Useful facts about the education in the UAE

The government of the UAE puts great emphasis on the development of education in the state. Large part of expenditures are spent on education. The main focus of the reforms is innovation, enhancing the professionalism of teachers and literacy of students, compatibility and cooperation with international institutions. A special program called “Education 2020” was implemented by the Ministry of Education in order to achieve these goals.

If you are planning to move to the UAE and raise your kids in this country, consider that primary and secondary level education is mandatory in the UAE. Children at the age of 4-5 attend kindergarten, and then move on to primary school. Primary school level lasts 6 years. At the age of 12 students start attending a preparatory school. In three years time, they move on to secondary school. Students graduate at 18 with a Secondary School Leaving Certificate. 60% of all students attend public schools. Attending public schools and public universities are free of charge for the citizens of UAE. Fees for tuition in private schools and universities vary. There are many international schools throughout the state.

Students with special needs get comprehensive support of the government and can attend centers founded by the authorities throughout the country.

Higher education in the UAE is represented by a number of universities. The main government facilities include the UAE University, Zayed University and Higher Colleges of Technology. The United Arab Emirates University is the leading academic and research institution of the country. Besides, there are a number of international universities in the UAE such as Sorbonne, American University in Sharjah and Dubai, Michigan State University and New York Institute of Technology. One of the oldest UAE Universities is the University of Wollongong in Dubai.

In Dubai, there is a special area called Dubai Knowledge Village and Academic City. The majority of international universities are situated here. Studying under the programs of these universities you can get the same qualifications as in the country the university was originally founded in.

Foreign students eagerly attend the UAE schools and universities dues to high academic standards. All universities welcome international students. The admission requirements and fees for boards and tuition are usually listed on the universities official websites, but generally include a secondary school certificate, TOEFL or IELTS certificate, motivation letter and references.