Impact of Exam Cancellations in UAE: New Grading Rules Explained

Original: Full guide to cancelled exams in UAE, new grading rules, what this means for students

Khaleej Times•Apr 3, 20265 min

In a Nutshell

Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, several international and Indian curriculum examinations in the UAE have been cancelled. Schools are implementing alternative assessment methods, including portfolio submissions and teacher evaluations, to ensure students can progress academically while maintaining certification for university admissions.

Key Points

01Geopolitical tensions have led to the cancellation of major exams in the UAE.
02Schools are adopting alternative assessment methods for student evaluations.
03The International Baccalaureate and Cambridge boards will use coursework and teacher predictions for grading.
04Indian boards like CBSE and CISCE will rely on internal assessments and project work.
05Students will still receive valid certifications for university applications.

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Full Summary

Ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from the US-Israel-Iran conflict have resulted in the cancellation of several high-stakes examinations in the UAE, impacting students across various curricula, including the UK-based IGCSEs, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Indian boards such as CBSE and CISCE. Schools are prioritizing student safety while ensuring academic continuity through alternative assessment methods. For instance, the OxfordAQA has cancelled Summer 2026 exams, opting for portfolio assessments instead, while Cambridge Assessment International Education will also utilize a portfolio of evidence for grading. The IB has implemented the Non-Exam Contingency Measure (NECM), relying on coursework and teacher predictions. Indian boards like CISCE and CBSE are using internal assessments to determine grades, ensuring that students maintain their eligibility for university admissions despite the cancellations. This unprecedented situation requires schools to adapt quickly, balancing fairness and safety in the assessment process.

Key Figures

Summer 2026

Exams cancelled for various boards

Class 10 and Class 12

Examinations cancelled for these grades by CISCE

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Why It Matters

Students in the UAE will continue their education through alternative assessments, ensuring they can still qualify for university admissions despite the cancellation of exams.

Who is affected

Students in UAE following international and Indian curricula, particularly those in their final years of schooling.

What to know

Students should stay in contact with their schools to understand the new assessment methods and ensure their portfolios or internal assessments are adequately prepared.

FAQ

Schools are using portfolio submissions, teacher assessments, and internal evaluations to certify student learning.

No, the alternative assessments will still provide valid certifications recognized by universities.

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