uj-lift-theme.contrast
pl polski (Polska) en English (United Kingdom)

Student guide - Instytut Ekonomii, Finansów i Zarządzania

uj-lift-theme.skip-dynamic-banner

Instytut

Student guide

Student essentials

Distance learning tools

Libraries

International Student Office

  • International Student Office webpage
  • Contact Information: iso@uj.edu.pl
  • Address: ul. Ingardena 6 (entrance from ul. Oleandry 2a), Welcome Centre (room 1.08), 30-060 Kraków

  • Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 7.30-12.00 and 13.00-15.30 (in the academic year)

Financial and living support

Legalization of residence

About Kraków

Welcome to Poland! Welcome to Kraków!

Located in the heart of Central Europe, Poland is a country known for its rich history, vibrant and diverse culture, warm hospitality, and high level of education.

Poland is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area, making it easy to travel across Europe. More and more students from around the world are choosing Poland as their study destination –mainly due to its high-quality education, affordable living costs, and exciting opportunities for personal and academic growth.

Kraków – the heart of culture and education

Kraków is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland. Once the country’s capital, it is now celebrated as Poland’s cultural and academic heart. The city offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and modern life. You will find everything here – from the medieval Main Square to cutting-edge university campuses and trendy co-working spaces.

Kraków is packed with iconic landmarks like the Royal Wawel Castle, the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz, as well as a wide range of museums, galleries, and theatres. The city buzzes with life all year round – film festivals, concerts, book fairs, street markets, and countless other events attract both locals and visitors alike.

Student life Kraków

Kraków is a perfect city for students. It offers affordable housing, an extensive public transport system (with trams and buses running nearly around the clock), and plenty of great spots to study and relax. Students love hanging out in cafés, parks, and clubs – especially around the Old Town and the vibrant Kazimierz district.

Universities, including the Jagiellonian University, offer a wide range of activities beyond courses – student organizations, academic clubs, volunteering, sports, and the arts. There are also plenty of events dedicated to international students, like the Orientation Week, language tandems, and trips around Poland.

Public Transport

Kraków’s public transport system (MPK) tickets for foreigners - the ticketing system is the same for both Polish citizens and foreigners.

There are no special discounts for international visitors beyond standard reductions (such as those based on age or student status).

Sample Ticket Prices:

  • 20-minute ticket: ~4.00 PLN
  • 60-minute ticket: ~6.00 PLN
  • 24-hour ticket: ~17.00 PLN

(For the most up-to-date ticket prices, always check the official website: ztp.krakow.pl)

Free and discounted travel:

  • Children under 4 years of age - free
  • Seniors over 70 years of age -  free (with a valid age-confirming ID)
  • Students – discounted fares with a valid student ID (either from a Polish university or an international card like ISIC)
  • Persons with disabilities and their caregivers – special travel rights upon presenting valid documentation

Mobile applications:

Jakdojade – a mobile app that helps you buy tickets and plan public transport journeys in Kraków.

KKM – a mobile app for Kraków’s City Card (KKM), allowing you to buy tickets and check your balance.

 

Alternatively, you can use a taxi.

  • Bolt and Uber - very popular among students – usually cheaper than traditional taxis.

🚖 Traditional Taxi Companies:

  • Eko Taxi Kraków – rides from just 1.79 PLN/km, affordable fares, and the option to order via mobile app.
  • Wawel Taxi – discounts for holders of the Krakowska Card (Karta Krakowska) (e.g. students who are officially registered residents of Kraków).
  • iTaxi / Free Now – ride-hailing apps that connect you with multiple drivers, offer cashless payments, and include special promotions.

Cyclical events in Kraków

  • 🌸 Spring (March – May)

🎥 Off Camera – International Festival of Independent Cinema

– Film screenings, meetings with filmmakers, and open-air events.

🎵 Kraków Film Music Festival (FMF)

– Film music concerts featuring renowned composers and orchestras (usually held in May).

🎥 Kraków Film Festival

– Documentary, animated, and short films (late May/early June).

 

  • ☀️ Summer (June – August)

🎶 Wianki (Wreaths) – Midsummer Music Celebration (June)

– Large concerts by the Vistula River, fireworks displays, and celebration of Slavic traditions.

✡️ Jewish Culture Festival in Kazimierz (June/July)

– One of the largest Jewish culture festivals in Europe.

🏰 Saint John's Fair (June)

– Historical crafts, re-enactments, and early music.

🎭 Street Theatre Festival

– Street performances, live acts, and open-air spectacles.

 

  • 🍂 Autumn (September – November)

🎵 Sacrum Profanum (September)

– Classical, contemporary, and experimental music.

🎧 Unsound Festival (October)

– Experimental electronic music, installations, and performances.

📚 Conrad Festival (October)

– Author talks, literary debates, and guests from around the world.

📖 International Book Fair in Kraków (October)

– A literary and publishing industry event open to a wide audience.

 

  • ❄️ Winter (December – February)

🎄 Christmas Market (December)

– A traditional fair with handicrafts, ornaments, and food.

🏆 Kraków Nativity Scene Contest (beginning of December)

– A colourful parade of nativity scenes and an exhibition at the Kraków Museum.

🎭 Divine Comedy – International Theatre Festival (December)

– The best theatre performances from Poland and around the world.

 

  • 🎉 TAURON Arena Kraków – Event Hub You Simply Can’t Miss! 🎶

Hey students! Searching for a place buzzing with unforgettable experiences?
TAURON Arena Kraków takes entertainment to a whole new level!

🎤 Concerts by the biggest stars – from Scorpions to Robbie Williams.
🎬 Sports shows, film festivals, gaming events, stand-up comedy, and so much more!
🎪 Cultural events, cabarets, and parties that create memories to last a lifetime.

🌍 Easy tram access, student discounts, and an atmosphere you will not find anywhere else.

📍 Where? Just 15 minutes from Kraków’s city centre.
🎟️ Why go? Because TAURON Arena is not just a venue – it is pure energy, unforgettable vibes, and the best memories from your student years!

👉 Follow @tauronarenakrakow to stay up to date!
Your stay in Kraków does not count unless you have been to an event at TAURON Arena! 😎

Kraków’s nearby attractions

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the areas around Kraków offer plenty of options – charming small towns, lakes, castles, and mountains (the Tatras are just two hours away). It is worth visiting places like Wieliczka (salt mine), Ojców National Park, Zakopane, and Nowy Sącz.