For many international students, entrance exams are one of the biggest concerns when applying to study medicine, dentistry, or veterinary medicine abroad. The uncertainty, the level of difficulty, and the question “will I be able to pass?” often feel overwhelming. The reality, however, is very different - entrance exams in Poland are structured, predictable, and most importantly, manageable with the right preparation.
Most medical universities in Poland require applicants to pass an entrance exam in Biology and Chemistry. These exams are typically based on multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and focus on key topics from secondary school education. Depending on the university, the process may also include an interview, but the core assessment is almost always academic and knowledge-based. The level is demanding, but it is aligned with what students are expected to know after finishing high school - not beyond it.
Preparation for entrance exams is not about memorising everything. It’s about studying strategically. Successful candidates usually:
Knowing how to study is just as important as what to study. That’s why many students support their preparation with the Medical Poland Pre-Course, which helps them stay organised, focused, and aligned with actual exam requirements.
At Medical Poland, we guide students through the entire application process - including entrance exam preparation. Our Pre-Course is designed specifically for international applicants who want a clear, structured, and effective way to prepare. It offers:
More than just content, the Pre-Course provides direction, consistency, and confidence - helping students approach their exams feeling prepared rather than overwhelmed.
Beyond helping students succeed in entrance exams, the Pre-Course is also a strong starting point for the first year of studies. Making the transition into university smoother and helping students feel more confident from the very beginning.
_moreWe are proud to announce that the 11th edition of Trip to Poland, organised by Medical Poland, will take place at the end of March 2026.
This unique initiative is designed for Guidance Counsellors and aims to provide first-hand insight into medical education in Poland, one of Europe’s leading destinations for students pursuing degrees in Medicine and other healthcare fields.
From 30th March to 1st April 2026, participants will take part in a structured educational visit to two leading medical universities located in Łódź and Bydgoszcz.
The programme includes:
This experience allows participants to explore both the academic excellence and the practical aspects of studying medicine in Poland.
Poland continues to grow in popularity among international students. Currently, approximately 300 Irish students are studying at the universities included in this programme, highlighting the country’s strong reputation in medical education.
Trip to Poland is more than just a study visit - it is a comprehensive educational experience combining:
Previous editions of the programme have been highly successful, offering valuable perspectives on both the academic quality and cultural richness of Poland.
We are proud that Trip to Poland 2026 is organised in cooperation with leading academic institutions, including the Medical University of Łódź (UMED) and the Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Bydgoszcz (CM UMK).
The initiative has also been granted Honorary Patronage by key national and regional institutions, including:
This distinguished patronage highlights the importance of the initiative in strengthening international academic cooperation and promoting Poland as a leading destination for medical education in Europe.
As the organiser of Trip to Poland, we are proud to support international educational cooperation and promote Poland as a top destination for medical studies.
This initiative reflects our mission to guide students from their first enquiry to successful enrolment, while building strong connections between universities and future applicants.
_moreOur Veterinary Webinar turned out to be a fantastic event, and we’d like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to making it such a success!
We were delighted to welcome our distinguished guests from two excellent Polish institutions - the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn and Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences. Their presentations gave valuable insights into their veterinary programs, academic environment, and everyday student life in their respective cities.
We would also like to express our appreciation to the international students who joined us and shared their personal experiences of studying veterinary medicine in Poland. Their honest perspectives added great depth and authenticity to the session.
Finally, thank you to everyone who participated. If you missed the live session or would like to watch it again, the recording is available here.
As mentioned during the session, the first step toward beginning your medical journey with us is to book a free consultation call. You can schedule a meeting with our student advisor via this link - https://calendar.app.google/ AZKMo7Y8Eoeb3KPZ9 to receive personalized guidance on the admission process, entry requirements, and next steps.
_moreThe dream of becoming a doctor should be built on dedication, empathy, and scientific skill - not on the ability to pass a single, high-pressure standardized test. For many students in Ireland, the UK, and Canada, exams like the HPAT, UCAT, and MCAT have become discouraging bottlenecks. But there is a world-class alternative waiting in the heart of Europe.
