Poland NAWA Scholarship 2026: Check Eligibility and Application Process Here

Poland NAWA Scholarship 2026 – Dreaming of pursuing a master’s degree in the heart of Europe, where rich history and modern innovation intertwine? The Poland NAWA Scholarship 2026 for the winter semester offers a remarkable, fully-funded opportunity to turn that dream into reality. If you’re an ambitious student from a developing country, this guide is your first step toward an incredible academic and cultural journey. Navigating scholarship applications can feel daunting, but with the right information, it becomes a clear and manageable path. This article will provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to successfully apply for this prestigious scholarship, ensuring you have the best possible chance of securing your spot.

In my experience advising students, the biggest hurdle is often just getting started. Many feel overwhelmed by the requirements and deadlines. But I’ve seen countless determined applicants succeed by breaking the process down into smaller, actionable steps. This guide is designed to do exactly that for you.

Your Future in Poland: A Snapshot of the NAWA Scholarship

For those who love to see the big picture at a glance, here’s a quick summary of what the Stefan Banach Scholarship Programme—the official name for this NAWA initiative—offers. This program is a joint initiative of the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA), designed to support the socio-economic development of developing nations by investing in their future leaders.

The Poland NAWA Scholarship 2026 is more than just financial aid; it’s a gateway to a world-class education and an unforgettable life experience. It’s a chance to grow academically, professionally, and personally in a country that is both deeply rooted in its history and at the forefront of innovation.

The application process requires diligence and careful planning, but the reward is immeasurable. Take that first step today. Start your research, gather your documents, and craft an application that truly reflects your potential. Your winter of opportunity in Poland is waiting.

Are You the Perfect Candidate? Understanding Eligibility for the Poland NAWA Scholarship 2026

Before you start dreaming of strolling through the historic streets of Krakow or Warsaw, let’s ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. This scholarship is tailored for a specific group of future leaders.

The primary requirement is your nationality. The program is open to citizens of several dozen countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. You can find the full list of eligible countries in the official announcement. It is crucial to verify your country is on this list before proceeding. Please note, if you have Polish citizenship or have applied for it, you are not eligible.

Academic Background:

• You must either be in the final year of your first-cycle (Bachelor’s) studies or have obtained your Bachelor’s degree no earlier than 2023.
• You cannot already hold a Master’s degree or have previously received a NAWA scholarship.

Language Proficiency:

Your chosen study program will determine the language requirement.

• For studies in English: You must demonstrate English proficiency at a minimum B2 level.
• For studies in Polish: You have two paths. You can either prove Polish language skills at a B2 level to start your studies directly, or at an A2 level to be eligible for a one-year preparatory course before your Master’s program.

What the Scholarship Offers: A Generous Financial Package

The term “fully funded” is what catches every applicant’s eye, and the NAWA scholarship delivers on this promise. The financial support is comprehensive, designed to allow you to focus entirely on your studies and cultural immersion.

• No Tuition Fees: Your education at public universities in Poland is completely covered.
• Monthly Stipend: You will receive a monthly stipend of PLN 1,700 to cover your living expenses. During the preparatory course (if applicable), this amount is also provided.
• Relocation and Settlement Grant: A one-time grant is provided to help with the initial costs of moving to Poland.
• Dissertation Support: An allowance may be provided to assist with the costs of writing your Master’s thesis.

This generous package makes studying in Poland accessible, removing significant financial barriers for talented students.

Your Step-by-Step Application Guide

Feeling confident you’re a good fit? Excellent. Let’s move on to the practical steps of putting your application together. I’ve seen many successful applicants who are organized and start this process early. Remember the deadline: June 27, 2025, at 3:00 PM Warsaw time. However, a critical point to remember is that the call for applications might close earlier for your region if 300 applications are submitted. Early submission is key!

Step 1: Choose Your Path and University

You have two main paths to choose from:

1. Studies in Polish: This involves a one-year preparatory course in Poland followed by your Master’s studies.
2. Studies in English: You will directly enter your Master’s program.

Independently of the scholarship application, you must apply for admission to a Polish university. You can choose from public universities supervised by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

Here’s a look at an official announcement that can help you stay updated.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

This is where your organizational skills will shine. You will need to prepare scans of the following documents:

• A valid passport.
• Your Bachelor’s degree certificate (or a certificate of graduation if you haven’t received the diploma yet).
• Academic transcripts.
• A certificate of language proficiency (English B2 or Polish A2/B2).
• The document confirming your admission to a Master’s program in Poland (or that you are in the process of applying).
• A recommendation letter.

Ensure that any documents not in English or Polish are translated by a certified translator.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

All applications must be submitted electronically through the NAWA ICT system. You will need to create an account, fill in the application form, and upload all your prepared documents. Do not wait until the last day to do this, as technical glitches can happen.

Standing Out: Tips for a Winning Application

With a limited number of slots, you need to make your application memorable. Here are some tips based on what I’ve seen work for successful candidates.

1. A Compelling Motivation Letter

This is your chance to speak directly to the selection committee. Go beyond simply stating your academic goals. Tell a story.

• Connect your past to your future: How has your background and Bachelor’s degree prepared you for your chosen Master’s program in Poland?
• Be specific about “Why Poland?”: Research the universities and professors you’re interested in. Mention specific courses or research areas that excite you.
• Show your leadership potential: How will this scholarship help you contribute to your home country’s development upon your return?

2. A Strong Recommendation Letter

Choose a professor or supervisor who knows you well and can speak to your academic abilities and character. Provide them with your CV, your motivation letter, and clear instructions well in advance of the deadline.

3. Pay Attention to Detail

Double-check, and then triple-check your application for any errors or missing information. A polished and professional application demonstrates your seriousness and respect for the opportunity.

For a glimpse into the international student community in Poland, check out posts like this.

After You Apply: The Waiting Game

Once your application is submitted, the selection process begins. The results are typically announced by the end of September. This period can be nerve-wracking, but use it productively. Continue with your university admission process and begin learning some basic Polish phrases – it will go a long way in making your arrival smoother!

FAQ

1: Can I work while studying on the NAWA scholarship?

While the scholarship is designed to cover your living expenses, many international students choose to work part-time. Regulations for student work can vary, so it is best to check the rules that apply to your student visa once you are in Poland.

2: Do I need to have my university admission confirmed before applying for the scholarship?

The official guidelines state that you need to provide a document confirming your participation in the recruitment for a Master’s program. This can be a final admission letter or a conditional one, or even a promise of admission from the university. It’s best to have started the university application process concurrently.

3: What are the best fields of study to apply for?

The Banach Scholarship Programme prioritizes fields such as engineering and technical sciences, agricultural sciences, exact sciences, and life sciences. While some social sciences and humanities are available, the focus is on these key areas for development.

4: Is there an age limit for the scholarship?

The regulations do not specify a strict age limit. The key requirement is that you have completed your Bachelor’s degree no earlier than 2023 or are in your final year of study.