Parents planning Dubai school admission for 2026–27 will need to pay close attention to updated age requirements issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The new KHDA age requirements for 2026–27 set out how children’s ages will be assessed when they enter Dubai’s education system for the first time.
The updated rules are particularly important for families applying for FS1, FS2, KG and early primary places, as the child’s age determines the appropriate year group.
Dubai School Admission Age 2026–27
For schools following an academic year that starts in August or September, a child’s age is calculated as of December 31 of the admission year.
For schools that begin their academic year in April, the relevant KHDA age cut-off is March 31.
This difference is important because Dubai schools follow different academic calendars depending on their curriculum. Parents should therefore check both the school’s curriculum and academic-year start date before applying.
Dubai School Age Requirements
| Child’s age | Equivalent year/grade |
|---|---|
| 3 years | FS1 |
| 4 years | FS2 |
| 5 years | Year 1 / KG2 |
| 6 years | Year 2 / Grade 1 |
| 7 years | Year 3 / Grade 2 |
For children entering Pre-KG to KG2 or FS1 to Year 1, age is the main factor used for placement. For Grade 1/Year 2 and above, the student’s transfer certificate is the primary reference for determining the appropriate grade.
Who Is Affected by the New KHDA Rules?
The revised student age requirements in Dubai apply to children registering in the KHDA system for the first time.
Existing students are not affected retrospectively. Children who are already enrolled can continue progressing through their normal grade or year sequence under the applicable school rules.
Special Transition Rules for 2026–27
KHDA has also introduced limited, one-time transitional arrangements for the 2026–27 academic year.
Certain children who have never previously enrolled in an educational institution may qualify for placement under the transitional provisions, subject to the conditions set by KHDA, including parental agreement and a documented readiness assessment where applicable.
These transitional arrangements are specific to 2026–27 and should not be treated as permanent changes to Dubai’s school admission age rules.
What Parents Should Check
Before submitting a Dubai school admission 2026–27 application, parents should check their child’s date of birth, the school’s curriculum, academic-year start date and applicable KHDA age cut-off.
Checking these details early can help families avoid applying for the wrong year group and ensure their child is considered for the appropriate school placement.