From October 1, students at Ukrainian universities may be expelled for failing the “Fundamentals of National Resistance” course

From October 1, 2025, students at Ukrainian universities studying in full-time or dual formats may be expelled for refusing to study or failing the course “Fundamentals of National Resistance.”

This is reported by Sudebno-Yuridicheskaya Gazeta.

The relevant changes are enshrined in law No. 4826-IX, adopted by the Verkhovna Rada on March 25, 2026. The provision applies to students receiving professional pre-higher and higher education in full-time or dual formats.

The discipline will be included in the curricula of all educational institutions regardless of their form of ownership. It will be studied by students in professional pre-higher education and bachelor’s programs, as well as master’s students in medical, pharmaceutical, and veterinary specializations.

The law provides for a number of grounds for exemption from the course. Those who have already completed military service, studied the discipline during previous education, or hold a document confirming completion of basic combined-arms training and receipt of a military occupational specialty are exempt. Exemptions also apply to students not studying in full-time or dual formats and those residing in temporarily occupied territories.

The training will include theoretical and practical classes — including instruction in handling small arms, mine safety, and pre-medical first aid. Practical classes are planned to be held at training grounds, shooting ranges, and firing ranges, and with the use of interactive simulators.

For students with disabilities or partial loss of working capacity, where medical indications exist, there is a provision for exemption from practical classes that could cause harm to their health — while they continue to complete the portion of the training accessible to them. Students who, due to religious convictions, cannot handle weapons may have the relevant practical classes replaced with other components of the course.

Failing the final assessment or refusing to study the discipline — except in cases of exemption provided for by law — will constitute grounds for expulsion from the university.