How to prove your Polish language skills: a guide to official certificates and exams

Why language certification matters for foreigners in Poland?

For many foreigners, learning Polish goes far beyond everyday communication – it’s a key step toward integration, professional development, and long-term residence. While conversational skills make life easier, an official certificate is what truly validates your language level in the eyes of employers, universities, and public institutions.

Certified proficiency demonstrates not only that you can speak and understand Polish, but also that you’re committed to adapting to the country’s culture and environment. This credibility often makes a tangible difference during:

• job interviews,
• study applications,
• permanent residency procedures.

Certificates in Polish as a foreign language are increasingly required by Polish law and institutions. For example, candidates applying for Polish citizenship must present a recognized certificate confirming at least a B1 level of proficiency. Universities may require B2 or higher, while companies operating in international environments appreciate employees who can navigate both English and Polish fluently.

The official State Certificate in Polish as a Foreign Language

The State Certificate Examination in Polish as a Foreign Language is the only official document confirming proficiency in Polish recognized by the Polish government. It is administered by the State Commission for the Certification of Proficiency in Polish as a Foreign Language (PKdsPZJPjO) and serves as a crucial credential for foreigners who wish to study, work, or apply for citizenship in Poland.

The certificate is valid indefinitely and is accepted by universities, employers, and public institutions. Exams are offered several times a year, with official schedules published around three months in advance on the certyfikatpolski.pl website. You can take the test in various accredited centers across Poland and abroad, with the list of available locations announced about two months before each exam session.

The exam is offered at six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient), for both adults and younger learners. The cost ranges from 90 to 180 euros, depending on the level. Candidates must register online, usually around two months before the exam date, and pay the fee directly to the chosen examination center. To pass, adult candidates must score at least 50% or 60%, depending on the level, in both the written and oral parts. Those who succeed receive their certificate within 30 days.

As of July 2025, changes to the Polish Language Act permit certain individuals to obtain the certificate without an exam, including graduates of Polish-language higher education programs, holders of Polish doctoral degrees, and alumni of Polish-language schools abroad. This update reflects Poland’s growing recognition of the importance of language in academic and professional integration, while maintaining high standards of verification for all other candidates.

Are there other certificates recognized by Polish law?

No – the State Certificate in Polish as a Foreign Language is the only officially recognized proof of Polish language proficiency under Polish law. It is issued exclusively by the State Commission for the Certification of Proficiency in Polish as a Foreign Language (PKdsPZJPjO) and serves as the sole document with legal validity for administrative or official purposes.

Other certificates – such as TELC Polish, ALTE, LinguaCert, or internal school exams – may be accepted by private employers, universities, or language institutions, but they do not have legal status in Poland. This means they cannot be used in official procedures such as:

• applying for Polish citizenship,
• obtaining a long-term EU resident permit,
• working in the civil service,
• or enrolling in Polish-language degree programs that require government certification.

How to learn Polish effectively as a foreigner?

Learning Polish can feel challenging at first – with its seven grammatical cases, unique sounds, and complex verb forms – but it’s also one of the most rewarding steps toward feeling truly at home in Poland. Whether you’ve come to study, work, or start a new life here, there are many ways to master the language and even prepare for an official certificate. Below are several effective learning paths tailored to different needs, lifestyles, and goals.

Join a structured language course

Enrolling in a professional Polish-as-a-foreign-language course is one of the best ways to stay motivated and make steady progress. Schools such as Polonicum at the University of Warsaw or Varia Polish Language School in Kraków offer intensive classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced. You’ll learn not only grammar and vocabulary but also communication skills for everyday life and work in Poland. Many institutions also provide exam preparation for official certificates, which can help you apply for residence or citizenship.

Choose flexible learning formats

If you have a busy schedule, you can opt for online or blended learning. Schools like Edu & More or Klub Dialogu in Warsaw offer live online lessons with native teachers, allowing you to learn Polish from anywhere in the world. Flexible courses are perfect for people who travel often or work irregular hours. You can combine one-on-one tutoring with group classes or switch between in-person and online learning depending on your needs.

Learn Polish for your profession

Many schools offer specialized courses designed for specific fields – for example, business, medicine, engineering, or hospitality. Institutions such as Together Language School prepare students for professional communication in their industries, helping them feel more confident in the workplace. Tailored vocabulary and role-playing exercises simulate real-life situations, like business meetings or patient consultations, making these courses especially valuable for professionals planning long-term careers in Poland.

Immerse yourself in Polish culture

True fluency comes from immersion. Try to use Polish in your daily life – order coffee in Polish, talk to neighbours, or watch Polish movies with subtitles. Many schools organize cultural workshops, film nights, and city tours that combine language with local experiences. You can also join conversation clubs or exchange groups in cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław. The more you expose yourself to Polish outside the classroom, the faster you’ll internalize its rhythm and expressions.

Set clear goals and track your progress

To stay motivated, define specific and achievable goals – for example, “reach level B1 by next summer” or “speak only Polish during lunch breaks.” Regular milestones help maintain focus and show how far you’ve come. Preparing for the State Certificate Examination in Polish as a Foreign Language (Państwowy Egzamin Certyfikatowy z Języka Polskiego jako Obcego) is also a great way to measure your growth. Every new word, every conversation, and every test brings you closer to mastering the language – and to feeling at home in Poland.

Key takeaways

• The State Certificate in Polish as a Foreign Language is the only officially recognized proof of language proficiency in Poland. It’s essential for foreigners applying for citizenship, long-term residence, or Polish-language university programs.
• Exams take place several times a year and cover six proficiency levels – from A1 to C2 – with registration and details available at certyfikatpolski.pl.
• Starting from July 2025, graduates of Polish-language universities or doctoral programs can obtain the certificate without taking the exam, under updated legal provisions.
• Other certificates, such as TELC Polish or LinguaCert, may be accepted by employers or private institutions, but do not have legal validity in official processes.
• To prepare effectively, choose structured courses, explore flexible learning options, and combine study with cultural immersion to build confidence and fluency.
• Setting clear goals – such as achieving a B1 level for citizenship or B2 for academic studies – helps maintain motivation and track your progress.

Earning a Polish language certificate is not just an exam, but a meaningful step toward integration, career advancement, and belonging in Poland.