June 14, 2025, 10:54 p.m.
A session is about knowledge, not price. If you are asked for money for a test or exam, this is corruption. Lawyers of the free legal aid system explain what a bribe is, what is the responsibility and where to go to protect your rights.
Abribe is a type of unlawful benefit.
It is not just money. A bribe can be
- material values - gifts, equipment, jewelry;
- the right to own or use property - for example, providing housing without payment
- any actions of a property nature, such as the free provision of services (repair, cleaning, etc.).
What is the liability for bribery?
Minimal:
- a fine of 17 to 68 thousand UAH;
- or probationary supervision for up to 3 years;
- or imprisonment for 2 to 4 years
+ prohibition to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities - up to 3 years.
Maximum:
- imprisonment - from 8 to 12 years
+ prohibition to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities - up to 3 years and confiscation of property.
Who is liable for bribery?
Both parties are liable - the bribe giver and the bribe receiver. At the same time, timely voluntary reporting of a bribe exempts from criminal liability.
Where should a student go if money is extorted for a session
- The student self-government body or trade union of the educational institution;
- the management of the educational institution;
- the hotline of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MES);
- the police;
- the National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption.
How to report extortion to the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine hotline
- by e-mail to anticor@mon.gov.ua;
- by phone 0 800 504 570;
- via the official website of the Ministry of Education and Science.
The message must contain:
- full name and place of residence of the applicant
- a description of the violation;
- Name of the person who allegedly committed the corruption offense, his/her position and place of work.
How to report extortion to law enforcement agencies:
- Prepare evidence - audio or video recording, explanations of witnesses (friends, classmates, employees of the educational institution, etc;)
- write a statement to the police at the location of the educational institution
- or report to the National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption.
You can do this
by phone (044) 200 06 91
by e-mail anticor_reports@nazk.gov.ua.
Олена Болган