The number of students aged 25+ has halved: how admissions changed after increased control

Reduction in the number of applicants aged 25+

According to ХВИЛЯ: In 2025, Ukraine is experiencing a sharp decrease in the number of men aged 25 and older who have enrolled in educational institutions. This is due to increased control and restrictions implemented to avoid using the education system as a means of postponing mobilization. It is forecasted that in 2025, the number of male applicants aged 25+ will be about 53,500, which is a significant decrease compared to 2024 when there were over 112,000.

Admission dynamics and distribution of applicants

The dynamics of admission for men aged 25+ in recent years show a sharp decline. In 2021, 1,196 individuals enrolled in educational institutions, in 2022 - 17,614, in 2023 - 44,042, in 2024 - 112,749 individuals. The forecast for 2025 indicates that the number of applicants will decrease to 53,517 individuals, among whom 50,000 students have already been expelled. The reduction affects all levels of education, said Mykola Trofymenko.

The distribution of male applicants aged 25+ for 2025 is as follows:

• 5,200 individuals will study in vocational education
• 24,800 - in special higher education
• 12,200 - in bachelor's programs
• 9,100 - in master's programs
• 2,200 - in doctoral programs

Ruslan Hurak reported that by the end of the year, about 50 colleges and universities with the largest number of students aged 25+ are planned to be checked. These changes reflect the new realities that affect the educational process in Ukraine.

The reduction in the number of men enrolling in higher educational institutions is a consequence of military actions and mobilization measures that affect the country's educational system. This may have long-lasting effects not only on education but also on the economy, as the decrease in the number of qualified specialists may lead to a labor shortage in various sectors in the future. In conditions of war and constant changes in legislation, it is crucial to adapt educational programs and support young people to ensure the stable development of the country.