From September 1, 2024, a new student mobilization system will come into effect in Ukraine in accordance with Law No. 10449, which came into force on May 18. This law makes important changes to the mobilization process, in particular regarding students of higher and vocational educational institutions.
Postponement for students:
According to the new law, most students have the right to a deferment from mobilization and can only be drafted into the army voluntarily. However, there are a few exceptions to consider.
The main conditions for postponement:
- Form of education: Students who are studying full-time or dual-time in higher or vocational institutions are entitled to a deferment. This also applies to those who obtain their first higher education or obtain a degree higher than previously obtained.
- Categories that are not subject to conscription: Trainee assistants, graduate students, and doctoral students, regardless of the form of education (budgetary or contractual), are also not subject to mobilization.
- Educators: Scientific and scientific-pedagogical workers of higher educational institutions, technical schools, colleges and scientific institutions who have a scientific degree are exempted from mobilization. Vocational training teachers can receive a deferment if they work at the main place of work at a rate of at least 0.75.
When it is possible to mobilize students:
Students can be exempted from deferment and drafted into the army in the following cases:
- Form of education: If the student studies in the evening or part-time form of education.
- Educational level: If the student does not obtain the first higher education or an education lower than previously obtained.
- Refusal of training: If a student refuses to undergo general military training, he may be expelled from the educational institution.
Special cases:
Students who transfer from one course to another during the holidays retain the right to a deferral. However, if a student enters a new level of education through an enrollment campaign, during the break between semesters he is not considered a student and may be called up.
Students over 30 years old:
Currently, the draft law, which proposes to deprive male students over 30 years of age of the right to postponement, has not yet been adopted. Therefore, in 2024, men who obtain a continuous first higher education are not subject to military conscription, even if they are over 30 years old.
