In Ukraine, there is no provision for mobilization of students pursuing their first higher education. However, there are three categories of students who may be conscripted during martial law. According to TSN, this information has been reported by Kontrakty.UA.
Who is exempt from mobilization, and which students may join the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reported "24 Kanal".
According to the law, students who are studying for their first bachelor's degree or pursuing a master's degree after a bachelor's degree have the right to deferment. However, obtaining a second or third higher education will no longer grant the right to deferment, nor will pursuing a second or third postgraduate education.
In such cases, mobilization is not permitted for:
- students of vocational (vocational-technical), specialized pre-higher, and higher education, as well as graduate students (budget or contract) studying in full-time or dual form.
- doctoral candidates and individuals enrolled in residency programs;
- scientific and academic staff of higher or general secondary education institutions working at least 0.75 of a full-time position.
To obtain a deferment, a student needs a certificate of enrollment that grants the right to deferment. This can be obtained from the educational institution. The document must have an official seal and be issued specifically for the relevant Territorial Recruitment Center (TCC) and Social Protection. The certificate should indicate that the student is studying in a full-time format and specify the date of completion of studies.
At the TCC, based on this certificate, the student can have their deferment arranged. Additional documents, such as a passport and identification code, will also be required.
However, some students may still be conscripted into the Armed Forces of Ukraine because they do not have the right to deferment. The following may be mobilized:
- students studying part-time;
- men pursuing second or third higher education (bachelor's or master's degree);
- those obtaining any education at a level lower than what they already possess.
If a student does not confirm their right to deferment due to their studies, they may be issued a summons. Conversely, if a student voluntarily agrees to join the military, their mobilization will be lawful.
As reported, another category of citizens in Ukraine has received the right to deferment. The Ukrainian government has adopted the corresponding resolution.