Welcome to the VARIA Examination Center!

Both exams allow you to demonstrate your proficiency in Polish, but they differ in terms of, among other things, the status of the certificate, the assessment method, the waiting time for the certificate, and the requirements for candidates. Review the key differences and choose the exam that best suits your needs.

Which certificate will be more useful to you?

• State Certificate Examination. This is an official state certificate confirming proficiency in the Polish language. It is particularly important if you are planning to apply for Polish citizenship. It can also be useful for university studies, employment, or matters related to residence in Poland.
• TELC B1/B2 Exam. This is an international language certificate recognized in many countries. In Poland, it is accepted, among others, by the Ministry of the Interior and Administration (MSWiA) as part of the residence application process. It can be a good choice if you are applying for an EU Long-Term Resident Permit, or if you need to prove your Polish language proficiency for work, university studies, or an Erasmus exchange.

B1 or B2? What level can you achieve?

• State Certificate Examination: It is a single-level exam. This means that before the exam, you choose the level you want to certify (e.g. B1, B2, or C1). To pass the B1 exam, you must score at least 50% in each of the five sections separately. To pass at B2 or C1 level, you must score at least 60%.

• TELC Examination (B1/B2): It is a dual-level exam. The final certificate level (B1 or B2) depends on the total number of points you score. You therefore do not need to achieve a specific score in each section separately—the overall exam result is what counts.

Are you under 18?

• State Certificate Examination: In sessions for adults, it is available exclusively to people who are 18 or older.

• TELC Examination (B1/B2): There are no age restrictions, so both adults and young people can take the exam.

A shorter exam and a certificate in your hands sooner?

• State Certificate Examination: It usually takes place over 2 days. The written part lasts from 190 minutes (B1 level) to 250 minutes (B2 and C1 levels), followed by a separate oral module lasting 15–30 minutes. You usually have to wait around 4–5 months to receive the certificate.

• TELC Examination (B1/B2): It takes place over 1 day. The written and oral parts take approximately 3 hours in total. The certificate is usually issued within around 6–8 weeks.

How much does the exam cost?

• State Certificate Examination: The fee is set by law and starts at EUR 150.

• TELC Examination (B1/B2): The cost of the exam at Varia Polish Language Centre is exactly PLN 1,150.

State (Certificate) Examination)

It is a comprehensive test, usually spread over two days (Saturday and Sunday), consisting of five separate modules (lasting between 190 and 250 minutes):

1. Listening Comprehension – you listen to recordings and answer questions about the key information.
2. Reading Comprehension – you read various types of texts, from short notices to longer articles, and demonstrate your understanding of their meaning.
3. Grammatical and Vocabulary Accuracy – you complete tasks that test your knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and correct language forms.
4. Writing – you create your own texts according to the instructions, such as an email or an argumentative essay.
5. Speaking – during an individual interview with the examination panel, you complete tasks such as introducing yourself, describing an image, or taking part in a discussion.

TELC (B1/B2) Exam

A condensed exam conducted in a single day (approximately 3 hours).

I. Written Part (115 minutes, no breaks):

• Listening Comprehension – you listen to recordings and answer questions.
• Reading Comprehension – you work with a variety of texts and demonstrate your understanding of their meaning.
• Language Elements – you complete tasks covering grammar and vocabulary.
• Writing – you write a text based on the instructions provided.

Break and preparation: Afterthe written portion, you have 20 minutes to prepare for the oral exam. During this time, you can take your time to review the tasks and take notes.

II. Oral part (approx. 16 minutes, taken in pairs):

• You have a conversation with another candidate based on an illustration.
• You prepare and give a short presentation.
• You discuss a topic with your partner and exchange opinions.

Would you prefer an exam spread over two days or everything in one day?

The state exam has a more extensive format and consists of five separately graded sections. The TELC B1/B2 is more compact—the written and oral sections take place on the same day, and the oral section is taken in pairs. Choose the exam that’s right for you and take the next step in learning Polish!

Still on the fence? Check out our summary below or write to us—we’ll give you advice and help you prepare for the exam.

Passing the state exam results in an official certificate that attests to one’s proficiency in Polish as a foreign language.

• Who is it for: People applying for Polish citizenship (a minimum B1 level is required) and candidates applying to study in Poland (B2/C1 is often required).
• Dates and Registration:
• Registration always opens exactly two months before the exam date.
• Najbliższa sesja: 17–18 października 2026 r. (Poziom B1 dla dorosłych).
• Registration opens: August 17, 2026.
• Packages (Secure Registration): Places fill up very quickly. At Varia, you can purchase a “Course + Exam” package (PLN 1,470 instead of PLN 1,570). This way, we keep an eye on the registration dates and remind you when registration opens.

👉 Check out the details and sign up for the state exam!

The TELC B1/B2 exam offers flexible scheduling—no long wait for your certificate.

• Who is it for: People applying for an EU Long-Term Resident Permit, international students, and individuals who need a certificate for business purposes.
• Price: 1150 PLN.
• Exam dates in 2026:
• September 5, 2026. (Registration deadline: August 10, 2026 – closed)
• November 14, 2026. (Registration deadline: October 19, 2026)
• Waiting time: Only 6–8 weeks.

👉 Check the dates and reserve your spot for the TELC

A good result starts with good preparation. That’s why our courses focus on what will really help you in the exam — you’ll learn its structure, practise all types of tasks, and find out what to pay attention to so that nothing takes you by surprise.

Prepare for the state exam with us…

State Examination Preparation Course (B1): Learn proven strategies for tackling the exam papers and practise all five sections of the exam — from listening to speaking. Prefer an in-person or online course? Choose the option that works best for you!

…or pass the TELC exam with Varia!

TELC (B1/B2) Exam Preparation Course: An intensive 4-week online course held on Friday evenings. You’ll get familiar with the exam format, practise with sample tests, and prepare for the speaking section with an instructor. Pass your TELC exam stress-free with us!

You have a goal. We’ll help you achieve it!

You’re in good hands: We operate under a mandate from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and certification TELC.

Leave your stress at the door: We’ve been teaching foreign students for over 20 years. We know just how stressful an oral exam can be. We foster a friendly, supportive atmosphere, and the exam panel helps you focus on what matters most—showing what you’re truly capable of.

We’ll guide you step by step: As our candidate, you’ll get access to a webinar where we explain the exam process step by step. No secrets, no guesswork—just plenty of specifics.

You focus on the exam. We’ll take care of everything else.

We know the procedures, deadlines, and exam requirements. We also know that behind every certificate there are real goals — studying, working, building a life in Poland, and opening up new opportunities.

That’s why we’re here to help you—from your very first question all the way to “Congratulations, you passed!”

• Phone: +48 664 092 374 / +48 539 215 220
• E-mail: info@kurspolskiego.pl
• Address: Varia Polish Language Centre, 2/3 Michałowskiego Street, Kraków, Poland.