UAE’s New Study Abroad Criteria Raise Concerns Over Ranking-Driven Restrictions
2 Min Read
The United Arab Emirates has introduced stricter study abroad regulations for Emirati students, tying eligibility for overseas education to global university rankings — a move that has drawn concern from international education stakeholders.
Under the new mandate from the UAE’s Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, Emiratis pursuing higher education abroad must enrol in universities approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. These universities must also meet ranking thresholds: top 50 globally in the chosen subject or top 100 overall for institutions in the US and Australia, with slightly lower cut-offs for other countries.
The government says the move aligns education with national goals and boosts graduate employability. However, experts warn the policy may unintentionally limit opportunities for capable students. Eddie West, assistant vice-president of international affairs at California State University, Fresno, questioned the impact of rigid ranking-based cut-offs. “We used to host many Middle Eastern students. This could restrict that flow,” he noted.
Critics argue the reliance on rankings overlooks key factors like social mobility, academic support, and student wellbeing. Rankings such as those by QS or Times Higher Education are often criticised for a lack of transparency in how they calculate scores.
Stephen Hanchey, a former education specialist in the UAE, said the policy may disadvantage local students unfamiliar with standardised testing models like the SAT or IELTS. “High-performing Emirati students may still lack the preparation for top-tier global universities,” he explained.
Dan Smith, founder of RESI Consultancy, cautioned that a ranking-focused trend in other countries could destabilise international student mobility. “Accommodation demand, course viability, and recruitment budgets will all feel the ripple effect,” he warned.
The UAE joins countries like India and China in using rankings to shape outbound education policy. While this may raise domestic university standards, critics suggest a more nuanced approach is needed to support all students.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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