UAE First-Term Exams Begin November 20, 2025
The UAE Ministry of Education has officially announced the final exam schedule for the first term of the 2025-2026 academic year. This schedule applies to students in grades three through twelve at both public and private schools that follow the ministry’s curriculum. The exams are set to begin on November 20 and will run until December 4, with a break for the Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
Exam Schedule and Structure
The exams will be divided into two groups: Group A and Group B. Group A subjects, which encompass core academic disciplines, will commence on November 20. Schools are required to finalize assessment records for Group B subjects by November 14, prior to the start of the written exams.
Students in grades three and four will take paper-based exams in person, while grade five students will also participate in in-person assessments across all educational tracks. Notably, grade twelve students will complete their English language exams electronically.
Guidelines for Exam Administration
The Ministry of Education has issued comprehensive guidelines regarding exam formats, the use of electronic devices, supervision protocols, and regulations surrounding calculators. For instance, teachers are not permitted to read exam questions aloud during tests, with the exception of grade three, where they may read questions but not answers to maintain fairness.
Students are required to bring their own laptops for electronic exams. Assessments for grades six through twelve will vary between paper-based and electronic formats, depending on the subject and educational track.
Special Provisions for Grade Twelve Students
Grade twelve students enrolled in general and advanced tracks at private schools will take their exams in public school facilities, supervised by the School Operations Department. During chemistry exams, schools must provide printed copies of the periodic table, while students in the elite track will utilize the electronic version available on the Swift Assess platform.
Calculator Usage Guidelines
The Ministry has established specific rules regarding calculator use based on the subject and educational track:
– **Science Subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Health Sciences)**: Students in grades six to twelve may use scientific calculators across all tracks. – **Mathematics**: – For grades six to nine in general and advanced tracks, calculators are prohibited. – Higher grades in these tracks may use calculators. – In the elite track, both scientific and graphical calculators are permitted. – Students in the applied track must use graphical calculators.
Schools must adhere strictly to these guidelines to ensure uniformity and integrity during the examination process.
Exam Dates Overview
The exam schedule for grade twelve students is as follows: – **November 20**: Physics (all streams), Applied Science (applied track) – **November 21**: Applied Mathematics (applied track), Chemistry (other tracks) – **November 24**: Mathematics – **November 25**: English – **Subsequent Dates**: Arabic, Islamic Education, Biology, and concluding with Social Studies on December 4.
FAQs
When do the first-term exams start and end?
The first-term exams for UAE schools will start on November 20 and conclude on December 4, 2025.
What are the guidelines for calculator use during exams?
Calculator usage varies by subject and educational track, with specific rules for science and mathematics outlined by the Ministry of Education.
Are there any special provisions for grade twelve students?
Yes, grade twelve students in general and advanced tracks at private schools will take their exams in public school facilities under supervision, and they have specific guidelines for exam formats and electronic device usage.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Education’s announcement regarding the first-term exam schedule provides clarity for students and schools alike. With detailed guidelines in place, schools are expected to uphold these standards to ensure a fair and organized examination process. As the exam dates approach, students should prepare accordingly and familiarize themselves with the regulations to ensure a smooth experience.
The Ministry of Education emphasizes the importance of academic integrity and fairness during the examination period. Schools are encouraged to conduct preparatory sessions to help students understand the exam formats and expectations. This initiative aims to alleviate student anxiety and promote effective study habits.
Additionally, the ministry has highlighted the significance of parental involvement in the exam preparation process. Parents are encouraged to support their children by creating conducive study environments at home and ensuring they are well-rested before exam days. This collaborative approach is intended to foster a positive atmosphere for learning and assessment.
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