University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw (UW) is the largest and one of the most prestigious universities in Poland. Established in 1816, it has a long tradition of academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Central and Eastern Europe. The university is located in the capital city of Warsaw, providing students with access to a vibrant cultural and economic environment.

UW offers a wide range of study programs in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and exact sciences. It has 24 faculties and numerous research centers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research, with many of its scholars contributing to international projects and publications.

The University of Warsaw is home to a diverse student body, with over 40,000 students, including international students from different parts of the world. It actively participates in exchange programs such as Erasmus+, allowing students to gain international experience. The university also collaborates with numerous institutions worldwide, enhancing its global academic reputation.

The main campus of UW is located in the historic center of Warsaw, featuring a mix of modern and classical architecture. The university provides excellent facilities, including well-equipped libraries, laboratories, and student organizations that support academic and extracurricular activities.

UW graduates are highly valued in the job market, with many alumni achieving success in various fields, including politics, business, science, and culture. The university's commitment to high-quality education, research, and international cooperation makes it a top choice for students seeking a world-class education in Poland.

• Faculty of Applied Linguistics

  The history of the Faculty for Applied Linguistics is a very rich one and it goes back to the 50s of the previous century. During its 60 year history both the name and the structure underwent significant changes. The departments representing East Slavonic philology were founded in the 1950s: Russian Philology in 1950, Ukrainian Philology in 1953, and Belarusian Philology in 1956.

  In 1972 the Institute of Applied Linguistics came into being, the first academic unit to deal with the wide-ranging subject matter of applied linguistics. 

• Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Resocialisation

  Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Resocialisation was founded in 1990., It consists of two autonomous institutes, conducting complementary research programs and courses of study: Institute of Social Prevention and Resocialisation(established in 1972) and the Institute of Applied Social Sciences (established in 1990. ).

• Faculty of “Artes Liberales”

  The newly founded Faculty of “Artes Liberales” at the University of Warsaw continues and develops all the scientific activities of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies “Artes Liberales” (IBI AL) and of the former Centre for Studies on the Classical Tradition in Poland and East-Central Europe OBTA (twice the winner of the Hanna Arendt Prize for “innovative programs and interdisciplinary study in the humanities”), which still forms one of its most important departments. From 1992 various scientific programs of interdisciplinary research on the Greek and Roman tradition as well as experimental academic studies (B.A., M.A. Ph.D.) have been realized with a close participation of partners from this region of Europe, chiefly from Ukraine, Russia and Belarus

• Faculty of Biology

  The FoB has 140 faculty members, of which 60 are professors, and ca. 150 staff, and comprises institutes of Biochemistry, Botany, Experimental Biology and Biotechnology of Plants, Genetics and Biotechnology, Microbiology, and Zoology, the Botanical Garden funded in 1818, adjacent to the Łazienki (Royal Baths) Park in Warsaw, and four field stations in North-East Poland, including one in the Białowieża National Park, the only natural forest complex in Europe. The Faculty is housed in a modern dedicated building of over 18,000 sq. meters on the Ochota Campus, within walking distance from University Faculties of Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Informatics and Mechanics, and Physics, Warsaw Medical University, and five bio-medical research institutes. Two new buildings to which parts of the FoB will move from current locations are to be completed in near future. The Campus is conveniently located on Żwirki i Wigury Avenue, fifteen minutes by bus from the Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport, twenty minutes from the Botanical Garden, and thirty from the City and the main University Campus.

• Faculty of Chemistry

  The Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, is a large research and teaching center. There are fully developed programs in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic, nuclear, organic and physical chemistry as well as in chemical physics. 
  The Faculty has been regarded as one of the top chemistry departments in the country for decades, and it attracts outstanding faculty and students. Many faculty members have distinguished themselves both nationally and internationally.

• Faculty of Economic Sciences

  Faculty of Economic Sciences' degree programmes combine solid foundation of academic education with high quality of specialised knowledge, without which one cannot smoothly function in modern economic environment. Our graduates are respected and sought out by employers and easily find employment in various institutions. University of Warsaw is one of the most prestigious universities in this part of Europe.

• Faculty of Education

  The Faculty of Education at the University of Warsaw is the oldest department of education in Poland – it has existed for 60 years. It provides the highest level of training for future pedagogues, teachers, socio-cultural animators, educators, tutors, education policy specialists, pedagogical therapists and andragogues. Our graduates may take up work in public educational, social and cultural institutions and organizations, as well as NGOs and the private sector.

