Introduction. In recent years, a steadily increasing number of foreign students undertaking education in Poland, including Krakow’s universities. Among the representatives of different nations dominate the citizens of Ukraine. Despite the close proximity of Polish Ukraine and the common roots of Slavic, Ukrainian culture differs greatly from Polish. These differences affect health behavior and can result in a different approach to the health, disease and treatment.

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the health behaviors and self-efficacy Ukrainians studying at the universities of Krakow.

Material and methods. The study was performed by a diagnostic survey, the questionnaire technique. Research tools were self-efficacy scale by Schwarzer and Jerusalem and by a questionnaire. The study involved 103 persons from Ukraine, studying in Krakow universities. The results were statistically analyzed using the chi2 test.

Results. To health behaviors presented by the majority of the respondents were: sport; the use of condoms; seat belts while driving. While the to of risky behaviors presented by the majority of students were: drinking and snacking between main meals. The most popular way of coping with stress was observed for most respondents smoking cigarettes, and for women also, meet with friends. The subjects were mostly characterized the average level of self-efficacy.

Conclusions. It is essential to draw attention on this group of students in health education programsthat, can affect the reduction of risk of civilization disease.

Nursing Topics 2015; 23 (2): 227–232