At Medical Poland, we believe that your potential shouldn't be limited by a standardized score. Here is why more students from English-speaking countries are choosing Poland to pursue their medical and veterinary degrees.
In many Western systems, the admission process has become a numbers game.
In Ireland, the HPAT can be a major hurdle, often requiring expensive prep courses and causing immense stress.
In the UK, a "below-average" UCAT or BMAT score can end a brilliant student's application before they even get to an interview.
In Canada, the MCAT adds years of "pre-med" study and intense testing pressure.
The result? Thousands of talented, capable future doctors are left without a seat, simply because of one day's performance on an aptitude test.
Polish medical universities take a more holistic and academic approach. Instead of relying on generic aptitude tests, the admission process focuses on:
Academic Foundation: Your grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (or Maths) are the primary indicators of your readiness for medical school.
Competency Interviews: Most universities conduct an interview or their own specific entrance exam. This allows professors to assess your actual scientific knowledge and, more importantly, your motivation and communication skills.
Direct Entry Pathway: For Irish and UK students, Poland offers a direct 6-year MD program immediately after high school (Leaving Cert/A-Levels), bypassing the need for a separate 3-4 year undergraduate degree often required in North America.
Choosing Poland isn't just about an easier entry process - it’s about the quality of education.
Worldwide Accreditation: Degrees from Polish universities are recognized by the GMC (UK), the Medical Council (Ireland), and are eligible for ECFMG certification in the USA and Canada.
Modern Facilities: Students train in some of the most advanced medical simulation centers in Europe.
International Environment: You will study in English alongside a diverse community of students from across the globe, building a professional network that spans continents.
We know that moving to another country to study is a big step. That’s why Medical Poland provides comprehensive support:
University Selection: Matching you with the university that best fits your academic profile.
Interview Prep: Helping you feel confident and prepared for university-specific entrance assessments.
Ongoing Support: From finding accommodation to navigating local bureaucracy, we are with you from application to graduation.
Don't let the HPAT, UCAT, or MCAT define your career. If you have the passion and the science grades, the doors to a medical career are wide open in Poland.
Ready to bypass the stress? Contact Medical Poland today 👉 support@medicapoland.ie
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We'd like to extend our sincere thanks to our guests from three outstanding Polish universities , the Medical University of Lodz , Poznan University of Life Sciences , and Medical University of Bialystok , for joining us and sharing such valuable insights about their programs, campuses, and student life in their cities.
A special thank you as well to our current international student guests, who offered honest, first-hand perspectives on what it's really like to study medicine in Poland. Their experiences truly brought the session to life.
We're also very grateful to all of you who attended. If you weren't able to join us live, or if you'd like to rewatch the session, you can access the recordings here and here . Due to the high number of participants, we experienced minor technical issues, so the webinar has been divided into two separate recordings.
As mentioned during the session, the first step toward beginning your medical journey with us is to book a free consultation call. You can schedule a meeting with our student advisor via this link - https://calendar.app.google/
Let's start your medical journey today!
CAO OFFERS- A Second Chance at First-Class Medicine and Veterinary: Polish Universities Expanding Opportunities for Irish Students
Medical Poland continues to open doors for Irish students who aspire to careers in Medicine, Veterinary medicine, and other health sciences but may have missed out on places at home. Based in Tipperary, Guidance Counsellor, Conor Hayes has twice visited Medical Poland’s partner universities in Wroclaw and Bydgoszcz, Poznań and Olsztyn, and was very impressed by the world-class facilities and the supportive, student-centred environment. He has since recommended the pathway to his own students, several of whom are already studying in Poland, with others having recently graduated and returned to Ireland to begin their professional careers.
