tudents applying to UAE universities no longer have to pass EmSat exams, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Education.
The EmSAT is a UAE system of standardised computer tests. They are designed to ensure that students are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively participate in the modern knowledge-based society.
Students who obtain a “Letter of No Objection to be Conditionally Admitted” are exempted from EmSAT requirements.
UAE higher education requirements
If a student successfully completes one academic year at a high school, which in turn allows the relevant higher education institution to grant the student final admission, they can apply for the no objection letter.
Dr Ahmad bin Abdullah Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Education, said that the new circular defines clear and flexible paths for students that enable them to obtain final admission to higher education institutions in the country if they successfully pass an academic year.
This serves students’ interest, and upgrades the university education system in the country and improves its competitiveness and quality.”
Dr Al Falasi said: “The circular was issued following a comprehensive study, during which we thoroughly reviewed the educational certificate equivalency process and inadequacies, and gathered the opinions and observations of students and faculty of higher education institutions.
“At the MoE, supporting our students in their educational journey is our goal and utmost concern. We will keep evaluating and enhancing all our services in line with our wise leadership’s directives to build a knowledgeable society and offer cutting-edge services that serve the needs of the community.”
According to the circular, in the case of Admission Conditional on Equivalency of Secondary School Certificate, the higher education institution may grant the student final admission if the student provides equivalency issued by the MoE for the Secondary School Certificate, passed the bridging courses specified in the “Letter of No Objection to be Conditionally Admitted” issued by the MoE, or passes at least twenty-four (24) credit hours (one academic year) in the major they are enrolled in.
In cases where the student does not fulfil any of the conditions by the end of the Conditional Admission Period, the higher education institution may cancel the Conditional Admission, or extend the Conditional Admission Period for one semester only beyond the end of the period stipulated in the “Letter of No Objection to be Conditionally Admitted” issued by the MoE.
Additionally, the circular emphasises that UAE higher education institutions are required to submit a report to the ministry at the beginning and end of each semester on students who have been granted Admission Conditional on Equivalency of Secondary School Certificate.
The report must include data on the student, student results, the student’s cumulative average, and the higher education institution’s decision regarding the student’s status.