  Our students and graduates work in schools, kindergartens, adoption centres, children’s homes, community centres, the local media, psychological and pedagogical clinics. They also work as independent educators and trainers in various fields, and implement educational, preventive and socio-cultural projects within the NGO sector.

  By choosing the Faculty of Education you will join a large group of students from one of the best of Polish universities. For many years the University of Warsaw and the Faculty of Education have occupied top positions in national rankings created by the media.

• Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies

  The Department of Geography was created by Professor Stanisław Lencewicz (1889-1944), who received his doctorate at Neuchâtel and postdoctoral degree (habilitation) at Lviv. The Department of Geography was established as part of the Faculty of Philosophy on 1 April 1918.

  Honorary University of Warsaw degrees (honoris causa degrees) presented by its geographical division in 1962-2004 were awarded to: Professor Sir Dudley Stamp, Professor Konstantin A. Salishchev, Professor Raul Preibisch, Professor Stanisław Leszczycki and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In 1999, to commemorate Professor Jerzy Kondracki, a medal was established in his name for his contribution and services to the Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies of the University of Warsaw. The Medal is awarded to those who have made a significant contribution to the development of the Faculty and to Polish geography.

• Faculty of Geology

  The Faculty consists of 3 Institutes:

• Faculty of History

  The Faculty was founded in the central campus of the University of Warsaw in the heart of the historical center of the Polish capital. In the unique atmosphere of baroque and classical university buildings the historical science has been cultivated, taught and learned since the end of the 18th century.

  The Faculty of History is a multidisciplinary unit, characterized by a high scientific potential. It consists of the 7 units and currently employs full time 270 academics, including 43 full professors, 68 University of Warsaw professors, 136 doctors and 19 MA holders. Retired professors are also important for the Faculty – they support teaching, sustain scientific activity and international contacts. However, it is the students who are the greatest intellectual capital of our Faculty. In the current academic year there are about 4000 students specializing in various fields: ca. 1650 in full-time programs, 1880 enrolled in evening or part-time studies, and 480 in postgraduate studies. In addition, the Faculty provides a PhD program with ca. 110 post-graduate students.

• Faculty of Journalism and Political Science

  Today it is one of the biggest and most prestigious faculties of the University of Warsaw. It employs over 300 people, including around 250 recognized academic teachers. It educates (in all fields of study and all types of studies) over 7 000 students every year! Its rich educational offer includes full-time, evening and extramural studies, Bachelor’s and Master’s degree studies as well as post-graduate and Ph.D studies,realised within the educational offer of five units: the Institute of Journalism, the Institute of Political Sciences, the Institute of Social Policy, the Institute of International Relations and the Chair of European Studies.

• Faculty of Law and Administration

  The Faculty of Law and Administration is one of the oldest faculties at the University of Warsaw. The idea and first plans to establish a university in Warsaw, including law studies, arose in the period of the first partition of Poland. Their realization came in 1774, which is when the Board of National Education became involved in the creation of the Capital University. As the School of Law and Administration was established in 1811, its management was handed over to the Supervising Board comprising, inter al., Stanisław Staszic and S. B. Linde, both figures of considerable import into Polish history.

  Nowadays, there are about 7,000 students, numerous post-graduate students as well as the select few dozens of PhD students at the Faculty of Law. This makes our Faculty the largest Law Faculty in Poland. Such a great number of students required the working and teaching conditions to be improved. The Collegium Iuridicum I has been the main seat of the Faculty since 1940’s but the new Collegium Iuridicum II was opened in October 1998; this has not only greatly improved the teaching and learning conditions at the Faculty but also made it possible for the Faculty to host a number of conferences, extracurricular seminars as well as a number of Schools of Foreign Law. Further development of the Faculty's premises is under way, by October 2005 Collegium Iuridcum III comprising Library and offices will have been opened to the academic community.

• Faculty of Management

  Faculty of Management was established in 1972 as part of the University of Warsaw. It is the oldest management school in Central and Eastern Europe. Nowadays, it is one of the most respected management education and research centers in Poland. The Faculty offers various programs of study on four levels of education – bachelor, master, doctoral and postgraduate studies. At present more than 6 000 international and Polish students were enrolled at the Faculty. Faculty of Management is ranked in the "A" research category of the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education, being a leading research institution in the field of management.

• Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Mechanics

  The Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Mechanics (MIM), with 192 faculty members and researchers, is engaged in a wide spectrum of research areas, ranging from basic research in pure mathematics and theoretical computer science, to applied research in applied mathematics and applied areas of informatics. The Faculty consists of three Institutes: Mathematics (90 faculty members), Informatics (72 faculty members), and Applied Mathematics and Mechanics (with 30 faculty members). Traditionally the Faculty has its strengths in selected areas of Mathematics and Informatics. In addition it expands the scope of research by focusing on some truly multidisciplinary areas such as Financial Mathematics or Computational Biology. An independent Section of Economic, Financial and Insurance Mathematics consists of faculty members from both Institutes: Mathematics and Applied Mathematics and Mechanics.

• Faculty of Modern Languages

  Modern language studies were part of the Faculty of Humanistic Studies of Warsaw University established in 1946. In 1951 the Faculty of Philology was set up. It comprised foreign language and Polish studies. In 1968 the Faculty of Foreign Philologies was created. It was re-named as the Faculty of Modern Languages in 1976. Until 2005 it included the Institute of Oriental Studies. The faculty is a federation of several organisational units, which run full-time and part-time studies in the following fields:

  • English Studies (BA and MA)
  • German Studies (BA and MA)
  • French Studies (BA and MA)
  • Iberian Studies (BA and MA)
  • Ugro-Finnish Studies (BA and MA)
  • Italian Studies (BA and MA)
  • Language and Culture Studies (BA and MA, run by the Institute of
    English Studies)

  Before the academic year 2007/2008, five-year uniform MA studies were offered. Since then they have been split into BA and MA programmes.
  The Faculty guarantees academic education of the highest international quality, and the different fields of study have achieved great renown over the last several decades. The Faculty of Modern Languages is entitled to award doctoral and post-doctoral degrees in linguistics and literary studies.

• Faculty of Oriental Studies

  1932 – Foundation of Institute of Oriental Studies of the University of Warsaw. 

  The Faculty has run the Postgraduate Research Ph.D. Programme. The programme comprises 4 years in which the student is required to follow appropriate courses and write the dissertation The Faculty offers academic supervision and tuition towards the doctoral exams as well as towards writing the doctoral dissertation.

• Faculty of Physics

  Specialized laboratories in the Faculty of Physics are equipped with modern and, in many cases, unique, research devices. The huge research and teaching potential of the Faculty is demonstrated by: a track record of research recognized both nationally and internationally, modern curricula, a large number of full (90), associate (21) and assistant professors (107), as well as the interdisciplinary character of our research and scientific collaboration with leading centers of research abroad. Our highly qualified research staff shares their knowledge and experience with graduate and undergraduate students, who have the opportunity to participate in research conducted at the Faculty from the beginning of their studies. 

• Faculty of Polish Studies

  The Faculty of Polish Studies at the University of Warsaw is one of the largest research centres in Poland, developing Polish, Slavic, Hellenic, Classical and Baltic Studies in literature, culture and language. The Faculty has the right to confer PhD and Associate Professor degrees in the fields of Linguistics, Literary Studies and Cultural Studies.

  Students at the Faculty of Polish Studies at the UW have a chance to:

  • take part in international exchange programmes (Erasmus);
  • take part in national exchange programmes (MOST);
  • complete student practice in Poland and abroad;
  • obtain double degree diploma (the UW and Paris-Sorbonne University);
  • take part in PBSS Project (Polish and Belgian Applied Studies);
  • obtain language certificates at the Centre for Foreign Language Teaching ;
  • learn sign language;
  • cooperate with Niewinni-czarodzieje.pl and academic media: "Uniwersytet Warszawski" magazine, Radio Kampus, academic TV UW3D.tv and student TV Uniwerek.TV;
  • acquire access to the University of Warsaw Library collection and well-resourced faculty libraries;
  • use unlimited Internet access (Wi-Fi);
  • join academic sports association;
  • effectively plan their career (cooperation with Biuro Karier UW).

• Faculty of Psychology

  The Warsaw International Studies in Psychology offers a high quality 5-year Master program that prepares you for a career in psychotherapy, neuropsychology, business or science. We offer a strong core program of courses, but we also give you the opportunity to co-design your educational track yourself by letting you choose from a large offer of elective courses. We are part of the University of Warsaw, the best ranked institution of research and higher education in Poland. As such we benefit from its rich academic tradition, extended facilities and network of international relations.

• American Studies Center

  The American Studies Center of University of Warsaw (ASC UW) is one of the biggest American Studies departments in Europe. The Center is a part of the Institute of the Americas and Europe (IAiE), together with the Center for Latin American Studies (CESLA) and the Center for European Regional and Local Studies(EUROREG). The ASC employs over 20 faculty from Poland and the United States and provides excellent research facilities for students, scholars and professionals interested in the field. The ASC Library is the largest American Studies library in Central Europe, containing a sizable microfiche and microfilm collection and a wide array of recent academic publications.

