A 2026 Cost of Living Guide for Ukrainian Students in Poland.

Living Expenses for Ukrainian Students in Poland

According to Novyny.live: Poland remains a popular choice for Ukrainian students in 2026, offering accessible higher education and quality academic programs. Managing living costs is a major part of a student's budget, making it essential to understand the price of accommodation, food, and transport. Poland's proximity and cultural ties make it a practical destination, but careful financial planning is key.

Accommodation Costs

Renting a room in a state-run dormitory starts at 360 PLN per month, while private dormitories begin at 600 PLN. Students opting for a room in a shared apartment can expect costs from 800 PLN monthly. Renting a private apartment costs at least 1,400 PLN per month, not including utilities, which add roughly 250 PLN.

It's worth noting that living in cities like Łódź, Lublin, Katowice, Opole, Rzeszów, Kielce, Olsztyn, and Bydgoszcz is 15-20% cheaper compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Monthly Food Budget

A standard grocery basket for one student costs approximately 400 PLN per month. A meal at a university canteen starts at 10 PLN, while lunch at an inexpensive cafe costs from 20 PLN.

Transportation Expenses in Poland

A student ID card grants a 50% discount on public transport. A monthly pass for all transport types costs 50 PLN. For single trips, standard public transport ticket prices vary:

• 20-30 minute ticket — from 1.4 PLN;
• 40-60 minute ticket — from 1.8 PLN.

Additional Essential Costs

The state health insurance policy (NFZ) costs 50 PLN monthly, and mobile phone service is around 20 PLN per month. Data plans with unlimited internet start from 30 PLN. Overall, a student needs a minimum of 1,000 PLN per month for a comfortable life in Poland, excluding expenses for entertainment, clothing, and gifts.

Therefore, Ukrainian students planning to study in Poland must carefully weigh all anticipated costs and prepare financially to ensure a comfortable living experience.

Given Poland's growing appeal, it offers not only affordable education but also rich cultural and social opportunities. Since living expenses can vary significantly based on city choice and lifestyle, detailed budget planning is a critical step in preparing for studies. Accounting for all costs allows students to focus on their education rather than financial strain.