Here’s what parents need to know
In December, the UAE’s Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council announced new age rules for admissions to FS1 and FS2 would be introduced from the 2026–2027 academic year.
As per the revised guidelines, December 31 is now the cut-off date for school admission, rather than August 31, giving children more time to reach the required age before starting school. Note, the revised cut-off ages apply to children following the British curriculum only.
However, following some confusion from parents, the UAE’s Ministry of Education has shared an updated guide to help parents prepare for the upcoming school year. You can read the guide in full here.
A brief explainer
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As this is the first year that the change will be implemented, the UAE’s Ministry of Education is introducing a one-time assessment for children born between September and December, to decide on whether a child is ready to join Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) if they do not turn three by the start of the 2026-2027 year.
A statement from the ministry read: “Children born between 1 September and 31 December who do not turn three by the start of the academic year may be assessed for readiness to join FS1. The assessment and final placement are decided jointly by the school and the parents. If the child is not found ready, tgey may be enrolled in FS1 the following academic year.”
“Children who are not enrolled in any educational system and were born between 1 September and 31 December 2022 will be subject to a one-time measure during the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools and parents may jointly decide whether FS1 or FS2 is the most suitable placement.
Who does the new cut-off apply to?
The new school admission age cut-off takes effect from the 2026–2027 academic year, and applies to students who are not enrolled in the 2025-2026 academic year.
The new cutoff ages do not apply to students enrolled in the 2025–2026 academic year in schools, nurseries, or early childhood centres, whether public or private. Accordingly, students currently enrolled in the 2025-2026 academic year will continue in their existing grade without any change.
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