  The ASC runs interdisciplinary B.A., M.A. and postgraduate programs. All courses are taught in English. The ASC promotes American Studies in Poland by conducting research, hosting conferences, debates and various events open to the general public. It also publishes a series of ASC monographs and its own periodical The Americanist, which is peer reviewed and open to submissions from scholars of different nationalities.

The University of Warsaw (UW) is the largest and one of the most prestigious universities in Poland. It was founded on November 19, 1816, by a decree of Tsar Alexander I of Russia, who ruled the Kingdom of Poland at that time. The university was established to provide higher education to Polish students after the closure of other academic institutions in the region.

In its early years, the University of Warsaw consisted of five faculties: Law and Administration, Medicine, Philosophy, Theology, and the Humanities. However, its development was interrupted several times due to political turmoil. In 1831, after the November Uprising against Russian rule, the university was closed by the authorities. It was reopened in 1862 as the Main School (Szkoła Główna), but in 1869, following another failed uprising, it was transformed into the Imperial University of Warsaw, with Russian as the language of instruction.

During World War I, the university resumed its activities in 1915 under German occupation, and Polish became the official language of instruction. After Poland regained independence in 1918, the University of Warsaw flourished, becoming a leading academic institution in the country. By the 1930s, it had expanded significantly, attracting renowned scholars and students.

World War II brought significant destruction to the university. During the Nazi occupation, the university was officially closed, and many professors and students were arrested or executed. Despite this, underground education continued, with secret lectures held in various locations. After the war, the university was rebuilt and reopened in 1945.

During the communist era (1945–1989), the University of Warsaw played a crucial role in intellectual and political life. It was a center of academic excellence but also a place of political dissent. Many students and professors were involved in opposition movements, including the protests of 1968 and the rise of the Solidarity movement in the 1980s.

After the fall of communism in 1989, the university entered a new era of development. It expanded its academic programs, established international partnerships, and modernized its infrastructure. Today, the University of Warsaw is one of the top universities in Central and Eastern Europe, offering a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technology. It is home to over 40,000 students and numerous research centers, contributing significantly to global academic and scientific advancements.

The admission requirements for the University of Warsaw vary depending on the level of study (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral) and the chosen program. Below is a general overview of the admission process and requirements for international students.

Admission Requirements

1. Educational Background

   • For bachelor’s programs, applicants must have completed secondary education and hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification that allows them to apply for higher education in their home country.
   • For master’s programs, candidates must have a recognized bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
   • For doctoral programs, applicants must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification.

2. Language Proficiency

   • Most programs at the University of Warsaw are taught in Polish, but there are also many programs available in English.
   • Applicants for English-taught programs must provide proof of English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English certificates. The required scores may vary by program.
   • For Polish-taught programs, candidates must demonstrate proficiency in Polish, usually through a Polish language certificate or an internal language test.

3. Entrance Exams and Additional Requirements

   • Some programs may require applicants to pass an entrance exam, interview, or submit a portfolio (especially for arts and design programs).
   • Certain faculties may have additional requirements, such as motivation letters, recommendation letters, or CVs.

4. Application Process

   • Applications are submitted online through the IRK (Internet Recruitment of Candidates) system.
   • Applicants must create an account, fill in personal details, select the desired program, and upload the required documents.
   • The application fee must be paid before the deadline.

5. Recognition of Foreign Diplomas

   • International students must ensure that their diplomas are recognized in Poland. In some cases, they may need to go through a nostrification process.

6. Visa and Residence Permit

   • Non-EU students must apply for a student visa before arriving in Poland.
   • After arrival, students must apply for a temporary residence permit if they plan to stay for more than three months.

7. Deadlines

   • The application deadlines vary depending on the program and faculty. Generally, applications for the winter semester (starting in October) open in spring or early summer, while applications for the summer semester (starting in February) open in late autumn.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants should check the official website of the University of Warsaw or contact the admissions office.

The University of Warsaw (UW) is one of the leading academic institutions in Poland and is recognized both nationally and internationally for its high standards of education and research. The university holds accreditation from the Polish Ministry of Education and Science, ensuring that its programs meet national academic and professional standards. Additionally, UW is a member of several prestigious international organizations, which further attest to its academic excellence.

The University of Warsaw is accredited by the Polish Accreditation Committee (Polska Komisja Akredytacyjna, PKA), which is responsible for evaluating the quality of higher education institutions in Poland. The PKA regularly assesses the university’s programs to ensure they meet rigorous academic and professional standards. Many faculties and programs at UW have received positive evaluations from the PKA, confirming their high quality.

