The main session of the NMT-2026 has started in Ukraine: key tips and what to do in case of an air raid alert
Kyiv • UNN
The testing consists of four subjects and lasts for two blocks of 120 minutes each. During an air raid alert, the exam is suspended so that participants can move to a shelter.
The National Multi-Subject Test is the most important exam for every Ukrainian applicant. UNN has gathered all the technical and organizational nuances.
How long the NMT lasts and what its structure is
The exam takes place in one day and is divided into two stages with a break. In total, applicants take 4 subjects: 3 compulsory and 1 elective.
First block (120 minutes): Ukrainian Language + Mathematics.
Break (20 minutes): You can have a snack, go to the restroom, or simply catch your breath.
Second block (120 minutes): History of Ukraine + Elective subject.
The NMT model is strictly approved in the "3 compulsory + 1 elective" format. It is technically impossible to take 5 subjects within a single testing session.
What documents are required for admission to the NMT
To enter the examination center, you must have the following documents:
- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine ID card or booklet
- NMT participant certificate which must be printed from the personal account.
- Invitation-pass also print this from the account.
What you can take with you to the exam
Pack your backpack the night before. Here is a list of permitted and necessary items:
- Pen: It is better to take two. They will be needed for notes on the scratch paper.
- Water: A transparent bottle without a label, so that there are no inscriptions or hints on it.
- Snack: Chocolate, a bar, or nuts for the break to fuel the brain.
What you CANNOT take: Phones, smartwatches, headphones, flash drives, your own scratch paper, or cheat sheets. You will leave all personal belongings, except for water and a pen, in a specially designated area in the classroom. Having even a switched-off phone in your pocket during the test results in automatic disqualification!
Who may not take the NMT
Taking the NMT is not mandatory for all school graduates. The exam is only required for those who plan to apply to higher education institutions for a bachelor's degree.
You may not take the NMT if:
- You plan to apply to a foreign university that does not require the results of Ukrainian exams.
- You plan to go to a college or vocational school; admission often occurs based on a certificate competition or internal interviews.
- You have decided to take a gap year and not apply anywhere this year.
Also, for certain categories of applicants, such as persons with disabilities who cannot undergo computer testing, or those living in temporarily occupied territories, special admission conditions or the replacement of the NMT with interviews/internal exams at higher education institutions are provided.
Basic rules for students on the day of the test
- Do not be late: Arrive at the temporary examination center 30-40 minutes before the start time indicated in the invitation. If you are even a minute late, the doors will close, and you will lose the chance to take the test during the main session.
- Action algorithm during an air raid alert: If a siren sounds, testing stops. The instructor will save your answers in the system, and everyone will proceed to the shelter. If the alert lasts a long time and the test cannot be resumed, you will be registered for an additional session. No one will force you to take the exam in a shelter during explosions.
- Read the instructions carefully: The computer screen will detail how to navigate between tasks. Do not be afraid to ask the proctors if technical problems arise with the computer or the internet.
- Proper time management: You have only 120 minutes within one block; it is better not to switch between subjects. Also, do not linger; skip difficult tasks, as you can return to them before the end of the block.