Ukrainian Language and Winter in Warsaw
Spend one or two weeks of winter break focused on intensive Ukrainian language study in Warsaw. Small-group instruction emphasizes practical communication while developing speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Outside the classroom, cultural activities introduce Warsaw and Ukrainian life in the city. Combine focused language study with opportunities to explore museums, food, and neighborhoods during the winter holiday season.
Language in Context
Warsaw is a major center of Ukrainian life outside Ukraine, with communities shaped by longstanding migration, educational and professional connections, and displacement caused by the war. Ukrainian is heard in daily interactions and used in businesses, community organizations, and cultural spaces across the city.
Polish remains the primary language of public life, so opportunities to practice Ukrainian are strongest through engagement with Ukrainian speakers and community settings. Studying here offers a perspective on how language sustains cultural identity and relationships across borders, while introducing students to the experiences of Ukrainians living in Poland.
If you are a current student, it is your responsibility to check the academic calendar of your home institution to ensure you do not miss class and/or have the necessary approvals in place for participation.
Past the deadline? Contact us to check if there is space.
Program Details
Intensive Ukrainian language instruction in small groups develops speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, with an emphasis on practical communication. Lessons combine vocabulary and grammar with conversation practice and Ukrainian-language materials.
Students are placed according to their prior study and language proficiency.
Partner School
SŁOWIANKA Language School is located in central Warsaw and specializes in Slavic languages, including Ukrainian, Polish, Belarusian, and Russian.
The cultural program balances intensive language study with opportunities to explore Warsaw during the winter holiday season and learn about Ukrainian life in the city. Activities are scheduled around classes while leaving students time to explore independently.
Programming may include a guided city walk, museum visits, and activities introducing Ukrainian culture, food, and community life in Warsaw. The exact schedule will depend on local events and seasonal opportunities.
Opportunities to Explore
The first full weekend is free for independent travel and exploration. Stay in Warsaw to explore more of the city, or take advantage of Poland’s rail connections to visit another destination. Students are responsible for arranging and funding independent weekend travel.
Weather
January in Warsaw is cold, with winter conditions that may include snow, rain, and freezing temperatures. Students should bring a warm winter coat, waterproof footwear, and layers suitable for city exploration and outdoor activities.
Housing is not included in the program cost, allowing students to choose accommodation that fits their budget and preferences. There are several inexpensive hostels near the language school, and SRAS will provide recommendations for students to book independently.
Students may also arrange a hotel, apartment, or other accommodation. Participants are responsible for booking and paying for their housing; when choosing a location, consider access to classes and public transportation.
Warsaw is Poland’s capital and a major political, economic, and cultural center in Central Europe. Rebuilt after extensive destruction during World War II, the city brings together a restored Old Town, traces of its socialist past, and contemporary architecture.
Museums, theaters, cafés, and markets offer plenty to explore during a short stay. Winter brings seasonal food, holiday lights, and opportunities to discover the city’s cultural life indoors. An extensive public transportation network makes it easy to travel between neighborhoods.
Warsaw’s Ukrainian communities add another dimension to the experience. Ukrainian businesses, cultural spaces, and community organizations provide opportunities to encounter Ukrainian life beyond Ukraine while exploring the wider Polish setting.
This program uses a short application and a simplified payment schedule. A $50 non-refundable application fee is due when you apply and is applied toward the total program cost. Once your participation is confirmed, a $450 non-refundable deposit is due within seven days to reserve your place. The remaining program balance is due 45 days before arrival.
Cancellation: If SRAS receives written cancellation at least 20 days before the program begins, 20% of the total program cost is refundable. For cancellations received fewer than 20 days before the program begins, no refund is guaranteed.
If SRAS is able to recover costs or fill a vacated place, we will endeavor to refund additional amounts where possible. Participants are encouraged to consider travel insurance that provides appropriate cancellation or interruption coverage.
SRAS Ambassadors awards may be applied toward eligible future SRAS programs and study tours.
Group Discount: Participants who bring two or more friends on a program of two weeks or longer may each receive a $150 discount. All participants must identify one another in their applications. The discount does not apply to participants already receiving special group pricing, including affiliate discounts.