NMT-2027 Reform: Butenko Announces Review of Testing Format and Mandatory Math

Andriy Butenko, the Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine, confirmed during the "Serpenova 2026" conference that the format of the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT) will be reviewed. The head of the ministry stated that while the current regulatory framework allows for testing in its present form, he received a direct order from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to change the procedure. The main goal of the reform is to reduce stress for applicants and improve the efficiency of the selection process.

Key Areas of Change

According to the minister's statements, the reform focuses on the flexibility of testing and the psychological burden on students. Among the options being considered is the possibility of retaking the test, which should mitigate the consequences of isolated failures. Butenko emphasized that work on the new format is being carried out in close cooperation with colleagues, but specific details and timelines for implementing changes have not yet been announced. The minister also noted that the discussion could focus on the volume and complexity of tasks, as well as methods for their verification.

Mathematics Remains Mandatory

Despite plans for reform, Andriy Butenko clearly outlined his position regarding mandatory subjects. He stated that mathematics must remain an integral part of the testing. "It is my personal conviction that mathematics should remain in the tests," the minister emphasized. This statement came against the backdrop of discussions about the possible reduction in the number of subjects, however, the head of the MES insists on maintaining mathematical literacy as a key indicator.

Contradictory Data

Questions regarding the NMT-2027 reform are causing discrepancies within the expert community and among legislators. On the one hand, President Zelenskyy called for tests to be conducted in shelters and to reduce intensity, which implies radical changes in the logistics of the process. On the other hand, sources report that the Verkhovna Rada is discussing the possibility of reducing testing to three subjects, which may contradict the minister's position on keeping mathematics unchanged. It remains unclear how exactly the safety requirement will be balanced with the need to check knowledge in key disciplines.

Context and Next Steps

Andriy Butenko previously met with the head of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, to discuss cooperation in the field of education. During the negotiations, the parties discussed key challenges in the industry: support for science, increasing teachers' salaries, and the possibility of holding a winter NMT session. It is expected that the final format of the test will be approved in the near future so that applicants in 2027 can prepare for the new conditions of university admission.