In Ukraine, the number of budget places for graduate studies is set to decrease in 2025. For the first time, electronic admission systems will be used.
This was announced by Deputy Minister of Education and Science Mykhailo Vynnytskyi during a briefing at the "Media Center Ukraine."
According to him, the number of budget places available for graduate studies may drop to around five thousand, which is two thousand less than last year.
"We estimate approximately five thousand places in graduate studies this year, but exact figures are not yet available. Preference will clearly be given to engineering and natural science specialties, which require highly qualified professionals," explained the Deputy Minister.
The decision to cut budget places was made because their number last year was deemed "too large."
The official believes that the surge in interest for graduate studies was driven by the opportunity to obtain a deferment from military service rather than a genuine desire for education.
"This year, interest will be significantly lower. We aim to ensure that places in graduate programs are awarded only to those who truly wish to write dissertations, conduct research, and foster innovation. We want to avoid excess placements and ensure graduate studies are not misused," he added.
Mykhailo Vynnytskyi noted that the current rule, which allows only full-time students to study under state orders in graduate programs, will remain unchanged. Applicants for part-time or evening programs will only be able to enroll on a contractual basis.
It is worth noting that after 2022, the number of candidates wishing to enroll in graduate programs in Ukraine surged, particularly among men of conscription age.
Last year, the Ministry of Education and Science changed the admission rules, allowing study in full-time graduate programs only on a state order basis, while also doubling the number of budget places.
The Ministry believes that the increase in the passing score for graduate studies in 2024 helped "filter out" a significant portion of applicants of conscription age.
However, due to the abnormal number of applicants, Ukraine plans to introduce a state exam for graduate students.