The University of Warsaw is one of Central and Eastern Europe’s most prestigious universities and a leading destination for international students seeking high-quality education in Europe. Consistently ranked among the top universities in Poland and globally recognized for research excellence, the University of Warsaw attracts students from over 100 countries. One of its strongest advantages is affordability combined with generous funding opportunities, including fully funded and partially funded scholarships tailored to international students.
For students who may not have the financial means to self-fund their studies, the University of Warsaw offers multiple scholarship routes supported by the Polish government, the university itself, and European and international institutions. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, monthly living stipends, accommodation support, and health insurance.
This comprehensive guide breaks down how international students can apply for fully funded scholarships at the University of Warsaw, including scholarship types, eligibility requirements, application steps, deadlines, and official links to ensure you rely on accurate and up-to-date information.
Why Choose the University of Warsaw as an International Student
The University of Warsaw is Poland’s largest and most research-intensive institution, offering more than 200 programs across humanities, sciences, social sciences, economics, law, and STEM fields. Many programs are available in English, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels.
Key benefits include internationally recognized degrees, low cost of living compared to Western Europe, strong academic partnerships across Europe, access to EU research funding, and a strategic location within the Schengen Area. Graduates also benefit from post-study residence options in Poland.
Official university website: https://www.uw.edu.pl/en/
Overview of Fully Funded Scholarships at the University of Warsaw
Fully funded scholarships at the University of Warsaw generally come from three main sources: Polish government scholarships, University of Warsaw internal scholarships, and external international funding programs. Some are awarded automatically based on merit, while others require separate applications either before or after admission.
These scholarships are mainly available for master’s, PhD, and research-level studies, with limited fully funded options at the undergraduate level.
Polish Government Scholarships for International Students
NAWA Scholarships (Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange)
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) is the primary government body supporting international students in Poland. NAWA offers several fully funded scholarship programs that international students at the University of Warsaw can apply for.
Popular NAWA programs include:
– Banach Scholarship Programme (for engineering, technical, and science fields)
– Lukasiewicz Scholarship Programme (for science, engineering, and IT)
– Poland My First Choice Programme (English-taught degrees)
– Government Scholarships under Bilateral Agreements
Most NAWA scholarships cover full tuition, a monthly stipend, and sometimes relocation support. Applications are submitted directly through NAWA rather than the university.
Official NAWA website: https://nawa.gov.pl/en
Scholarships Under Bilateral Agreements
Poland has scholarship agreements with many countries in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are often coordinated through the student’s home government or Ministry of Education and provide full funding for study at Polish public universities, including the University of Warsaw.
Information is typically published by national ministries and linked via: https://nawa.gov.pl/en/students
University of Warsaw Internal Scholarships
Rector’s Scholarship for Outstanding Students
The University of Warsaw offers merit-based scholarships for high-performing students, including international students. The Rector’s Scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, research achievements, publications, or artistic accomplishments. While often partial, in combination with tuition waivers and other funding, it can effectively result in full funding.
University scholarship overview: https://www.uw.edu.pl/en/scholarships/
Tuition Fee Waivers
Some international students may qualify for tuition exemptions based on nationality, academic merit, or participation in specific programs. Students from the EU/EEA study tuition-free, and some non-EU students may qualify for similar benefits depending on scholarship or agreement type.
Tuition information: https://www.uw.edu.pl/en/tuition-fees/
Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at the University of Warsaw
Doctoral candidates have the strongest access to fully funded opportunities at the University of Warsaw. Most PhD programs operate under structured doctoral schools aligned with national regulations.
PhD students typically receive:
– Full tuition coverage
– Monthly doctoral stipend funded by the Polish government
– Research funding and conference support
PhD admissions are competitive and usually include interviews and research proposal evaluations.
Doctoral Schools at UW: https://szkolydoktorskie.uw.edu.pl/
Erasmus+ and EU-Funded Scholarships
International students admitted to eligible programs may benefit from Erasmus+ scholarships, particularly at the master’s level. Erasmus Mundus joint master’s programs involving the University of Warsaw may offer fully funded packages covering tuition, monthly allowance, travel, and insurance.
Erasmus+ overview: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
External International Scholarships Accepted at the University of Warsaw
The University of Warsaw recognizes and supports students holding external international scholarships such as:
– Fulbright Foreign Student Program
– DAAD (for selected joint or exchange pathways)
– Foundation-based scholarships from international NGOs
Students must still secure admission to the university but may rely entirely on external funding for full support.
Fulbright Poland: https://fulbright.edu.pl/
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process typically follows two parallel tracks: admission and scholarship application.
First, students apply for admission to an eligible degree program via the University of Warsaw’s online recruitment system (IRK). Admission requirements include academic transcripts, language proficiency (usually IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs), a statement of purpose, and sometimes an entrance exam or interview.
IRK admissions portal: https://irk.uw.edu.pl/
Second, applicants apply for scholarships through the relevant scholarship provider such as NAWA or Erasmus+. Some scholarships require proof of admission, while others allow conditional admission.
Language Requirements for Scholarship Applicants
English-taught programs require proof of English proficiency, usually IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL. Polish-taught programs require Polish language proficiency at a qualifying level. Some scholarships include funded Polish language preparatory courses.
Language requirements: https://www.uw.edu.pl/en/admissions/
Key Deadlines to Watch
Deadlines vary by program and scholarship provider, but most applications open between January and March for the following academic year. NAWA scholarship deadlines often fall between March and May, while University of Warsaw admissions typically close between April and July, depending on the program.
Applicants are strongly advised to start preparations at least 6–9 months in advance.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Securing Full Funding
Strong academic performance is important, but alignment with scholarship objectives is equally critical. Clearly demonstrate how your academic goals align with Poland’s educational priorities, research fields, or bilateral agreements.
Well-written motivation letters, strong recommendation letters, and a clear study or research plan significantly strengthen applications. For PhD applicants, contacting potential supervisors early is highly recommended.
Applying to multiple funding sources simultaneously increases your chances of receiving full support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants miss out on funding because they assume admission automatically includes funding. Others apply for universities without checking scholarship eligibility criteria. Submitting incomplete documents, ignoring language requirements, or missing deadlines are also frequent reasons for rejection.
Always rely on official sources rather than third-party claims of “guaranteed” scholarships.
Life as a Funded International Student in Warsaw
Warsaw is one of the most affordable capital cities in the European Union. Funded students typically find that scholarship stipends comfortably cover rent, food, transportation, and basic living expenses. International students also benefit from discounted public transport and access to student housing.
The city offers a vibrant cultural life, modern infrastructure, and strong academic and professional networks.
Conclusion
Applying for fully funded scholarships at the University of Warsaw is a realistic and achievable goal for international students with strong academic potential and careful planning. Through Polish government programs, university-based funding, EU scholarships, and external awards, students can access high-quality education in one of Europe’s fastest-growing academic hubs without financial strain.
By understanding available funding pathways, using official application portals, preparing strong documentation, and meeting deadlines, international students can successfully secure full funding and build a strong academic and professional future at the University of Warsaw.