Public schools across the UAE are gearing up for end-of-term exams for the 2025–2026 academic year with stricter attendance rules now in force.

Under a new policy aligned with the Ministry of Education’s attendance and absence guide, any unexcused absence between November 10 and 19 will count as two days, potentially affecting a student’s eligibility to meet passing requirements.

Previously, the “double absence” rule applied only to unexcused absences on Fridays. This term, however, schools will enforce it across all days leading up to the exams to reinforce discipline and academic preparedness.

Exam schedule and National Day break

The central examinations for the first semester will run from November 20 to December 4, 2025. To accommodate the UAE National Day celebrations, exams will be held until November 27, followed by a six-day BRB, including the weekend, before resuming on December 4.

School administrators have urged students to maintain full attendance during this period, noting that the days before exams include academic and enrichment initiatives such as:

• Together with the Structure
• Success Initiative
• Digital Empowerment Initiative

These programmes aim to boost independent learning, creativity, and innovation, reflecting the Ministry’s vision of building a disciplined and future-ready generation.

Device checks and technical readiness

Schools have also reminded students and parents to ensure that their electronic devices used for online exams are fully functional. Any faulty devices should be submitted to the school’s technical support unit for repair before exams begin.

Administrations clarified that parents are responsible for repair costs, including broken screens, liquid damage, or lost chargers. To ensure a secure testing environment, schools have also provided official links for downloading secure browsers on personal devices.