Education system Overview
UAE''s population is approximately 4.1 million and has one of the most diverse populations in the world. The UAE''s education system consists of primary school, middle school and high school. The UAE higher education system is monitored by the Ministry of Higher Education to serve and protect children''s education. They are also responsible for admitting students to its undergraduate institutions.

The UAE''s formal school education system was established in the 1970s. It was traditionally based on Arabic and Islamic culture and teacher-centre learning methods. Recently the UAE schooling system has undergone reforms that have been influenced by foreign English language education systems, the upgrading of English language skills and the use of computer technology are top government priorities.

Public education is free for citizens in the UAE up to university level and is compulsory for students aged 6-12. It consists of 2 years of pre-school education for children aged 4-6, 6 years of primary education for children aged 6-12, 3 years of preparatory education for children aged 12-15 (Academic schools / Technical schools) and 3 years of secondary education for children aged 15-18 (General stream / Religious stream / Vocational stream)

It is possible for UAE residents to attend government schools but only as fee paying students. Government schools, including universities, are gender segregated however there are many non gender segregated private co-educational institutions.

The UAE offers a significantly large network of private international schools. Generally these schools will mostly deliver curriculum of foreign countries such as India curriculum school, the American curriculum schools, British curriculum schools, etc. Some UAE nationals also send their children to these private schools due to the perception that the schools deliver higher levels of English language teaching. Strong skills within English language can be extremely beneficial during post-secondary, higher education or when gaining employment.

Higher education institutions comprise of public universities, private universities and Higher Colleges of Technology. Private universities and colleges are open to all students however government institutions are only open to UAE nationals.

The UAE demonstrates an unrelenting passion for the improvement of education and research. They have developed a number of strategies to assist in the improvement of education and research, this includes the ''Education 2020'', based on a successive 5 year plan. In 2004 we saw the introduction of a new science and mathematics program into government primary schools as part of this strategy.

Academic Year
The school year commences in September and runs through until June with a break from the middle of June to the end of August. The University academic year is generally broken into 2 semesters, first semester commencing in September to January and the second commencing at the end of January and ceasing in the middle of June. It is important to remember that different higher education systems may use individual systems.

Language of Instruction
The medium of instruction in public schools is Arabic, with English used for some science and technical subjects. Most private schools will generally use English as their primary medium of instruction.

Higher Education
The UAE provides world class education which is supported by its educational linkages with foreign universities and colleges, educational systems and professional bodies. This enables the UAE to provide some of the best foreign exchange packages and transnational education opportunities.

Dubai Knowledge Village
Dubai Knowledge Village located in the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone has been established as an educational and training hub which provides a world class infrastructure for developing, sharing and applying knowledge.

Dubai Knowledge Village is an appealing place to establish a business, university or educational institute as it does not require companies to obtain the usual UAE licensing and accreditation that are required in other areas (this is referred to as a Free Zone). This has enabled the UAE to encourage many Universities that are recognized by the educational authority in their own country to establish university campuses within Dubai Knowledge Village offering the best of international education.

Higher education in the UAE is provided by:
- Public universities and colleges (UAE nationals only)
- Other universities and colleges (some restricted to UAE nationals)
- UAE campuses of foreign universities.

Preparation for Further Education
A percentage score is given for the Tawjihiyya or Thanawiyya Al''aama (Higher Secondary School Certificate) the highest score is usually 99%, 70% is generally required for admission into further education and 60% is the average level of achievement.

Due to the UAE''s linkages to foreign Universities, colleges and educational institutions the entry requirements to go on to further education in the UAE can differ depending on the educational institute. University admission requirements to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a foreign institution are usually based on the entry requirements within those foreign countries where the university or college main campus is based. The best method to find out this information is to contact us and talk to one of our university admissions counselors who will be able to discuss the specific university admissions requirements.

Higher education grading system
There is no national grading system in the UAE so institutions have their own grading systems. This means that the grades at different universities, colleges and schools may encompass different meanings. Some of the higher educational institutions may use systems like that of the USA but it is important to understand the correct meaning of the grades. Discuss the grading system with the institution before you commence, this will enable you to understand exactly what is required of you to pass and graduate.

Higher Education Options

Technical & Vocational
In the UAE technical and vocational education is offered at secondary and post-secondary level and is also provided at several colleges where programs lead to foreign technical and vocational qualifications. Technical and vocational education is offered in:

• Technical schools, and
• Institutes of Applied Technology

Institutions of Applied Technology
The demand for highly skilled technicians within the UAE has lead to the establishment of Applied Technology institutes. Programs are benchmarked to international educational standards and entry is selective. The Higher Colleges of Technology has commenced developing and managing the institutes with the aid of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, UAE armed forces and UAE industries.

Foundation Programs
Foundation programs are designed to prepare secondary school graduates with the necessary skills required for admission to Diploma, Higher Diploma and Bachelor Degree programs. These courses run for one year and include English, Arabic, computing and mathematics. Completion of a foundation course can be an entry requirement for some courses.

Certificate Programs
Certificate programs provide an introduction to general and specific occupational skills, computing, mathematics and proficiency in English. These courses take 2years of full time study and can also require the completion of practical training in the workplace. It is possible for students, with appropriate levels of academic achievement, to transfer to a third year Diploma program. Although the grade of academic achievement required may be lower when gaining admission into sub-degree level programs at a Higher College of Technology it is still based on the same requirements as for a Bachelor Degree

Government Universities & Colleges
The UAE encompasses three government universities and colleges that offer education to UAE nationals only, in some cases nationals of other Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC Countries) may be allowed to enroll at one of these institutions. These Government Universities and Colleges are run under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and are made up of 3 key educational institutions: UAE University, Zayed University and Higher Colleges of Technology. Zayed university is women''s'' only university.

Other Universities & Colleges
Other universities and colleges are generally run by other government departments, UAE-based companies, private foundations or individuals that can often be members of the ruling families in the Emirates. Degree programs offered include Certificates, Diplomas, Associate Degrees, Bachelor Degrees (or License), and Master Degrees. Hikma University and The Islamic and Arabic Studies College also offer a Doctoral degree or PhD degrees.

UAE Qualifications Framework

Postgraduate Education	Doctoral degree
	Master Degree
Undergraduate Education	Graduate Diploma
	Vocational Graduate Diploma
	Graduate Certificate
	Vocational Graduate Certificate
	Associate Degree
	Advanced Diploma
	Diploma
	Certificate IV
	Certificate III
	Certificate II
	Certificate I