College students will be paid for work during internships: rules have been changed in Ukraine

In Ukraine, a new procedure for practical training of vocational education applicants has been agreed. If during industrial practice a student actually performs work for an enterprise or provides services to an employer, he will receive payment for this.

The changes were announced by Serhiy Babak, the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Education, Science and Innovation.

How will students’ internships be paid

According to the new rules, a student employment contract must be concluded with the student. The employer will transfer the remuneration for the work performed or services provided directly to the student’s account.

Previously, up to 50% of the funds earned by a student during industrial practice could be transferred to the educational institution. Now the money must be received directly by the student.

At the same time, a transitional period has been provided for those who enrolled in studies before January 1, 2026 – the previous rules will temporarily continue to apply for them.

Internship will become official work

A student employment contract provides for the official registration of employment relations. Thus, even during training, a vocational education student will be able to simultaneously master the profession, gain real experience and earn money.

The innovation should also be useful for employers. Enterprises will be able to evaluate the future specialist directly during work, teach him to work with specific equipment and technologies, and after completing training, offer him employment.