Just moved to Poland with kids?
Welcome — you’ve landed in the right place!
Choosing and enrolling a child in school can feel confusing at first, especially in a new country. This guide will walk you step by step through how to register your child, understand the Polish education system, and find support for foreign students.

🧭 1. Quick Overview — Ages & School Types

Primary school (szkoła podstawowa):

• For children aged around 7 to 15 (some start at 6 depending on readiness).

• Focuses on general education — reading, math, Polish, science, art, and physical education.

After primary school:
Students continue to secondary/high school, choosing between academic or vocational paths based on interests and goals.

You can choose between:

• Public schools – free and funded by the government

• Private / International schools – paid, often with bilingual or English-language instruction

📝 2. How to Enroll — Step by Step

1️⃣ Choose a school

• For public schools, your child is usually assigned to one in your local area (district school).

• You can also apply to other public or private schools if you prefer a different location or language program.

2️⃣ Collect required documents:

• Child’s passport or ID

• Proof of address (rental contract or residence registration / meldunek)

• Birth certificate (translated if not in Polish)

• Previous school records or transfer certificates (if applicable)

3️⃣ Apply

• Contact the chosen school or your local Education Department (Wydział Edukacji / Urząd Miasta).

• Many large cities (like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław) have special help desks for foreign residents.

• Complete the registration form — some schools may invite your child for a brief interview or language placement check.

4️⃣ Confirmation

• Once accepted, the school will confirm the start date, provide details about uniforms (if needed), and share the class schedule.

💡 Tip:
If you don’t yet have proof of address, contact the school or city office — many schools assist newcomers with temporary arrangements.

📄 3. Documents & Practical Requirements

• Registration proof (zameldowanie): Helpful but not always mandatory at first — check locally.

• PESEL number: Makes administration (banking, healthcare, school records) easier, but not strictly required to begin school.

• Translated school records: Use a sworn translator if possible — it helps schools quickly recognize previous grades and coursework.

💬 4. Support for Foreign Children

Polish schools are becoming increasingly welcoming and supportive of international students. You can expect:

• Polish as a Second Language (język polski dla obcokrajowców) classes

• Integration or teaching assistants who help children in lessons

• Counselling and psychological support for adjustment challenges

• Catch-up lessons (“zajęcia wyrównawcze”) in core subjects

🏫 Example:
Many schools in Warsaw and Kraków run beginner or language-support classes (“0 classes”) for newly arrived children. Ask the school about special programs for foreign students.

⚖️ 5. Public vs Private Schools — Quick Comparison

💡 6. Practical Tips for Expat Parents

✔ Contact your local Education Office (Wydział Edukacji): They’ll give you official school lists and step-by-step local guidance.
✔ Bring translated documents: Saves time and avoids misunderstandings.
✔ Ask about language support early: Many schools have dedicated Polish-language programs.
✔ Start routines before school starts: Practice routes, morning schedules, and meals.
✔ Join expat parent groups: Facebook or community centers often organize meetups and share valuable firsthand tips.

🧩 7. Where to Get Help

• 🏛 Municipal Office / Wydział Edukacji: Official lists and registration information

• 🏫 School Secretariat (Sekretariat Szkoły): Forms and enrollment assistance

• 🌍 NGOs & Migrant Centers: Free Polish language and cultural adaptation programs for children and parents