. humanitarian(history, Polish and so-called WOS (wiedza o społeczeństwie) - social science);
2. physical and mathematical(includes tests in mathematics, biology, physics, chemistry);
3. foreign language(at a basic or advanced level).

You should know that the points scored on the basis of the examination at the gymnasium are important for admission to one of the specialized lyceums or educational institution with a higher ranking.

Lyceums and technical schools in Poland

After graduation from the gymnasium, the time comes to choose a lyceum, a vocational technical school or a technical school. Education in the first and second cases will take from 3 years, and in a technical school - from 4 years. If a student plans to enter a specialty related to chemistry, physics or computer science, then in Poland he can go to a technical school.

Traditionally, Polish students choose general education lyceums - Liceum Ogólnokształcące(abbreviated LO). If you are planning to send your children to a lyceum, it is better to familiarize yourself with the ranking of general education lyceums in Poland, which is annually compiled by the Perspektywy.pl portal.

In order to continue education in higher educational institutions - szkoła wyższ a must pass the mandatory tests - the so-called. "Maturu" ( matura, egzamin maturalny), on the basis of which the child will be able to enroll in a public school or, if the results are not as good as you would like, in a private one. The latter option is also suitable for those who decide to change their training profile. Please note that in post-secondary schools - szkoła policealna, you can do without "matura".

When you take the exams, you will have electives and compulsory subjects. Be careful, some universities require you to choose a specific subject or take, for example, a foreign language at an advanced level. Most of the subjects have two levels - basic and advanced (in-depth). In Polish it is called matura na poziomie podstawowym and matura na poziomie rozszerzonym.

The compulsory subjects for August 2016 are Polish, mathematics and a foreign language at a basic level.

Please note that there is a surrender threshold in Poland. In order to pass the matura and successfully obtain the certificate of maturity (świadectwo dojrzałości), you need to score at least 30% according to the test results. If you do not pass the matura or pass it very badly, that is, you get less than 30%, then you will have to retake it if you plan to enter any university. The absence of matura deprives you of the right to continue your studies at universities.

Features of Polish education for foreigners

Summing up, it is worth mentioning one more point for all parents who plan to educate their child in Poland: if you are not sure that the child will be able to quickly adapt to new conditions, then it is better to send him to study a class below so that he can calmly join the learning process in Polish. remember, that in Poland, pupils graduate from school at the age of 19-20, which often contrasts strongly with Ukrainian graduates who come to study at the age of 16-17.

Keep in mind that in Poland, the approach to studying at universities is also somewhat different. A university for a Polish graduate is a path to getting a good job and realizing his potential. Nobody will look at you askance if you decide to skip a year of study and take the previously popular in the West "break year" (the so-called gap year). Many Poles finish their 3 or 5-year university studies at the age of 25-27, or skip this period of study altogether, returning to university after 30.

Remember that before choosing a school, you should ask about the help system for foreigners, if you are interested in such help. In many Polish schools, new students are offered additional classes in order to make up the difference in teaching systems, or to improve certain subjects. This is a really important aspect for those who do not go to Polish school from the first grade.

We hope our information was helpful!

Secondary education in Poland is one of the best in Eastern Europe. Secondary education in Poland lasts 12 years. We offer the opportunity to study in Polish lyceums, including lyceums with the International Baccalaureate for children from 6 to 18 years old.

The peculiarity of obtaining International Baccalaureate in Poland is the price. The student studies under the IB program, but given the lower living wage, education in Poland becomes more affordable. With a diploma, lyceum graduates have a real opportunity to enter the most prestigious universities in the world.

Secondary education in Polish schools.

Primary School

Primary school education starts at the age of 6. The first year of education, the so-called zero grade, is intended only to prepare children for basic education.
from the first to the third grade, children are engaged in the form of integrated education. There is no clear division into subjects during this period. Classes are taught by one teacher, only subjects such as foreign language, music and physical education are sometimes taught by specialist teachers.
From the fourth to the sixth - training, which is carried out by specialist teachers. Role class teacher performed by one of the teachers. On this stage disciplines such as Polish, history and society, natural history, a foreign language (most often English), music, mathematics, computer science, technical studies, physical education, fine arts, religion and ethics are studied (attended at the request of parents).
The grading system in the Polish school starts from the fourth grade of primary school. A 6-point system is used, where 6 is “excellent”, 5 is “very good”, 4 is “good”, 3 is “satisfactory”, 2 is “acceptable”, 1 is “unsatisfactory”.
The sixth grade ends with a test of students' knowledge, which is carried out in the form of a written test that is the same for all children. Primary school learning outcomes are verified by tests that do not affect school outcomes.

