Scholarships have increased, but Ukrainians are not happy: criticism of the government initiative

In Ukraine, from September 1, 2026, a significant increase in the size of academic and personal scholarships for students is planned. This information was announced by the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine.

According to new data, the basic size of the academic scholarship for students of higher educational institutions will increase from 2,000 to 4,000 hryvnias. The increased academic scholarship will be 5,820 hryvnias. The scholarship, paid on an industry-specific basis, will increase to 5,100 hryvnias and reach 7,420 hryvnias.

The changes will also affect students of professional colleges. The minimum academic scholarship for them will be 3,020 hryvnias, while the increased scholarship will increase to 4,394 hryvnias. The industry scholarship for these students will be 3,860 hryvnias, and the increased scholarship will be 5,618 hryvnias.

This news caused a lot of discussion among Ukrainians on social networks. Many commentators expressed their opinions on the planned increase in educational platforms.

Some users noted that, even with the increase, the scholarship still does not cover basic student expenses, such as dormitory accommodation and food. They believe that only with adequate funding can one expect high academic results from students.

Participants in the discussion also compared the new scholarships with the salaries of public sector employees. For example, it was mentioned that teachers’ salaries can be 12-15 thousand hryvnias, even with long work experience. In addition, attention was drawn to the fact that the size of some scholarships exceeds pension payments.

Some commentators noted that many students combine studies with work and receive financial support from their families. At the same time, there were concerns that the announced increase may remain only on paper and not be fully implemented.