The UAE has introduced updated guidelines for admission to higher education institutions (HEIs). These updates grant universities the authority to establish their own admission criteria. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) issued this directive to enhance flexibility. It also aims to expand academic opportunities.
This initiative seeks to increase student enrolment. It enables institutions to design admission processes aligned with students’ abilities and career aspirations. Furthermore, it aims to better prepare graduates to meet the evolving demands of the labour market.
Flexible Admission Criteria in UAE Higher Education
Under the new directive, HEIs can set or adapt criteria for admitting students. This applies to bachelor’s degrees, higher diplomas, diplomas, partial qualifications, and short learning units. These are categorized as levels 4 and 5 of the National Qualifications Framework. This flexibility allows universities to cater to students’ unique strengths and academic goals.
High School Scores No Mandatory
The updated guidelines eliminate the mandatory requirement of overall high school scores for admission to HEIs. Instead, institutions may consider grades in subjects directly relevant to students’ chosen majors. For postgraduate programs, universities may require applicants to hold an academic qualification from the preceding level. This is outlined in the National Qualifications Framework 2024.
The directive specifies that secondary school grades must be from an approved educational curriculum in the UAE. This particularly applies to the advanced track or its equivalent as defined by the Ministry of Education’s matrix.
English Proficiency for UAE Higher Education
For students from English-language curricula outside the Ministry’s framework, proof of English proficiency is not required. However, applicants from non-English curricula must demonstrate proficiency by passing internationally recognized standardized tests. Universities determine these requirements. Universities may also evaluate proficiency in major-specific subjects based on their own criteria.
Conditional Acceptance and Preparatory Programs
HEIs can offer conditional acceptance. This requires students to complete preparatory or remedial programs to meet subject proficiency standards. These programs are designed to ensure students’ readiness for academic success. They do so without relying on their general secondary school average.
Encouraging Direct Communication
Students are advised to directly communicate with their chosen UAE higher education institutions. This helps confirm specific admission requirements. It also ensures compliance with applicable regulations. This approach fosters clarity and streamlines the application process.
