UAE eases rules for university admissions

iStock [For illustration]

The UAE's Ministry of Education (MoE) has eased the rules for university admissions, making it optional for higher education institutions to use the Emirates Standardised Test (EmSAT).

Universities will be allowed to use other approved assessment tools and also set their own minimum scores as long as they meet the expected standards of quality. 

The changes that will be applicable from the 2023-24 academic year, are part of efforts to develop a national education system that aligns with international best practices.

"The move followed multiple consultations between MoE and the relevant stakeholders, including institutions, students and parents, on means of enhancing the tertiary education system to best serve the interests of students and their academic future," said Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Education.

"The MoE-designed EmSAT is an effective tool for measuring the skills and capabilities of students. We have now given UAE-based universities the choice to use the EmSAT or other approved assessment tools that suit their admission and specialisation criteria," he added.

Launched by the MoE in 2019, the EmSAT is a national system of computer-based standardised tests, modelled on various national criteria and internationally approved assessment tools and applied across different academic cycles.

It aims to measure the knowledge and skills of students who have reached certain milestones on their educational journey or who are transiting to the higher education stage.

The test can be used by higher education institutions for admission purposes and provides a clear picture of the performance of students in the UAE across diverse academic subjects, benchmarked nationally and internationally.

More from Local

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!