Thousands of 4th-11th Graders Take Standardized Competency Exam in 3 Core Subjects on Monday

Students in grades 4 through 11 across UAE government schools will take mandatory standardized competency tests starting Monday, September 29, through October 9, 2025. The ministry-led assessment covers three core subjects: Arabic, English, and mathematics.

The tests are part of the Ministry of Education's strategy to improve measurement tools and enhance educational quality nationwide. School administrations have confirmed that all students must participate in this comprehensive evaluation of their academic performance.

According to messages sent to parents and students, the competency test serves as a strategic national tool designed to measure students' mastery of fundamental academic skills. The assessment aims to identify educational gaps early and create targeted remedial plans to address them.

The ministry emphasizes that these tests track student progress throughout the school year while ensuring fairness and transparency through unified standards across the country. This approach helps educators understand where students stand and what support they need.

**Technical requirements and logistics**

Students in grades 6, 7, and 8 must bring fully charged laptops to their testing sessions. Fifth-grade students will take their exams in equipped computer labs at their schools.

The testing process uses a dedicated online platform. Students log in using their UAE ID number from their test ticket, select the appropriate subject based on the scheduled date, and enter a six-digit activation code to begin.

Schools have banned personal calculators during the exams. Instead, the electronic system provides a virtual calculator designed specifically for student needs, complete with an instructional guide explaining how to use it.

**Focus on improvement, not grades**

School administrators stress that these competency tests don't determine pass or fail outcomes. Instead, they're designed to accurately assess each student's level and build individualized educational plans that strengthen areas of excellence while addressing weaknesses.

The ministry views parental support and encouragement as crucial for helping students prepare mentally for the assessments. This psychological readiness can significantly impact how well students perform.

Schools have emphasized the importance of consistent attendance during the testing period. The comprehensive nature of these assessments requires students to be present for all scheduled sessions to get accurate results that can guide their educational development.

This standardized approach gives the UAE education system valuable data about student performance across different regions and schools, helping policymakers make informed decisions about curriculum and teaching methods.