The Jagiellonian University

Jagiellonian University (UJ) is a public research university in Kraków, Poland.

The Jagiellonian University was founded on May 12, 1364, by King Casimir III the Great of Poland. It was originally called the Academy of Kraków, and consisted of three faculties: liberal arts, medicine, and law. Only the former two were active during the founder's life. After the king's death in 1370, the university ceased to exist.

In 1400, the university was re-founded by King Władysław II Jagiełło, and was renamed the Jagiellonian University in his honor. The university quickly became one of the most prestigious universities in Central Europe, and attracted scholars and students from all over the continent.

During the Polish Renaissance, the Jagiellonian University was a major center of learning and culture. Nicolaus Copernicus, the famous astronomer, studied at the university from 1491 to 1495. Other notable alumni include Pope John Paul II, Nobel Prize laureates Wisława Szymborska and Ivo Andrić, and the astronomer Johannes Hevelius.

The Jagiellonian University survived the partitions of Poland in the late 18th century, and continued to operate during the two world wars. Under Nazi occupation during World War II, the university was closed and many of its professors and students were arrested or killed. However, the university reopened after the war, and has continued to grow and develop ever since.

Today, the Jagiellonian University is one of the leading universities in Poland and Central Europe. It offers a wide range of programs in English, and is a popular destination for international students. The university is also a member of the Coimbra Group, a network of leading European universities.

The Jagiellonian University has a long and distinguished history, and has produced many notable alumni. It is a world-class university with a strong reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, The Jagiellonian University is positioned as the #312 top university in the world, which makes it the #2 top university in Poland. The university's global rank decreased by 8 points from last year.