In 2025, Ukraine is set to reduce the number of budget places available for PhD studies. Additionally, electronic cabinets will be introduced for admissions to this level of education for the first time.
This was announced by Deputy Minister of Education Mykhailo Vynnytsky during a briefing at the "Media Center Ukraine".
According to him, the number of budget places for PhD programs may decrease to around five thousand, which is two thousand fewer than last year.
"We anticipate approximately five thousand places in PhD programs this year, but exact figures are not yet available. Clearly, engineering and natural sciences will have priority, as we need specialists in these innovative fields", – he explained.
The decision to reduce the number of budget places was made due to their excessive quantity last year.
The official believes that the surge in interest for PhD studies was caused by the opportunity to obtain a military service deferment, rather than a genuine desire for education.
"This year, the excitement will be significantly lower. We want to ensure that places in PhD programs are occupied by those who truly wish to write dissertations, conduct research, and create innovations", – he added.
Mykhailo Vynnytsky noted that the rules remain unchanged, whereby only full-time students can study in PhD programs under state orders. Applicants for part-time or evening studies can only enroll on a contract basis.
It is worth noting that after 2022, there has been a rapid increase in the number of individuals wishing to enter universities for PhD studies in Ukraine. Notably, the proportion of eligible men has increased compared to previous years.
Last year, the Ministry of Education and Science changed the admission rules, stating that full-time PhD education can only be pursued through state orders. Concurrently, the number of budget places was doubled.
The Ministry believes that the increase in the passing score for PhD programs in 2024 helped "filter out" a significant number of eligible entrants.
However, due to the abnormal number of applicants, Ukraine plans to implement a state exam for PhD students.