Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has begun accepting applications for Qatar Science and Technology Schools for the 2026-2027 academic year. This announcement coincides with the opening of two new specialized schools, one for boys and one for girls, expanding access to STEM-focused education in the country. Applications are being accepted via the Maaref Portal until February 20, 2026.
The new schools are located in Al Sakhama (boys) and Rawdat Al Hamama (girls), and will initially cater to seventh and ninth grade students respectively. This expansion aims to bolster Qatar’s capacity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, aligning with the nation’s long-term development goals. Existing Qatar Science and Technology School for Boys in Umm Al Seneem will also continue accepting applications for seventh and ninth grades.
Expanding Access to STEM Education in Qatar
Qatar Science and Technology Schools represent a significant investment in specialized education. According to the Ministry, these institutions offer a high-quality curriculum integrating STEM fields, based on both the National Curriculum Framework and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This approach is designed to prepare students for advanced studies and careers in rapidly evolving technological sectors.
New School Details and Capacity
The Qatar Science and Technology Preparatory Secondary School for Boys in Al Sakhama will accommodate 100 seventh-grade students. Meanwhile, the Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Girls in Rawdat Al Hamama will accept up to 100 ninth-grade students. The Umm Al Seneem school will maintain a capacity of 48 students per grade level (seventh and ninth).
English serves as the primary language of instruction for all science subjects, while Arabic language, Islamic education, and social studies are taught in Arabic, as per the Ministry’s established curriculum. This bilingual approach aims to balance global standards with cultural preservation.
Rigorous Admission Process
The admission process is multi-faceted, designed to identify students with strong aptitude in STEM subjects. Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 80% in mathematics, science, and English to proceed. Successful applicants will then be required to complete specialized entrance exams, including assessments of mathematics knowledge, English language proficiency (using the APTIS test), cognitive abilities (CAT4), and Arabic language skills.
Additionally, candidates who meet the initial academic criteria will be invited for a personal interview with their guardian. This interview will assess personal qualities and overall academic potential. The Ministry emphasizes that this holistic approach ensures the selection of students best suited for the demanding curriculum.
These schools offer advanced learning environments equipped with specialized laboratories focusing on areas like robotics, digital manufacturing, biomedicine, energy, and augmented reality. Graduates will receive a locally and internationally accredited secondary school diploma, with opportunities to pursue Advanced Placement (AP), SAT, and IELTS certifications. Free transportation will be provided to students from all areas of Qatar, and school hours are from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM Sunday through Wednesday, and until 1:40 PM on Thursday.
This initiative directly supports Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes human development and the cultivation of national expertise in science and innovation. The focus on STEM education is seen as crucial for diversifying the Qatari economy and fostering a knowledge-based society. The development of these schools also reflects a broader trend in the region towards investing in specialized educational pathways.
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education anticipates announcing the final list of accepted students by the end of May 2026, based on exam scores and school capacities. The number of applicants and the distribution of scores will be key factors to watch as the selection process unfolds. Further details regarding curriculum specifics and extracurricular activities are expected to be released in the coming months.
