Education & Research

UAE Early Years Admissions: What the New Age Rule Changes Mean for Parents and Children

A recent clarification by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has given parents of children born between September 1 and December 31, 2022, the flexibility to choose between Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) and Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) for the 2026–2027 academic year — reversing an earlier rule that automatically placed them in FS2.

The update has been widely welcomed by parents and schools across the UAE, providing relief for families who prefer that developmental readiness, rather than age alone, determine their child’s starting year.

A New Level of Flexibility for Families

The Ministry’s clarification applies to children not yet enrolled in any educational system. Under the previous policy, students born during this period were required to skip FS1 and begin directly in FS2.

Lee Hole, Principal of Dubai British School, said the change allows schools and families to make more informed placement decisions:

“Our key task is to help families understand what this means for their children and to ensure every child is placed where they can flourish. We spend time getting to know each child as an individual so we can help them thrive in our setting.”

Parents such as Aisha Rahman, whose daughter was born in October 2022, expressed gratitude for the change:

“We were worried about her being one of the youngest in class under the old rule. The new choice brings peace of mind and shows how responsive the UAE’s education system is to families’ needs.”

Others, like Olivia Bennett, said the update prompted them to revisit earlier plans but welcomed the chance to make a more personalized decision:

“With this flexibility, we can now evaluate whether our son should start in FS1 or FS2 based on readiness rather than just age.”

Schools Adopting a Development-Based Approach

Educational institutions are now refining their admissions and readiness assessment processes to align with the MoE guidance.

Neetha Shetty, Principal of Al Diyafah High School, explained that her school begins with a Readiness Check aligned with the Birth to Five Matters early years framework:

“We identify each child’s developmental starting point, focusing equally on emotional and academic readiness. Structured induction programs, classroom familiarization visits, and bonding sessions help children transition smoothly.”

Natalia Svetenok, Principal of Woodlem British School, added that readiness goes beyond age:

“If additional transition time is needed, we provide it. Our goal is to ensure children enter FS2 or Year 1 feeling confident and emotionally secure — not rushed.”

Transitional Year and Implementation

According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the 2026–2027 academic year will serve as a transitional year for the new age-cutoff policy. It applies only to new students registering for the first time and will not affect those already enrolled in early education institutions.

KHDA stated:

“This transition period will ensure that families, early childhood centres, and schools are supported in implementing the revised requirements within the federal framework.”

Guidance for Parents

The MoE emphasized that the updated rule is a one-time measure for the 2026–2027 intake. Placement decisions should be made jointly by parents and schools, guided by professional assessments and the best interests of each child.

Lee Hole concluded:

“This is ultimately about ensuring that every child begins their educational journey in the most appropriate environment — one that supports their learning, growth, and confidence.”