In addition to national accreditation, the University of Warsaw is a member of the European University Association (EUA), which promotes collaboration and quality assurance among European universities. The university also participates in the Erasmus+ program, which allows students and faculty to engage in international exchange programs with partner institutions across Europe.

Several faculties and programs at UW have received international accreditations from specialized organizations. For example, the Faculty of Management has been accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), which is a globally recognized accreditation body for business education. This accreditation confirms that the faculty’s MBA programs meet high international standards.

The university is also involved in various international rankings and assessments, which further demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence. It is regularly ranked among the top universities in Poland and is recognized in global rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

Overall, the University of Warsaw’s accreditations and memberships in international organizations confirm its status as a high-quality academic institution. These accreditations ensure that students receive a recognized and respected education, preparing them for successful careers in Poland and abroad.

The University of Warsaw offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. As the largest and one of the most prestigious universities in Poland, it attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse and dynamic community.

Student organizations play a crucial role in university life. There are over 200 student associations, covering a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, and sports activities. These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop their skills, meet new people, and engage in extracurricular activities.

The university also has an active student government, which represents students' interests and organizes various events, such as integration trips, workshops, and cultural festivals. One of the most popular events is the Juwenalia, an annual student festival featuring concerts, parties, and other entertainment activities.

For those interested in sports, the University of Warsaw offers excellent facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and sports fields. Students can join various sports teams and participate in university leagues or recreational activities.

The university's location in the heart of Warsaw provides students with access to numerous cultural and social attractions. The city offers a rich cultural scene, including museums, theaters, music festivals, and historical landmarks. Additionally, Warsaw has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to students.

International students at the University of Warsaw can benefit from various support services, including language courses, mentoring programs, and integration events. The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is also active at the university, helping international students adapt to life in Poland and organizing trips and social events.

Overall, student life at the University of Warsaw is dynamic and full of opportunities. Whether students are interested in academics, sports, culture, or social activities, they can find something that suits their interests and helps them make the most of their university experience.

The University of Warsaw offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their academic and personal development. Apart from lectures and seminars, students have access to numerous resources that enhance their university experience.

One of the key facilities is the University Library (BUW), which provides extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources. The library also offers study spaces, computer stations, and group work areas. Additionally, many faculties have their own specialized libraries.

The university provides modern computer labs and IT services, including free Wi-Fi across campus. Students can also access various online platforms for academic purposes, such as the USOS system for course registration and grades.

For student well-being, the University of Warsaw offers psychological counseling services, career guidance, and support for students with disabilities. The Academic Psychological Support Center provides free consultations and workshops to help students manage stress and academic challenges.

Sports and recreation facilities are also available, including the University Sports Center, which offers a gym, swimming pool, and various sports activities. Students can join sports clubs and participate in university competitions.

The university has numerous student organizations and societies, covering academic, cultural, and social interests. These organizations provide opportunities for networking, skill development, and extracurricular engagement.

International students can benefit from the International Relations Office, which assists with visas, accommodation, and integration into university life. The Erasmus+ program and other exchange opportunities allow students to study abroad.

Additionally, the university provides dormitories for students, offering affordable housing options. There are also cafeterias and dining facilities on campus, serving a variety of meals at student-friendly prices.

Overall, the University of Warsaw ensures that students have access to comprehensive support services and facilities that contribute to their academic success and personal growth.

The University of Warsaw is one of the best and most prestigious universities in Poland and Central Europe. It is ranked among the top universities in international rankings, making it an attractive choice for students from around the world. The university offers a wide range of programs in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technology.

One of the key advantages of the University of Warsaw is its strong academic reputation. It collaborates with numerous international institutions, providing students with opportunities for exchange programs and research projects. The university also has a highly qualified faculty, including renowned professors and researchers.

Another special feature of the University of Warsaw is its location. Situated in the capital of Poland, it offers students access to a vibrant cultural and professional environment. Warsaw is a dynamic city with many career opportunities, making it an excellent place for students to gain practical experience and build professional networks.

The university also provides modern facilities, including well-equipped libraries, research centers, and student organizations. It supports innovation and entrepreneurship, helping students develop their skills beyond the classroom.

Additionally, the University of Warsaw is known for its diverse and international student community. It welcomes students from different countries, creating a multicultural environment that enhances learning and personal growth.

Overall, the University of Warsaw is an excellent choice for students looking for high-quality education, international opportunities, and a vibrant academic and social life.