Selective Schools – The ‘Do’s and Don’ts of Applying

Many parents in the Emirates choose to send their children to schools in their home country which operate a selective policy.  A limited number of schools within the UAE currently also require prospective pupils to sit an entrance exam but this particular hurdle is likely to become an everyday fact of life as pressure upon places at high quality schools increases.

We’ve outlined below some of the key points that you should consider when opting for the selective route:

1. If the school has an entrance exam find out as much as you can about it – how important a factor is it in their overall assessment of your child? What subjects does it cover?  Try to speak to parents who’ve already been through the process.  Many parents opt to seek tutoring for the entrance exam(s). Will this be necessary for your child?  Are there any tutors who come personally recommended?

2. Will the criteria for acceptance be purely on academic terms or what other factors come into play? Many schools are deliberately vague about the criteria they employ to afford themselves maximum flexibility in choosing pupils.  Some schools, however, are more open about their weighting – they may be deliberately academic or they may have a particular reputation for developing sporting stars. The school may be a musical or artistic hothouse as well.  It’s also possible that weighting may be given to boys over girls or vice versa or the school could, at the time you’re applying, be operating a ‘sibling policy’ where the siblings of those already attending the school are preferred.

3. Always have a Plan B. Don’t assume that your child will breeze into the school because they’re top of their class at primary school.  Academic criteria may be just one of many that the school employs when assessing pupils.  Be prepared for rejection and be ready to help your child deal with it as well.

4. Are scholarships available and if not why not? 

5. Does the school allow you to see their academic results?

6. If the school has an Open Day try to attend at least two years in advance of your child applying to get a feeling for the environment.  Make a plan and a draft a list of questions.  Try to speak to as many teachers, parents and pupils as possible. Will your child be happy in this environment? If you have the opportunity also try to get a word with support staff such as the security staff (is bullying/vandalism a problem?) .

7. Does the school accept children with special needs e.g dyslexia and what provision do they make? Do they charge extra for special needs students?

8. Finally, ask the school principal (or a senior member of management) if there is anything else that you can do as a parent which would help your child gain a place at your chosen school.  Don’t ask, don’t get.