What ADEK asks of schools
Private schools in Abu Dhabi are regulated by the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). According to GL Education's 2026 guidance, ADEK requires private schools to use online standardised benchmark assessments and recommends cognitive ability tests, without naming a particular one. Many schools choose the CAT4; others use a different test such as MAP.
How schools assess new students
Schools set their own entry assessments. Published school policies show a range of approaches: an online CAT4 for older year groups, a reasoning or curriculum test for younger children, and in some cases an assessment used mainly to plan support rather than to decide on a place. Admission also depends on age rules and seat availability.
Check the age cut-off
Age rules matter in Abu Dhabi. Several schools' published policies for 2026 to 2027 describe a change to a 31 December cut-off for early-years entry, where many British-curriculum schools previously used 31 August. Check the current rule with ADEK or the school before applying, as it decides which year group, and so which CAT4 level, applies.
Questions to ask the school
- Which assessment will my child take, and at which level?
- Is it used to decide on a place, or to plan support?
- Which age cut-off applies to my child's year group?
Helping your child feel ready
If your child's school uses the CAT4, a little familiarity goes a long way: try each of the eight question types once with explanations, then a few short timed sets.
Where we checked
Admissions rules and test arrangements change and differ from school to school. Always check with the school your child is applying to. Independent practice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by GL Assessment or any school.