The Ministry of Education has announced new requirements for the enrollment of students with disabilities in public schools for the upcoming academic year 2026-2027. These newly established criteria aim to ensure the preparedness of the school environment, prioritize the educational interests of the students, and enhance the inclusive education system based on recognized diagnostic and educational principles.
Enrollment Procedures
The Ministry clarified that the enrollment process will commence with the submission of an application for the registration and acceptance of students through the official website or the MOE UAE smart app. It is essential for parents or guardians to attend the scheduled diagnostics and evaluation sessions at inclusive education centers.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Furthermore, the Ministry emphasized that failure to attend, rescheduling, or breaching approved procedures would automatically result in the closure of the application without completion.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Students will undergo a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis at the Inclusive Education Support Center, which will not exceed 15 working days. Based on this assessment, the student’s eligibility for enrollment in either nursery or public school will be determined. Parents will receive official notification regarding the evaluation results.
Assessment Outcome
The Ministry has conveyed through the enrollment guide for public schools for the 2026-2027 academic year that the evaluation results are final and valid throughout the academic year. Parents cannot request re-enrollment for their child once the decision is made, ensuring stability in the educational process and appropriate direction for the child based on their needs and abilities.
Essential Documentation
Regarding the required documentation, seven essential documents have been stipulated. These include a recent medical report issued by an accredited medical entity within the country, a medical report detailing hearing or visual impairments when necessary, as well as an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for students transitioning from private schools, alongside verified educational certificates from government centers for students with disabilities, including a transitional plan report and the services provided.
Recent Psychological Report
Additionally, the required documents also consist of a disability card issued by the Ministry of Community Development—if available—and a recent psychological report not exceeding six months from an accredited specialized center, along with a signed commitment by the parent to comply with the school’s sanctioned conditions and policies.
Retention of Rights
The Ministry cautioned that if a student with disabilities is registered without the parent’s disclosure of their condition, it reserves the right to take the necessary action deemed appropriate for the student’s benefit, whether it be acceptance or redirection to a specialized center, based on the approved evaluation results.
Inclusive Education
These new requirements reflect the Ministry of Education’s commitment to reinforcing the principles of inclusive education, ensuring fair and sustainable educational services that cater to the needs of students with disabilities, and supporting their effective integration within the school environment according to best educational practices.