Medical Poland has already helped hundreds of Irish students embark on their studies in cities such as Wrocław, Bydgoszcz, and Poznań. Partner universities include Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, renowned for its Veterinary Medicine programme, and Collegium Medicum at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Bydgoszcz, which offers Medicine. All degrees are taught and assessed entirely in English, running in parallel with their Polish counterparts. Importantly, Medicine degrees are fully recognised by the Medical Council of Ireland and the UK’s General Medical Council, while Veterinary degrees are recognised by the Veterinary Council of Ireland and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Beyond Medicine and Veterinary, Medical Poland also represents Polish universities offering Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy and Nursing through English, giving Irish students a wide choice of career paths. Guidance counsellors, including Conor who have travelled with Medical Poland highlight the exceptional personalised support offered, from guiding students through applications and interview preparation to practical help like airport transfers and discounted hotel accommodation. For many Irish families, this hands-on assistance makes the dream of studying medicine or veterinary abroad not just possible, but a smooth and reassuring journey.
A Tipperary Family’s Journey to Veterinary Medicine in Poland
In the scenic Glen of Aherlow, in West Tipperary, the Barlow family dedicate their days to caring for their Angus pedigree herd under the Gurtavoher prefix. Their deep-rooted passion for cattle inspired brothers Darragh and Cillian to pursue veterinary medicine, a dream shaped by the many vets who visited their farm over the years.
For parents Mariese and John, the idea of their son moving as far away as Poland initially felt daunting. “It was a huge worry to think Darragh was moving so far,” recalls Marie. “But with Medical Poland’s support, we had great peace of mind from the start. They took the pressure off us by guiding us through every stage of the application, handling forms via video calls and emails, and even creating WhatsApp groups for parents and students. That sense of togetherness and security was invaluable during what could have been a very stressful time.”
Now in his fourth year studying Veterinary Medicine at Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Darragh is thriving. “The application process was made very simple with guidance from Medical Poland and my attentive Guidance Counsellor, Conor Hayes,” he explains. “Lecturers are supportive and motivate us to do well. The course is demanding, but there’s still time for sports, societies, and a good social life. My year has around 50 students, of which 35 are Irish — and that strong Irish community even led to the creation of the Wrocław Éire Óg GAA Club.”
For younger brother Cillian, now embarking on his first year, the decision to follow in Darragh’s footsteps was clear. “Listening to my brother’s positive experience gave me confidence. There’s a large Irish presence in Wrocław, so I knew I’d settle in easily. I applied to both Olsztyn and Wrocław through Medical Poland, and the support I received, from mock interviews with feedback to revision materials, really prepared me. I also liked that there’s no requirement for a third language; you can focus fully on the science subjects that matter most.”
Together, the brothers’ story shows the difference having informed Guidance in schools and the support of an organisation like Medical Poland can make, removing stress from the application process, providing reassurance to families, and helping Irish students find their path in world-class Polish universities, where English-taught, EU-recognised degrees open the door to professional careers back home.
Opening Doors for Ireland’s Future Healthcare Professionals
The experience of the Barlow family from Tipperary is echoed by many other Irish families who have found reassurance, support, and opportunity through Medical Poland. With hundreds of Irish students already thriving in Medicine, Veterinary, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Physiotherapy programmes in cities such as Wrocław, Bydgoszcz, Olsztyn and Poznań, Poland has become a trusted destination for those who missed out on places at home but remain determined to follow their vocation.
All degrees are fully taught and assessed in English, delivered to EU standards, and recognised by the Medical Council of Ireland, the Veterinary Council of Ireland, and other European professional bodies. Coupled with affordable tuition, lower living costs, and the strength of an established Irish student community, Poland offers a clear, practical, and inspiring route into medical and health science careers.
Medical Poland’s dedicated team continues to guide students and families step by step from the initial application, through interview preparation, to settling into life abroad, ensuring every student has the chance to realise their dream.
