“The Internet is already one of the fundamental prerequisites for a successful education,” said Pavol Šedo, Chief Operating Officer of Digitálna koalícia (Digital Coalition). He emphasized that Internet access is important for every student. That is why Slovakia has launched the national project “Online žiak” (Online Student), which provides free internet access to schoolchildren from vulnerable families. This initiative, which began on September 8, 2026, could provide significant support to thousands of Ukrainian families living in Slovakia.
The project, co-funded by the European Union under the “Slovensko” program, aims to provide access to a stable internet connection for approximately 48,000 students nationwide by November 2028. If your child attends a Slovak school and you meet certain criteria, you can receive a voucher worth 480 euros to cover the cost of home internet for two years.
Who is eligible for free internet?
The “Online žiak” project is not a universal offer for all students. It targets two main categories of students in základné školy (elementary schools) and stredné školy (secondary schools) in Slovakia:
- Students with special educational needs (špeciálne výchovno-vzdelávacie potreby).
- Students from families experiencing financial hardship (households in material need).
To participate in the project, a student must have a permanent, temporary, or habitual residence within the territory of the Slovak Republic.
What does the 480-euro voucher cover?
The electronic voucher, worth up to 480 euros, is intended to cover the cost of a fixed broadband internet connection for 24 months, up to a maximum of 20 euros per month. This amount covers not only the monthly subscription fee but also other important expenses:
- Installation of a modem or Wi-Fi router.
- Activation fee.
The minimum guaranteed download speed must be 30 Mbit/s during peak hours, which will ensure a comfortable online learning and communication experience.
Important: The voucher cannot be used to purchase computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, mobile internet, television services, or device insurance. It is intended exclusively to provide access to fixed-line internet.
How do I apply to participate in the project?
The registration process is as simple as possible and takes place online.
- Register online. Go to the project’s official website at www.onlineziak.sk and fill out the registration form. If the student is under 18, a legal guardian must complete the registration. Students 18 years of age or older can register on their own.
- Wait for verification. After submitting your application, the system will automatically verify your eligibility. The result will be sent to your email and via SMS. This process usually takes 2–4 weeks.
- Receive your voucher. If your application is approved, you will receive a unique electronic voucher (numeric code) via email and SMS. Save it.
- Choose a provider. In your account on the “Online žiak” website, you’ll find a list of partner internet providers participating in the project. Before making your selection, make sure the service is available at your address.
- Sign the contract. Contact the provider you’ve chosen, schedule an installation date, and sign a contract for 24 months of free internet. When visiting the provider’s office, bring your voucher, ID, and the student’s birth certificate (if the student is a minor).
Even if you already have internet service, you can still apply if your current provider is a partner in the project.
Additional Features and Support
The “Online žiak” project goes beyond simply providing internet access. It also aims to develop digital skills and promote safe internet use. To this end, EduZóna has been created—an educational platform for students, parents, and teachers that teaches critical thinking, how to verify information, and how to protect personal data online.
If you have any questions, you can call the toll-free hotline at 02/32284468 or email [email protected].
This project is a wonderful opportunity for Ukrainian families in Slovakia to ensure their children have equal access to quality education and digital opportunities. You can find more details about participation requirements and registration on the Online žiak website.
