International school admissions in Abu Dhabi follow a clear rhythm, and families who understand it early get the places they want. The emirate's schools are overseen by the Department of Education and Knowledge, known as ADEK, and almost all children in Abu Dhabi attend private or international schools, so the sector is large and competitive. This 2026 guide explains the admissions timeline, the documents you will need, how assessments work and what to budget, so your move to Abu Dhabi goes smoothly.
How admissions work in Abu Dhabi
Most international schools in Abu Dhabi run an academic year from late August or early September through to June. Re-enrolment for existing pupils happens early in the year, and external places are confirmed afterwards, so applying as early as possible matters. Because expat families arrive year round, mid-year entry is common where places exist, but the most sought-after schools and year groups keep waiting lists.
ADEK sets the regulatory framework, including registration and some fee rules, while each school manages its own admissions, assessments and offers. It is worth checking both the school's process and any current ADEK guidance as you plan.
Curricula you will be choosing between
Abu Dhabi offers an exceptionally broad range of curricula. The British curriculum (leading to IGCSE and A-Levels) is the most widespread, followed by the International Baccalaureate, the American system, and others including Indian and French programmes. Many schools run from early years through to pre-university on a single campus. Confirm the qualifications offered at the upper levels before applying.
Leading international schools in Abu Dhabi
The schools below are well known among Abu Dhabi's international community. Contact each to confirm availability for your child's year group, and visit where you can.
Repton School Abu Dhabi
A British-heritage school offering an English-medium education with strong academics and facilities. See Repton School Abu Dhabi on ISchoolAdvisor.
Canadian International School Abu Dhabi
An international school offering a Canadian-inspired, English-medium pathway for a diverse student body. View Canadian International School.
Al Basma British School
A British-curriculum school delivering the English National Curriculum and IGCSE for a multinational community. View Al Basma British School.
International Community School (City Centre Campus)
A long-established international school offering an English-medium education in a central location. See International Community School.
Documents you will need to apply
Requirements vary by school, but a typical Abu Dhabi application asks for the following. Gather these early to avoid delays:
- Completed application form and the application or assessment fee.
- The two most recent school reports or transcripts, sometimes attested.
- Copies of the child's and parents' passports, visa pages and Emirates ID once issued.
- Passport photographs and the child's birth certificate.
- Immunisation and health records.
- A transfer or leaving certificate from the previous school, which some schools require to be attested.
Assessments and offers
Younger children are usually assessed informally, while from upper primary onward schools commonly use an English-language assessment, often alongside a maths test, and sometimes an interview. For competitive year groups, the assessment helps schools manage limited places as well as confirm a child can access the curriculum. Many schools offer English as an Additional Language support, so ask how newcomers with developing English are supported.
Fees and what to budget
As a 2026 guide, expect annual tuition in roughly these ranges, before extras:
- Early years and primary: about AED 30,000 to AED 60,000 per year.
- Secondary: about AED 45,000 to AED 80,000 per year.
- Pre-university (IB or A-Levels): about AED 60,000 to AED 100,000 per year.
Budget for registration and assessment fees, a deposit, uniforms, transport, books and trips on top of tuition. Ask each school for an all-in figure.
Practical admissions tips
Apply to more than one school. Waiting lists are common, so keep two or three options open until a place is confirmed.
Get documents attested early. Some certificates need attestation, which takes time, so start before you arrive.
Sort visas and Emirates ID promptly. Several enrolment steps depend on residency documents being in place.
To compare schools, read profiles and check indicative prices, browse the ranking of the best international schools in the United Arab Emirates on ISchoolAdvisor as you build your shortlist.
Frequently asked questions
When should I apply to international schools in Abu Dhabi?
Apply as early as possible. Re-enrolment for current pupils happens early in the year and external places follow, so the sooner you apply once your move is confirmed, the better. Mid-year places can open where availability exists.
What documents are required for admission in Abu Dhabi?
Expect to provide recent school reports, passports, visa pages and Emirates ID, passport photos, the birth certificate, immunisation records and a transfer certificate, some of which may need attestation, along with the application form and fee.
How much do international schools in Abu Dhabi cost?
Annual tuition typically ranges from about AED 30,000 in the early years to around AED 100,000 at pre-university level, before extras such as registration fees, deposits, transport and trips.