How to confirm language proficiency for admission to Poland?

Admission to Polish educational institutions requires foreign applicants to confirm their knowledge of the language of instruction. From 1 August 2025, new rules will come into force, according to which candidates who are not citizens of EU countries must confirm their level of Polish or English at a level not lower than B2. Find out which documents will be accepted as official confirmation

Legal advice on education and employment abroad for Ukrainians

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Starting August 1, 2025, Poland introduced new rules for foreign applicants applying to Polish universities. According to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, all students from non-EU countries must prove their proficiency in the language of instruction (Polish or English) at a minimum level of B2.

If you plan to enrol in an educational institution abroad, we recommend that you seek advice from specialists. Lawyers at Visit Ukraine can help you collect documents and find the right university.

Which documents are accepted as proof of language proficiency?

The new order from the Ministry of Science, effective from August 1, 2025, includes the following official documents for proving language proficiency:

▪️ Polish State Language Certificate — an official confirmation of Polish language proficiency.

▪️ International ECL and TELC certificates — international language certificates recognized for proof of language proficiency.

▪️ Diploma from a Polish university — if the applicant has studied at a Polish university, this can serve as proof.

▪️ Certificate of completion of preparatory courses (“zerówka”) lasting at least 9 months.

▪️ Sworn translator’s certificate — if the translator officially confirms language proficiency.

Internal university exams are not included in this list.

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How are society and educational institutions reacting?

The introduction of the new rules has sparked active discussions among students and universities. A petition has been launched requesting a delay in the implementation of the order. The Ministry of Science published an official explanation for universities regarding the process of verifying language proficiency for foreign students applying for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Key points from the Ministry's explanation:

- Foreign applicants who graduated from high school in Poland and have a high school diploma (świadectwo maturalne) are exempt from providing additional proof of Polish language proficiency.

- For applicants admitted before June 30, 2025, the old rules apply — proving language proficiency at the B2 level is not required unless specified by the internal requirements of the university.

- Applicants admitted between July 1 and 31, 2025, are subject to the new admission criteria, but universities could independently define their language verification methods.

- Starting August 1, 2025, applicants must strictly follow the new rules, and language proficiency will be verified only based on the list of documents approved by the Ministry of Science.

We remind you! Poland is changing its approach to supporting Ukrainian refugees — new rules governing social assistance, accommodation, registration and other aspects of Ukrainians' stay in the country will soon come into force. Find out exactly what will change for Ukrainians in Poland.

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