Method for drying poly( alpha -olefins) comprising contacting poly( alpha -olefins) having a content of hydrocarbon medium of 0.2 to 2% by weight with nitrogen gas having substantially no hydrocarbon medium and having a dew point of -10 DEG C. or lower in counterflow in a silo type through-flow drying apparatus whereby poly( alpha -olefins) having a content of the hydrocarbon medium of less than 0.2% by weight can be obtained.