Polish schools for Ukrainian children: what parents need to consider before the new school year.

Changes in Polish legislation regarding the education of Ukrainian children

From September 1, 2025, new rules regarding the education of Ukrainian children under temporary protection will come into effect in Poland. Now these children are required to attend educational institutions registered in the Polish system.

Exceptions are made for graduates who complete secondary education according to the Ukrainian program; they can continue their studies online. However, experts emphasize that children studying offline adapt better, find friends, and receive additional support for successful learning, including Polish language lessons.

'Offline learning will help children adapt better to the new environment, find new friends, and receive additional support, including Polish language lessons and other assistance for successful learning.'

Ukrainian children under temporary protection are guaranteed the right to 4 hours of Polish language study per week. If there are not enough classes, parents are advised to contact the education department or the curatorium.

To enroll in a Polish school, a PESEL number, a report card from a Ukrainian school, and an application for admission are required. Parents can enroll their child at any time, and if there are no available places, a clear algorithm of actions is applied.

• Contact the school principal;
• Contact the local authorities;
• Official request to the education department.

Additional educational programs for Ukrainian children

Alongside education in Polish schools, the Ministry of Education of Ukraine has developed programs for the Ukrainian component to maintain the connection of children with Ukrainian education and culture.

Poland has also strengthened the conditions of the 800 Plus program, which will provide Ukrainian children with more opportunities for learning and adaptation in the new environment.