High school. Gymnasium

In the gymnasium, education is received, which is of a general nature. During this period, students learn Polish, two foreign languages ​​(most often, one of them is English, and the second is German or Russian), social studies, history, music, geography, fine arts, biology, computer science, mathematics, physics, chemistry and physical education. Since 2009, two new subjects have been introduced: technical and artistic classes.
At the request of parents, students can attend classes on religion and ethics, as well as lessons to prepare for family life.

Studying at the Polish gymnasium lasts 3 years. Studying at the gymnasium necessarily ends with an exam, which consists of 4 parts: linguistic, humanitarian, as well as mathematics and natural sciences. So, the humanitarian includes questions on history, social studies and the Polish language. The language part is represented by two levels: basic, which is compulsory for everyone, and advanced, for those who are studying a foreign language from the first grade. The natural-mathematical part includes questions in mathematics, biology, physics, geography and chemistry.

Exam scores, unlike those at the end of primary school, have an impact on future studies. The grades obtained on these exams determine whether a student will be admitted to college, lyceum, or continue their secondary education in vocational school.

Lyceums and technical schools

In Poland (in contrast to Russia), the last stage of secondary education takes 3 years.
This level of study is optional and the student can choose how he wants to continue his studies.
The most common options are profiled and general education lyceums, however, many students continue their studies in four-year technical schools or study 2 years in a vocational school and 2 years in a general education lyceum. Thus, people start getting higher education in Poland no earlier than 19.

General education lyceum

Education at the lyceum lasts three years, after which Matura surrenders. In case of successful completion, students receive a certificate of maturity.
Studying in lyceums in Poland gives students the opportunity to study certain subjects at a deeper level. You can choose several such subjects - from 0 to 4. In addition, there are also bilingual classes, where teaching of some subjects takes place in a foreign language. After such training, students can take the bilingual Matura.
After graduating from the lyceum, graduates can continue their education in a higher educational institution, or in a post-lyceum school.

Matura (testing after graduation)

After graduating from lyceums, all students take Matura - a set of exams that check the level of knowledge gained in secondary school. The results of these exams play a key role in admission to Polish universities.
Polish and foreign languages ​​are taken orally. In oral exams, the emphasis is on vocabulary student and the practical application of grammatical structures.
The written exams consist of three compulsory subjects (mathematics, Polish and a foreign language), as well as any three subjects to choose from.
The delivery of Mathura is valid if the result is 30% or more. A student wishing to demonstrate his deep knowledge in a particular discipline can take any subject at an advanced level. However, in this case, the student will have to take the exam two times: both basic and advanced.
Pupils pass the exam in their schools, however, a teacher from another school is mandatory among the members of the commission.

Vocational school

These educational institutions form First stage vocational training... After passing the professional exam at the District Examination Commission, students are issued a school leaving certificate or a diploma, which confirms their professional qualities. Students can then continue their education at a technical school or at a lyceum for adults, where they are immediately enrolled in the 2nd year of study.

Technical school (secondary vocational education)

Polish technical schools are an alternative to lyceums. However, in addition to secondary education in technical schools, students also receive vocational training.
Graduates, after successfully passing the relevant exams, are assigned a qualification (technician, waiter, assistant, technician, etc.), a diploma and a certificate of maturity are issued.

Since 2016 p. Slavic Languages ​​Center offers new exciting opportunities for Ukrainian students - free high-quality European education in schools, lyceums, technical schools! Today we will help you to understand the peculiarities of the Polish school system and we hope tomorrow your dream of a Polish school will come true!

Educational reform and education system in Poland

The Constitution of the Republic of Poland guarantees the right to education to persons living in the territory of the country. Therefore, Ukrainians, along with Polish citizens, can apply for a free secondary or secondary technical education, and having received a European certificate, continue their studies in the best universities Poland, Europe, the world.

The educational reform of 2017 changed the structure of the education system, which is now represented by such educational institutions as:

• 8 year old Primary School(szkoła podstawowa);
• 4-year general secondary school (liceum ogólnokształcące);
• 5-year technical school (technikum);
• Level I 3-year branch school (branżowa szkoła pierwszego stopnia);
• 2-year sectoral school of the II level (branżowa szkoła drugiego stopnia);
• 3-year special school for work preparation (szkoła specjalna przysposabiającą do pracy);
• postgraduate school, school for persons with secondary education (szkoła policealna).

