Students in the UAE are eagerly anticipating the release of revised university admission criteria following the cancellation of the Emirates Standardised Tests (EmSAT) for grade 12 pupils by the country’s education authorities. While some students are rejoicing over the reduced pressure, others are seeking clarity on the new procedures. Previously, EmSAT was a mandatory requirement for university admission and scholarships in the UAE. The Ministry of Education stated that the cancellation would provide universities with greater flexibility in determining their admission criteria.
Yousef Hussam Yassin, a 17-year-old student at a school in Sharjah, expressed his relief at the reduced stress levels and the new opportunities this change offers. “I feel like the pressure on me as a senior has eased, and I now have more options.” He was still considering whether to take the EmSAT tests when the news broke. “It depends on the university's requirements and admission conditions, but I might take the tests to improve my skills.”
Sixteen-year-old Jana Aburady also expressed relief at the cancellation. “I’m honestly relieved that the EmSAT test requirement was cancelled. It feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” she admitted. Despite having invested time in studying for the test, Jana now plans to shift her focus. “I’ll definitely be shifting my focus to studying for other important exams like the SATs and preparing for university applications. I might also use the extra time to work on my IELTS prep,” she said. Jana noted that many of her classmates were pleased with the decision, viewing it as a stress reliever.
Omar Ahmed El-Shabasy, a 17-year-old from another private school, believes that EmSAT can test students equally. Having spent significant time preparing for the exams and already achieving the scores he needed for his university, he is now reassessing his options. “First I’ll check out the new requirements that the university needs, then I’ll try to work harder than the first time because we don’t have much time left.” Omar observed mixed reactions in his senior group chat. “One group is upset because they’ve done most of the tests, while another was happy because they haven’t started yet. Some students were not worried as they would be pursuing higher education abroad.”
Ghala Alhajeri, a 16-year-old Emirati student, shared a blend of relief and uncertainty. “Relieved but a little confused about what new rules are going to be put in place,” she said. Although she hadn’t invested substantial time in EmSAT prep, she had completed some practice tests and remains committed to her academic goals. “With this free time, I will most definitely focus on different preparations,” she added.
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