For more information and late application support, visit:
👉https://medicalpoland.ie
Contact:
Conor Hayes phone no. 0 87 413 8617 Email: conorhayes08@gmail.com
(Guidance Counsellor at The Abbey School in Tipperary Town, currently seconded to the Department of Education’s Support Service for Teachers and School Leaders).
Adam Krawczyk, phone no. 0 87 478 29 49 adam@medicalpoland.ie - (Founder & CEO & Education Expert Medical Poland since 2013)
| Conor Hayes is a Guidance Counsellor at The Abbey School in Tipperary Town but is currently seconded to the Department of Education’s Support Service for Teachers and School Leaders. He has fourteen years Guidance experience having worked extensively in post-primary schools but also in third level settings. |
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Medical Poland's Pre-Course: Your First Step to Success at Ludwik Rydgier's Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun
Master the Basics. Build Confidence. Enter Medical School Prepared
📅 Dates: 22nd – 28th September 2025
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Recommendation from Prof. Arkadiusz Jawien - Director of the English Division at Collegium Medicum
On behalf of the faculty and administration of the English Division at Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, I extend my formal congratulations on your admission to the Medical Doctor (MD) program for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The commencement of medical studies represents a significant academic transition. To help you prepare for the academic pursuits, I am writing to offer my full and unequivocal endorsement of your participation in the Pre-Medical Preparatory Course, organized by Medical Poland, from September 22nd to September 28th, 2025.
This intensive one-week program is specifically designed to provide a critical foundational overview of core subjects that are paramount to your success in the first year of study. The curriculum will encompass essential introductory material in:
• Anatomy
• Embryology
• Molecular Biology
• General Chemistry
• Biophysics
• Biochemistry
A significant advantage of this course is the inclusion of a practical suturing skills workshop. This session provides an invaluable early introduction to fundamental clinical techniques, fostering manual dexterity and professional confidence.
The strategic benefits of attendance are multifold:
1. Academic Acclimatisation: Early exposure to complex terminologies and concepts will facilitate a smoother transition into the pace and depth of the medical curriculum.
2. Competitive Advantage: Students who participate will enter the first semester with enhanced preparedness, allowing for greater depth of understanding from the outset.
3. Skill Development: The acquisition of basic practical skills before the start of formal classes provides a tangible head start in your clinical training.
4. Cohort Building: The course serves as an excellent forum to establish connections with future peers, fostering a collaborative learning community.
5. Confidence & Motivation: Participation in the course will foster confidence at the very start of your studies and help you approach the demanding medical curriculum with a strong sense of motivation and purpose.
I strongly recommend that all admitted students consider this course a vital investment in their academic and professional development. Participation demonstrates a commendable level of initiative and preparedness that aligns with the values of our institution.
I urge each of you to enrol in this highly beneficial program. We anticipate your arrival and look forward to supporting your journey into the medical profession.
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Starting your medical studies is an exciting and life-changing step — but it can also feel challenging. Medical Poland's Preparatory Course is designed to give you a head start before your first semester, building your confidence in key subjects and essential practical skills. Over eight intensive days, you'll deepen your understanding of the foundations of medicine and get a taste of what student life at Collegium Medicum will be like
Course Topics:
🔬 Molecular Biology
Explore the molecular mechanisms that sustain life. You'll learn about DNA and RNA structure and function, protein synthesis, and cellular processes, laying a strong foundation for understanding disease at the molecular level — a core element of modern medicine.
👶 Embryology
Study the earliest stages of human development, from fertilization to organ formation. Understanding embryology not only prepares you for anatomy and pathology but also enhances your knowledge of congenital disorders and prenatal health.
🫀 Anatomy
Get a head start on one of the most fundamental subjects in medicine. This introduction will help you learn anatomical terminology, body systems, and basic structural relationships, making the transition into detailed anatomy studies much smoother.
⚛️ Biophysics
Understand the physical principles that underpin biological processes. From biomechanics to fluid dynamics in the circulatory system, biophysics bridges the gap between physics and medicine, helping you interpret diagnostic technologies and treatment methods.
