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Education in Poland
Children in Poland have a right to school, and adults can usually access language or integration courses. Contact the municipality early once you have an address.
Schools and language support in Poland
Polish courses: Free courses via NGOs and some universities. Centrum Wsparcia Cudzoziemców — Regional centres funded by MSWiA — free A0–B1 Polish + integration. Ukrainians — Special free classes via Fundacja Ukraina, Ocalenie and municipal schools.
Enrolling children
Bring passports or ID, birth certificates, previous school documents, vaccination records if available, and proof of address. If documents are missing, still contact the school or municipality — children should not wait at home.
Adult language and integration courses
Learning Polish makes appointments, work and school contact much easier. Ask integration offices, adult education centres, municipalities and NGOs about free or subsidised courses.
Education-related offices
Urząd Wojewódzki (Wydział Spraw Cudzoziemców): Karta pobytu (residence card). Urząd Miasta / Gminy: PESEL, meldunek (address registration). ZUS — Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych: Social insurance, pensions. Phone: 22 560 16 00. NFZ — Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia: Public healthcare.
Frequently asked questions
Can my child start school before all documents are ready in Poland?
Yes, schools and municipalities should help children enter education even while paperwork is being completed.
Which office should I contact first in Poland?
Start with Urząd Wojewódzki (Wydział Spraw Cudzoziemców). For broader newcomer help, also check Urząd Wojewódzki (Wydział Spraw Cudzoziemców), Urząd Miasta / Gminy, ZUS — Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych.
What language will offices use in Poland?
The main administrative language is Polish. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do my children need documents to enrol in school?
Schools must enrol every child. If documents are missing, the municipality helps to sort it out — do not delay.
Can I study for free?
Public universities are free or low-cost for EU citizens and often for other residents after a qualifying period.