So you've arrived in Poland for your Erasmus+ exchange. Congratulations! You made it. Your bags are (hopefully) unpacked, you've found your accommodation (or you're still looking), and now you're standing there thinking: "Okay, now what?"

The first week is overwhelming. There's so much to do, so many places to go, so many forms to fill out, and you're probably jet-lagged, culture-shocked, and wondering if you made the right decision. Don't worry – that's completely normal. Everyone feels this way. The good news? This guide will walk you through everything you need to do in your first week, step by step, so you don't miss anything important and can start enjoying your Erasmus+ experience.

The reality check: The first week is intense. You'll be running around, filling out forms, getting lost, and feeling exhausted. But it's also exciting – you're starting an adventure. This guide will help you get through the administrative stuff quickly so you can focus on the fun parts. Because once you've got the basics sorted, you can start exploring, making friends, and actually enjoying Poland.

Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Priorities

You've just arrived. Here's what to do first:

Get Your Bearings

Before you do anything else:

  • Find your accommodation – Get there, drop your bags, take a breath
  • Get a SIM card – You'll need a phone number immediately
  • Get some cash – Withdraw money from an ATM (bankomat)
  • Find a grocery store – Get basic food and water
  • Rest – You're probably exhausted. Take a nap if you need to.

Pro tip: Don't try to do everything on day one. You're jet-lagged and overwhelmed. Focus on the essentials: accommodation, phone, money, food. Everything else can wait.

Get a Polish SIM Card

This is priority #1:

  • Where to get it: Orange, Play, T-Mobile, or Plus stores (everywhere)
  • What you need: Just your passport
  • Cost: Usually 20-50 PLN (€4-11) for starter pack
  • Why it's urgent: You'll need it for registration, contacting people, maps, everything

Popular providers:

  • Orange – Good coverage, student plans available
  • Play – Often cheapest, good for data
  • T-Mobile – Reliable, good customer service
  • Plus – Decent coverage, competitive prices

Pro tip: Get a SIM card with data. You'll need internet for maps, translation, and staying in touch. Most starter packs include some data.

Withdraw Cash

You'll need cash immediately:

  • ATMs are everywhere – Called "bankomat" in Polish
  • Most accept international cards – Visa, Mastercard work fine
  • Withdraw enough – For first few days (500-1000 PLN / €110-220)
  • Check fees – Your bank might charge international fees

Reality check: Poland is card-friendly, but you'll still need cash for some things (small shops, markets, some taxis). Always carry some cash.

Find Basic Supplies

Get essentials:

  • Grocery store – Biedronka, Lidl, Carrefour, Żabka (convenience stores)
  • Food and water – Basic supplies to get you through first days
  • Toiletries – If you didn't bring everything
  • Basic household items – If you're in an apartment

Pro tip: Don't overthink shopping on day one. Just get basics. You'll figure out what you need as you go.

Day 2-3: University Registration and Documents

Now for the bureaucratic stuff:

Register at Your Host University

This is crucial – do it as soon as possible:

  • Find the international office – Usually on campus, check university website
  • Bring all documents – Passport, acceptance letter, photos, etc.
  • Complete registration – Fill out forms, get student ID
  • Get your student card – Legitymacja studencka (gives you discounts!)

Documents you'll typically need:

  • Passport (original and copies)
  • Acceptance letter from university
  • Learning Agreement (approved copy)
  • Passport photos (usually 2-4)
  • Health insurance proof
  • Bank details (for grant payment)

Reality check: Registration can be time-consuming and frustrating. Be patient, bring all documents, and don't be afraid to ask questions. The international office staff are there to help.

Get Your Student ID (Legitymacja)

Why it matters:

  • Student discounts – Transport, events, restaurants, museums
  • Proof of student status – Needed for various things
  • Free or discounted entry – Many places offer student discounts

How to get it:

  • Usually part of registration process
  • May take a few days to be ready
  • You'll need passport photos
  • Usually costs 20-50 PLN (€4-11)

Pro tip: Get your student ID as soon as possible. The discounts add up, and you'll use it constantly.

Complete Learning Agreement (If Needed)

Sometimes you need to finalize it:

  • Check course availability – Some courses might be full or cancelled
  • Make changes if needed – Get approvals for any changes
  • Get final signatures – Make sure everything is approved
  • Submit final version – To both home and host universities

Reality check: Course selection can be tricky. Some courses might be full, some might be cancelled, some might not be what you expected. Be flexible and have backup options.

Apply for Erasmus+ Grant (If Not Done)

If you haven't applied yet:

  • Fill out grant application – Usually at international office
  • Submit bank details – Where to send the money
  • Submit required documents – Learning Agreement, etc.
  • Get confirmation – That your application is received

Pro tip: Don't expect immediate payment. Grants usually start after you've registered and been there a few weeks. Bring enough money to cover your first month.

Day 4-5: Practical Setup

Get your life organized:

Open a Bank Account (Optional but Recommended)

Why it helps:

  • Easier for grant payments – Direct transfers
  • No international fees – When using Polish card
  • Easier for daily life – Paying rent, bills, etc.

