Learn Polish: choice of courses, cost, certificates of knowledge of Polish and where they might be needed?

Defining Your Goal

Before signing up for courses or conversation clubs, let’s clarify your goal for learning Polish. This will determine the methods you choose and the desired outcome. Goals should be achievable, clear, measurable, and time-bound. For example, mastering Polish in a week is unrealistic, but aiming to reach one level in about three months is a great idea.

It’s important to understand why you need the language. If you plan to become an EU resident or a Polish citizen, your goal should be at least a B1 level certified by an official certificate.

If your aim is to better understand and communicate with Poles, you can start learning Polish on your own or with the help of courses and tutors.

Why Do You Need a Polish Language Proficiency Certificate?

The Certificate of Proficiency in Polish as a Foreign Language (Poświadczanie Znajomości Języka Polskiego jako Obcego) is issued by the State Commission for the Certification of Polish Language Proficiency. This standardized document is valid indefinitely.

The certificate is required for:

• Polish citizenship – minimum B1 level;
• EU long-term resident card – B1 level;
• Admission to Polish-language universities – B1-B2 level depending on the faculty;
• Enrollment in other educational institutions (various levels);
• Employment in certain professions (level depends on the specific vacancy).

For other purposes, certificates from language courses or general mutual understanding are usually sufficient.

Learning Polish on Your Own

If you have the motivation and self-discipline, you can study independently. Start by creating a study schedule or using an app to guide your learning. Remember that language learning involves four main skills: speaking, grammar, writing, and listening. To improve your level, try to balance attention to all these areas.

Here’s a selection of apps, YouTube channels, and other useful materials:

YouTube Channels

Watching video content helps with listening comprehension and gradually expands your vocabulary. YouTube is perfect for this as you can enable subtitles and choose topics that interest you. Here are some channels for learning Polish:

• Easy Polish – Street interviews with everyday people in Poland, great for improving listening skills and adapting to conversational Polish.
• Fifty na Pol – A lively vlog about travel by an American of Polish descent living in Japan.
• Polski z Anią – Dr. Anna Rabczuk’s channel. She’s an associate professor at the Polonicum Center of Polish Language and Culture for Foreigners at the University of Warsaw, offering a professional approach to language learning.
• Mówiąc Inaczej – A channel about using the Polish language correctly and consciously.
• Historia bez cenzury – A popular blog about history with a casual tone.

Movies and TV Shows in Polish

If YouTube isn’t your thing, try watching films and series. Start with passive listening to TV content, where context and hosts’ emotions make it easier to understand.

Where to Watch Films and Series Online?

• Vod.tv.pl – Films and series in Polish. Start with something simple, like the sitcom Rodzinka.pl (Family).
• ProPolski com – A YouTube channel and blog about the Polish language, featuring cartoons that are great for beginners.
• Ninateka – A platform with documentaries and feature films.
• Netflix – A vast library where Polish content is increasingly popular.