Is studying at Polish universities really twice as expensive as in Belarus? We compared the numbers

The cost of higher education in Belarus and Europe came up on the June 3, 2025 episode of “Beware, Provocateurs,” which aired on the Evening Political Channel.

“One of the most popular majors for applicants is economics. At Belarusian State University, a year of study in this field on a paid basis costs just over 6,000 Belarusian rubles. If you convert that to euros, it comes out to about €1,800. A comparable program at the University of Warsaw will set international students back, get this, at least €3,000 a year. That’s nearly double, but getting in without knowing the language won’t be easy,” the host said.

The first year of economics at BSU really does cost about as much as Victoria Kirichenko said. If your grades are high enough, you can even get a spot tuition-free. But tuition for economics at the University of Warsaw isn’t €3,000—it’s €2,100. That’s 17% higher, not twice as much. The price is the same for both Polish and international students. At BSU, international students pay more to study in Russian—about €3,600.

English-language courses at the University of Warsaw are more expensive—from €3,200 to €3,500. But at BSU, the price can go even higher—nearly €4,500.

Meanwhile, the University of Warsaw ranks much higher than BSU on the list of the world’s top universities: 258th versus 387th. Plus, Belarusians can apply for free spots at Polish universities. For example, if they have a Pole’s Card, know Polish at the C1 level, or have international protection status.