More than 400 scholarships are being offered by Dubai's private schools to deserving Emirati students as a result of a partnership between the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Knowledge Fund Establishment.
This page explores the initiative's goals, specifics, and application procedure.
The Dubai Distinguished Students Programme offers scholarships covering fifty percent of the yearly tuition fees for outstanding Emirati students attending schools with a recent inspection rating of "Good or Better." Aligned with Dubai Social Agenda 33, this initiative underscores the city's commitment to upholding excellence in education.
Applications for the 2024–2025 academic year will be accepted from May 20 to June 5. If they match the requirements, Emirati parents who would like to take advantage of this opportunity for their kids can register on the KHDA website. The program's long-term goal is to grant 1800 scholarships in total by 2030, greatly increasing the chances for Emirati students to achieve academic success.
School Participation and Support
Currently, nine schools have pledged their participation in the program, signaling a collective effort from educational institutions to support the aspirations of talented Emirati youth. Aisha Abdulla Miran, director-general of KHDA, expressed appreciation for the collaboration with the Knowledge Fund and participating schools, highlighting their dedication to nurturing exceptional talent.
Participating schools offer a diverse range of curricula, including the British, International Baccalaureate, and American curricula, ensuring inclusivity and catering to the varied educational needs of students.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, the CEO of the Knowledge Fund Establishment, emphasized the organization's commitment to enriching Dubai's educational landscape through exceptional programs. A crucial stride in empowering Emirati students involves the partnership between KHDA and the Knowledge Fund.
Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
Academic excellence and possession of a family book issued by the Emirate of Dubai are prerequisites for Emirati students to be eligible for the scholarships. This includes earning a minimum of five points in the IB curriculum, an average of a B grade in the British curriculum, or an average of 90% or higher in the US or Ministry of Education curriculum. Students also need to pass exams and interviews that are done by the evaluation committees of the schools.
The initiative will be managed by a committee that is specifically tasked with making sure that the educational experience meets the high standards required of the participating institutions. This commitment underlines the collective endeavor to sustain educational excellence and assist in the development of future leaders. By offering these scholarships, Dubai's private schools are promoting a culture of academic excellence and opportunity for all, investing not only in the future of the country but also in the individual students.
