EmSAT Make-Up Exams: Eligibility, Fees, and Process Explained

Shahba Mayyeri -

The Emirates Standardized Test (EmSAT) is an optional assessment used by both public and private schools in the UAE and abroad.

While the Ministry of Education announced in 2023 that the EmSAT is no longer compulsory for university admissions within the Emirates, many higher education institutions still require it for eligibility.

The EmSAT exams cover essential subjects including Arabic, English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Science. Students who missed their initial EmSAT test or wish to retake it can do so through a make-up exam.

Eligibility

To be eligible, students must currently be in Grade 12 or have completed it, whether studying within or outside the UAE. Those who missed the exam due to valid reasons must upload their excuse online for approval, allowing them to take the test within 30 days. Without a valid excuse, students must wait 30 days before retaking the exam.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit specific documents in PDF format, with each file not exceeding 2 MB. These documents include:

  • Recent photograph
  • Certificate of study continuation (for Grade 12 students)
  • Passport (for international students)
  • Birth certificate (for children of UAE female citizens)
  • Certified medical, psychological, and academic reports (for people of determination)
  • Fazaa card and birth certificate (for children of frontline defense personnel)
  • Official document proving the unavailability of an Emirates ID (if applicable)
  • Valid excuse for missing the initial test

Fees

The initial attempt is free for UAE nationals, children of female citizens, and frontline defense personnel with the Frontline Heroes card. Retest fees are AED 100 per subject for both UAE citizens and non-citizens.

Process

Students can book their retest through the Ministry of Education or EmSAT websites, with immediate confirmation upon selecting a date.

News Source: Khaleej Times