If your child is transferring between schools within Dubai, the process is entirely electronic and, in theory at least, can occur at any time during the academic year in Primary/Elementary school between schools of the same curriculum.
However, this is subject to the “new” school accepting the transfer timing. Changes of curriculum are only permitted until November (for schools with a September academic year start) and May, for April starters.
The other Emirates do not permit transfer between schools or curricula during the academic year, but if a transfer is taking place at the start of the new academic year within the same Emirate, as in Dubai, a transfer certificate is not required.
For transfers between Emirates – which may take place at any time up to April for September starters and January for April academic year schools, a transfer certificate will be required. This is prepared by the current school and this will need to be attested by the relevant Regulator (KHDA, ADEC or the relevant Education Zone).
Process to change Schools
- Obtain the transfer certificate from the current school.
- Get the approval from the school which the student is transferring to.
- Visit any of the ADEC service centres and submit the transfer certificate.
- Receive the transfer approval.
Required Documents:
Transfer certificate between zone schools