Draft program of the UET

The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has presented a draft program of the Unified Entrance Test (UET) in Research Methodology for applicants to PhD programs. This exam will become a mandatory element for all those who plan to pursue a PhD.

The draft program is under public discussion until May 1, 2025. Everyone can send their comments and suggestions to the following email address: svitlana.didusenko@mon.gov.ua.

The results of the discussion will be published on the official website of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine within two weeks after the end of the discussion.

Let’s take a closer look at what future applicants should pay attention to.

Structure of the test

The UET program includes four key sections, each of which has its own share in the overall assessment:

1. Science and research in the modern world (25%).
2. General understanding of scientific research methodology (45%).
3. The system of organization of scientific activity (24%).
4. Presentation of scientific research (6%).

The greatest attention is paid to the methodology of scientific research, which accounts for almost half of the entire test.

Key topics for preparation

Section 1: Science and research

The first section covers the basic concepts of science as a socio-cultural phenomenon, its features and functions. Particular attention is paid to:

• Differences between science and other forms of culture.
• Criteria of scientific research.
• Classification of sciences.
• Structural elements of science.
• Understanding of scientific research and its classification.
• Principles of open science.

Section 2: Methodology of scientific research

The most important section of the program focuses on the methodological aspects of research:

• Understanding methodology in its broad and narrow meanings.
• Differences between method and technique.
• Levels of methodology (philosophical, general scientific, specific scientific).
• Basic methodological principles and approaches.
• Levels of scientific knowledge (theoretical, empirical).
• Empirical and theoretical research methods.
• Quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis.

Section 3: System of organization of scientific activity

This section is devoted to the practical aspects of research organization:

• Determining the relevance, purpose, objectives, object, and subject of research.
• Search and processing of scientific information.
• The use of artificial intelligence in research.
• Methodological culture and ethics of scientific activity.
• Academic integrity and responsibility for its violation.

Section 4: Presentation of scientific research

The smallest but important section on the presentation of research results:

• The concept and functions of a scientific publication.
• Ways to publish the results of scientific work.

Recommendations for preparation

Given the structure of the program, future applicants should focus on:

• Understanding the methodological foundations of scientific research (the largest weight in the program).
• Mastery of scientific terminology.
• The difference between theoretical and empirical research methods.
• Principles of academic integrity.
• Practical aspects of organizing scientific research.

Follow our updates, we are already preparing our own preparation course for the UET, but in the meantime, remember that from May 2 to May 23 you will need to register for the test! Don’t waste your time, contact us!