UAE Grants Universities Greater Autonomy in Setting Admission Criteria and Evaluation

After the UAE canceled the EmSAT entrance exam earlier this month, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has granted universities greater autonomy to define their admission criteria. Universities can now develop their own guidelines while aligning with national educational objectives to maintain quality outcomes.

This shift aims to prioritize subject-specific achievements over overall grade averages, ensuring students are assessed based on their strengths in fields related to their chosen majors. Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Operations, emphasized, “Universities understand their students best. This flexibility allows them to tailor admission processes to suit academic and industry needs.”

Admission Criteria Reform

With the removal of EmSAT as a mandatory requirement, universities have introduced alternative evaluation methods. For instance, Dr. Yousef M. Al Assaf, President of Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, stated that their admission process will continue using placement tests in subjects like Physics, Math, and English, alongside IELTS or TOEFL for English proficiency. Similarly, Nahid Afshan, Head of Admissions at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, mentioned that high school performance in relevant subjects will now play a critical role in their criteria.

For STEM programs, students will need strong grades in subjects like Chemistry, Physics, or Biology. This approach ensures that admission decisions are closely tied to a student’s aptitude in their chosen field.

Focus on Transparency and Flexibility

To support students, universities will provide clear and accessible information on admission requirements, including bridge programs and preparatory courses. Students are encouraged to contact institutions directly to explore their eligibility for specific majors.

The revamped NAPO 2.0 system, introduced by the ministry, allows students to submit unlimited applications and track admissions year-round. Covering over 20 universities, the system is set to expand, streamlining the process and enabling students to explore multiple opportunities with ease.

Outcome-Based Approach

The ministry’s new framework focuses on measuring educational outcomes rather than regulating admissions. Universities are now responsible for setting criteria to meet six key pillars that connect education with workforce readiness:

1. Employment Outcomes: Preparing graduates with skills for relevant careers.
2. Industry Collaboration: Aligning curricula with business needs.
3. Research Outcomes: Promoting innovation and practical problem-solving.
4. International Education: Preparing students for a global workforce.
5. Community Engagement: Encouraging social responsibility through local initiatives.
6. Quality Assurance: Ensuring academic standards and continuous improvement.

A New Era for Higher Education

By focusing on subject-specific performance and providing universities with the tools to create tailored admission processes, the UAE’s new policies aim to enhance the quality of education and align it with global and local job market demands.