The system of complete secondary education in Poland today is represented by an elementary school (szkoła podstawowa), a general education lyceum (liceum ogólnokształcące) or a technical school (technikum).

The educational reform establishes a compulsory 9-year period of study for all children:

• before school education (Last year kindergarten) - the so-called "zerówka", lasting 1 year for 6-year-old children;
• primary school - education lasts 8 years (from 6-7 to 15 years).

After graduating from primary school, students (16 - 18 years old) can study at a general education lyceum or receive vocational education and master a new specialty at a technical school.

Features of education in primary school in Poland (szkoła podstawowa)

The legislation leaves the parents of 6-year-old children the right to choose - kindergarten or a school, but 7-year-olds are required to become primary school students.

Primary school teaching process (szkoła podstawowa).

The educational process in an 8-year elementary school includes 2 stages: 1 - 3 grade - earlier school education; Grades 4 - 8 - systematic study of individual subjects.

In grades 1 - 3, training takes place under the guidance of the class teacher. Sometimes physical education, music, educational art or foreign language lessons are taught by teachers who are experts in their field.

From grades 4 to 8, all subjects are taught by individual teachers. Mandatory school program includes the following academic disciplines: Polish, English, a second foreign language (grades 7 - 8), music, educational art, history, social studies (grade 8), nature (grade 4), biology (grade 5 - 8), geography ( 5 - 8 grades), chemistry (5 - 8 grades), physics (5 - 8 grades), mathematics, computer science, technology (4 - 6 grades), physical education, safety (8 grade), classes with a class teacher.

Additionally, in the elementary school there are classes on religion and ethics, but students attend them with parental consent, if desired. Since 2006, many schools in Poland have introduced the study of the first foreign language in grades 1-3, usually children begin to learn English.

Grading system in Polish schools

Students' knowledge and behavior are assessed in Polish general education schools. In grades 1 - 3, teachers use a descriptive system. From the 4th grade of primary school, knowledge is tested according to the following rating scale: 6 - excellent, 5 - very good, 4 - good, 3 - enough, 2 - allowed, 1 - not enough (negative assessment). Also, Polish teachers can use the signs "+" and "-", for example "2 =" is also considered a positive assessment. In primary and secondary schools, there is a separate scale for assessing student behavior: "exemplary", "very good", "good", "correct", "inappropriate (inappropriate)", "reprehensible".

Final exams in primary school (szkoła podstawowa)

Eighth graders take final exams. So, for primary school graduates 2018-2019, 2019-2020, 2020-2021. exams in Polish, modern foreign language, mathematics will be compulsory. From 2021-2022 there will be 4 compulsory exams, but students will be able to independently choose an additional exam from such academic subjects as biology, chemistry, physics, geography or history. All exams are taken in writing, and the grading scale is percentage. Since there is no minimum passing percentage for each academic subject, all students will pass the exam. The choice of subjects will help determine the level of knowledge of each student in key areas of knowledge, which is the basis for further learning. Final exam results are important as they will become the main selection criteria for high school candidates.

After passing the exams, all graduates receive a primary school graduation certificate (świadectwo szkolne). Children with a grade point average of 4.75 and above, as well as good behavior in elementary school, will delight their parents with an honors document.

Matura - features of the "Polish VNO"

Graduates wishing to complete secondary education continue their studies in general secondary schools (liceum) or technical schools (technikum). You can familiarize yourself with the peculiarities of Polish secondary education in separate sections of our website.

Having received a complete secondary education, graduates can continue their studies at universities, after passing the entrance exams - matura exams (matura), an analogue of the Ukrainian VNO. Children must pass matural exams from academic subjects: Polish, mathematics, a foreign language, an academic subject of their choice (computer science, social studies, biology, chemistry, physiology, physics, geography, history, music history, art history). Graduates can also choose foreign languages ​​for the exam (English, French, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish; Latin language and ancient culture) and languages ​​of national minorities (Belarusian, Lithuanian, German, Ukrainian, Kashubian, Lemko). Each applicant must pass 4 written exams (Polish, mathematics, foreign language, academic discipline of his choice) and 2 exams - in verbally(Polish language, foreign language). Graduates of schools of national minorities are additionally obliged to take an exam in the language of a national minority.

