New NMT testing model in 2026: what challenges may arise for schoolchildren

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is discussing a significant change in the format of the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT). The Education Committee plans to switch from a one-day testing to a two-day format and is already preparing relevant recommendations.

The head of the committee, Serhiy Babak, reported that this change is aimed at reducing stress and physical strain on graduates. In addition, the introduction of a two-day format should take into account safety, quality of assessments, and testing logistics, including at foreign locations.

However, the opinions of the people’s deputies are divided. Many of them still support the traditional one-day format, while a survey conducted by Babak on Telegram shows that many people consider the two-day format to be better.

The transition to a two-day NMT can indeed reduce stress, but it also carries certain risks. Among them is the possibility of heterogeneous testing conditions in different regions, which may require repeated trips to test centers and lead to additional costs. Therefore, the committee advised the Ministry of Education and the Ukrainian Center for Education Quality Assessment to develop a risk matrix for the two-day format of the NMT, planned for 2026.

“The education system is technically ready, but there is a threat that different conditions for holding it may contradict the legislation,” Babak concluded.

The final decision on the changes will be made at the next committee meeting, once all the necessary data is ready.

We recall that this year’s NMT was held in one day and consisted of four subjects, each taking an hour. Many participants noted significant physical and psychological stress.

The question of whether the NMT-2026 will indeed become a two-day event and whether this will simplify the already difficult life of graduates remains open. But changes are inevitable.

It is also important to note that the Ministry of Education and Science plans to reduce the number of priority applications for admission, which will limit applicants’ opportunities to choose educational institutions.