Post-secondary schools in Poland (szkoły policealne): a trade in one or two years, often free

Some believe a szkoła policealna is "a course for people who didn't get into university". It isn't. Graduates take a state exam in the same system as technical school students and receive a state qualification document. For an employer, a medical caregiver with a policealna diploma and one with a technical school diploma are equally qualified.

Who can study

You don't need the matura — completed secondary school is enough. There is effectively no age limit: 20-year-olds and 50-year-olds study side by side in weekend programmes. Foreigners need a school certificate with an apostille or nostrification (depending on the country) and enough Polish to follow classes.

Popular fields

• Medical: medical caregiver, massage therapist, dental assistant, pharmacy technician.
• Safety and administration: health and safety (BHP) technician, administration technician, security technician.
• Services: beautician, florist, stylist.
• Business: accounting, logistics, HR and payroll.

Studies last from one to two and a half years, depending on the profession.

How classes work

Most schools run weekend mode: classes on Saturday and Sunday every other week, plus practical training at a company. This lets you study without quitting your job. Full-time mode exists, mostly in medical fields with a lot of practice.

Why private schools are often free

Public szkoły policealne are free. That private ones are free too surprises many. The reason is simple: the state pays them a subsidy for each student who attends at least half of the classes. So the school charges no tuition but watches attendance closely. Miss more than half and you may be removed or billed.

Foreigners should check the terms separately: for some statuses tuition is free on equal terms with Poles, for others the rules may differ.

Pupil status and work on umowa zlecenie

A szkoła policealna student is a pupil, not a course participant. If you are under 26 and work on umowa zlecenie, this status exempts you from social and health contributions, and the youth relief from income tax. In other words, the full contract amount is yours.

How studies end

Vocational exams are run by the regional examination board (OKE). They lead to a qualification certificate, and after all qualifications in the field — a technician diploma. These documents are recognised throughout Poland.

Checklist before enrolling

• School certificate. It has an apostille or nostrification and a sworn translation.
• Field. You've checked there is demand for this profession in your city.
• Schedule. Weekend sessions don't clash with your shifts.
• Payment. The contract states whether tuition is free and what happens if you miss classes.
• Medical certificate — for medical and beauty fields.
• Intake dates. Usually September and February — popular fields fill up first.