Poland continues to position itself as a top study destination for students from emerging economies, and its flagship government-funded programme is now open. The Prof. Stefan Banach Scholarship Programme 2026, administered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange in partnership with the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offers fully funded master’s degree opportunities for international students.
This scholarship supports students beginning their studies in the 2026/2027 academic year, with applications open until 8 May 2026.
Overview of the Banach Scholarship
The Banach Scholarship is designed to support talented students from 37 eligible countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Unlike partial funding schemes, this programme provides comprehensive financial support, making it one of the most accessible fully funded master’s options in Europe.
What the Scholarship Covers
Selected candidates receive a complete funding package, including:
- Monthly stipend of PLN 2,500 (paid for up to 12 months per academic year)
- Full tuition fee waiver at public universities in Poland
- One-time travel allowance to cover relocation costs
- Optional fully funded preparatory year for Polish language and academic readiness
This structure ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of tuition or major living expenses.
Study Options: Polish or English
Applicants can choose between two study tracks:
1. Polish-Language Path
- Requires at least B2 proficiency in Polish, OR
- Completion of a fully funded one-year preparatory course (starting at B1 level)
2. English-Language Path
- Requires B2 English proficiency
- Includes a short Polish language and culture course
Important: The selected language path is fixed and cannot be changed after application.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be citizens of one of the eligible countries (including Nigeria, Kenya, India, Brazil, Ukraine, and others)
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree obtained no earlier than 2024, or be in their final year
- Not have previously received a NAWA scholarship
- Not hold or be applying for Polish citizenship
Selection Process
The evaluation system is transparent and merit-based, with a total score of 110 points:
- Academic performance: up to 70 points
- Video self-presentation (1–3 minutes): up to 30 points
- Recommendation (optional): up to 10 points
Minimum requirements:
- At least 70 total points
- At least 50 points from academic performance
This means strong academic results are the most critical factor for success.
Important Application Note
Applicants must also apply separately to a Polish university.
The scholarship application and university admission process run in parallel, and both must be completed successfully to secure the award.
Application Timeline
- Deadline: 8 May 2026 (3:00 PM Warsaw time)
- Programme Start: October 2026 (Winter Semester)
- Results Announcement: By 31 July 2026
⚠️ Due to country quotas, applications may close earlier once submission limits are reached. Early application is strongly advised.
How to Apply
Access the official application details and guidelines here:
👉 NAWA Banach Programme:
https://nawa.gov.pl/images/Banach/2026/Banach-2026—Call-for-applications-EN.pdf
Final Thoughts
The Poland NAWA Banach Scholarship 2026 offers a rare combination of full funding, flexible study options, and access to European education. For students from eligible countries, it provides a practical and affordable pathway to a master’s degree without the high costs typically associated with studying abroad.
With strong academic preparation and early application, this programme can serve as a strategic entry point into Europe’s higher education and job market.
