What parents need to know about the updated admission ages in UAE schools
UAE schools have introduced new age rules for admissions to kindergarten and grade 1, starting from the 2026–2027 academic year. The Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council approved the change, setting December 31 of the admission year as the new official cut-off date. Previously, the cut-off was August 31, giving children more time to reach the required age before starting school.
The rule applies to schools and kindergartens starting in August or September, while schools starting in April will continue to use March 31. Current students are not affected; it only applies to new admissions.
Students transferring between schools, following different curricula, or arriving from outside the UAE will be placed based on the last grade successfully completed, following approved grade equivalency procedures.
The decision aims to create fair and consistent access to early education, unify admission criteria across UAE schools, and align policies with international standards and national development goals. Parents are encouraged to check with their schools for guidance on the new rules.
Also read: The top 21 schools in Dubai and their fees
Age requirements by curriculum:
Pre-K:
- British Curriculum: FS1 (Foundation Stage 1)
- French Curriculum: Petite Section (PS)
- Other International Curricula: Pre-Kg (Pre-kindergarten)
- Age: 3 years old by 31 December of the admission year
KG1:
- British Curriculum: FS2 (Foundation Stage 2)
- French Curriculum: Moyenne Section (MS)
- Other International Curricula: KG1
- Age: 4 years old by 31 December of the admission year
KG2:
- British Curriculum: Year 1
- French Curriculum: Grande Section (GS)
- Other International Curricula: KG2
- Age: 5 years old by 31 December of the admission year
Grade 1:
- British Curriculum: Year 2
- French Curriculum: Cours Préparatoire (CP)
- Other International Curricula: Grade 1
- Age: 6 years old by 31 December of the admission year
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