Schools running at full capacity

Claims that a shrinking population and mass expat exodus are affecting admissions at schools in Dubai are turning to be false with most institutes running at full capacity.

Most institutions that have been graded as "good" by the KHDA are reporting full numbers. "We are full at the moment and there are no seats in junior classes. However, if you register your child in December, you might get a slot next year," the admission office at Uptown High School said when asked about admissions to kinder??garten classes.

The Choueifat School Dubai and Dubai National School in Al Barsha gave the same response. There was mixed response from schools that got "acceptable" ratings.

The Winchester School and The Westminster School, with acceptable ratings, are full due to their economical fee structures.

There are no seats available in Al Mawakeb School Barsha, especially for junior classes. Dubai British School also refused admission, saying, "we are full".

On the other hand, schools with acceptable ratings and comparatively higher fee structures have vacancies. Gems Royal Dubai School in Mirdiff is still taking students for this academic year. "Yes, we have places. Your child will be given a place if he clears the admission test," said the receptionist at the school.

Universal American School, another institution with an "acceptable" rating, is also open to admissions.

As Dubai schools remain full, most of them have gone for a fee hike, with most schools claiming to have raised the fee "as per the KHDA stipulations".

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