The Polish Government Scholarship 2026, known as the Stefan Banach Scholarship Programme, is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland. It enables outstanding international students from selected developing countries to pursue second-cycle (Master’s) studies in Poland, with financial support covering tuition fees (at public universities), living costs, and travel support. The programme aims to foster academic development, international cooperation, and socio-economic growth in the scholars’ home countries.

Poland is a vibrant Central European country known for its high-quality higher education, rich cultural heritage, and rapidly developing research environment. Universities in Poland offer programs in both Polish and English across many disciplines and are supervised by the Minister of Science and Higher Education. For students seeking affordable and internationally recognized qualifications, Poland provides a welcoming study environment, diverse culture, and opportunities to build global networks, making it a compelling destination for international education.

Polish Government Scholarship Summary

A fully funded Master’s scholarship for non-Polish citizens from eligible developing countries to study in Poland with monthly stipends, tuition waivers, and travel support.

Overview of the Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements vary slightly depending on the level of study, but all applicants must meet basic academic and age criteria.

General Eligibility

To apply for the Polish Government Scholarship (Stefan Banach Scholarship), candidates must:

• Should be a citizen of one of these countries: Albania, Angola, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda, Senegal, Serbia, Tanzania, Tunisia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (completed no earlier than 2023) or be in the final semester of first-cycle studies.
• Not hold a Master’s degree or equivalent.
• Demonstrate language proficiency:
  • English (B2) or Polish (A2/B2, depending on the study track).
• Submit required documents in full.
• Not have been a previous recipient of the Banach scholarship.

Program-Specific Requirements

Depending on your language path chosen, you may pursue:

1. Polish-language track:
   • A preparatory year in Polish + Master’s studies,
     or
   • Direct Master’s studies in Polish (if language ability already sufficient).
2. English-language track:
   • Master’s studies in English, plus a course in Polish language/culture before or alongside studies.

Benefits of the Polish Government Scholarship

Financial Benefits

• Monthly stipend: PLN 2,500 (for up to 12 months per academic year).
• Tuition fee exemption at public universities.
• Travel allowance: One-time payment of PLN 2,500 toward travel to Poland.
• Possible additional grant: Up to PLN 500 in documented emergency cases.

Academic and Professional Benefits

• Study in internationally recognized Polish universities.
• Access to advanced academic resources and expert faculty.
• Cultural immersion and networking with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Enhanced career prospects and global employability.

Documents Required for the Polish Government Scholarship

Applicants must prepare and submit a complete set of documents, including:

Required Documents

• Valid passport scan.
• Bachelor’s degree diploma or confirmation of expected completion.
• Academic transcripts.
• Proof of application or admission to a Polish university if required by specific university admission rules.
• Language proficiency certificate (English or Polish).
• A self-presentation video (1–3 minutes) explaining your motivation and study plan.
• Any additional attachments specified in the official call announcement.

How to Apply for the Polish Government Scholarship 2026

The application process involves academic preparation and formal submission through designated channels.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check eligibility and gather documents.
2. Choose your field of study and university in Poland.
3. Apply for admission to the university (if required for the scholarship track).
4. Register and log into the NAWA application system
5. Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
6. Upload your video presentation as part of the application.
7. Submit before the deadline or before 300 applications are received for your country group.

Application Tips

• Apply early: submissions close either on the deadline or once 300 applications are received per group.
• Prepare a clear, professional video statement of your motivation.
• Double-check language certificates and translations.
• Ensure that all documents are legible and complete to avoid delays.
• Keep copies of submitted files for your records.

Deadline for the Polish Government Scholarship

• Final application deadline: Around June. Applications may close earlier if quotas fill for your country group.
• Results announcement: By September

Applicants should monitor deadlines closely and avoid last-minute submissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)