The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has begun outlining the main directions for the 2026 admission campaign. Although the final Admission Procedure is still being drafted, several key updates have already been announced for future applicants.
The 2026 admission campaign will retain the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT) while introducing several adjustments to broaden access and make the process more flexible.
Preparatory “Zero Year” for Those Who Did Not Pass the NMT-2025. Ukrainian universities plan to introduce special “zero-year” programs — one-year preparatory courses for applicants who did not reach the passing threshold in 2025. The studies will be full-time, with free places available primarily for applicants from frontline or temporarily occupied territories. Others may study on a fee-paying basis. After completing the program, participants will be able to retake the NMT and continue as bachelor’s students.
Equal Rules for All Regions. The Ministry does not plan to exempt applicants from frontline areas from taking the NMT. All candidates will take the test under the same conditions, though special quotas and benefits will remain for those most affected by the war. Applicants can independently choose the city where they wish to take the test during registration.
Format of NMT-2026. Applicants will complete four subjects:
three compulsory — Ukrainian language, mathematics, and history of Ukraine;
one elective — a foreign language (English, German, French, or Spanish), biology, geography, physics, chemistry, or Ukrainian literature.
The NMT will likely be held over two days instead of one to make the process more convenient and reduce stress.
Fewer Application Priorities. Officials are discussing reducing the number of application priorities from 15 to 12, making it easier for applicants to choose their preferred universities.
State-Funded and Grant Opportunities. The number of state-funded places is expected to remain limited, but the grant system for fee-paying students will expand. Two levels of grants will be offered, with amounts depending on NMT results, the chosen field of study, and the admission region.
📌 Kherson State University closely monitors updates from the Ministry of Education and Science regarding the 2026 admission campaign. Follow our publications for the latest information, upcoming preparatory programs, and new opportunities for applicants.
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