Proposed Overhaul of the National Multi-Subject Test
On June 2, 2026, a group of 50 members of parliament registered an alternative bill (No. 15254-1) in the Verkhovna Rada, aiming to reduce the required subjects for the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT) from three to two for the duration of martial law. Under this proposal, only Ukrainian language and the history of Ukraine would remain mandatory, while mathematics would be dropped from the compulsory list.
Under the envisioned NMT-2027 formula, applicants would take two required subjects—Ukrainian language and the history of Ukraine—plus one elective subject of their choice. Mathematics would still be available for those applying to technical or engineering programs. Currently, the existing NMT formula (3+1) mandates three compulsory subjects: Ukrainian language, mathematics, and the history of Ukraine.
Rationale Behind the Proposed Changes
A survey indicates that 91% of teachers report declining student performance, with 69% attributing this to stress and 54% pointing to chronic online learning as the cause. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science has yet to approve a strategy to address learning losses or implement reforms in teacher training.
In October 2024, the Verkhovna Rada passed a bill setting the NMT-2025 format at three required subjects (Ukrainian language, mathematics, and the history of Ukraine) plus one elective. Despite some test-takers achieving perfect scores in mathematics in the NMT-2025 results, a significant number failed to reach the minimum threshold.
Sponsors of the new bill argue that changes are necessary for several reasons:
- First, a brain drain: for many families, enrolling in Ukrainian universities seems less realistic than moving abroad.
- Second, war-induced learning gaps have severely impacted student outcomes.
- Third, ensuring safety during testing under martial law is a critical concern.
As Yuliia Hryshyna noted, 'the problem of low scores is not solved by making exams mandatory, but by fostering motivation.'
These proposed adjustments to the NMT reflect an effort to adapt the education system to the challenging wartime conditions facing the country. Reducing the number of compulsory subjects could ease the burden on students and improve their chances of successfully entering universities. However, the underlying issues of motivation and educational quality remain pressing and demand a comprehensive response from both the state and educational institutions.
As the debate over the proposed changes to the National Multi-Subject Test unfolds, it's essential to consider the broader context of the educational landscape in Ukraine. For instance, recent reports indicate that over 355,000 applicants participated in the 2026 NMT under revised regulations, highlighting the ongoing adjustments in response to the challenges faced by students and educators alike. Understanding these shifts can provide valuable insights into the implications of the proposed reforms. To learn more about the latest developments in the NMT process, read our detailed coverage on the 2026 NMT.