230 thousand students aged 25+: how draft evaders use education to delay conscription.

According to ТСН: With the onset of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the number of students over 25 years old increased sharply from 30 thousand to 230 thousand. This indicates the desire of many of them to avoid mobilization. Already, 50 thousand students have been expelled for enrollment violations, but this number may rise.

Growth in the number of students

The Head of the State Service of Quality Education (SSQE) Ruslan Hurak noted that during the war, the number of students aged 25 and over rose sharply. This figure remains stable with slight fluctuations throughout 2022-2025.

The service analyzed data from all educational levels and found that the increase in the number of students started after February 2022. This confirms the attempts of applicants to avoid mobilization.

"For those who enroll to avoid conscription, three things are important: that it is easy to enroll and study, and all of this is inexpensive," noted Hurak.

Specialties and expulsion of students

Hurak also noted that draft evaders usually do not choose medical or legal specialties due to high admission requirements and the cost of education. He reported that due to checks, 50 thousand students over the age of 25 who enrolled illegally have been expelled. This number may increase.

Law enforcement agencies have opened eight criminal proceedings against officials of higher educational institutions, detaining deans and rectors. The SSQE has also prepared reports for the Ministry of Education and Science proposing to revoke the licenses of two educational institutions. The Ministry is preparing 20 new checks due to identified violations.

"But even after these expulsions and measures, the overall situation has not changed - over 200 thousand students aged 25 and older still remain in the education system," noted the head of the SSQE.

Right to deferment

In Ukraine, full-time students have the right to deferment from mobilization if this is their first education. Upon receiving a summons, it is necessary to provide documents for exemption. Mobilization is possible in the absence of a formal deferment or if a student is transferred to part-time or evening study. Students can extend their deferment through "Reserve+" or the CNAP without visiting the territorial recruitment center.

The increase in the number of students over 25 years old highlights important socio-economic processes in Ukraine. This phenomenon reflects not only the adaptation of youth to new conditions but also potential challenges for the education system and military conscription. Furthermore, the situation remains under close scrutiny by law enforcement agencies, which are taking steps to improve order in higher education.