Matural exams are carried out in several stages. So, in 2019, the main session is scheduled for May; additional session - in June (for children who missed the main session for good reasons); repeated session for retaking 1 compulsory subject not passed during the first or second session in the oral or written part - in August. In cases specified by law, exams will be paid. Laureates and finalists school olympiads in individual subjects, are exempted from the matural exam and receive the highest score - 100%. The educational reform has established a 30% passing mark required to pass the exam. That is, students must score at least 30% (oral and written) from 3 x compulsory academic subjects and 1 academic subject optionally to receive a proof of passing the material exams (świadectwo dojrzałości).

Features of education in a police school (szkoła policealna)

A special place in the Polish education system is occupied by a police school (szkoła policealna), offering relevant specialties and free education adults. Such schools are intended for people with secondary education and allow you to receive a diploma confirming professional qualifications after passing the exam.

Admission takes place on the basis of a secondary education diploma, without passing matural exams. The learning process in such a school lasts from 1 to 2.5 years; in stationary (usually in the afternoon) or part-time studies. The final exam is the same as for a vocational school (szkóła zawodowa) or a technical school (technikum).

The police school invites its students to get an up-to-date profession, gives time to think about the prospect of obtaining further higher education. Of course, this is not a replacement for higher education, but only an opportunity to expand your specialization. It happens that Polish students receive additional qualifications in polysemy schools, in parallel with the main profession. Also, this educational institution is a good alternative to additional paid postgraduate courses.

How to enroll in a Polish school for Ukrainians?

For the admission of Ukrainian schoolchildren to a Polish school, it is necessary to learn the Polish language, at the B1 level, in order to easily adapt to the educational process, find mutual language with teachers, communicate with classmates, get to know the new country and Polish culture. The school administration can also interview the prospective student and his parents or arrange an additional exam.

Living conditions for students of Polish secondary schools

Polish public primary schools accept foreign children for education, but only a few offer accommodation in their own school hostels (boarding schools). Typically, school dormitories (boarding schools) are open for high school or college students. Elementary boarding schools are built around specific values ​​(eg Catholic schools) or specific student skills (sports, arts or military schools). Sometimes public primary schools are funded by the region or international organizations, then all students are provided with free textbooks, boarding school, meals, etc.

Private schools - boarding houses can become an alternative to the state primary school, but education, as a rule, is paid. In addition, parents are expected to pay for accommodation, meals, extracurricular education (for example, a foreign language), school uniforms, textbooks or school trips.

In any case, Poland is open for you and gladly awaits everyone who wants to study!

We, the team of professionals at the Slavic Languages ​​Center, will help you choose an educational institution, efficiently and quickly resolve all organizational issues to make your dream of school education abroad a reality!

When moving to Poland, families with children ask themselves questions: how to enroll a child in school, as well as what documents are needed for registration at school.

Where to attach a school-age child is one of the first questions that all family emigrants have. Moreover, often you will not receive an entry permit for a child if there is no certificate from an educational institution that is ready to accept it. So it is worth considering in detail what a Polish school is and how to live with it.

The rules for admitting children to kindergarten and primary school are the same for foreign citizens and citizens of the Republic of Poland.

It does not matter whether the foreigner has a residence permit in Poland or, for example, a national visa with a Pole's card, or is staying in Poland on a different legal basis.

School in Poland

The Polish school system is divided into the following stages:

• kindergarten (for children 3-5 / 6 years old);
• primary school (6 years old, for children 6/7 - 11/12 years old)
• gymnasium - secondary school (3 years old, for children 12/13 - 15/16 years old)
• high school (different types, education lasts 3 or 4 years depending on the type of school).

At each level, there are both state institutions(run by state structures and largely owned by state funds) and private (run by private owners and fully supported by private funds). The third possible type is the so-called "schools of association", which are managed by the parents' associations and supported by their resources. They differ from private schools in that the parents of the students and / or former students, grouped in an official association, are co-owners of the school and decide on its issues.

Education in public schools in Poland is free, in private schools and schools of associations - paid (with the exception of students included in scholarship programs). On the other hand, a child's stay in a public kindergarten is partially paid - the rules vary by location as they are set local authorities authorities. Exceptions are some departments kindergarten, which are held in primary schools only for older children who will start attending primary school from the next school year (the so-called "0", "zero year" form) - the child's stay in the "zero" grade is free.

