Which students will be called up for service on April 1: new rules

The topic of student mobilization during martial law remains one of the most actively discussed in society. At the moment, from April 1, 2026, no radical changes in the rules are planned.

At the same time, it is necessary to be aware of the current norms and possible exceptions.

According to the Ukrainian legislation “On Mobilization Preparation and Mobilization”, not all students have the right to a deferral from conscription. The key factors are the form of study and educational level.

Mobilization may apply to students who study part-time or distance, as well as those who receive a second or higher education.

In addition, possible difficulties may arise if the student is unable to confirm that his studies increase the level of education.

In the event of violations, such as fictitious studies or lack of documents, the recruiting authorities may refuse to grant a deferral.

A bill was registered in the Verkhovna Rada at the end of last year, which provides for the abolition of deferral for certain categories of students, but it has not yet been adopted.

Ukrainian legislation defines several categories of students who can benefit from deferral.

This applies to students of vocational, pre-higher and higher education in full-time or dual education.

Deferrals can also be obtained by individuals who are obtaining their first education.

Postgraduate and doctoral students are entitled to deferrals, provided that they are studying full-time.

Deferrals are valid throughout the entire academic period, if the educational process is carried out sequentially, for example, when moving from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree.

Age is not an obstacle to obtaining a deferral: a person receiving his first education can use this right even after reaching the age of 25.

Discussions on changes to the rules are ongoing.

At the same time, it is important to remember that deferrals are not automatic.

The student must confirm his/her educational status at the territorial recruitment center, for which it is necessary to provide a certificate from the educational institution, which indicates the form of study, level of education and program.

After checking the information, it is entered into the register, and only after that the deferral is considered valid.

The student is obliged to periodically confirm his/her status.

Thus, the general mobilization of full-time students is not part of state policy, but there are specifics that are taken into account for men of draft age.

Read also: Servicemen who signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine during a full-scale war have the opportunity to be discharged upon completion of the contract.