The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange is accepting applications for the Polonista NAWA 2026 Scholarship. The award is intended to encourage overseas students to conduct research and studies pertaining to Poland while also promoting Polish language and culture. It offers a special chance to work with local academics and get fully immersed in Polish academic life, promoting academic development and cross-cultural interchange.
The chosen participants will work on three- to twelve-month research projects in subjects like comparative studies, history, art history, literary studies, and Polish language instruction. The grant is available to doctorate candidates worldwide as well as undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.
The program is perfect for students who want to work in academia, research, or cultural exchange because it not only encourages academic research but also offers chances to gain firsthand knowledge of Polish culture, build professional networks, and improve proficiency in Polish studies. Below is comprehensive information about eligibility, perks, and the application procedure.
Host Country: Poland
Funded By: The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
University: Polish Universities
Opportunity Type: Fellowship, Exchange program
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded,
Eligibility Criteria:
- Study Area: Polish language, literature, art, culture, or history should be the main subject of any research or studies.
- Institutional Approval: Candidates must possess an invitation or certificate from a Polish university or other approved host institution that is a part of the country’s higher education and science system.
- Citizenship: Available to applicants from all around the world, though certain NAWA initiatives may prioritize applicants from particular nations.
- Academic Degree: At the time of application, candidates must have at least a doctorate (or an equivalent degree earned elsewhere).
- Employment: Applicants must be working at a foreign university or research facility that is not located in Poland at the moment.
- Research Output: Candidates are frequently asked to provide evidence of recent academic success, such as co-authoring or writing a scientific paper that has been published within the last five years in a respectable international publication.
Benefits:
- Student Stipend: Each month, undergraduate and graduate students earn PLN 2,000.
- The PLN 3,500 monthly stipend for researchers and doctorate holders was raised for the 2026 intake.
- PLN 2,500 per month is the stipend for doctoral students (research stays).
- Tuition Fees: At Polish public higher education institutions (HEIs), tuition is completely waived.
- Research Opportunities: In fields such as Polish philology, history, art, and comparative studies, researchers can work on projects that last three to twelve months.
- Access to Resources: Complete access to university archives, libraries, and scientific resources for publications or thesis study.
- Language Development: Possibilities to learn and improve Polish intensively.
- Teaching & Cooperation: Researchers can work closely with Polish academics and scientists while also instructing classes at host institutions.
Deadline: 3rd April 2026