What documents are required to enroll a child in a Polish school?

Foreign children are admitted on the same basis and in the same way as Polish children in kindergarten and primary school. The main document is the application for admission to a kindergarten or school, which must be completed in a special form or in electronic form (in some cities, an electronic registration system for children in kindergartens or primary schools is used. For details, contact the school or local government departments formations or municipal (city) branches competent at the place of residence of a foreigner during his stay in Poland).

It is also necessary to provide a rental agreement (or property rights), indicating your residence in the area, in the competence of this school.

The enrollment of older children in primary school, upper secondary school or high school is based on:

• a certificate of completion of so many classes of school or another document confirming the completion of a school abroad, or the completion of the next stage of study abroad, recognized in accordance with separate provisions, equal to the Polish certificate of completion of the relevant school or certificate of graduation from school;
• a certificate, attestation or other document issued by an educational institution abroad, confirming the enrollment of a foreigner to a school abroad and indicating the class, year or stage of study completed by the foreigner abroad, and a document confirming the number of years of study at that school.

If the number of years of study cannot be clearly determined on the basis of the submitted documents, the parents or guardians of the foreign child or adult foreign student in this case submit a written statement on this matter.

If the student (his parents) cannot provide documents confirming the period of study in foreign educational institutions, the foreigner is enrolled in the appropriate class of the school on the basis of an interview conducted by either the head or the deputy head of the educational institution. In case of insufficient knowledge of the Polish language, the interview is conducted in Russian (if required, with the participation of an interpreter). In the event that for admission to an educational institution for Polish students it is required to pass individual assessment criteria (tests, sections) of the student's knowledge or abilities (sports, art, etc.), the foreigner must pass them on a general basis.

In conclusion, the headmaster asks, but does not have the right to demand from the foreigner a certificate of recognition of the child's school certificate. If a foreigner does not have a nostrified certificate, the basis for admission to a Polish state school is a certificate, attestation or any other document issued by foreign school, and a document certifying the number of years of study, and in the absence of such documents - an interview. The headmaster may, however, require parents to provide a certified translation of documents issued by foreign schools.

However, if a foreign child is looking for a school where additional registration criteria apply to Polish citizens (for example, a test for artistic skills, a test for language or sports ability, a medical certificate on the possibility of playing sports, etc.), the foreign child must also meet the same criteria.

Polish for foreign children at the Polish School

Every child who is not a citizen of Poland has the right to additional free Polish language classes, which are held at the school they attend during the first 12 months, at least 2 lessons per week (in Poland, the lesson is 45 minutes). The weekly schedule and number of hours is set by the school principal.

These classes can take the form of individual or group lessons, depending on the situation at school.

The total amount of additional free lessons in Polish and correctional courses in other subjects cannot exceed five hours per week per student.

The same goes for getting support at school in other subjects that he has not yet studied, or for which training program differs from the one that operates in Polish schools.

Tuition fees at a Polish school

Education is free for foreign children in public elementary schools, gymnasiums and secondary schools until the child turns 18 or graduates from the school in which he was enrolled before the age of 18 (for example, general education school).

The exceptions are listed below:

• post-secondary schools;
• post-secondary education institutions for adults;
• art schools;
• schools for teachers.

Foreigners studying in such schools pay the equivalent of 1,500 euros for each year of study. In arts and music schools the fee is the equivalent of 3,000 euros, and in ballet schools, circus art schools and colleges for librarians and cultural events organizers - 4,500 euros per year. For the first year of study, all of the above fees are increased by 200 euros.

For some good reason, the school management may agree to pay for tuition later than the day before the start of classes or pay in installments. In rare, exceptional cases, at the request of parents experiencing financial difficulties, the school administration can exempt from part of the tuition fees or completely cancel this payment.

In each case, the fee is paid to the current account - a sub-account for the school authority in PLN, calculated using the average EUR / PLN exchange rate of the National Bank of Poland announced on the day of the bank transfer.

Other school expenses

Although education in most schools for children who are not Polish citizens is free, parents should expect other costs associated with the child's attendance at school. The most significant are:

Expenses for school books. In Poland, children own the textbooks they use, for which their parents have to pay. The school principal sets the list of required textbooks. Their purchase is a one-time cost of about PLN 200-600 per academic year, depending on the form and school. Much cheaper textbooks can sometimes be purchased, but this is not always possible.

