Learning Polish: Free and Paid Options
Where to learn Polish as an adult — free state courses, university programmes, apps, and language exams.
Updated 2026-01-20 · 1 min read
Why learn Polish
Even basic Polish transforms daily life — bureaucracy, doctors, and neighbours all become easier. B1 is required for permanent residence and citizenship.
Free options
- State integration course — for recognised foreigners; Polish language
- civic knowledge.
- NGO courses — Fundacja Goście-Dom-Gospodarze, Caritas, Polish Language Centre network.
- Conversation exchange — Tandem, Meetup groups, language cafés.
Paid options
- University courses — e.g., Jagiellonian, Warsaw University summer schools; rigorous, ~2000–6000 PLN/term.
- Private language schools — group ~40–80 PLN/h, individual 100–200.
- Online tutors — iTalki, Preply; 50–150 PLN/h.
Apps
- Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise — good for vocabulary.
- Polski.pro, Clozemaster — reading/listening.
- Podcasts: Real Polish, Polski Daily.
The certificate
The państwowy egzamin certyfikatowy is held several times a year; B1 is the common target. Fees ~400–600 PLN.
FAQ
- Are there free Polish courses for foreigners?
- Yes. The state funds integration courses ( kursy integracyjne) and some NGOs run free classes. Universities and language schools charge.
- Which exam proves Polish proficiency?
- The state certificate (państwowy egzamin certyfikatowy) at B1–C2 levels is the official proof required for citizenship and permanent residence.
Sources
- gov.pl — Learning Polish (state resources) (updated 2026-01-12)
Read more
- Adult Education and Vocational Courses in PolandFree and paid adult courses — qualifying vocational training, upskilling, and where to find language or IT classes as a newcomer.
- How the Polish Education System WorksFrom przedszkole to doctorate — the levels, diplomas, and what foreign equivalents mean.
- International Schools in PolandEnglish-language international schools in Warsaw, Kraków and Wrocław — curricula, fees, and how to choose.