Planning to relocate to a new neighbourhood or emirate with your children? If so, the first important step is to obtain a school transfer certificate in the UAE. This certificate is issued and attested by the emirate’s educational authority, such as KHDA, ADEK, or SPEA. But how does this process work? Read ahead to discover how to transfer schools in the UAE.
- Can You Transfer Your Child to a New School in the UAE?
- What Is a School Transfer Certificate?
- How to Obtain a School Transfer Certificate in the UAE
- How to Transfer Schools in the UAE
- FAQs
Can You Transfer Your Child to a New School in the UAE?
Most parents relocating to a new location within the UAE ask this question: Is it legal to transfer schools in the UAE? The answer to this question is yes. Whether you want to transfer schools within the emirate, to a different emirate, or to a different curriculum, school transfer is possible.
However, parents must abide by the set guidelines regarding cut-off dates, curriculum, and availability of seats.
What Is a School Transfer Certificate?
Transferring schools in Dubai and other Emirates starts with obtaining a transfer certificate from the last attended school. Here is a brief on who needs this certificate:
- Students in Grade 2 and above.
- KG 1 to Grade 1 students only need this certificate for mid-term transfers (done after October).
Format
A school transfer certificate must be printed on the school letterhead and should follow this format:
- Your child’s full name
- Your child’s date of birth
- Enrollment date in the school
- School leaving date
- Last grade attended before leaving
- Curriculum studied
- Principal signature
- Stamp of the last attended school
How to Obtain a School Transfer Certificate in the UAE
Follow these steps for requesting a school transfer certificate in the UAE:
- Student Transfer Request Form: You can request a school transfer certificate. Use the parents’ portal or contact the school administration.
- School Submits a Transfer Certificate Application: Once you submit a request, the school will apply for a transfer certificate with the relevant authority, such as KHDA in Dubai.
- Pay the Fees: Receive an email to pay an attestation fee of AED 120 to the school.
- Certificate Issuance and Attestation: An attested certificate is issued within one working day.
How to Transfer Schools in the UAE
Once you have received a school transfer certificate, submit it to the new school within one month to complete the transfer. Along with that, the following documents are required for school transfers:
- Emirates ID of the child
- Child’s residence visa
- Birth certificate and passport copy of the child
- Child’s medical reports
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID
- Sponsor’s visa and passport copy
Please note that some schools may accept mid-term transfers. Contact the admission office of your desired school for more information.
FAQs
School transfer certificates are valid for only one month from the date of issuance. Parents must complete the transfer process within this period.
According to the UAE Ministry of Education, there is no mandatory test for school transfers within the UAE. However, some schools may conduct additional assessments as part of their admissions process.
The best choice between the British and American curriculum depends on various factors, such as a student’s personality, ability, and future goals.
That brings an end to our guide on how to transfer schools in the UAE. Follow the steps to apply for a transfer certificate from the last attended school in the UAE. Meanwhile, you can check this quick guide to KHDA-rated schools in Dubai.