School supplies cost such as notebooks, writing and art supplies, rulers and other geometric tools, etc. Full list the necessary school supplies can be obtained from the teacher. The cost is about PLN 50 for 1 academic year.

School uniform cost... In most Polish schools, children must have appropriate replacement soft shoes when at school (for example, slippers or trainers) that remain at school overnight, and special sports clothing (for physical education). Some schools also require school uniform or a vest with a school logo. The cost is about 50 zł.

School lunch fees... Most Polish schools offer lunches, which are served to children in the canteen, which cost around 80 to 110 zlotys per month. In addition, the child is expected to bring breakfast with him (otherwise he will be hungry until lunchtime), which consists of a small snack and something to drink (for example, a sandwich and a small bottle of mineral water).

Insurance fee... Every child attending a Polish school must be insured against accidents. Schools buy insurance in packages, insuring all students. The insurance covers all students in the school, the cost of which usually does not exceed PLN 50 per year. Keep in mind that your child is guaranteed coverage not only at school, but outside the school as well.

Attention! This is not the same as health insurance, which entitles your child to free health care. This insurance gives you the right to receive a certain amount of compensation if your child has an accident at school or elsewhere.

Voluntary fees for various school activities... In most Polish schools, parents voluntarily pay contributions to various additional expenses for children when they are in school. These contributions fund things like the purchase of prizes for contests, activities during school holidays and holidays, etc.

Voluntary payment for class expenses... In most Polish schools, the parents of students of each class agree among themselves on a certain amount, which will be spent per month on additional expenses related to the school life of the class, the purchase of additional teaching aids, art objects, sports equipment, etc. Usually it is within the power of everyone, a small monthly expense.

Financing school travel... In Polish schools, it is customary that several times a year, students together with their teacher go to the theater, cinema, museum, and at least once a year they leave for the so-called "green school" (a few days spent outside the city, where children have outdoor lessons, take part in sports activities, and can also explore attractions in a particular area, etc.).

The costs of participating in these activities are covered by the parents. They can vary from a few dozen to several hundred PLN or even over a thousand PLN in the case of travel abroad. Participation in school trips is optional - if parents do not have the funds to pay for their child's participation or simply do not want him or her to travel, the child does not need to register to participate in the trip. In such a situation, during a school trip, the child can spend time in the school club room.

Finding and choosing a school in Poland

Information about school districts and zones is easiest to obtain from the school itself, from your local municipal government education department, or from a school superintendent with expertise in the area.

Every Polish citizen is registered with a census office at a specific address. This address is entered in official documents. People who rent apartments may have their place of residence registered as temporary or - sometimes - not register at all.

The principal of an elementary school or upper secondary school obtains a list of children enrolled in the school district from the local census office. If foreigners are not registered at the place of residence with the landlord, they must - just like Polish citizens in similar situations - contact the director of the district school and ask that their child be added to the list of children living in the area. The principal must agree to this request. The director may be satisfied with a written statement from the parents on this issue or may ask them to provide documents confirming this fact, for example, a rental agreement.

Remember, although the school director is obliged to admit all children from the district to the school, it would be better if you still do not postpone this issue until the last, but notify the school as soon as possible about the need to include your child on the list of potential students of this educational institution.

Studying in Poland every year is gaining popularity among citizens of the CIS countries, especially Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. Simplified admission system, the opportunity to get a high-quality education and a European-format diploma and master one or more foreign languages- all this attracts thousands of applicants to the country every year.

The structure of education in Poland: description, individual characteristics

The education system in Poland has a fairly simple structure, which includes:

• preschool education;
• secondary education (general and vocational);
• higher education.

Each of the steps of this structure has its own individual characteristics.

Preschool education

The preschool education system in Poland occupies a leading position not only among the countries of the former socialist camp, but also among the EU member states.

The tasks of preschool institutions are not limited to looking after and caring for the child. One of the main goals of kindergartens is to prepare kids for school. In a playful way, children are taught the skills of oral and written speech, knowledge of the world around and the ability to communicate with peers.
The majority of kindergartens in Poland are municipal, offering free preschool education. However, those parents who can afford to pay a considerable amount for visiting a child preschool usually choose a private kindergarten. In such institutions, an in-depth study of individual subjects is conducted. For example, one or more additional foreign languages ​​are introduced.
A good help for working parents who, due to their employment, have nowhere to leave their child, are the so-called prolongations. Here children can stay overnight under supervision for up to two weeks.
Parents who adhere to a religious upbringing system can send their child to parish schools. In such institutions, in addition to general education, children are taught the basics of religion, spiritual and moral education.
The last - "zero" class of kindergarten - is necessary for everyone living in Poland, including those who do not have Polish citizenship. Children begin to attend zero grade at the age of 6.

