Moving to a new country is exciting but can be a little daunting, especially if you have to think about your own or your child’s education. Of course you’d want to choose the right school, and in Poland there are a number of pathways, systems and traditions to get your head around. This guide is here to help families like yours understand how Poland’s education system works and what to expect from its culture. We’ll also take a look at universities and post-secondary options so you have a clear idea of the possibilities ahead.

Understanding the Polish School System

Navigating a new education system can feel overwhelming, particularly when language, traditions and structures differ from what you’re used to. Whether you’re moving to Poland permanently or for a few years, understanding how schooling is structured will help you make informed choices for your family.

The Structure of Schooling in Poland

The Polish education system is divided into several clear stages, most of which are publicly funded and follow a national curriculum. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Preschool / Kindergarten Preparation (Przedszkole): Ages roughly 6 (one year before primary school)
   It’s compulsory for children aged six to attend a preschool institution the year before starting primary school.

2. Primary School (Szkoła Podstawowa): Ages approximately 7 to 15
   Primary schooling covers 8 years of general education (Grades 1-8) after the preschool year. During the early years (Grades 1-3) children are often taught by one main teacher; from Grades 4-8 they are taught by subject teachers. At the end of Grade 8 there is a national competence/exam (egzamin ósmoklasisty).

3. Lower Secondary / Post-Primary & Upper Secondary (Various Options): Ages ~15 to 18+
   After primary school, students move into secondary level education. This can take a number of forms: general secondary school (liceum) (usually 4 years) leading to the Matura (matriculation exam); technical secondary school (technikum) usually 5 years; or vocational/trade paths.

What Comes After Secondary School?

Once students complete upper secondary education (and pass the Matura, if they wish to attend university) they have several options:

• University or higher education – Public and private universities, colleges and higher education institutions offer bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees.

• Vocational / technical training – For students focused on trades, technical qualifications, apprenticeships and immediate employment.

• Combination pathways – Some students move between vocational paths, technical training and later go on to higher education if they choose.

Can Students Switch Between Paths?

Yes,  the Polish system allows flexibility. A student can take a technical path and later decide to pursue a general secondary programme and then university, provided they meet the requirements (such as passing the Matura or equivalent). The reforms and structure are designed to offer multiple options. 

School Types: Public, Private or International?

When choosing a school, especially as an expat family, you’ll typically encounter three main categories:

• Public schools (Szkoły publiczne): These are run by the government, tuition-free for residents at the basic level, and follow the national curriculum.

• Private and non-public schools (Szkoły niepubliczne): These may charge tuition, can offer smaller class sizes or different educational focuses, but still operate under Polish regulations.

• International schools / bilingual schools: Especially in larger cities (e.g., Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław) you’ll find schools offering international curricula (IB, British, American) or bilingual programmes, which can be a smoother landing for families arriving from abroad.
  When choosing your school, consider questions such as: language of instruction (Polish vs bilingual/English), support for non-Polish speakers, curriculum recognition if you might move again, and how well the school integrates international students.

Universities & Higher Education in Poland

Poland has a well-established higher education system, aligned with European standards (Bologna Process) and offering many pathways for both local and international students.

• The academic year runs typically from October/November to June (varies by institution).

• Many universities are public, with relatively affordable tuition (especially for EU students) and a growing number of programmes offered in English.

• A student usually completes a bachelor’s degree (3 years) followed by a master’s degree (2 years). Some fields (medicine, pharmacy) have longer cycle programmes. 

• For international families: check how your previous schooling is recognised in Poland (e.g., Matura equivalency), whether the programme is in English or needs Polish fluency, and whether there are international student services.

Cultural School Norms in Poland

Understanding the culture around schooling will help your family adjust more smoothly.

• Language: The primary language of instruction is Polish. For children of moving families who don’t yet speak Polish, look for schools offering language support or international/bilingual options.

• Formality and respect: Teachers are generally addressed formally (Pan/Pani + surname). Punctuality and respect for the learning environment are valued.

• Uniforms: Many schools don’t have strict formal uniforms, but some private or international schools may have dress codes, check each case.

• School year and breaks: The school year runs from early September (sometimes late August) to late June, with a break in winter and summer.

• Parent involvement: Schools often have parent-teacher meetings and expect parents to engage in their children’s education.

• Languages taught: English is commonly taught as the first foreign language; many schools offer a second foreign language (German, Spanish, Russian) from early secondary.

Where to Begin Your Search

Here’s a step-by-step to help you find the right school:

1. Define your priorities: Do you care most about curriculum (Polish national vs international), language of instruction, class size, extracurriculars, cost or location?

2. Research schools: In your region (city/town) look at public schools, private schools, and international/bilingual schools. Check their websites, ask about support for non-Polish speaking students.

3. Visit schools: If possible, tour the school, meet key staff, ask about student support, integration programs, language transition, etc.

4. Talk to other parents: Local expat groups or parent forums can be invaluable. They’ll have first-hand experience of how the school performs for families new to Poland.

5. Consider language support: If your child doesn’t speak Polish, find out about remedial Polish language classes and how the school helps children integrate.

6. Understand admissions & timelines: Find out when enrolment opens, what documents are needed (previous school records, language certificates), whether there’s a waiting list.

7. Logistics: Consider commute, public transport availability, safety, class schedules, after-school care if needed.

8. Look ahead to pathways: If your child is nearing secondary school age, check how the school’s secondary and tertiary pathways work, general vs vocational routes, university entry etc.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Finding the right school for your child in Poland is an important decision, but Poland offers a flexible, internationally connected education system with multiple pathways for academic and vocational success. With the right research, early planning, and clear priorities, you’ll be able to make a confident choice.

Whether you’re drawn to a Polish public school, a private bilingual school, or an international programme, Poland