The UAE Ministry of Education has issued a clarification regarding the circumstances under which students may retake examinations remotely, as well as the measures that schools must implement when technical issues disrupt centralized electronic tests.
Conditions for Remote Exam Retakes
According to the ministry, remote exam retakes may be approved for students who are unable to attend in person due to specific circumstances. These include people of determination who cannot physically attend examinations, students undergoing medical treatment inside or outside the UAE, students who are abroad for a valid reason, and minors held in juvenile care centres, as reported by Gulf Today.
The ministry stated that such arrangements require approval from the school administration in coordination with the General Education Examinations and Assessment Department.
Procedures for Technical Difficulties
The guidance also outlines procedures for handling technical difficulties during examinations. If a student experiences a technical problem or does not have access to a computer required for a centralized electronic exam, the school is responsible for resolving the issue during the examination period and ensuring the student can complete the test.
Schools may provide available computer devices or allow students to use school computer laboratories to sit examinations, the ministry said. If technical issues cannot be resolved despite all necessary measures being taken, the student's details will be recorded for inclusion in the compensatory examination system, allowing them to sit the assessment at a later date.
Additional Context
The clarification was issued as part of the ministry's frequently asked questions guide for students and parents regarding examination procedures and support measures. This initiative aims to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to complete their assessments, regardless of personal circumstances or technical challenges.
The Ministry of Education continues to emphasize the importance of flexibility and support in the examination process, recognizing the diverse needs of students across the UAE. Schools are expected to adhere strictly to these guidelines to maintain fairness and integrity in the examination system.
