Choosing the right school for your child isn’t a cakewalk. It is no rocket science either. With over 600 private schools, 17+ curricula, and an ever-growing emphasis on future-ready education, it might seem a bit overwhelming at first. Yet, a basic awareness of the educational landscape of the UAE might come in handy. Well, let’s now focus on the elephant in the room: Which school is best for my child?

If you’re seeking admission for your child, or considering a change of school for the upcoming academic year, School Classify’s elaborate guidebook will help you choose the best school for your child in 2025.

1. Get Your Priorities Straight

Quiz yourself the following:

• What are your child’s strengths, interests, and learning styles?
• Is it all about academics- or are you hoping for a school with extensive extracurriculars?
• Are you looking for a “school near me”- or up for a GPS adventure every morning?
• Are you drawn to the buzz of a large campus- or do you prefer community-driven classrooms?
• Are you planning to go premium or practical with the budget?

Pro Tip: List out your top 3 priorities before you start shortlisting.

2. Understand the Curricula Offered In the UAE

The UAE is home to one of the most diverse education ecosystems in the world. These globally recognized curricula cater to the needs of the UAE’s multicultural population. Each comes with its own structure, pace, assessments, and focus areas. Let’s break it down.

1. British Curriculum (UK National Curriculum)

Grades: FS1- Year 13

Popular Exams: IGCSEs (Year 11), A-Levels (Year 13)

Focus- Academic structure, core subjects, critical thinking

• Highly structured and offers a clear progression from early years to university prep.
• Well-recognized globally, especially in the UK, and Commonwealth countries.
• Offers in-depth subject specialization during A-Levels.

Ideal for: Students who benefit from a traditional, exam-oriented system and have an eye on UK universities or similar systems.

2. American Curriculum (US)

Grades: Kindergarten- Grade 12

Popular Exams: SAT, ACT, AP (Advanced Placement)

Focus- Holistic development, continuous assessment, electives

• Flexible, broad-based learning with a focus on creativity and critical thinking.
• Grades depend primarily on coursework, projects, and ongoing assessment.
• Offers AP course for college-level study in high school

Ideal for: Students seeking a more laid-back, well-rounded educational approach, aiming for US or Canadian universities.

3. International Baccalaureate (IB)

Levels: PYP (Primary), MYP (Middle), DP (Diploma), CP (Career-related)

Popular Exams: IB Diploma (Grade 12)

Focus: Inquiry-based, global-mindedness, student autonomy

• Promotes research, reflection, and intercultural understanding.

• Challenging, and well-regarded by top universities worldwide.

• DP students must study languages, sciences, and humanities and draft an extended essay.

Ideal for: Students who are independent learners, dreaming of top-tier global universities.

4. Indian Curricula- CBSE & ICSE

CBSE: Central Board of Secondary Education

ICSE: Indian Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades: KG- Grade 12

Focus: Academic rigor, theoretical foundations, STEM-heavy

• CBSE is more widespread and exam-oriented, ideal for competitive exams in India.
• ICSE offers a more detailed curriculum in English, Arts, and Humanities.
• Strong community and support system across the UAE.

Ideal for: Students from Indian families who are considering Indian universities or returning to India later.

5. UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum

Grades: KG- Grade 12

Languages: Arabic with English for STEM and global subjects

Focus: National identity, Islamic Education, Arabic language + modern skills

• Followed by most Emirati students.
• Includes a strong focus on moral education and UAE cultural values.
• Modernized in recent years to include innovation, coding, and entrepreneurship.

Idea for: Emirati students and Arab expats looking for a culturally rooted education with a global outlook.

6. Filipino K to 12 Curriculum

Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12

Languages: Mother tongue (Grades 1-3), then English and Filipino

Focus: Holistic development, Filipino identity, foundational skills for higher education or employment

• Core subjects include Filipino, English, Math, Science, Araling Panlipunan, MAPEH, and Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao.
• Senior High School offers academic, vocational, sports, and arts tracks.
• Prepares students for college, tech-voc careers, or entrepreneurship.

Ideal for: Filipino students preferring a nationality-aligned, values-based education with global compatibility.

Well, this isn’t an exhaustive list. You may refer to the Curricula Chart on Schools Classify for more information.

3. The Fee Comparison Game

Now, let’s talk money. On average, the School Fees in the UAE may range from AED 4000 to 120,000+ per year depending on factors such as curriculum, location, reputation as well as government ratings. You may check this out on the school websites, or at the Schools Classify platform.

It’s time for Quiz Round Two:

• What is included in the school fee? (Tuition, uniforms, books, transport, meals, extracurriculars?)
• Are there any hidden charges or one-time fees?
• Are sibling discounts or early bird discounts available?
• Does the fee increase annually? If yes, by how much?

Pro Tip: Don’t just go by price- go on school tours, talk to parents, and evaluate the overall value.

4. Check the Inspection Review Ratings (KHDA, ADEK, SPEA, etc.)

The UAE’s educational authorities (like KHDA in Dubai, ADEK in Abu Dhabi, and SPEA in Sharjah) follow the UAE School Inspection Framework to visit schools, evaluate them on multiple fronts, and assign ratings from:

Very Weak ® Weak ® Acceptable ® Good ® Very Good ® Outstanding

For cracking the rating code, you may check for the following:

• What is the latest inspection rating?

(Good and above are considered pretty solid, while Outstanding schools are like unicorns- rare and remarkable!)

• Is the school improving its rating year after year?

(If yes, that’s a school aiming for progress!)

• What areas for improvement were highlighted in the previous report?

(Weak points can tell you as much as the strengths.)

• When is the next inspection due?

(Fresh ratings mean fresh insights)

• How does the rating compare to other schools on your shortlist?

(Let rating not be the sole reason for your preference.)

5. It’s time for a Tour!

A school tour, be it real or virtual, is a very crucial step in your decision-making process.

You get to:

• See the facilities firsthand
• Observe classroom interactions (in case they allow class visits)
• Ask about teacher qualifications and turnover rates (if you’re too picky)
• See for yourself the school environment, their approach to discipline, inclusion and student support

You may use this questionnaire while at school:

• What is your school’s vision and mission?
• How does your school handle students with special needs?
• How do you cater to students coming from different cultural backgrounds?
• What are your initiatives to prevent bullying?
• What is your homework policy?
• How do you support emotional and mental wellbeing?

6. For long-term thinkers: Is the School Future-Ready?

Parents like you are no longer just looking for exam results. They prefer schools that:

• Embrace AI, robotics, and digital literacy
• Encourage entrepreneurship and leadership
• Teach sustainability and global citizenship

Look for: Dedicated innovation labs, STEAM rooms, life-skills education, creativity hubs, green initiatives, and collaboration with tech platforms.

7. Talk to Other Parents

Testimonials matter. Join parent forums, WhatsApp groups, or local Facebook communities to hear genuine reviews. You may also check out the parent's ratings and reviews on Schools Classify to make up your mind.

8. Shortlist, Compare, Enquire- All in One Place

Once you’ve narrowed it down, use Schools Classify to:

• Compare your favorites
• Check up-to-date fee structure and ratings
• Make direct admission inquiries through the portal

Final Thoughts

It isn’t just about choosing the one with the most awards and highest fee- it’s about choosing the one that works best for your child. Where your child can grow, thrive, and feel understood. Trust your instincts, do your research, and don’t panic, you aren’t alone in this journey.