English-Taught Programmes, Explained
Updated August 3, 2026
TL;DR
"English-taught" means lectures, exams and official coursework are conducted in English — you don't need Polish to study or graduate. Most programmes require proof of English level, typically B2 (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80) or equivalent — some universities test this themselves instead of accepting a certificate. English-taught programmes are fee-paying for everyone, Polish and international students alike — unlike Polish-taught public programmes, which are free for EU citizens. Class sizes for English-taught tracks are often smaller than Polish-taught ones, since they serve mostly international cohorts. Daily life outside class — paperwork, some services — still happens in Polish, so basic survival vocabulary helps even though it isn't academically required.
MAReviewed by Mohamed Acraouchi
What "English-taught" covers
It means the entire academic experience for that programme — lectures, seminars, exams, your thesis if required — happens in English. It doesn't mean the university itself operates in English; administrative offices, campus signage and most staff outside the programme still default to Polish.
Language requirements to get in
Universities typically ask for a recognised certificate (IELTS 6.0–6.5, TOEFL 80+, or equivalent) or proof of prior English-medium education. Some — particularly for competitive fields like Medicine — run their own English proficiency check as part of the entrance exam instead of relying solely on a certificate.
Why it costs money even for Poles
Public Polish universities are free for Polish and EU citizens — but only for programmes taught in Polish. English-taught programmes sit outside that free-tuition guarantee and charge a fee to every student regardless of nationality, which is why the tuition figures on this site apply to Polish and international students in the same programme alike.
What it doesn't cover
Studying in English gets you through your degree, but daily bureaucracy — residence registration, bank accounts, some healthcare interactions — happens in Polish. Most universities offer optional Polish language courses alongside the main programme for exactly this reason.