🧪 General Chemistry
Refresh and expand your chemistry knowledge — including chemical bonds, reactions, and the properties of biomolecules — to better understand the biochemical processes you'll study throughout your degree.
🪡 Surgical Suturing Skills
Gain hands-on experience in basic surgical techniques. Under expert guidance, you'll practice suturing methods, improving your manual dexterity and introducing you to the precision required in clinical settings.
Benefits of Attending the Pre-Course
Academic Head Start: Begin your studies already familiar with key concepts, making the first semester less overwhelming.
Stronger Fundamentals: Reinforce science knowledge that underpins all areas of medicine.
Practical Confidence: Early exposure to clinical skills, like suturing, helps you adapt quickly to hands-on classes.
Smooth Transition to University Life: Get to know your future classmates, campus environment, and teaching style before the academic year starts.
Better Time Management: Learn how to balance theory and practical learning effectively from the outset.
Motivation & Mindset: Start your studies with momentum, enthusiasm, and a clear sense of purpose.
Timetable
| Date | 10:00-11:30 | 12:00-13:20 |
| 22-23 Sept. | Anatomy | Molecular Biology |
| 24-25 Sept. | Anatomy | General Chemistry |
| 26-27 Sept. | Embryology | Biophysics |
| 28 Sept. | Surgical Suturing | MCQ Test + Ceremony |
On Tuesday, the 23rd of September at 15:30 , there will be an additional lecture from Dr. Jaroslaw Nuszkiewicz, an Assistant Professor at the University. The lecture will last 90 minutes and is titled " From molecules to practice: introduction to medical biochemistry and laboratory skills "
Reserve Your Spot
If you are an accepted student for Medicine at Collegium Medicum starting in October 2025, you already have your place secured.
If you are interested in attending the Pre-Course, please email support@medicalpoland.ie and voice your interest.
💰 Course Fee: € 290
Payment Details
Medical Poland Sp. z o. o.
IBAN: PL26 1020 1475 0000 8302 0339 5282
BIC/SWIFT: BPKOPLPW; Bank: PKO Bank Polski
Bank address: Stary Port Street 1-3, Postcode: 85-068, Bydgoszcz, Poland
Company Address: ul. Smoleńska 53, Postcode: 85-871, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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At the moment Bialystok University is ranked somewhere between 1000-1200 ("THE" ranking).
That makes it 6th result in Poland overall. However, in terms of the Teaching category, it is classified as the 2nd position. Also, 2nd place when it comes to gender proportions (76 vs 24).
For many international students, entrance exams are one of the biggest concerns when applying to study medicine, dentistry, or veterinary medicine abroad. The uncertainty, the level of difficulty, and the question “will I be able to pass?” often feel overwhelming. The reality, however, is very different - entrance exams in Poland are structured, predictable, and most importantly, manageable with the right preparation.
Most medical universities in Poland require applicants to pass an entrance exam in Biology and Chemistry. These exams are typically based on multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and focus on key topics from secondary school education. Depending on the university, the process may also include an interview, but the core assessment is almost always academic and knowledge-based. The level is demanding, but it is aligned with what students are expected to know after finishing high school - not beyond it.
Preparation for entrance exams is not about memorising everything. It’s about studying strategically. Successful candidates usually:
Knowing how to study is just as important as what to study. That’s why many students support their preparation with the Medical Poland Pre-Course, which helps them stay organised, focused, and aligned with actual exam requirements.
At Medical Poland, we guide students through the entire application process - including entrance exam preparation. Our Pre-Course is designed specifically for international applicants who want a clear, structured, and effective way to prepare. It offers:
More than just content, the Pre-Course provides direction, consistency, and confidence - helping students approach their exams feeling prepared rather than overwhelmed.
Beyond helping students succeed in entrance exams, the Pre-Course is also a strong starting point for the first year of studies. Making the transition into university smoother and helping students feel more confident from the very beginning.
