Jagiellonian University logo

Jagiellonian University

Krakow, PL · Ranking #280

Jagiellonian University in Krakow is the oldest university in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe, renowned for its strong academic tradition and research output. It offers a broad range of programs in humanities, social sciences, law, medicine, natural sciences, mathematics and computer science, as well as many interdisciplinary fields. The university’s historic buildings in Krakow’s Old Town and surrounding campuses create a unique academic atmosphere. JU is well positioned in international rankings and cooperates with numerous universities worldwide. A growing number of degree programs and courses are offered in English, attracting international students.

Jagiellonian University logo

Jagiellonian University

About the university

Jagiellonian University in Krakow is the oldest university in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe, renowned for its strong academic tradition and research output. It offers a broad range of programs in humanities, social sciences, law, medicine, natural sciences, mathematics and computer science, as well as many interdisciplinary fields. The university’s historic buildings in Krakow’s Old Town and surrounding campuses create a unique academic atmosphere. JU is well positioned in international rankings and cooperates with numerous universities worldwide. A growing number of degree programs and courses are offered in English, attracting international students.

Key information

  • Location: Krakow, PL
  • Ranking #280
  • QS #303
  • THE #395
  • National ranking #2
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Law and Administration
  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Health Sciences
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • International and Political Studies
  • Economics and Management
  • Mathematics and Computer Science
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Environmental Sciences

Programs (18)

  • Medicine
  • Law
  • Computer Science
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Political Science
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Journalism and Communication
  • Fine Arts
  • International Relations

Student body

  • Total students: 40,000

Campus life

Campus life at Jagiellonian University is strongly connected with the city of Krakow, a major cultural and academic center. University buildings and campuses are spread across historic districts and newer areas, giving students access to libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, student clubs and numerous cultural events. Many student organizations organize conferences, workshops, festivals and integration activities. The large international community and rich cultural life of Krakow provide many opportunities for networking, part‑time work and leisure.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €350 - €900 / per month

Housing options

  • University dormitories (Żaczek, Piast, Nawojka)
  • Shared apartments
  • Private studios
  • Student residences

Student clubs and organizations

  • Student self‑government
  • Cultural and language clubs
  • International student associations
  • Academic and research circles
  • Music and theatre groups
  • Sports and outdoor activity clubs
  • Volunteer and charity organizations

Sports

  • Football teams
  • Basketball teams
  • Volleyball teams
  • Handball teams
  • Athletics teams
  • Martial arts and combat sports clubs
  • Indoor fitness and recreational sports teams

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Internships: Jagiellonian University cooperates with Polish and international companies, public institutions and NGOs, offering internships embedded in many study programmes, especially in fields such as international relations, European studies, economics, business, law, IT and natural sciences. Career services and faculty coordinators support students in finding placements, preparing application documents and developing career skills. Erasmus+ and other mobility schemes also allow students to complete traineeships abroad. Internship availability and conditions depend on the faculty, level of study and language skills.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL

Required documents

  • Online application form
  • Valid passport or ID
  • High school diploma or previous university degree with transcripts (official and translated if required)
  • Proof of English or Polish language proficiency (e.g. IELTS
  • TOEFL
  • Cambridge exam
  • or recognized Polish exam) according to the program
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Motivation letter
  • Letters of recommendation for selected programmes
  • Portfolio for artistic or specific fields
  • Proof of financial resources
  • Health insurance
  • Visa documents for non‑EU applicants

Minimum GPA: 3

Application deadlines

  • Regular decision: 2025-07-15

Tuition costs

  • €4,000 - €14,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 30.00%
  • Scholarships available: Jagiellonian University offers several scholarship opportunities for international students, often in cooperation with the Polish government and external foundations. For selected programmes, students may apply for International Visegrad Fund scholarships, which can cover tuition fees and living costs. In addition, Erasmus+ and other mobility schemes provide funding for study or traineeship periods abroad. Some faculties offer their own merit‑based or need‑based support. Conditions, eligibility and amounts differ by program and are announced each year on official university and scholarship websites.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1364
  • Teaching languages: Polish, English, German, english, polish
  • Study formats: offline, online, hybrid

Contact