University later in life: how an adult applicant gets through admissions for 2026/2027

Admissions in IRK, step by step

Universities run admissions through their own Internet Candidate Registration systems (IRK). Each sets its own dates. For example, at Częstochowa University of Technology registration for the 2026/2027 winter semester runs from 1 June to 14 July 2026. The typical steps are similar nationwide:

• create an account and fill in the questionnaire,
• choose a programme (often several, each with its own fee),
• enter matura results — for younger applicants the system takes them from the National Matura Register, while holders of older maturas enter grades or results themselves,
• pay the application fee,
• after results — submit documents by the deadline.

Full-time or part-time

For working people the form of study is key. Part-time studies (niestacjonarne — weekend or evening) usually take place at weekends or in the afternoon. The Law on Higher Education allows public universities to charge fees for, among other things, part-time studies, while full-time studies in Polish at a public university are free for Polish citizens. Each university sets its tuition — check the rector's order on fees and whether instalments are possible.

Recognition of prior learning

The law provides three routes into university: admissions, transfer from another university, and confirmation of learning outcomes (potwierdzanie efektów uczenia się). The last is meant for people with work experience — a university can recognise some outcomes gained outside studies (e.g. at work) and credit part of the programme. Each university sets the rules and limits in its regulations, and the procedure is usually paid. Ask the admissions office if you have several years of practice in the field.

Combining study with work

Before submitting documents, count the time and talk to your employer. The Labour Code gives rights to employees improving their qualifications with the employer's consent, including training leave — we'll write about this in more detail before the academic year.

• Check the schedule of weekend sessions — the number per semester varies widely.
• Ask about hybrid or remote parts of the programme.
• Count the cost of the whole programme, not just the first semester.
• Ask about discounts and scholarships — part-time students can apply for social grants under the university's rules.

Deadlines that are easy to miss

Public universities usually close the main round in July, but many part-time programmes accept applications in August and September too, and private universities even later. If a programme doesn't fill up, supplementary rounds are announced. Once qualified, deliver your documents on time — otherwise the place goes to the next person.