Hey guys let me start off by stating that even though I am sort of a newbie I have to say that that this site has really helped me in numerous ways as far as proceeding with my dream of becoming a physician. As some of you already know I was recently accepted to Poznan's Medical School (thank you thank no applauses please) Anywho I am in a little dilemma. I keep hearing great things about Warsaw medical school. Waiting to hear a response from them. I have tried to numerous searches and have come to some conclusions but at times I feel that people are trying to sell a school. I already know that basics but it seems that every physician (especially Polish physicians here in Chicago) I speak to has a different answer. I already know that studying for the USMLE is a "individual effort" but I truely believe that some Polish schools do a better job as far as preparing their students (shelf exams, clinicals in the states etc). If there is anyone (other than agents trying to sell a school) please provide me with any info regarding the schools listed above. As far as I know I believe that Poznan allows ( I believe the 4th year to do clinicals in the states) not sure on Warsaw?? If there are any Warsaw medical school students please provide me with some insight and what Warsaw has to offer. Furthermore as far as I know Warsaw begins its school year in late Sept while Poznan begins in early september but they both seem to end around June/July. This might seem like a stupid question but is the medical school of Warsaw tougher, hence a better education??? Any info would be greatly appreciated?? Thanks for your time.


Please keep in mind that I hope this question does not start up a argument between anybody, just looking for any insight??

I study in Poznan. Just finished first year. I do not know much about the medical school in Warsaw. But I can offer some insight into Poznan.

I don't think any medical school is 'tougher' than any other medical school. This is especially true when it comes to foreign schools. It all depends on motivation and how much discipline you have to self study and remain focused.

Shelf exams are available to take here in Poznan. In fact, they are required to pass most classes. The NBME scores are based on a class curve. But the scores matter most, as they are apparantly a reflection on how well you will do on the USMLE.

As far as clinicals go, from what I know, the 'core' rotations are all required to be completed in Poznan for credit. And 'electives' are what students usually complete in the States.

If you have any other specific questions on Poznan, please let me know.

The shelfs help in a few ways.

They give the transcript 'meaning,' so to speak. Residency directors understand shelf scores. They do not understand the local, Poznan, grading system.

Further, taking the shelfs gets you 'in the groove.' It's like taking the USMLE over and over.

I am not certain if Warsaw is 4 years. I believe it is 6. In any event, it was only 6 when I was in Poland, 2 years ago now.

A 6 year program is essentially a translation of the indigenous curriculum -- one that begins after high school. A 4 year program requires college, and the pre-meds.

I would stick with 4 year programs that offer shelf exams.

Thanks guys for the quick helpful reply. I just want to make the right decision so I am very grateful. Hey Gooner one more thing you stated that you finished your first year at Poznan (Congrats man). What did you feel was the hardest thing you had to overcome in your first year? What does a typical day look like for a student? Freetime? Weekends? Library facilities? Lunch etc. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again

The hardest thing to overcome will be different for everybody. If you are not Polish, it might be the language barrier. If you never lived away from home, it might be the partying. If you only scrapped through the admissions process, it might be keeping up with the coursework. Having said all these things, as long as you are motivated and disciplined, it will only make things easier.

Here is a link to our first year schedule, 4Y MD - 1st Year/Schedule: Poznan University of Medical Sciences, American Student Government Freetime is up to you. Depends on how you study. You will have more free time during the first few months of first year, than any other time during the year. It's really an individual thing. But it's normal, and definitly feasable to go out once in awhile.

They are actually in the process of building a library right now. Not sure when it will be completed. But for now, we are confined to what looks more like a study room than a library. Still, the hours are not bad. I think it's open from 8am - 11pm on weekdays. And 10am - 4pm on weekends.

As for lunch, there is a snack type place in the building where you'll have most first year classes. Vending machines if that's your thing. Or pack your own! There are also nice places to eat around town, but it's hard to fit time between classes.