UAE Introduces New Diagnostic Assessment Guidelines for 2025–2026 Academic Year

According to the Al Etihad newspaper, the UAE Ministry of Education has issued a detailed guideline to implement the diagnostic assessment across the public and private schools after the national curriculum for the 2025-2026 academic year. 

However, this initiative is a big step towards supporting the UAE education system of the country by focusing on the early identification of learning needs of students. In addition, it aims to provide them with personalized academic support. 

Purpose: Evaluating Core Academic Skills

The new diagnostic assessment system aims to evaluate the proficiency of the students in Arabic, English, and Mathematics. However, they are three foundational subjects that are important for academic success. Plus, the ministry aims to ensure a more accurate and holistic understanding of the abilities of each child by integrating classroom-based assessments and centralized diagnostic exams. 

These assessments are going to take place during the first three weeks of the school year. Hence, it will help educators to identify the learning gap early and plan intervention as per findings. However, the goal is to shift focus from rote learning to competency-based education. So, it boosts a more personalized and effective learning environment. 

How does the Diagnostic Assessment System work?

It will be performed in two main formats under the new framework. However, school-based tests and centralized assessments will be the formats of the assessment. You can explore the details of this assessment below:

• Grades 1 and 2: Schools in alignment will design and administer diagnostic tests with national standards.
• Grades 3 to 12: Centralized assessments will be developed and managed by the Assessment and Evaluation Department of the Ministry.

Students in Grades 3 to 5 will take their test on paper using a form downloaded from the Al Manhal system. On the other hand, Grade 6 to 12 students will complete their assessment electronically. Hence, it ensures efficiency and standardization across the UAE.

Each test is going to last for one period. However, there is flexible timing to avoid disruption of the regular teaching schedule.   In addition, it is important to learn that the assessments will not impact the final grades of students. Instead, it will serve as a skill-based tool to guide teaching strategies and support learning. 

Technology Integration: Al Manhal and LMS Systems

Schools are required to keep student data updated in the Al Manhal electronic system to ensure smooth implementation. However, the UAE schools must follow the following steps:

1. Categorize students according to their academic tracks.
2. Identify students of determination based on their Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
3. Activate teacher and administrator accounts on Al Manhal, LMS, and Swift Assess.
4. Verify access for all examinees and confirm activation of student accounts.

This digital integration ensures transparency and boosts the accurate reporting of assessment results. Moreover, it allows educators and parents to track the progress effectively. 

Supporting Teachers and Students

The ministry highlighted that diagnostic assessments are not the old exams. Instead, they are strategic educational tools created to measure essential competencies, pinpoint student strengths and weaknesses, and boost continuous academic improvement.

On top of top, teachers will be able to adapt the strategic measures by identifying challenges early. Hence, they can provide teachers with targeted support. In addition, it ensures that every student receives the attention needed for success. 

A Step Toward a Balanced Learning Ecosystem

According to the Ministry, the campaign is a part of its broader vision to create a balanced, inclusive, and high-performing education system. Moreover, the diagnostic approach is expected to help teachers maintain consistency in evaluation. In addition, it can boost student engagement through evidence-based teaching methods. 

In short, the move of the UAE to modernize the assessment methods shows its commitment to quality education and innovation. Hence, it aligns with the national objectives to grow a generation of skilled, confident, and lifelong learners.

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