ABU DHABI: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has introduced new guidelines for university admissions in the United Arab Emirates, aiming to provide a more flexible and tailored approach for prospective students. Ministerial Resolution No. (19) of 2024 outlines the criteria for higher education institutions (HEIs) to follow when admitting students to various programmes, including bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and short learning units.
According to Emirates News Agency, the resolution enables HEIs to develop their own admission criteria, focusing on students’ aspirations and the requirements of the labor market. Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Higher Education Operations Sector, emphasized that the updated criteria align with the Ministry’s efforts to enhance partnerships with universities. This approach aims to ensure the quality of academic programmes while allowing students to pursue tracks that match their capabilities and career goals.
The resolution marks a significant shift from previous admission requirements. Notably, the overall high school score is no longer mandatory for university entry. Instead, institutions can assess students based on grades in subjects relevant to their chosen major. For master’s and doctoral programs, universities can require qualifications from the previous academic level in accordance with the National Qualifications Framework 2024. The resolution also clarifies that students who have completed English-language curricula outside the Ministry’s framework do not need to prove English proficiency, while those educated in other languages must pass international standardized tests.
The updated criteria also allow universities to conditionally accept students, requiring them to complete preparatory or remedial courses to ensure subject proficiency. The Ministry has urged students and parents to directly communicate with HEIs to understand specific admission requirements, ensuring compliance with applicable rules and regulations.