Since Ukraine became an independent state in 1991 it made significant steps in developing national education system. This is clearly seen from Ukraine’s presence in the European and world educational space, participation in the Bologna process, etc. Credits USCIE.

Today Ukraine’s educational potential ensures it becomes one of the top 10 countries in the field of international education, confirming high demand for higher education in Ukraine from citizens of other states.

Ukrainian diploma is now internationally recognized and the level of professional training is highly assessed by foreign employers.

Number of international students studying in Ukraine is growing with each year. In 2013/2014 total of 60 thousand students from 145 countries were studying at high schools in Ukraine.

There are several types of ownership of high schools in Ukraine falling under such types of institutions as university, academy, institute, conservatory (music academy), college, technical school (college). Around 240 accredited institutions offer education to international students, around 80% of such institutions are state owned. Studies for international students are offered full-time, part-time or through distance learning.

According to the Law of Ukraine “On Higher Education” Ukrainian high schools offer the following levels of higher education:

Pre-university level:

– Junior Bachelor. Period of study:  2 – 4 years (colleges, technical colleges).

University level:

– Bachelor (BA). Period of study: 4 years;

– Master’s (MA). Period of study 1 – 2 years;

–  Doctor of Philosophy. Period of study: 3 years;

– Doctor habil./ Doctor of Sciences. Period of study: 3 years.

International students are enrolled at high schools of Ukraine according to interview results and on the basis of submitted documents on previous education. Requirements are set by each university independently.

International students can study either in Ukrainian or Russian, however currently programs in English are becoming more and more popular.

International students who do not speak Ukrainian or Russian languages can study at university preparatory 10-month courses upon completion of which they can pursue studies at regular departments of the high school of their choice in Ukraine.

Apart from language skills international students can study basic disciplines necessary for further studies according to the chosen majors.

International students study on a paid basis in Ukraine. Tuition fees vary from 1 000 to 3 000 USD per year for most of majors and 2 000 to 6 000 USD for medical sciences.Tuition fees at preparatory courses are from 1000 to 2000 USD.

International students awarded Ukrainian state scholarships (according to international agreements, state programs of Ukraine, and other international liabilities of Ukraine) are enrolled to a high school on the basis of assignments of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine under respective programs and agreements.International students with full secondary education diplomas from Ukrainian-taught foreign schools as well as foreign Ukrainians whose status is confirmed by Foreign Ukrainian certificate can study free of charge on the basis of quotas for foreign Ukrainians, set by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine.

Foreigners permanently residing in Ukraine on legal grounds can study at high schools of Ukraine on equal terms with Ukrainian citizens.