Basic school

First stage

The first stage of school education in Poland is the elementary school - Szkоła podstawоwa. Here children study from the age of seven.
The basic school includes six classes of study, during which students acquire knowledge in the field native language, mathematics, natural science, foreign languages, music, physical education and art.
At the end of the sixth grade, students pass compulsory final exams to test the assimilation of the acquired knowledge.

Gymnasium

From the seventh grade, subject to successful passing of exams in basic school, pupils enter the gymnasium - Gimnazjum - and turn into gymnasium students.
The gymnasium period for Polish girls and young people lasts 3 years, during which they study various general education disciplines.
At the end of the course, students take certification exams in the humanities, mathematics and natural sciences.
After successfully passing the exams, the graduate must make a choice whether he will continue his studies at a higher educational institution or limit himself to obtaining a profession.

Post-Gymnasium Education

Szkоły pоnadgimnazjalne – lyceums and technical schools are a necessary step, close to our 10-11 grades. For this period alone, Polish students spend at least 3 years.
After graduating from the gymnasium, students can choose where to go to study further - in lyceums or technical schools.
Lyceums in the Polish educational system are divided into two types:

• general education;
• professional specialized.

In general education lyceums, the preparation of future students of general education universities is carried out. An in-depth study of specialized subjects is conducted here, in which the student will continue his studies at a higher educational institution.
In specialized lyceums, students receive basic vocational education. While in technical schools, graduates receive full secondary diplomas vocational education.
Students of any of the chosen areas have the right to enter the university. Thus, Polish young men and women are no earlier than 19 to 20 years of age to study at a higher educational institution.

Higher education

Today, higher education in Poland can be obtained both on a budget (state) and on a paid (commercial) basis.
Higher education in the country has complex structure... Depending on the chosen form of study, graduates are awarded the following degrees:

1. Bachelor (Licencjat, BA). The term is 3–3.5 years. The graduate receives the basic knowledge of a specialist in his profession. After completing this stage, you can continue your studies further in this specialty, or you can get a job.
2. Bachelor (Inzyneir, BSc). The term is 3.5-4 years. This degree has the same characteristics as Licencjat, BA, but is awarded to graduates of technical or agricultural universities.
3. Master (Magister, MA, MSc). The term of study is 1.5–2 years. Those who have already received a bachelor's degree can study at this stage. In the process of training, students receive in-depth knowledge of their specialty. After receiving a master's degree, there is an opportunity to continue their studies in graduate school.
4. Master (Magister). The term of study is 4.5–5 years. Admission to this degree is possible on the basis of a school certificate.

The level of foreign students in Polish universities

After Poland joined the EU, the number of Polish students in the country's universities dropped sharply. Polish citizens do not seek to master the specialties of higher education on the territory of their native state, preferring France or the Czech Republic. In order not to lose the number of study places that largely determine the status of the university, the Polish government approved a special law that allows foreign students to freely obtain higher education in Poland and offers them certain preferences.
In connection with the introduction of this law, the number of foreign students in Polish universities has almost tripled and now accounts for 2% of the total number of students. Foreigners not only fill study places, they are also a channel for third-party funding and raising the university's status internationally and regionally. In this regard, Poland encourages foreign students, making their stay in the country as easy as possible.

Tuition fees at different levels of education

For Polish citizens, education in preschool, school and higher education institutions is free of charge. In commercial universities, the doors are open for those wishing to study on a paid basis in this particular educational institution or for those Poles who did not have a passing score when applying for a budget.

Education of foreign citizens is carried out on a commercial basis, with the exception of those students who arrived in Poland on special / exchange programs, or for those foreign citizens who entered on the same conditions as the Poles.

Tuition fees at Polish universities start at 1000 euros per year. Education in English will cost an order of magnitude more - from 2000-3000 euros per year.

It turns out that there are chances to get an education for free! For example, in the Czech Republic:

An additional advantage to the acceptable cost of training is that the cost of living and food is much lower than in others. European countries... As a member of the EU, Poland, however, is not currently a member of the euro zone and uses its national currency, the Polish zloty. This allows us to keep prices for housing and food at a fairly low level.