What you need:

  • Passport
  • Student ID (once you have it)
  • Proof of address (accommodation contract or dorm confirmation)
  • PESEL number (if you have it – more on this below)

Popular student-friendly banks:

  • PKO Bank Polski – Largest, lots of ATMs
  • mBank – Great online banking, very student-friendly
  • ING Bank Śląski – Good mobile app, student discounts

Pro tip: Many banks offer free accounts for students. Always ask about student discounts – they're everywhere in Poland.

Register Your Address (Get PESEL)

If you're staying longer than 3 months:

  • Register at local office – Urząd miasta/gminy (city/municipality office)
  • Get PESEL number – Polish identification number
  • Required for: Bank account, some services, longer stays
  • What you need: Passport, accommodation contract, sometimes other documents

Reality check: PESEL registration can be bureaucratic and time-consuming. It's not always required immediately, but it's useful to have. Check if it's required for your situation.

Set Up Internet (If in Private Apartment)

If you're not in a dormitory:

  • Choose provider – Orange, UPC, Vectra, etc.
  • Schedule installation – Can take 1-2 weeks
  • Get temporary solution – Mobile data or public WiFi in meantime
  • Cost: Usually 50-100 PLN/month (€11-22)

Pro tip: If you're in a dormitory, WiFi is usually included (quality varies). If in a private apartment, you'll need to set it up yourself.

Get Public Transport Card

Essential for getting around:

  • Monthly pass – Usually best value if you'll use it regularly
  • Student discount – Significant savings with student ID
  • Where to get it: Usually at transport office or online
  • Cost: Varies by city, usually 25-55 PLN/month with student discount

How to use:

  • Validate on entry – Tap card on reader
  • Keep it with you – Always have it when using transport
  • Fines are high – If caught without valid ticket (200+ PLN)

Reality check: Public transport in Polish cities is excellent and affordable. Get a monthly pass – it's worth it and saves you money.

Day 6-7: Orientation and Social Integration

Now for the fun(ish) parts:

Attend Orientation Programs

Most universities offer:

  • Welcome week – Orientation for international students
  • City tours – Getting to know your new city
  • Information sessions – About university, city, services
  • Social events – Meet other students

Why it matters:

  • Learn important information – About university, city, services
  • Meet other students – Other Erasmus and international students
  • Get your questions answered – Ask about anything
  • Start making friends – Social events and activities

Pro tip: Go to orientation! Even if you're tired or overwhelmed, it's incredibly helpful. You'll learn important information and meet people. Don't skip it.

Join ESN (Erasmus Student Network)

This is your social lifeline:

  • Find your local ESN – Every major city has an ESN section
  • Join events – Parties, trips, activities
  • Meet people – Other Erasmus students
  • Get help – They help with practical and social issues

How to find ESN:

  • Facebook – Search "ESN [your city]"
  • University – International office will have info
  • ESN website – esn.org
  • Other students – Ask around

Reality check: ESN is amazing. They organize events, trips, parties, and help you integrate. Join them – it's the best way to meet people and have fun.

Explore Your Neighborhood

Get to know where you live:

  • Walk around – Find grocery stores, cafes, transport stops
  • Find important places – Bank, pharmacy, post office
  • Learn the area – Where things are, how to get around
  • Try local places – Cafes, restaurants, shops

Pro tip: Don't just stay in your room. Walk around, explore, get lost (safely). You'll learn the city faster and feel more comfortable.

Start Learning Basic Polish

Even basics help:

  • Essential phrases – "Dzień dobry" (hello), "Dziękuję" (thank you), "Przepraszam" (sorry/excuse me)
  • Numbers – For shopping, transport
  • Food words – For ordering, shopping
  • Take a course – Many universities offer free Polish courses

Why it matters:

  • Daily life easier – Even basics make a difference
  • People appreciate it – Poles appreciate when you try
  • Opens doors – Makes interactions smoother

Pro tip: You don't need to be fluent. Even basic Polish – greetings, numbers, "please" and "thank you" – makes a huge difference in daily life.

Essential Documents Checklist

Make sure you have:

Essential (bring with you):

  • ✅ Passport (valid, with enough pages)
  • ✅ Acceptance letter from university
  • ✅ Learning Agreement (approved copy)
  • ✅ Health insurance proof (EHIC for EU students)
  • ✅ Bank statements (proof of funds, if needed)
  • ✅ Passport photos (bring extra – you'll need them)
  • ✅ Copies of everything (digital and physical)

Get in Poland:

  • ✅ Student ID (legitymacja)
  • ✅ PESEL number (if staying longer)
  • ✅ Bank account details (if opening account)
  • ✅ Transport card
  • ✅ SIM card and phone number

Pro tip: Make digital copies of everything. Store them in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) so you can access them from anywhere.

