Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University (KhNAHU) has hosted international students since 1948 — one of the longest continuous international programmes of any Ukrainian university profiled here — and has produced more than 3,000 foreign graduates now working in over 80 countries. Founded in 1930, it specialises in automobile engineering and highway/road construction.
History
The institute was established by decree of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR on 23 July 1930, and began teaching on 30 September 1930 across two original faculties: Automobile Engineering and Road-Building. It was granted national university status in August 2001 and renamed Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University.
Faculties
Today the university teaches across faculties including Automobile Engineering, Road Construction, Mechanical Engineering, Business and Management, Transportation Systems, and Mechatronics.
International Students
KhNAHU currently has around 1,000 international students from more than 30 countries among its roughly 10,000 total students, with particularly large numbers from Nigeria and Ghana, alongside students from Cameroon, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. A genuinely important detail for prospective students: unlike several other Ukrainian universities, KhNAHU’s international programme has historically used Russian as the language of instruction, with international applicants typically completing a Russian-language course (alongside subjects like Maths, Physics, and Biology) at the university’s Preparatory Faculty before beginning their main degree. Confirm current language-of-instruction options directly with the university before applying.
Why Choose Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University?
For students specifically interested in automobile engineering or road/highway construction as a specialised field — rather than general mechanical engineering — KhNAHU offers a genuinely focused curriculum backed by more than seven decades of continuous international student experience.
Admission Process
Study in Ukraine Today simplifies the admission process for international students applying to KhNAHU. Our dedicated team assists with application submissions, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared and submitted correctly, and guides you through every step from initial inquiry to your invitation letter and visa support.
Accommodation and Living in Kharkiv
Finding the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable study experience. Our Accommodation Coordinator helps international students find suitable housing near KhNAHU, whether university dormitories or private apartments, matched to your budget and preferences.
Support Services
Our Visa Support Manager provides comprehensive guidance to ensure all visa requirements are met, and our team remains available throughout your studies for ongoing academic and practical support.