Schools across the UAE are increasing capacity for FS2 and Grade 1 after the Ministry of Education introduced new entry age cut-off rules, leading to a sharp rise in applications. Under the updated policy, children can now join FS1 if they turn three by December 31 of the admission year, instead of the previous August 31 deadline. This shift extends eligibility for younger children and directly impacts admissions for FS2, Year 1, and Year 2.
As a result, many schools have seen higher-than-normal demand, with some reporting that FS2 and Grade 1 classes are already full. To manage the surge, schools are adding more sections where possible, though many face constraints such as limited campus space, staffing requirements, and maximum class-size regulations.
School leaders are advising parents that admission will depend not only on seat availability but also on assessing each child’s developmental readiness, especially for students on the younger end of the new cut-off. Meetings, orientation sessions, and parent briefings are being held to explain the new guidelines and support families through the transition.
Early childhood experts also note that meeting the age requirement doesn’t always guarantee a child’s readiness for formal schooling, recommending additional support where needed. The expansion reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to balance rising demand with quality early education standards.
