What to Know About School Holidays in the New Academic Year: Dates and Features of Ukrainian Schools
As the new school year approaches, officially starting on September 1, many parents and students are wondering about the schedule of upcoming holidays and breaks.
Given Ukraine’s unique educational landscape, it is essential to understand how school holidays are scheduled and what specific features may influence this academic year.
According to legislation, in peacetime, the school year in Ukrainian schools lasts at least 175 school days and ends by July 1.
However, due to military actions and ongoing instability, the Cabinet of Ministers has the authority to adjust these timelines, and schools can modify their schedules based on current conditions.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, approximate dates for school holidays are as follows: autumn break from October 27 to November 2, 2025; winter holidays from December 27, 2025, to January 11, 2026; spring holidays from March 23 to March 29, 2026; and summer vacation roughly from June 1, 2026, until the start of the new school year in September.
It is important to note that these dates are provisional, and final decisions are made by each school’s pedagogical council.
Additionally, Ukraine has introduced a new social support program called ‘School Bag’ aimed at parents of future first-graders, designed to facilitate preparations for school, including providing necessary supplies and assistance.