Parents across the UAE have just days left to secure places for their children in government schools for the 2026–2027 academic year, with authorities making clear that late applications will not be accepted once the window closes.
According to the UAE Ministry of Education, registration for Emirati students and those treated as such will remain open until March 6, 2026. The ministry has urged families to complete the process early to avoid delays or missing out on placements altogether.
The enrollment drive, which began on February 9, applies to new students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. It also covers pupils transferring from private schools or institutes to public schools, students arriving from abroad, and those moving between government schools within the country.
Applications must be submitted through the ministry’s official website or via its smart application, UAE MOE. The Ministry of Education advised parents to ensure that personal details linked to their digital identity are fully updated in line with their social status to facilitate a smooth registration process.
Transport arrangements are also part of the registration process. The ministry highlighted the importance of selecting school transport services during enrolment, noting that early requests will help secure availability at the start of the academic year.
Admissions for 2026–2027 will follow the updated age eligibility policy.
Children born between 1 January and 31 December 2022 who turn four by 31 December of the year of enrolment will be admitted to Kindergarten 1. Those born between 1 January and 31 December 2021 who turn five by the same date will qualify for Kindergarten 2.
Grade 1 will be open to children born between 1 January and 31 December 2020, provided they turn six by 31 December of the year of enrolment.
The ministry also addressed a specific group affected by last year’s criteria. For children who were not eligible to register in the 2025–2026 academic year because their birthdates fell between 1 September and 31 December 2021, parents will have the option to enrol them in either Kindergarten 1 or Kindergarten 2.
With the March 6 deadline approaching, education authorities have emphasised that once the registration window closes, new applications will not be accepted, making timely submission critical for families planning ahead for the next academic year.
