The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR), has officially cancelled the EmSAT or Emirates Standardized Test for Grade 12 students. It seems that it would divert the focus towards new admission criteria by the universities. Accordingly, while granting admission into medical and engineering programs, grades in relevant science subjects will be prioritized over overall percentage scores.
The new policy will give universities more freedom in charging admission standards. This will improve diverse academic pathways for students. According to the new criteria, universities may admit students who do not meet the required levels of proficiency in the English language by providing qualifying courses or remedial courses where those admitted do not get the required grades in their chosen specialization.
This step is seen, as revealed by the state, as one of the ways in which it portrays its support for the interests of students in higher or professional learning, said the UAE’s Minister of Education, Sarah Al Amiri. The ministry advises her students and parents to take their time to determine their admission requirements at any target institution.
The EmSAT, which has been of great importance as an admissions and scholarship test for access to universities, is, however being replaced by a more flexible one. Under the previous setup, skills in various subjects were graded, guiding the students through different educational pathways. The approach is aimed at increasing participation in higher education among graduates of twelfth grade toward higher diploma, bachelor, or skills certificates.