Secondary education in United Arab Emirates for international students - 3 yo

Secondary schools have gained immense popularity among foreign students in recent times. The launching of the first British schools in Sharjah in 1953 marked the beginning of a comfortable educational environment for foreign students residing in the UAE. Today, these private institutions offer comprehensive secondary education programs and confer certificates upon graduation.

Professional Schools in the UAE

In addition to general education, the UAE is proud of specialized vocational schools, including institutions which make an emphasis on commerce and agriculture. These include:

• Center for Advanced Training in the Oil Industry

• Secondary Technical School

• Pedagogical Women's Institute

• Commercial Secondary School, among others.

Alison Roberts

Head of Marketing and Admissions at Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD)

What makes Dubai schools so special for families from all over the world?

Dubai is an educational and boarding dream. It’s a very safe, dynamic and multi-cultural place and a perfect place for teenagers to grow up.

It is possible to obtain secondary education in public and private schools. State-run educational institutions offer programs, stipulating:

• Arabic language

• Religious subjects such as the Quran and Muslim culture

• History.

Education in public schools in the UAE is primarily conducted in Arabic. The tuition fees are charged from foreign students.

Private schools are mostly designed for foreign students. The first British school, was founded in 1953 in Sharjah, began to invite foreign students to immerse in a conducive learning environment. These private schools are duly licensed and authorized to provide complete secondary education, spanning from grades 1 to 11, ultimately issuing graduation certificates to students.

Top Programs at Secondary School in UAE for International Students

Private schools in the UAE provide middle school academic programs adhering to international educational standards. These programs encompass:

• Foreign languages (typically a minimum of three, including English, French/German, and Arabic)

• Mathematics

• Physical education and sports

• Natural sciences

• Social sciences and humanities

• Art and design.

Teaching is mostly conducted in English, simultaneously they often offer boarding facilities with constant supervision by experienced educators.

While studying at high private schools, students are provided with the opportunity to get effective preparation aimed at successful admission to higher educational institutions:

1. GCSE in the United Arab Emirates

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) program is designed for deepening knowledge in academic disciplines, improving language and research skills. The educational program stipulates studying of mandatory and elective subjects. So, foreign students can form curricula according to their academic interests. In case of successful passing of GCSE exams graduates are awarded a prestigious certificate. Having this diploma, students can enrol  in top world universities.

2. Swiss Matriculation Certificate in the UAE

The Swiss program offers an education aligned with the European educational system, stipulating an in-depth studying of seven disciplines, one elective subject, and an additional specialized topic. Instruction is conducted in English and French. Students who are awarded  a Swiss certificate of maturity may enter the best universities globally, including prestigious institutions in Switzerland, without taking admission tests.

As for this type of institution, they offer prestigious, comprehensive higher education, complying with academic standards. Experienced teachers conduct classes. In addition to it,  each program has certification and accreditation issued by the Ministry of Education. Also quality assessments are conducted by a specialized agency. These universities are well-equipped, providing free internet access and all necessary resources for effective learning.

Additionally, UAE universities have branches in several educational centers across the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. So, students are provided with a wide choice of specialties, including management, business, information technology, marketing, and economics, among others. Education acquired in the UAE opens doors to extensive career opportunities.

Master's Programs in UAE: The British University (Dubai)

One of the best institutions, which offers Master's programs is the British University in Dubai, in which studying complies with traditional British academic standards. This university has the status of a major research center, functioning under the supervision of the UAE Ministry of Education. The available educational programs stipulate studying of project management, finance, banking, architecture, information technology, and education. On average, the cost of studying accounts for  $20,000 per year.

The studying is conducted in Arabic and English. The language of studying depends on the chosen program and direction of education. Educational process is conducted year-round, allowing students to enter in any month of the year. Exams are held twice during each semester, which usually lasts for 10 weeks. Upon completing education during 3-4 years, students are awarded a Bachelor's degree. After that, students can enroll in a Master's program, where studying lasts for 2-3 years.

The UAE has been recognized as a leading country in terms of quality education. Many branches of prestigious institutions are located here. Popularity among foreign students is stipulated by conditions created for studying and diverse extracurricular programs. It is possible to enrol in  private schools, international institutions, and top universities. Pay attention that you should understand the cost structure before deciding on studying  in the UAE.

The cost of studying ranges, depending on many factors. Such factors as the type of educational institution, studying program, and the emirate in which the school is located, influence the cost of studying. For example, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, considering the most developed emirates, usually cost more in terms of obtaining education. International schools, offering programs such as the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) are more expensive.  On average, the cost of studying varies from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000 or more per academic year. The price tag is stipulated by the educational program you have chosen. These schools often have state-of-the-art facilities, a multicultural environment, and experienced international teaching staff.

Pay attention, that in addition to tuition fees, there may be extra costs to consider. Such costs may concern registration fees, purchasing school  uniform, transport charges, and participation in extracurricular activities. Also, the cost of living in the UAE, particularly in the cosmopolitan areas, is considered to be expensive. Accommodation, food, and other daily expenses should also be taken into account, when planning your academic trip in the UAE. From the first glance, expenses may seem significant, however, families effectively invest in the child’s future, as he obtains a high standard of education and immerse in the language environment.

Yes, children of foreign citizens in the UAE obtain compulsory school education from the age of 5. If a parent has a residence permit, the child can study full-time.

UAE schools conduct studying under various educational programs, which include British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), Indian (CBSE/ICSE) and others.

Yes, in the UAE students are engaged in diverse extra-curricular activities, including sports, art and music.

Some schools provide language programs or bilingual education, allowing students to study their native language in addition to a core program in English.

To enter UAE schools, the age of child must be 3 years old, when they begin studies.

Yes, most schools offer transportation services to ensure students are escorted safely to and from school.

The IB (International Baccalaureate) program is a comprehensive educational system offering an internationally recognized curriculum. In Dubai, the IB program is of great importance as it gives students an international perspective and academic preparation. Particular attention is paid to the formation of a multicultural and international environment, and the development of skills required for successful implementation.

Unlike traditional curricula, the IB Dubai program makes an emphasis on comprehensive learning through six subjects. This approach promotes the development of critical thinking, research skills and social engagement, which distinguishes the program from more traditional curricula that prioritize theory.

Having the IB certificate, graduates gain an advantage in case of applying to universities. Universities recognize the IB program, given  the development of critical thinking, time management and independent research skills.

Yes, IB Dubai graduates are more demanded in the labour market thanks to their well-rounded skill set. The program's emphasis on critical thinking, communication and intercultural understanding guarantees a comprehensive preparation of students. So, upon completing studies, graduates can engage in various professional fields, aligned with Dubai's diverse and growing job market.

Under the IB program, students independently choose disciplines for studying.  As a result, they study only those subjects, which comply with their interests and future goals. The flexibility of the educational process contributes to the wider opportunities for exploring areas, which students are interested in, developing their talents and instilling a love of lifelong learning.

IB schools often make an emphasis on the well-being and mental health of students, creating a supportive environment. They may offer mental health services, stress management programs, and strategies to help students balance their course load with extracurricular activities, promoting a holistic approach to education.

Many UAE IB graduates have achieved success in different directions, among which are business, science, arts and public service. Their achievements highlight the program's ability to develop well-rounded individuals who are capable of achieving success both academically and professionally on the global stage.

IB teachers in Dubai often use learner-centred approaches that encourage active participation, critical thinking and inquiry-based learning. They strive to create an engaging classroom environment, which contributes to intellectual curiosity and an in-depth knowledge of disciplines.