Study in Poland from Zimbabwe and Southern Africa: 2027 Guide
Poland has become one of the most popular study destinations for students from Southern Africa. It combines EU-recognised degrees taught in English, low tuition and living costs, and a straightforward admission process. This guide covers everything you need to plan for 2027.
Why Poland?
- Affordable: tuition of about €2,000–€6,000 a year and living costs of €500–€800 a month.
- English-taught degrees in business, IT, engineering, nursing, psychology, international relations and more.
- EU degree: recognised across Europe and internationally.
- Work while you study: full-time students with a residence permit can generally work without a separate work permit.
- Safe and welcoming: large international student communities in Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Lublin and Rzeszów.
Our partner universities
| University | City | Popular programmes |
|---|---|---|
| Vistula University | Warsaw | Management, Finance & Accounting, AI, Cyber Security, Architecture, Logistics |
| VIZJA University | Warsaw | Psychology, International Relations, Cybersecurity, Business Finance |
| WSEI University | Lublin | Computer Science, Nursing, Psychology, Management |
| UITM University | Rzeszów | Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Nursing BSN, Aviation Management |
| Akademia Tatrzańska | Nowy Targ | Civil and Mechanical Engineering, AI, International Business |
See all 60 Polish programmes, with fees, on the courses page.
Entry requirements
- Bachelor's: a school-leaving certificate such as A-level, Matric/NSC, NSSC or BGCSE. For Zimbabwean students, the Polish consulate generally expects at least 3 A-level passes for undergraduate study.
- Master's: a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field.
- English: IELTS or equivalent, or an English Medium of Instruction letter at many universities.
- Documents: passport, certified certificates and transcripts, passport photos, and sometimes legalised or apostilled documents.
The Polish student visa
You apply for a national (Type D) visa at the Polish embassy or consulate responsible for your country, after receiving your acceptance letter and paying your tuition deposit. Decisions usually take about 15 working days, up to 30 in complex cases, but appointment availability is often the real bottleneck, so book early. You will need your acceptance letter, proof of funds, health insurance and proof of accommodation. After arrival, you can apply for a temporary residence permit to stay for the full length of your degree. See the Poland page for current fees and the official link.
2027 intakes and deadlines
- February 2027 intake: apply by 15 December 2026.
- October 2027 intake: apply by 30 June 2027 (earlier is better for visa timing).
Start today
Take the readiness check to see how prepared you are, including the Poland-specific requirements for Zimbabwean applicants, or use the intake planner for a step-by-step plan. When you are ready, talk to an advisor and we will guide your application from start to finish.