The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has begun a wide-ranging review of academic records in private schools across the emirate, as part of efforts to crack down on grade inflation and protect the integrity of student qualifications.

In the first phase of the review, schools are required to submit detailed Grade 12 records, including transcripts, samples of student work, and grading policies for official inspection.

So far, 12 private schools have been temporarily barred from enrolling students in Grades 11 and 12 until they resolve compliance issues.

Why it matters

ADEK says the move is designed to ensure that grades awarded to students accurately reflect their academic performance, rather than being inflated or inconsistent with national and international standards.

“This initiative promotes fairness, transparency and academic integrity,” ADEK said in a statement.
“Students must earn their qualifications through real achievement, not artificially high marks.”

The review was prompted by findings from ADEK’s routine quality checks, which revealed significant gaps between internal school grades and external benchmark assessments, raising concerns about how accurately some schools are evaluating student performance.

What’s next?

Future phases of the review will expand to include Grades 9 to 11, with schools facing further scrutiny if they fail to align internal assessments with recognised benchmarks. Those who don’t comply may face additional corrective action, ADEK warned.

Impact on families

For parents and students, the review signals a renewed focus on academic standards and a push to ensure qualifications from Abu Dhabi schools are globally credible and trustworthy. It also reassures universities and employers that student transcripts genuinely reflect performance.

The initiative is part of ADEK’s broader commitment to raising the bar across Abu Dhabi’s education sector, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education and future careers.

Students in the UAE following the Indian curriculum take note, India’s Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the schedule for the 2025 supplementary exams for Classes 10 and 12. These exams, which offer students a second chance to either clear failed subjects or improve their marks, will begin on July 15.

Who can take the exams?

The supplementary exams are designed for students who did not pass one or more subjects in the main board exams or those looking to enhance their scores.

Exam Schedule and Timings

• Class 10 exams will run from July 15 to 22
• Class 12 supplementary exam will be held on July 15 (one-day exam)
• Timing for most exams: 10:30am to 1:30pm
• Some vocational subjects may have shorter, two-hour exams

Subjects Covered

The first day features a wide range of subjects, including:

Core Subjects:
English, Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit, History, Political Science, Geography, Economics

Science & Math:
Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Engineering Graphics

Vocational & Electives:
Business Studies, Accountancy, Informatics Practices, Computer Science, Home Science, and industry-specific fields like Retail, IT, Tourism, and Agriculture

Key Guidelines for Students

• Electronic gadgets (including mobile phones and smartwatches) are strictly prohibited in exam halls
• Students will be given 15 minutes of reading time before the start of each paper
• The exam duration will be clearly mentioned on the date sheet and admit card
• Admit card is mandatory, students will not be allowed to sit the exam without it

How to Download the Supplementary Timetable:

1. Visit the official CBSE website: cbse.gov.in
2. Click on the link for “CBSE 10th, 12th Supplementary Exam Schedule 2025”
3. View and download the PDF
4. Print a copy for reference

As final exams for the 2024-2025 academic year commence on Tuesday, June 10, across public and private schools following the national curriculum, the Ministry of Education has issued clear guidelines regarding student attendance and support measures. These crucial exams, for students in grades 3 through 12, will run until June 19.

When Can Students Be Excused from Exams? Seven Valid Reasons

The Ministry of Education has identified seven specific scenarios where students may be excused from attending their final exams. These valid excuses are detailed in an official absence form provided by the Student Performance Assessment Department.

To ensure an absence is officially accepted, students or guardians must submit the original excuse form to the exam committee head within two working days of the exam date, remembering to keep a copy for their records.

Here are the officially approved reasons for missing an exam:

1. Exemption for Non-Muslim Students: Non-Muslim students are excused from taking Islamic Education exams.
2. Medical Conditions: A valid absence requires an accredited medical report.
3. Bereavement: Absences due to the passing of a first or second-degree relative.
4. Official Government Summons: Supported by formal documentation from a government authority.
5. Sudden Emergency Travel: For unforeseen travel necessities.
6. Unexplained Absence: These cases are accepted only after review by the authorities.
7. Other Clearly Stated Reasons: Any other reasons must be clearly explained by the student or guardian.

Important Note on Excuse Submission: For Grade 12 students, excuse forms are forwarded directly to the centralised Exam Results and Evaluation Centre. For grades 3 to 11, schools are responsible for retaining these forms on file. The acceptance or rejection of an excuse requires official signatures: the head of the evaluation centre for Grade 12 and the school principal for all lower grades.

Consequences of Unjustified Absence: Failure to submit a valid excuse within the stipulated two-day timeframe will result in the absence being marked as “unjustified” in the “Al Manhal” electronic system. Such unexcused absences can negatively affect a student’s final results, in line with Ministry regulations. These measures underscore the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining discipline and fairness during exams, while also showing understanding for genuine emergencies.

Ministry’s Extensive Preparations and Support for Exam Period

Alongside the exam guidelines, the Ministry has rolled out a comprehensive readiness campaign to ensure an optimal testing environment. The School Operations Sector has issued seven key directives to administrative and teaching staff, emphasising a holistic approach to student well-being and academic readiness:

• Positive Role Modelling: Teachers are encouraged to demonstrate professionalism and emotional stability.
• Supportive Environments: Ensuring calm, structured exam venues.
• Educational Care: Providing psychological and emotional support to boost student confidence.
• Logistical Readiness: Full preparation of all exam resources and venues.
• Strict Adherence to Rules: Consistent enforcement of exam regulations for fairness.
• Understanding Exam Importance: Highlighting exams as crucial for learning and character development.
• Reinforcing Educational Mission: Reminding teachers of their vital role in shaping future generations.

These directives highlight the crucial role of teachers in fostering a supportive, focused, and equitable atmosphere, recognising that emotional stability significantly impacts academic performance.

Student Support Campaigns: Nurturing Mental Readiness

To further support students academically and mentally, the Ministry has released a motivational video on its social media platforms. Featuring a high school student, the video offers practical advice for managing exam stress and organising study effectively.

Students will begin their summer vacation on June 30, while teaching and administrative staff will commence theirs on July 14.