The Dubai Distinguished Students Programme is a partnership between the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Knowledge Fund Establishment, aiming to provide educational opportunities for exceptional Emirati students. The programme covers 50% of the annual tuition fees for outstanding Emirati students in private schools rated as ‘Good’ or ‘Better’ in school inspections. Eligible students must consistently achieve scores at or above the designated minimum in their curriculum over the last three years.
To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be UAE nationals holding a family book issued by Dubai. They must be enrolled in grades 4-10 or equivalent in Dubai, adhere to the school’s enrolment policies, pass admission interviews and placement tests, and meet other criteria. Minimum grade requirements vary based on different curricula, ranging from 90% to specific grade levels or scores in various grading systems.
Applications for the 2024-25 academic year will open from May 20 to June 5, and parents can register their children through the KHDA website. Participating schools offering scholarships include Collegiate International School, Dubai International Academy, Raffles International Academy, Uptown International School, American Academy for Girls, and others. Required documents for application include a family book, valid UAE passport, Emirates ID, salary certificate, report cards, and other relevant documents.
Students’ continuity in the programme is based on evaluations provided by the KHDA at the end of each academic year. These evaluations include ‘Exceeds Expectations,’ ‘Meets Expectations,’ or ‘Below Expectations.’ Students must achieve a ‘Meets Expectations’ or ‘Exceeds Expectations’ evaluation to continue in the programme, while a ‘Below Expectations’ evaluation results in termination from the programme. Schools provide detailed reports to KHDA, and the programme team reviews these reports to determine students’ progress.
In conclusion, the Dubai Distinguished Students Programme provides a valuable opportunity for exceptional Emirati students to receive scholarships covering 50% of their annual tuition fees in private schools. By meeting eligibility criteria, submitting the required documents, and maintaining academic excellence, students can benefit from this initiative and continue their educational journey. The programme aims to support outstanding students in pursuing their educational goals and contributing to the development of the UAE.
