Changes in Graduate Education System in Ukraine for 2025

In 2025, Ukraine will see a reduction in the number of budget places available for graduate studies. Additionally, electronic cabinets will be used for the first time for admission to this level of education.

This was announced by Deputy Minister of Education and Science Mykhailo Vynytsky during a briefing at the "Media Center Ukraine".

According to him, in 2025 the number of budget places for graduate studies may decrease to around five thousand, which is two thousand fewer than last year.

"We anticipate approximately five thousand places in graduate studies this year, but exact figures are not available yet. It is clear that engineering and natural sciences will be prioritized, as we urgently need specialists at the graduate level in these innovative fields," he explained.

The decision to cut the number of budget places was made because last year's figure was considered "too high".

The official believes that the surge in interest for graduate studies was driven by the possibility of obtaining a military service deferment rather than a genuine desire for education.

"This year, we expect much less demand. We want to ensure that places in graduate studies are available only for those who truly want to write dissertations, conduct research, and create innovations. We do not want an excess of places being misused," he added.

Mykhailo Vynytsky noted that the rule requiring only full-time students to be trained at the budget level will remain unchanged this year. Applicants for part-time or evening programs can only enroll on a contractual basis.

It should be noted that after 2022, the number of applicants wishing to enter universities for graduate studies in Ukraine skyrocketed, particularly the share of men of conscription age.

Last year, the Ministry of Education and Science changed the admission rules, allowing only full-time students to study on a budget basis, while simultaneously doubling the number of budget places available.

The ministry believes that the increase in the passing score for graduate studies in 2024 helped to "filter out" a significant portion of applicants of conscription age.

However, due to an abnormal number of applicants, Ukraine plans to introduce a state examination for graduate students.