In Poland, academic performance at schools and universities is measured using a numerical grading system that may differ significantly from grading scales used in the UK, US or other countries. Understanding how Polish grades are awarded, how averages are calculated, and how these averages affect scholarship eligibility is essential for both Polish students and international students studying at Polish institutions.
The Polish Grading Scale
Polish schools and universities use a 6-point scale for secondary school and a modified 5-point scale for higher education.
Secondary School (Szkoła Średnia) — 6-Point Scale
| Grade | Polish Name | Meaning | UK Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Celujący | Outstanding / Excellent | A* / Distinction |
| 5 | Bardzo dobry | Very good | A |
| 4 | Dobry | Good | B |
| 3 | Dostateczny | Satisfactory / Sufficient | C |
| 2 | Dopuszczający | Acceptable / Barely passing | D |
| 1 | Niedostateczny | Insufficient / Failing | F |
Plus (+) and minus (−) signs may be added to grades 2–5 in some schools (e.g., 4+ or 3−), though these typically count as the base grade for official average calculations.
University (Uczelnia Wyższa) — 5-Point Scale
| Grade | Polish Name | ECTS Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 5.0 | Bardzo dobry (bdb) | A (Excellent) |
| 4.5 | Dobry plus (db+) | B (Very good) |
| 4.0 | Dobry (db) | B (Good) |
| 3.5 | Dostateczny plus (dst+) | C (Satisfactory) |
| 3.0 | Dostateczny (dst) | C (Sufficient) |
| 2.0 | Niedostateczny (ndst) | F (Fail) |
Calculating the Grade Point Average (Średnia Ocen)
The Polish grade point average (GPA / średnia ocen) is calculated as the arithmetic or weighted mean of all subject grades.
Simple Arithmetic Mean
Add all grades and divide by the number of grades:
GPA = (sum of all grades) / (number of subjects)
Example: Grades of 5, 4, 5, 4, 3, 5 → GPA = (5+4+5+4+3+5) / 6 = 26/6 = 4.33
Weighted Average
Many universities calculate a weighted average where subjects carrying more ECTS credits (kredyty) count more heavily. This more accurately reflects the time and effort invested in each subject.
Weighted GPA = (sum of (grade × ECTS credits)) / (total ECTS credits)
Example:
- Mathematics: grade 4.5, 6 ECTS → 27
- Physics: grade 3.5, 4 ECTS → 14
- English: grade 5.0, 2 ECTS → 10
- Total ECTS: 12; Weighted GPA = 51 / 12 = 4.25
How Polish Averages Affect Scholarships
The GPA is critical for two main types of public financial support at Polish universities:
Stypendium rektora (Rector's Scholarship): Awarded to the top 10% of students on each programme (by GPA). Amounts vary by university but typically range from 500 to 1 500 PLN per month in 2026. Most universities require a minimum GPA of 4.0–4.5 to be considered.
Stypendium socjalne (Need-Based Scholarship): Not GPA-dependent but requires good academic standing (no failed exams). Amounts: 600–1 400 PLN/month at most public universities.
Diploma Distinctions
The final degree classification at Polish universities depends on both the thesis mark and the overall GPA:
- Bardzo dobry (very good): GPA 4.51–5.0 and thesis grade 5.0
- Dobry plus (good plus): GPA 4.21–4.50
- Dobry (good): GPA 3.71–4.20
- Dostateczny (satisfactory): GPA 3.00–3.70
Converting Polish Grades for International Applications
When applying to universities abroad, you may need to convert your Polish GPA. Common conversions:
- Polish 4.5–5.0 ≈ UK First Class Honour / GPA 3.7–4.0
- Polish 4.0–4.49 ≈ UK Upper Second (2:1) / GPA 3.0–3.69
- Polish 3.5–3.99 ≈ UK Lower Second (2:2) / GPA 2.5–2.99
Always check with the target institution — many have official conversion tables. WES (World Education Services) also provides official evaluation reports accepted by most UK and US universities.
Calculate your GPA instantly and check scholarship eligibility thresholds using the education calculators at Liczbnik.pl.