50% Scholarship: KHDA Initiatives Round 2 Of Dubai Distinguished Students Programme

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), in collaboration with the Knowledge Fund Establishment and Dubai's private schools, has commenced the registrations for the second cycle of the Dubai Distinguished Students Programme for the academic year 2025-2026. The scholarship covers 50% of the tuition fees for students attending schools rated “Good” or better, with the remaining 50% to be covered by their parent or legal guardian.

This initiative is set to offer 415 scholarships across 28 elite private schools to high-performing Emirati students, halving tuition fees for those in grades 1 through 10 attending institutions rated Good or superior.

Applications for the scholarship will be accepted until 10 March 2025, exclusively for Emirati students with a family book issued by Dubai. The scholarship caters to students from Grade 1 (or Year 2) to Grade 10 (or Year 11) who are either newly or already enrolled in UAE's public or private schools, although those currently attending the participating schools are ineligible.

To qualify, students must meet high academic standards across various curricula and successfully undergo assessments and interviews by the schools' evaluation committees.

The programme, initiated in 2024, aims to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors to provide exceptional Emirati students with superior educational opportunities. It stands as a cornerstone of the Education 33 strategy, emphasizing Dubai's dedication to academic excellence and its investment in the youth's future.

By doubling the number of participating schools, the initiative now encompasses a broader spectrum of curricular options and locations, offering families enhanced flexibility in choosing the right educational path for their children.

Schools participating in this scholarship programme—comprising six Outstanding, 14 Very Good, and eight Good-rated institutions—offer a diverse array of curricula, including UK, US, IB, and combinations thereof. This diversity ensures that Emirati students can find educational pathways that align with their long-term aspirations and goals.

Aisha Miran, Director General of KHDA, emphasized the programme's role in reinforcing Dubai's commitment to nurturing its future leaders through quality education. "The Dubai Distinguished Students Programme reaffirms Dubai's commitment to investing in its future by empowering high-achieving Emirati students with quality education, in line with the goals of our Education 33 strategy. By expanding the number of participating schools and ensuring more choices for families, we are strengthening our mission of equipping Emirati youth with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to drive the nation's progress," she stated.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of the Knowledge Fund Establishment, highlighted the initiative's contribution towards establishing Dubai as a global hub for educational excellence. "At the Knowledge Fund Establishment, we are committed to adopting and supporting pioneering educational initiatives such as the Dubai Distinguished Students Programme, which reinforces Dubai's position as a global hub for educational excellence. The expansion of the programme reflects our steadfast commitment to strengthening public-private sector partnerships and ensuring that outstanding educational opportunities are available to empower the next generation of Emirati leaders," he mentioned.

The inclusion of Emirati students in various participating schools is seen as beneficial not just for the students but also for the schools themselves, enriching the learning community and enhancing educational outcomes. The programme aligns with the Education 33 strategy's objectives to prepare Dubai's youth for leadership by affording them access to premier education.

Notably, the programme has garnered support from prominent educational institutions and leaders. Sir Christopher Stone, Chief Academic Officer of Emirates International School, expressed pride in being part of an initiative that provides access to world-class IB education, shaping future global leaders.

Similarly, representatives from Dubai Heights Academy, Taaleem, GEMS Education, Innoventures Education, Dar Al Marefa, Al Futtaim Education Foundation, Arcadia Education, and North London Collegiate School Dubai have voiced their support, underscoring the programme's significance in fostering academic excellence and leadership among Emirati students.