An academic achievement scholarship is a form of financial support for students achieving high academic results. Learn about the requirements, scholarship amounts, and how to apply.
Types of School Scholarships
Motivational scholarship (for academic achievement):
Awarded for high grade point average, achievements in subject competitions, olympiads, sports and artistic competitions.
Social scholarship:
Awarded to students from families with difficult financial situations (independent of academic results).
You can receive both scholarships at the same time if you meet the conditions!
What average is required for a motivational scholarship?
Requirements vary by municipality, but most commonly:
Primary school (grades 4-8):
- Minimum average: 4.75 - 5.0
- Competitive average: 5.5 - 6.0
Secondary school (high school, technical school):
- Minimum average: 4.5 - 4.75
- Competitive average: 5.0 - 5.5
Important:
- Average is calculated from all subjects (including PE, art, music)
- Behavior grade usually must be at least 'good' (4)
- Specific thresholds are set by the municipality - check with your school!
Other Criteria Besides Average
Motivational scholarship can also be received for:
Competition achievements:
- Finals of national subject olympiad
- Finals of provincial or national competition
- High scores on external exams
Sports achievements:
- National or international championships
- Representing the school in sports competitions
Artistic achievements:
- Music, art, theater competitions
- Representing the school in public performances
For competition achievements, the average may be lower than standard threshold!
How much is the academic achievement scholarship?
Scholarship amount depends on municipality budget and number of students:
Typical amounts:
- Monthly: 80 - 250 PLN
- Annually: 800 - 2500 PLN (usually 10 months)
- One-time scholarship for outstanding achievements: 500 - 2000 PLN
Amount depends on:
- Municipality or county budget
- Number of applicants
- Your grade average and achievements
In wealthier municipalities, scholarships can be significantly higher!
How to Apply for a Scholarship?
Step 1: Check deadlines
Applications are usually submitted in September or February
Step 2: Get the application form
Available at school office or on municipality website
Step 3: Complete documents
Copy of report card, achievement certificates, competition diplomas
Step 4: Submit application
Submit at school office (not at municipality office!)
Step 5: Wait for decision
Decisions are usually made in October/March
Remember: the deadline is strict - being late = no scholarship!
What Documents are Needed?
- Completed application form (signed by parents if minor)
- Copy of report card from previous school year
- Achievement certificates from competitions
- Other documents confirming achievements
Some municipalities also require family income certificates!
Who Grants the Scholarship?
Motivational scholarship is granted by:
- Primary school: Village head or Town mayor
- Secondary school: County head or City president
Decision is made by scholarship committee based on:
- Grade average
- Extracurricular achievements
- Available budget funds
- Number of candidates
Can You Lose the Scholarship?
YES - you can lose the scholarship during the school year if:
- Your average falls below the required threshold
- You receive a failing behavior grade
- You no longer meet the criteria
Municipality may conduct verification during school year!
Maintain high academic level throughout the year.
Tips: How to Increase Your Chances?
- Maintain a high average from the beginning of the year
- Participate in subject competitions - that's extra points!
- Collect all diplomas and certificates
- Submit your application as early as possible
- Check if you can also apply for a social scholarship
- Ask the school office about specific requirements
What About University Scholarships?
At university, you can also receive an academic achievement scholarship:
- Required average: usually above 4.5
- Amount: 500 - 1500 PLN monthly
- Granted by: dean or university rector
- Conditions: high average or scientific/artistic/sports achievements
Check the scholarship regulations at your university!
Summary
- Minimum average for scholarship: usually 4.5 - 5.0
- Scholarship amount: 80 - 250 PLN monthly
- Applications are submitted in September or February
- You can combine motivational and social scholarships
- Competition achievements increase chances
- Check exact requirements in your municipality!