The University of Gdańsk came third in Poland in the first edition of the nationwide ‘Uczelnia Otwarta’ (‘Open University’) ranking, which assesses universities that create a friendly, accessible and inclusive study environment. The ranking was compiled by the Student Parliament of the Republic of Poland.

In the ranking, which covered all types of higher education institutions in Poland, the University of Gdańsk came third, behind only the Kozminski University and the University of Warsaw. In the category of traditional universities, the University of Gdańsk came second – behind the University of Warsaw and ahead of Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. The results were announced on 17 June 2026 during a ceremony at the headquarters of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, which provided financial support for the organisation of the ranking.

Fifty-eight higher education institutions from across the country took part in the first edition of the ranking. The assessment covered, amongst other things, measures relating to physical and digital accessibility, support for people with special needs, social assistance, combating exclusion and discrimination, as well as the development of students’ academic, social and cultural activities. The assessment process took into account both the systemic solutions implemented by the universities and the actual experiences of students.

‘The nationwide ‘Open University’ ranking and the University of Gdańsk’s third place are particularly valuable to us, as they represent an assessment of the quality of the academic environment from the students’ perspective. This confirms that the university is a place where we care not only about high standards of education and research, but also about the wellbeing, safety and equal opportunities of all members of our academic community,’ says the Rector of the University of Gdańsk, prof. dr hab. Piotr Stepnowski.

At the University of Gdańsk, students can pursue their academic interests in numerous research societies, gain international experience through the Erasmus+ programme, get involved in cultural activities at the University of Gdańsk Academic Cultural Centre ‘Alternator’, run the student radio station Radio MORS, or represent the university in the AZS UG sports clubs. Later this year, a modern University of Gdańsk Sports Centre will open on the Oliwa Campus.

Students also have a real say in the university’s development through the Academic Citizens’ Budget, whilst support in their day-to-day lives is provided by, amongst others, the Centre for Student and Doctoral Student Activities, the University of Gdańsk Careers Office, the Academic Psychological Support Centre and the Deputy Ombudsman for Equal Treatment and Anti-Bullying. Student organisations also play an important role, including the University of Gdańsk Student Parliament and the Independent Students’ Association.

This distinction in the ‘Open University’ ranking is part of the University of Gdańsk’s consistently implemented strategy to build a friendly, supportive and open academic environment. In February 2026, the University of Gdańsk became the only university in Poland to be awarded the ‘FISU Healthy Campus Certificate’ by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), confirming high standards in the promotion of physical and mental health, sporting activity, healthy eating, social integration and sustainable development. Meanwhile, in the European EDUopinions 2026 ranking, based on the opinions of students and graduates, the University of Gdańsk was among the ten highest-rated universities in Europe and was one of only two Polish universities included in this ranking.

‘The University is also developing solutions to improve accessibility for people with special needs and is creating an environment that fosters diversity and the active participation of all members of the academic community,’ emphasises the Vice-Rector for Student Affairs dr hab. Urszula Patocka-Sigłowy, prof. UG, who accepted the award alongside Julia Łaska from the University of Gdańsk Student Parliament.

The Vice-Rector also gains an understanding of students’ needs during meetings with students at individual faculties.

The creators of the ranking emphasise that its aim is not only to recognise best practices, but also to inspire the entire academic community to take further action to promote accessibility, equal opportunities and a high quality of student life.

The ‘Open University’ ranking was launched in 2025. In its first edition, 24 ‘Open University’ certificates were awarded, and the top universities received trophies and honours in individual categories. In the overall ranking, the top three places were taken by: Kozminski University, the University of Warsaw and the University of Gdańsk.