The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange announces the opening of applications for the Polonista NAWA 2026 scholarship program, an excellent opportunity for foreign students and researchers interested in Polish language and culture. The scholarship includes monthly funding for Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD students, as well as academic researchers. The program aims to promote the Polish language and expand the scope of Polish studies internationally by providing the necessary financial support for studying or conducting research in Poland's most prestigious universities.
This scholarship in Poland is an effective way to gain leading educational experience in the heart of Europe and to develop personal and academic skills in an advanced research environment. The benefits of this program are not limited to financial support, but also extend to integration into the European academic community and the exchange of experiences with international researchers. We invite you to review all details and requirements in this report to ensure the submission of a complete application that increases your chances of acceptance into one of Poland's top universities.
Scholarship Location
- Country: Poland
- City: Various cities (Warsaw, Poznań, Krakow, Katowice, Toruń)
- University: University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University, Adam Mickiewicz University, and others
- Study Duration: One or two semesters (for research projects: 3 to 12 months)
- Funding Type: Monthly financial support (partial to full coverage of expenses)
- Start Date: Academic Year 2026-2027
Granting Authority
The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) oversees this ambitious program. This agency is the official government institution responsible for promoting the internationalization of higher education in Poland and supporting the mobility of students and researchers through competitive and internationally recognized scholarship programs.
Scholarship Details
Nature of the Scholarship and Study
The Polonista 2026 scholarship program focuses on the fields of literary studies, Polish language education, history, art history, and comparative studies. The program allows foreign students to spend one or two semesters studying, while the researcher track focuses on completing research projects that contribute to the dissemination of Polish culture and language in their home academic institutions.
Benefits and Funding
- Monthly stipend for Bachelor's and Master's students: 2,000 Polish Złoty.
- Monthly stipend for PhD students: 3,300 Polish Złoty.
- Special funding for foreign researchers to complete their projects for periods up to 12 months.
- Exemption from tuition fees at host Polish public universities.
- Opportunity to research and study at prestigious academic centers such as the University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University.
Academic Qualifications and Requirements
- The applicant must be a foreign student or researcher interested in Polish language and culture.
- Enrolment in relevant specializations (literature, history, languages, arts).
- Proof of academic proficiency in the current course of study (good grades in high school diploma and university years).
- For researchers, a clear research proposal serving the program's objectives must be submitted.
Required Documents
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English or Polish.
- Copies of obtained university degrees (Bachelor's or Master's) with transcripts.
- Proof of enrollment at a recognized university outside Poland.
- Research project (for researchers and PhD students).
- Copy of a valid passport.
Application Conditions
Applicants must be foreign nationals (non-Polish) and demonstrate a genuine interest in developing their Polish language skills. Applicants must adhere to the program's timeline and the academic specializations specified in the NAWA announcement. Those who have previously benefited from the same program for the same study level are not eligible to apply again.
Official Application Method
Applications are submitted exclusively through the official electronic system of the NAWA agency. Applicants must create an account on the platform, accurately fill in their personal and academic data, and then upload the required documents in a clear digital format. To avoid rejection, it is advisable to start the application early, review all data before final submission, and ensure that the chosen specialization matches the list of Polish universities participating in the program.
Application Deadline
The deadline for receiving applications is set for April 3, 2026. No applications will be accepted after this date, regardless of the reasons.
The Polonista 2026 scholarship is a golden opportunity for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of Polish culture and receive financial support for studying in Europe. Thanks to the monthly stipend and the prestigious academic environment, this program remains an excellent choice for Master's and PhD students and researchers. For more information, you can visit the official website of the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions about Poland Scholarship 2026
Is the scholarship open to all specializations?
No, the scholarship is exclusively for studies related to Polish language, literature, history, art history, and comparative studies.
What is the monthly stipend for Master's students?
Master's students receive a monthly amount of 2,000 Polish Złoty throughout the scholarship period.
Can I apply if I don't speak Polish?
The program targets those interested in the language, but it is preferable for applicants to have a basic understanding or documented academic desire to learn the Polish language.