KHDA one-time transitional arrangement for FS1-FS2 admissions

As schools across the UAE finalise admissions and class allocations for September, many parents are facing a crucial question: should their child begin in Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) or move directly into FS2? The debate gained prominence following the UAE Ministry of Education’s earlier decision to shift the school-entry age cut-off from August 31 to December 31. While the change aims to align admission rules more closely with international standards, it has left some families — particularly those with children born between September and December — uncertain about the most appropriate starting point. To ease concerns, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) introduced a one-time transitional arrangement for the 2026-27 academic year, giving some children affected by the revised cut-off flexibility around whether they enter FS1 or FS2, subject to eligibility requirements. Schools now highlight that ahead of the new academic year in September, for many parents, however, the decision goes beyond age. Questions around school readiness, confidence, social development and long-term academic progression are prompting them to seek guidance from institutions as they navigate a choice that could shape their child's early years of learning.