Common First Week Problems

Here are common issues and how to handle them:

Problem: Can't Find Accommodation

Solution:

  • Contact international office – They can help
  • Check ESN – They often help with accommodation
  • Facebook groups – Look for housing groups in your city
  • Temporary solution – Hostel or Airbnb while looking
  • Don't panic – It usually works out

Reality check: Accommodation can be stressful, but it usually works out. Don't be afraid to ask for help – international office and ESN can help.

Problem: Language Barrier

Solution:

  • Use English – Most people in cities speak some English
  • Use translation apps – Google Translate helps
  • Learn basics – Even "dzień dobry" and "dziękuję" help
  • Be patient – Communication takes effort
  • Ask for help – People are usually willing to help

Pro tip: Don't be embarrassed about language barriers. Most Poles are patient and helpful. Use gestures, apps, and simple English. It works.

Problem: Feeling Overwhelmed

Solution:

  • Take breaks – You don't have to do everything at once
  • Prioritize – Focus on essentials first
  • Ask for help – International office, ESN, other students
  • Connect with others – Other Erasmus students understand
  • Give yourself time – Adjustment takes time

Reality check: Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal. Everyone feels this way. It gets better. Give yourself time and be patient with yourself.

Problem: Missing Home

Solution:

  • Stay busy – Join activities, explore, meet people
  • Stay connected – Regular contact with home (but not too much)
  • Make friends – Other Erasmus students understand
  • Give it time – Usually gets better after first week or two
  • Focus on positives – Remember why you're here

Pro tip: Homesickness is normal and temporary. Most students get over it after the first few weeks. Stay busy and give it time.

First Week Survival Tips

Here's how to survive and thrive:

Stay Organized

Keep track of:

  • Documents – Where they are, what you need
  • Deadlines – Registration, applications, etc.
  • Appointments – University, bank, etc.
  • Expenses – Track your spending

Pro tip: Use a notebook or app to track everything. The first week is information overload – writing things down helps.

Ask for Help

Don't be shy:

  • International office – They're there to help
  • ESN – They help with everything
  • Other students – They've been through it
  • Polish students – Often happy to help

Reality check: Asking for help isn't weakness – it's smart. Everyone needs help, especially in the first week. Don't struggle alone.

Take Care of Yourself

Don't forget:

  • Eat – Even if you're busy, eat regularly
  • Sleep – Jet lag is real, get rest
  • Stay hydrated – Drink water
  • Take breaks – You don't have to do everything at once

Pro tip: The first week is exhausting. Take care of yourself. You can't function well if you're exhausted and hungry.

Be Flexible

Things won't go perfectly:

  • Plans change – Be ready to adapt
  • Things take longer – Bureaucracy is slow
  • Unexpected issues – Problems come up
  • Stay positive – It usually works out

Reality check: The first week is chaotic. Things will go wrong, plans will change, and you'll feel frustrated. That's normal. Stay flexible and patient.

Start Making Friends

Don't isolate yourself:

  • Go to orientation – Meet other students
  • Join ESN – Best way to meet people
  • Say yes – To invitations and activities
  • Be open – To new people and experiences

Pro tip: The students who have the best Erasmus+ experiences are the ones who get involved and make friends early. Don't wait – start connecting from day one.

What to Do After the First Week

Once you've got the basics sorted:

Continue Exploring

Keep discovering:

  • Your city – There's always more to see
  • Poland – Weekend trips to other cities
  • Culture – Museums, events, traditions
  • Food – Try new restaurants and dishes

Stay Engaged

Keep participating:

  • ESN events – Regular parties, trips, activities
  • University activities – Sports, clubs, events
  • Language exchange – Practice Polish, help others with your language
  • Volunteer – Great way to meet people and give back

Keep Learning

Continue growing:

  • Polish language – Take a course, practice daily
  • Polish culture – Read, watch, experience
  • Your field – Focus on your studies
  • Yourself – Erasmus+ is about personal growth

Reality check: The first week is just the beginning. Once you've got the basics sorted, you can focus on the fun parts – exploring, making friends, and having amazing experiences.

The Bottom Line

Your first week in Poland will be intense, overwhelming, and exhausting. But it's also exciting – you're starting an incredible adventure. This guide will help you get through the administrative stuff quickly so you can focus on the fun parts.

The key takeaways:

  • Day 1: Get basics – SIM card, cash, food, rest
  • Days 2-3: University registration, documents, student ID
  • Days 4-5: Practical setup – bank, transport, internet
  • Days 6-7: Orientation, ESN, social integration
  • Stay organized – Track documents, deadlines, expenses
  • Ask for help – Don't struggle alone
  • Take care of yourself – Eat, sleep, rest
  • Be flexible – Things won't go perfectly
  • Start making friends – Get involved early

The reality check: The first week is hard, but it passes. Once you've got the basics sorted, you can start enjoying your Erasmus+ experience. Don't let the administrative stuff overwhelm you – get it done, then focus on the adventure. You've got this!

Powodzenia! (Good luck!) The first week is challenging, but you'll get through it. Follow this guide, ask for help when you need it, and before you know it, you'll be settled in and having an amazing time in Poland. Welcome to your Erasmus+ adventure!