The cost of a hostel for a student in Poland will be about 100-130 euros per month, while the cost of food - no more than 100 euros per month.

Is it possible for foreigners to study free of charge in Polish universities?

First of all, those foreign students who have Polish roots or have a card of a Pole have the opportunity to study free of charge at Polish universities.

Some universities stand out budget places with a scholarship for foreign citizens - countries outside the EU. As a rule, this information is posted on the website of the Polish Embassy.

Another - more difficult option - is to receive a grant from the European Foundation to study at a Polish university.

Such a grant will cover part or all of the tuition and living expenses.

It should be noted that becoming a grant holder is not an easy task. To obtain it, you must demonstrate sufficient high level preparation and absolute interest in the chosen specialty.

Scholarships for International Students

Foreign citizens studying free of charge at Polish higher education institutions are eligible for a scholarship. Scholarships are approved by the Polish Ministry of Education at the federal level or by the university administration and can be established for:

• persons with disabilities;
• persons in financial difficulty. In such cases, separate types of scholarships for food, accommodation and education are established;
• persons with special academic merit or sporting achievements.

Any citizen of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus or Kazakhstan has the right to apply for one of the types of scholarships.

About why the citizens of Belarus are forced to look for a way to get education in other countries:

Academic year in Polish educational institutions

The academic year for both students and schoolchildren consists of two semesters: autumn and spring. The fall semester starts on October 15th and lasts until the winter session in January. The spring semester starts in mid-February and lasts until the summer exam session in June.

During their studies, Polish students attend lectures, seminars, all kinds of laboratory practices.

Study in Poland for people with disabilities

Organization of the educational process for persons with disabilities is an important stage of social policy in Poland.

Children with disabilities have the right to study both in regular educational institutions and in special integrated kindergartens and schools. For this purpose, ordinary educational institutions are equipped with special devices and ramps, students with disabilities can be trained in special educational programs.

Polish citizens, as well as foreign citizens with disabilities, have the right to enter higher educational institutions along with other applicants. At the same time, in the learning process, such students (or students in schools) receive social stipends.

Admission conditions for Russians and not only: answers to the most frequent questions

Entering a Polish university is a responsible, but completely surmountable task. For Russians, Belarusians, Kazakhstanis and Ukrainians, such an event has certain advantages:

• entrance exams can be taken twice a year - in winter and summer;
• some universities do not require knowledge of the Polish language;
• liberal tuition fees;
• there are no age restrictions (i.e. adults can also enter the university).

List of required documents for the applicant:

• the questionnaire of the selected university. The alternative is often a completed online form that can be found on the university's website;
• photocopy and translation of the certificate;
• 3 photos 3.5x4.5 cm;
• motivation letter;
• photocopies of the international passport;
• a certificate of knowledge of Polish or of English language(depending on the language of instruction).

Please note that the requirements for the submitted documents may vary depending on the university you prefer. Some universities need more specific references.
For example, some educational institutions do not require the mandatory presentation of a certificate of knowledge of the Polish language - you will master it in special courses at the university.
After successful enrollment, the university will send you an invitation within a month, on the basis of which you can apply for a study visa at the Polish consulate. Poles are very willing to accept foreign students, so, as a rule, there are no problems with obtaining a study visa.

Video: apply to a Polish university, personal experience

There are about 452 universities in Poland, 132 of which are state-owned and 350 are private.

List of popular universities in Poland (table)

Photo gallery: popular Polish universities

V technical universities high quality education Buildings of many operating universities are real architectural monuments In Polish universities you can get one of the best educational bases The University of Wroclaw is more than 300 years old in the world - it was founded at the beginning of the 18th century; the University of Silesia, the second largest university in Poland

Job prospects after training

No matter how exciting the learning process is, the ultimate goal of study is to get a diploma and get a promising job.

Diplomas of Polish higher education institutions are quoted in all EU countries, therefore, after successful completion a university graduate has the opportunity of employment not only in a Polish company, but also in one of the companies of any other European country.

In addition, the Polish government is interested in qualified personnel and gives graduates the opportunity to look for work in the country, extending the visa validity for another year from the date of graduation.

In the process of studying, foreign students have the right to legally get a job during the period summer holidays or practice. To work the rest of the time, you must obtain a special permit.

Summary table: the pros and cons of getting an education in Poland