The UAE authorities have announced the immediate cancellation of the Emirates Standardized Test (EmSAT) for Grade 12 students, implementing new university admission requirements focused on academic subject performance. This change prioritizes students’ grades in science subjects, particularly for medical and engineering programs, over their overall percentage scores.
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) explained that this decision aims to provide universities with greater flexibility in setting admission criteria. By doing so, institutions can create diverse academic pathways, making the transition to higher education smoother and enabling students to pursue both academic and professional aspirations.
In light of these updates, students who have not met English language proficiency requirements may now qualify by enrolling in preparatory courses to achieve the necessary skills. Additionally, universities may admit students to specialized remedial courses for those who do not meet subject-specific grade requirements.
This change redirects the admission focus for medical and engineering programs, emphasizing performance in core science subjects rather than overall Grade 12 results. The ministries encouraged students and parents to familiarize themselves with each institution's specific admission requirements and to communicate directly with universities regarding program-specific criteria.
Sarah Al Amiri, UAE’s Minister of Education, highlighted that the reform reflects a commitment to student-centric educational policies that align academic evaluation with both labor market demands and societal needs. She noted, “This decision is part of our continuous efforts to develop student assessment policies to support their ambitions and adapt to labor market needs.”
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, emphasized that MOHESR’s vision is to increase accessibility to higher education, ensuring pathways to bachelor’s, higher diploma, diploma, and skills certificate programs for every Grade 12 graduate.
About the EmSAT
The EmSAT was initially designed to evaluate student competencies across educational levels and was a former requirement for university admissions and scholarships. Although made optional in 2023, it had served as a guide for students’ educational directions and as an assessment during transitional stages from secondary to higher education. The test required self-registration and was free for UAE nationals in Grade 12 on their first attempt for mandatory subjects. Fees applied for retakes and additional subjects for both UAE nationals and expatriates.
The UAE’s revised admissions approach reinforces its commitment to educational flexibility, tailored to support students' transitions to higher education and professional growth within a dynamic labor market.
